Pursuit - No 59 - Vol 15 No 3 - 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 15, Number 3, Whole 59
Date: Third Quarter 1982
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine, published by SITU, focuses on a variety of unexplained phenomena, with a prominent feature on the enigmatic Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull and an in-depth investigation into the Yeti. The cover art by Michael Kyte visually represents the historical and mysterious aspects of the Crystal Skull.

The Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull: Ancient History or Modern Mystery?

The cover story, accompanied by an article by George A. Agogino, delves into the mystery surrounding the Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull. Agogino, a Professor of Anthropology at Eastern New Mexico University and a member of SITU's Scientific Advisory Board, discusses the proliferation of fake artifacts and the challenges in authenticating historical objects. He notes that the Crystal Skull, discovered 55 years prior, has been studied by amateur archaeologist Frank Dorland, who reported it possessed incredible physical and psychical properties. The skull's alleged history traces back to ancient civilizations like Atlantis or Egypt, and its journey through Babylonian priests to Central America is speculated. Anna LeGuillon Mitchell-Hedges, the adopted daughter of adventurer-archaeologist Frederick Mitchell-Hedges, is credited as the owner and discoverer. The article also touches upon theories about the skull's potential location in the London temple of the Knights Templar.

The Endless Procession

In an article by John A. Keel, 'The Endless Procession' explores historical accounts of mysterious apparitions and their potential connection to modern UFO phenomena. Keel recounts a 1430 event in Jaen, Spain, where an estimated 500 people in a glowing procession vanished inexplicably. He suggests that such historical events, often witnessed by few people, formed the basis of myths and legends. Keel posits that these manifestations serve a primary purpose: to advance theological or philosophical concepts and hide the true nature of the phenomenon. He criticizes modern UFO evangelists who promote a 'benign invasion' narrative, suggesting that encounters are often hallucinatory and that the real phenomenon is obscured by propaganda. Keel believes these events are linked to the human psyche and the collective unconscious, but also to forces beyond human comprehension that can distort reality.

Tracking the Yeti in the Snowfields of the Himalayas

Edward W. Cronin, Jr., chief scientist of the Arun Valley Wildlife Expedition, contributes an excerpt from his book 'The Arun.' Cronin recounts his experience in the Himalayas where a local villager casually included the yeti among common animals. He discusses the long history of yeti reports, dating back to the eighteenth century, and mentions various expeditions and notable figures who have reported sightings or footprints. Cronin addresses the reliability of witnesses, acknowledging that while some reports are vague, the sheer volume suggests a basis in fact. He highlights a 1974 incident where a young girl was attacked by a yeti. The article also examines the physical characteristics of the yeti based on eyewitness accounts, noting its stocky, apelike build, short coarse hair, and distinctively human-like bipedal progression. Cronin discusses the controversy surrounding yeti scalps, particularly one from the Khumjung monastery, which was deemed a fake made from a serow skin, though Dr. John Hill of the British Museum noted unusual characteristics in the hairs and ectoparasites. The article concludes by questioning why scientists are reluctant to accept yeti reports, despite consistent eyewitness testimony, contrasting it with the acceptance of theoretical fossil records.

Other Articles and Sections

• The Tuscarora Mountain T-Birds by Carl Larsen
• Parting the Curtains of Prehistory for a Look at the Nether World by Michael Baran
• How Much Do You Know About UFOs? (A Quiz) by Thomas B. Burch
• Theatrical Ghosts by Frances Mary Moore
• The Origins of Lemuria (Part III) by Jon Douglas Singer
• A Treatise on Anti-Gravity and Light by Dr. Joseph L. Intelisano
• Discovery of the Second Law of Gravitation by Craig Gunnufson
• Obesity and the Enterprise by J. N. Williamson
• Notes and Quotations on Thinking by Richard L. Clark
• High Hopes for a New-Age Pyramid by Fred Wilson
• Further Notes on the Transformist Myth by Dr. Silvano Lorenzoni
• Darwinian Transformism: A Reaffirmation by Neil M. Lorber

The issue also includes sections for 'SITUations,' 'Symposium,' 'Letters,' and 'Books,' as well as 'The Notes of Charles Fort' deciphered by Carl J. Pabst.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around the exploration of phenomena that lie outside the scope of conventional scientific understanding. These include ancient mysteries (Crystal Skull, Lemuria), cryptozoology (Yeti), historical apparitions and their link to modern UFOs, and theoretical physics (anti-gravity). The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) positions itself as a platform for investigating and reporting on these subjects, encouraging members to contribute data and participate in discussions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and arguments from various perspectives, while acknowledging the challenges of authentication and the skepticism often faced by researchers in these fields. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between science and the unexplained, fostering a pursuit of knowledge beyond established paradigms.

This issue of Pursuit, dated Third Quarter 1982, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, including the Yeti, giant birds, ancient energy theories, and UFOs. The magazine features articles by Carl Larsen, Michael Baran, and Frances Mary Moore, alongside a comprehensive UFO quiz compiled by Thomas B. Burch.

The Yeti and Gigantopithecus

The article "Conservatism and Parochialism" explores the possibility that the Yeti legend may stem from the extinct ape Gigantopithecus. Remains of Gigantopithecus, found in the Himalayas and southern China, date back as far as nine million years ago. Its size and shape closely resemble Yeti descriptions, including a large jaw and extensive jaw muscles, though it lacked conspicuous fangs. The article suggests that Gigantopithecus's adaptability to various habitats, including mountainous regions, made it a plausible candidate for interaction with early humans.

The Tuscarora Mountain T-Birds

Carl Larsen's article, "The Tuscarora Mountain T-Birds," investigates recent sightings of giant birds, referred to as 'Thunderbirds,' in central Pennsylvania. The article recounts the experience of Leverne and Darlene Alford, who reported a near-collision with two such creatures on Tuscarora Mountain. These birds were described as having long necks, dark gray skin-like covering, and wingspans of 15 to 25 feet. The article also references historical accounts and legends of similar giant birds.

The Nether World and Ancient Energy

Michael Baran's "Parting the Curtains of Prehistory for a Look at The Nether World" proposes a theory about an untapped energy source originating from Earth's core. Baran suggests that hypergravitomagnetic fields could induce unusual effects on physical and biological systems, potentially altering properties like solidity and visibility. He also speculates about extensive open regions within the Earth's crust, possibly connected to ancient myths of an 'underworld' and creatures like the Loch Ness Monster. The article links this to Edgar Cayce's descriptions of Atlantean technology and potential cataclysms.

UFO Phenomenon

The issue dedicates significant space to UFOs. A quiz, "How Much Do You Know About UFOs?" by Thomas B. Burch, tests readers' knowledge on historical sightings, key figures, and research organizations. The quiz covers topics ranging from the Kenneth Arnold sighting to abduction cases and the 'invisible college' of UFO researchers.

Another section, "SITUational Sidelights on the UFO Phenomenon," reports on a study suggesting that some UFOs observed over South America and the Soviet Union might be part of a Soviet early warning satellite network. It details how the inclination of these UFOs matches known Soviet satellite launchings.

The article "Thus could a UFO pilot..." discusses how varying magnetic frequencies and crystal adjustments could enable UFOs to switch between control beacons and travel at variable speeds. It posits that serious investigation into Earth's core as a source of these fields is warranted.

Theatrical Ghosts

Frances Mary Moore's "Theatrical Ghosts" recounts tales of spectral apparitions in London's famous theatres, particularly the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The article details the "Man in Grey," a ghost believed to be a young gallant murdered over a century ago, and other spectral figures associated with the theatre's history, including King Charles II and actor Joe Grimaldi.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit consistently explores the fringes of conventional science and history, focusing on unexplained phenomena and alternative theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into subjects often dismissed by mainstream academia, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond established scientific paradigms. Themes of ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial encounters, and the paranormal are recurrent, suggesting a belief in the existence of phenomena not yet fully understood or accepted by society.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1982, presents a diverse collection of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, ancient mysteries, and scientific theories. The cover story, "The Origins of Lemuria" by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., investigates theories about lost continents and ancient migrations, while other articles delve into ghost stories, anti-gravity, and a new perspective on gravitation.

Theatre Ghosts and Haunted Locations

The issue begins with a series of captivating accounts of hauntings within the theatrical world. The story of actor Terriss, murdered in the Maiden Lane entrance, is recounted, with his ghost reportedly seen at Covent Garden station. The old Royalty Theatre is mentioned as having been haunted by three ladies before its demolition. The Garrick Theatre is featured with stories of the ghost of actor-manager Arthur Bourchier, who is described as a benevolent spirit, and a unique haunting where actors' lines were spoken before they reached them. The Wellington Street Lyceum is noted for a gruesome specter of a cavalier's head, and the St. James's Theatre is said to be haunted by a helpful, unidentified ghost.

The Origins of Lemuria and the Bering Landbridge

Jon Douglas Singer's article, "The Origins of Lemuria," examines the possibility of lost continents. While finding little evidence for a sunken island in the mid-Pacific, the article strongly supports the existence of the Bering Landbridge as a significant land connection between Asia and America. It discusses Indian legends, such as those of the Hokan-Siouan tribes about Elam and the deity Mu, and the Okanagan legend of Samah-tumi-whoolah. The article explores the geological evidence for the Bering Landbridge, formed between 28,000 and 10,000 years ago, and the migration of Stone Age tribes across it. It also touches upon the discovery of ancient cities in Alaska, like the Ipiutak city, and intriguing accounts of phantom cities and submerged ruins, suggesting a complex ancient past.

Anti-Gravity and Light

Dr. Joseph L. Intelisano's article, "A Treatise on Anti-Gravity and Light," proposes that the Pyramids and other megalithic structures were built by "etheric lords" or astronauts for purposes related to anti-gravity and interstellar travel. The article defines "Pyramid" as "temple of light" and discusses the concept of the etheric body as a fifth-dimensional manifestation. It suggests that capturing energy fields from these higher worlds is key to speed-of-light and extra-dimensional travel. The author also links these concepts to biblical narratives, interpreting the Garden of Eden story in terms of etheric creation and physical manifestation, with the Pyramids potentially serving as portals.

Discovery of the Second Law of Gravitation

Craig Gunnufson presents "Discovery of the Second Law of Gravitation," proposing that matter absorbs and re-radiates energy from the ether, which is the cause of gravitation. This "Second Universal Law of Gravitation" states that the rate of energy radiation is proportional to the square of the mass. The author calculates energy outputs for celestial bodies based on this theory and discusses the implications for understanding the energy sources of stars and the potential for tapping into the ether's usable energy. The article also touches upon the ongoing debate about the Earth's heat dissipation and the Sun's energy production, referencing discrepancies in neutrino counts.

Obesity and the Enterprise

J. N. Williamson's article, "Obesity and the Enterprise," humorously recounts an experience at a movie theater where an unusually large number of extremely obese individuals were present for the premiere of "Star Trek II: The Revenge of Khan." The author, baffled by the phenomenon, explores possible explanations, including a carnival or a Weight Watchers event, but finds none. The article concludes with a whimsical suggestion that they might have inadvertently visited "The Twilight Zone."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the paranormal, and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and accounts without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but rather as subjects worthy of investigation. The magazine bridges the gap between folklore, historical accounts, and speculative scientific theories, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations for phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The recurring emphasis on ghosts, lost civilizations, and unconventional physics suggests a focus on the fringes of accepted knowledge.

Title: ARGOSY
Issue: Third Quarter 1982
Volume: 125
Date: 1982-09-30
Publisher: Argosy
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Argosy magazine features a diverse range of articles, including the mystery of a crystal skull, evidence for the Yeti, discussions on thinking and evolution, and a unique architectural project.

Mystery of the Crystal Skull

The issue opens with an examination of the famous Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull, which appeared on the cover of a mainline magazine in April 1973. The skull, weighing 11 pounds 7 ounces and measuring 5 inches high, 5 inches wide, and 7 inches long, is carved from a single quartz crystal. While its exact origin is debated, it is noted that no other crystal skulls of comparable size have been found in the Maya area, though smaller examples exist from the Mixtec-Aztec period (A.D. 1200 to 1500). The skull's crystal is not clear, containing many flaws and intrusions that distribute light, with the eye sockets acting as focal points. The mandible appears to have been altered later, with perforations for weights. The article discusses the apparent absence of large quartz crystals of suitable composition in the Mayan area, contrasting it with finds in central Mexico and Baja California, which often contain tourmaline intrusions not present in the Mitchell-Hedges skull. The construction of similar skulls is noted to come from quartz deposits in Calavaras County, California. Many Mixtec-Aztec skulls were taken to Europe after Mexican occupation duties, and examples are found in the British Museum, the Musee de l'Homme in Paris, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The British Museum specimen is described as appearing to be of authentic prehistoric manufacture, though less sophisticated than the Mitchell-Hedges skull. The late Dr. George C. Kennedy, a physicist and archeology enthusiast, believed the skull belonged to the post-Classic or early historic period. The article explores three possible explanations for its presence at Lubaantun, which was abandoned around A.D. 800, predating the Mixtec-Aztec period: 1) brought by pre-Columbian Indians for religious practices, 2) planted to encourage Frederick Mitchell-Hedges, or 3) placed there by the excavator for his adopted daughter, Anna Mitchell-Hedges. A quote from the first edition of Mitchell-Hedges' autobiography states, "How the skull came into my possession I have reason for not revealing." His wish to be buried with the skull was disregarded upon his death in 1959, and it became the property of Anna Mitchell-Hedges.

Evidence for the Yeti

This section presents evidence and arguments supporting the existence of the Yeti, a creature often associated with the Himalayas. The article suggests that the Yeti could be a descendant of Gigantopithecus, an extinct ape. Gigantopithecus teeth, discovered in Hong Kong, indicated a large anthropoid ape, possibly weighing up to 600 pounds and standing nine feet tall. The article posits that the Yeti would inhabit the dense vegetation of steep valleys in the middle-altitude zones, rather than the perennial snows, using snowy passes only to travel between valleys. The thick undergrowth of bamboo, rubis, and rhododendron in these areas would provide ample hiding places. The Yeti is likely nocturnal, active during the hours of darkness, similar to elephant populations in South Asia. The article details an expedition in December 1972 to Kongmaa Laa mountain, where the authors encountered yeti footprints. These prints, measuring approximately nine inches long by four and three-quarters inches wide, showed a short, broad, opposable hallux, an asymmetrical toe arrangement, and a wide rounded heel, closely resembling prints documented by Shipton. The prints were found on a clear snowfield, indicating they were made during the night of December 17th or early morning of the 18th, ruling out melting or wind erosion. The authors eliminated known fauna of the area as the source of the prints and suggested they support the hypothesis that various yeti reports refer to one species, possibly exhibiting sexual dimorphism. The prints also suggest bipedal progression and a weight of around 165 pounds. The creature displayed inquisitiveness by detouring to pass between the expedition's tents. The article concludes that a valid zoological mystery exists concerning a creature in the Himalayas, possibly a new form of bipedal primate or an old form forced into seclusion. The author expresses a sentiment that the discovery and confinement of the Yeti would diminish the mystery and imagination it evokes.

Notes and Quotations on Thinking

This section, authored by Richard L. Clark, Ph.D., explores aspects of human thought processes, drawing on the work of Edward de Bono and James L. Adams. De Bono's contributions highlight two inherent limitations of human thinking: the sequential, step-method approach and the self-organizing memory that is experience-dominated and cumulative, where past information controls new information. The article discusses the concept of "lateral thinking" as opposed to "vertical thinking," which can inhibit new ideas. Dr. James L. Adams's work on "cultural blocks" that hinder thinking is presented, including the ideas that fantasy and reflection are a waste of time, playfulness is only for children, problem-solving is a serious business, and tradition is preferable to change. The article also touches upon the difficulty people have in identifying dominant ideas and the tendency for thinking to "lock up." William E. Spicer is quoted on the schism between "pure" science and "applied" science, noting that empirical approaches can lead to significant financial losses.

Further Notes on the Transformist Myth

This section features a dialogue between Dr. Silvano Lorenzoni and Dr. Neil M. Lorber concerning evolutionary theory. Dr. Lorenzoni presents a rebuttal to Dr. Lorber's previous article, "Transformism Reconsidered: Darwin in Perspective." Lorenzoni challenges the idea that "evolution" implies "betterment" and criticizes the notion of a "darwinian religion." He argues that for Darwinism to function, mutations must imply some utility for natural selection, and that small variations do not necessarily lead to a predetermined goal. He questions the reliance on Darwinism when its mechanism is demonstrably untenable, citing authors like Sermonti & Fondi who propose alternative theories, including a modified form of Lamarckism, which he notes are often ignored by the academic press. Lorenzoni also points to the lack of fossil evidence for intermediate forms ("missing links").

Dr. Lorber, in his "Reaffirmation," responds to Lorenzoni's points. He clarifies that Darwinism does not require every mutation to be useful, but rather that mutations that do not enhance survival tend to drop out, while those that do survive and multiply more rapidly. He emphasizes that natural selection acts on these variations over vast periods. Lorber acknowledges the difficulty in explaining the development of the eye within Darwinian terms but maintains that the theory is the closest to established fact. He stresses the need for a scientific, non-Darwinian evolutionary mechanism that is observable, measurable, and operates within physical reality. He critiques various works that propose alternatives but fail to provide such a mechanism, labeling them as philosophical or religious rather than scientific. Lorber also outlines criteria for a "good theory," including causal explanations, precise descriptions, consistency with objective reality, organization of data, clarity, testability, empirical survival, parsimony, internal and external consistency, comprehensiveness, generalizability, and relevance.

High Hopes for A New-Age Pyramid

This article by Fred Wilson describes the construction of a "golden pyramid" in Gurnee, Illinois. The pyramid, a one-ninth scale model of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stands 59 feet high with a 65-foot base. It is being sheathed in 23-carat gold leaf, with an estimated cost of $500,000 for the gold alone. Builder James Onan hopes the pyramid form will address mystical forces and that the gold will amplify bio-physical energy. He also aims for it to be the most energy-efficient home in the U.S., requiring only 50,000 BTUs for heating. The interior will feature 17,000 square feet across six stories, with the first floor open to the public for studying pyramid power, and the upper floors serving as the Onan family home. A moat and guard dogs are part of its protective measures. The estimated total cost is around $2.5 million.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores topics that challenge conventional scientific or historical narratives, including mysteries like the Crystal Skull and the Yeti, and debates within evolutionary theory. The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry and critical examination of established theories, while also upholding the standards of scientific methodology. The inclusion of discussions on "thinking" and "lateral thinking" suggests an emphasis on cognitive processes and the generation of new ideas. The magazine also showcases unique or unconventional projects, such as the Gurnee pyramid, indicating an interest in innovative or alternative approaches to various fields.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1982, focuses on a diverse range of unexplained phenomena, paranormal events, and intriguing scientific observations. The publication aims to report on contemporary curious and unexplained events, encouraging members to submit relevant clippings and reports.

The Good News

This section highlights remarkable survival stories and unusual medical recoveries. One report details Emma Wooldridge, a mail carrier in Lee's Summit, Missouri, who survived a direct lightning strike with only minor complaints. Another incident from Tarpon Springs, Florida, describes Jane Comenzo shooting her husband, Edward, with a .22-caliber handgun, but the bullet was stopped by his belt buckle, resulting in only cuts and bruises. A significant medical report from Philadelphia details the case of a woman who 'came back to life' after being declared dead following a Caesarean section, with her pulse returning after the baby's delivery. The section also includes a report on Marcos Gonzales in Manila, Philippines, who caught a dancer, Menchie Tazanas, attempting to rob his store after he dreamt of such an event. Finally, it recounts the harrowing experience of the Harvey family in Mesquite, Texas, where a house fire, possibly linked to a child's nightmares, led to the deaths of two sisters.

The Bad News

This section presents cautionary tales and unfortunate events. It begins by explaining the concept of nightmares as potential warnings. The report on the Harvey family's tragedy is also featured here, emphasizing the loss of life due to smoke inhalation. The section highlights the importance of heeding premonitions, even if they seem like 'bad dreams'.

Poltergeist Power

This section explores accounts of paranormal activity. Victor Couch, a furniture factory owner in Thomasville, North Carolina, suspended his night shift due to a visible ghost that caused production to slip and workers to quit. Employees reported hearing objects fall and finding tools moved. Couch himself admitted to seeing the 6-foot-tall figure. In Bournemouth, England, the Burden family was forced to abandon their home due to a poltergeist that caused objects to fly, dishes to move, and a television to overturn. The family suspected their adopted son, Bradley, might be connected to the phenomena.

SITUations

This section compiles various reports of unusual occurrences. It includes a report on methemoglobinemia, a rare genetic illness causing blue skin, prevalent in Appalachia. The section also touches upon the use of psychics in investigations, citing two cases: one involving the disappearance of Paul Sekel from Johnstown, New York, where a psychic's prediction of murder and body location proved fruitless, and another concerning the discovery of Lorraine Borowski's body near Darien, Illinois, after a psychic had given a vague location.

Follow-Ups

This section provides updates on previously reported phenomena:

• Bigfoot: Professor Grover Krantz of Washington State University examined casts of footprints found in Umatilla National Forest and declared them authentic, calling them the 'best evidence yet' for Sasquatch's existence, noting the presence of dermal ridges.
• Dracula: Dr. Thomas McDevitt, an allergist, suggested that Count Dracula's savage behavior might have stemmed from an allergic addiction to high-protein foods, including blood.
• Champ: Legislation was adopted in Vermont and New York to ensure the well-being of anomalous creatures in Lake Champlain. Sightings of 'Champ' were down in 1982 compared to the previous year.
• Chessie: Robert Frew videotaped a large, snakelike water creature in Chesapeake Bay, described as 30-foot long with a small head. The tape was sent for analysis to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
• Nessie: A theory by Scottish engineer Robert P. Craig suggests that sightings of the Loch Ness Monster might be explained by floating logs that appear to have monstrous features due to gas buoyancy and resin lumps.

Kick Those Ills Away!

This brief item mentions magnetic shoes being recommended by Chinese doctors as a cure for high blood pressure, exhaustion, insomnia, and dizziness. Testing on 30 patients in China reportedly showed significant improvements.

Volcanic Effects

Nineteen eighty-two is described as the 'Year of the Volcanic Clouds'. Huge gas-clouds from volcanic eruptions have been observed globally. NASA planes probed an 11-mile-high cloud over North America and the Atlantic. A massive cloud tracked for five weeks was attributed to an 'unidentified volcano'. The eruption of El Chicon in Mexico sent a sulfurous gas cloud around the earth, and the Galunggung volcano in Indonesia erupted, causing injuries and evacuations.

Did Dust Destroy Dinosaurs?

This section presents Brian Toon's theory that a giant asteroid or comet impact 65 million years ago created dust clouds that blocked the sun, causing global temperatures to plummet and leading to the extinction of dinosaurs and other large creatures. This event paved the way for the age of mammals.

Skulls & Bones

This section reports on paleontological discoveries:

• Ethiopia: Scientists recovered hominid bones dated to 400,000 years older than the 'Lucy' skeleton.
• Wyoming Badlands: 35 fossilized foot bones of *Cantius trigonodus*, a primate from over 50 million years ago, were found, revealing an opposing grasping toe with a nail, supporting theories on primate evolution.

'Human Monkey' Found

A report from Kenya describes a 'monkey man' named John, who acts like a monkey but looks human. He was found in the Lambwe Valley Forest and exhibits behaviors such as squatting to eat and using utterances to ask for food.

Symposium

Ernest Bellam shares his theory that 'spook lights' are connected to buried treasure, citing numerous articles and legends. He believes these lights are controlled by phases of the moon and are best seen during the new moon cycle. He invites readers with experiences of ghost lights or spook lights to share them.

Books

This section reviews two books:

• ATLANTIS RECONSIDERED by Michael Baran: Reviewed by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., this book explores the theory of Atlantean survivors and their connection to UFOs. Singer finds the evidence for Atlantean aircraft and spacecraft lacking in Plato's original accounts and debunks two cases cited by Baran as evidence of Atlantean activity. He suggests Atlantis may have existed but not as a supercivilization, and questions Baran's interpretation of some historical and geological data.
• THE PARAPSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF THE ACCIDENT AT THREE MILE ISLAND by Larry Arnold: Reviewed by E. Macer-Story, this book compiles premonitions of the Three Mile Island nuclear disaster. The reviewer notes the book's unconventional structure but praises Arnold's plea for governments to heed premonitions. E. Macer-Story agrees with Arnold's frustration over ignored warnings but disagrees with the notion that ESP impressions are always emotional, suggesting non-emotional premonitions also hold significance.

UFO Reports Involving Vehicle Interference

This review by Robert Barrow discusses Mark Rodeghier's book, a catalogue and data analysis of electromagnetic interference (EM) cases involving UFOs and vehicles. The study, covering 441 cases from 1944-1979, examines EM event characteristics, witness involvement, and discusses the presumed physics behind these phenomena, cautioning that current understanding is more suggestive than conclusive.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section is a deciphered compilation of Charles Fort's notes, listing various phenomena, observations, and events with corresponding abbreviations for sources and dates. It includes entries on astronomical events, meteorites, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and unusual atmospheric and biological occurrences from the 19th century.

The Endless Procession

This concluding article discusses the nature of UFO phenomena as a potential new religion or socio-religious system. It posits that humanity, possibly 'biochemical robots,' is the prize in a conflict between 'serpent people' and 'god-kings' or 'manufacturers.' The article suggests that UFOs are being used to confuse humanity while 'gods' attempt to reveal truths about energy and the universe. It warns that increased awareness of these forces could lead to a return to an enslaved condition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, paranormal, and fringe scientific topics. There is a clear interest in UFOs, psychic phenomena, survival against odds, and historical anomalies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily endorsing them, while also critically examining evidence and debunking hoaxes or misperceptions where applicable. The publication encourages reader participation and provides follow-ups on previously reported cases, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing investigation.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 4
Date: September 1968
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4685

Origins of SITU/Pursuit

The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) was established in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, F.L.S., F.R.G.S., F.Z.S., along with other distinguished authors. The foundation was created for the exposition and research of paranormal phenomena, referred to as 'disquieting mysteries of the natural world.' To engage professionals and non-professionals with similar interests, a steering group decided to publish a newsletter. The first issue was released in May 1967. The response, while not overwhelming, was sufficient to encourage the founders.

Newsletter No. 2, dated March 1968, outlined new plans for the Sanderson foundation, proposing a larger structure to be known as the Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, with official documents filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name proved prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson titled one of his last books "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.

In June 1968, another publication was issued, this time with "newsletter" as a subtitle and "Pursuit" displayed above it for the first time. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968 (which incorporated the fourth Society newsletter), the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted as the designation for the Society. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing the names and affiliations of its advisors. Administrative matters were relegated to the last four pages of the twenty-page issue.

Most of the content in this issue was dedicated to investigative reporting on various phenomena. These included reports of "a great armadillo (6 feet long, 3 feet high) said to have been captured in Argentina," the phenomenon of instant transportation of solid objects "from one place to another and even through solids," an analysis of the attack on the famed University of Colorado UFO Project headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon, and updated information about "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

Thus, SITU was born, and Pursuit began to chronicle the investigation of the unexplained.

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The magazine lists its Governing Board, with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. Trustees include Gregory Arend, Donald DeLue, Steven N. Mayne, Nancy L. Warth, Robert C. Warth, Martin Wiegler, and Albena Zwerver.

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished individuals from various fields, including anthropology, archeology, astronomy, mathematics, biology, psychology, plant physiology, mental sciences, cultural anthropology, linguistics, geography, oceanography, and botany. Notable members include Dr. George A. Agogino (anthropology), Dr. J. Allen Hynek (astronomy), Dr. Martin Kruskal (mathematics), and Dr. Roger W. Wescott (anthropology).

"Understanding the Unexplained" by Albert Einstein

A quote attributed to Albert Einstein is presented, reflecting on the nature of astonishment and the scientific pursuit of understanding. The quote uses the analogy of two pans of water on a gas range, one steaming and the other not, to illustrate how unexplained phenomena can lead to curiosity and the drive to find a causal explanation. Einstein states that he would remain astonished and dissatisfied until he could attribute the different behavior of the pans to a specific circumstance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit, as indicated by its origins and content, focuses on the investigation of paranormal and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious scientific inquiry, as evidenced by the establishment of a Scientific Advisory Board composed of professionals from diverse academic disciplines. The publication aims to document and explore mysteries of the natural world, encouraging both professional and non-professional contributions to the field.