Pursuit - No 60 - Vol 15 No 4 - 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 15, Number 4, Whole 60
Date: Fourth Quarter 1982
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Country: USA
Language: English
Cover Headline: Cougar Comeback?

This issue of Pursuit magazine, the quarterly journal of SITU, explores a range of unexplained phenomena, from the potential return of large cats to theoretical physics and the nature of consciousness. The cover features artwork and a headline prompting readers to consider the possibility of cougars reappearing in areas outside their known habitats, specifically mentioning Cape Cod.

The Parascience Controversy by Dave DeWitt

This article delves into the conflict between mainstream science and what the author terms "parascience." DeWitt argues that the scientific community is too quick to dismiss fields like astrology, parapsychology, cryptozoology, and ufology, often based on rigid definitions of what constitutes "science." He contends that many parascientific investigations employ valid scientific techniques and that the resistance from scientists stems partly from a fear of being challenged by amateurs and a perceived threat to established disciplines. The author highlights historical examples of scientific scandals and questions the strict requirement of academic credentials for being considered a scientist. He points out that even established scientists like Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Center for UFO Studies) and Dr. Roy Mackal (research zoologist studying cryptozoology) face skepticism for their work in these areas. The article also touches upon the issue of data-faking within science itself, suggesting that the line between science and parascience is not always clear-cut. DeWitt concludes that parascientists, in their pursuit of the unexplained, are often in the tradition of early scientific endeavor, uncovering new areas for exploration.

Higher Dimensions and The Barrier by Daniel Eden

This two-part article explores the theoretical concept of higher spatial dimensions and how our perceived reality might be a subset of a larger, multi-dimensional space. The author introduces the mathematical concept of a "hyperplane" as a space that is a subset of a greater space, with one fewer dimension. Using the analogy of Edwin Abbott's "Flatland," a world of two dimensions, Eden illustrates how a 3D being could interact with and observe Flatlanders, who would be unaware of the third dimension. He posits that our 3D world (R3) could be an S3 hyperplane within a higher 4D space (R4). The article discusses a hypothetical "barrier force" that might keep physical objects confined to our three dimensions. Eden then examines phenomena that could be interpreted through the lens of higher dimensions, including:

1. Normal Brain Processes: The difficulty in localizing consciousness within the brain, with theories suggesting the mind might operate "above" or outside the physical brain, potentially from a higher dimension.
2. Clairvoyance, OBEs, and Remote Viewing: These phenomena are presented as potential evidence for a hyperplane model, where an observer might gain a view from "outside" our normal space, allowing them to perceive hidden objects or distant events.
3. Atomic and Subatomic Phenomena: The indeterminable properties of quantum mechanics are suggested as possibly being a result of our limited 3D perspective.
4. Fortean and Poltergeist Phenomena: Anomalous events like the falling of objects from seemingly nowhere could imply interaction with higher dimensions.
5. Teleportation: The alleged movement of objects or people from one location to another suggests traversal through a higher-dimensional space.

The article also discusses the visualization of 4D objects and how certain visual illusions, like the Necker Cube, might be perceived as a result of our minds attempting to process higher-dimensional information. The author notes that phenomena like clairvoyance and OBEs can sometimes involve a mirror-reversed perception of reality, which is consistent with moving along the positive or negative axis of a dimension surrounding our hyperplane.

SITUations

This section includes various short items and reports:

• Cougar Comeback?: An editorial piece that introduces the mystery of cougar sightings outside their known habitats, particularly in the Florida Everglades. It calls for evidence such as tracks or photographs and references a previous report on suspected cougar resurgence in Virginia and North Carolina. A recent clipping from the Detroit News about a sighting on Drummond Island, Michigan, is also mentioned. Readers are encouraged to report any sightings of cougars, mountain lions, pumas, or catamounts.
• A Fish Story with a Curious Ring: A brief mention of a report by Charles Osgood.
• Books: A section listing book reviews or mentions.
• Letters: A section for reader correspondence.
• The Notes of Charles Fort Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst: A piece focusing on the work of Charles Fort.
• Another Death by Lightning by Sabina W. Sanderson: A report on lightning-related incidents.
• Memos & Miscellany: A general section for miscellaneous items.

Other Content

• Journal of SITU: The front cover also identifies the publication as the "Journal of SITU, The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained."
• Membership Information: Page 2 details membership benefits, costs for US and international members, and how to join SITU. It also provides contact information for publications and general inquiries.
• Operations and Organization: Information on SITU's reference files, research request policies, and its Board of Trustees and Scientific Advisory Board.
• Important Notices: Clarifications on SITU's stance on services to non-members, its neutrality on social/political views, membership list restrictions, and tax deductibility of contributions.
• Publications: Details on the quarterly publication of Pursuit, subscription rates for libraries, and copyright information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of unexplained phenomena and the boundaries of scientific inquiry. There is a strong emphasis on the idea that "science is the pursuit of the unexplained," as stated in the magazine's tagline. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into subjects that mainstream science may overlook or dismiss. The magazine advocates for a broader definition of science that includes theorizing and exploring anomalies, even if they are not immediately provable or disprovable. The articles encourage reader participation in gathering data and present complex theoretical concepts as potential frameworks for understanding these anomalies. The overall tone is one of curiosity, critical thinking, and a desire to bridge the gap between the known and the unknown.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Fourth Quarter 1982 (Issue 153), features a diverse range of articles on Forteana, parapsychology, and natural phenomena. The cover story, "The Strange Case of the Two Charlie Wetzels" by Loren Coleman, investigates two separate but contemporaneous encounters with unusual creatures in 1958.

The Strange Case of the Two Charlie Wetzels

Loren Coleman presents two intriguing cases from 1958 involving individuals named Charles Wetzel. The first, a Bigfoot sighting near Bluff Creek, California, on August 27, 1958, involved Jerry Crew and his men reporting giant tracks. Three months later, on November 8, 1958, Charles Wetzel of Riverside, California, had a direct encounter with a six-foot-tall creature described as having a "round, scarecrowish head," no ears, a beak-like mouth, fluorescent eyes, and scaly skin. The creature clawed at his car windshield before Wetzel ran it over. The following night, a similar "black something" was seen near the same site. Coleman also details a second, distinct case involving another Charles Wetzel (II) in Grand Rapids, Nebraska, on July 28, 1958. This Wetzel reported seeing a creature resembling a kangaroo, about six feet tall, with large hind legs, bounding away in ten-foot leaps. The article notes that both Wetzels had sons also named Charles, and speculates on the significance of the name "Wetzel" (a German name meaning "little protector") and its potential connection to unusual events.

Atomic and Subatomic Phenomena

This section delves into the mysteries of quantum mechanics, discussing the concept of "tunneling" where particles can penetrate energy barriers that should be forbidden. It explains that this effect is understood through the "wave" nature of matter, as described by the Schrodinger equation. The article draws parallels between matter-waves and light-waves, noting that while light-wave behavior is deterministic, matter-wave behavior is described as nondeterministic, relying on statistical probabilities. The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is introduced as a fundamental limit to precise measurement, suggesting that some error is always present. The author explores theoretical interpretations, including the idea of higher-dimensional spaces, and references the work of physicists like Albert Einstein. The concept of "remote viewing" (RV), developed by physicists Targ and Puthoff, is also introduced as a phenomenon suggesting hyperplane vision, where subjects attempt to mentally visualize unknown locations.

Speculations on Natural Explosions at Old Hannah's Cave, Staffordshire, England

Colin Pounder investigates historical accounts of natural explosions occurring near Old Hannah's Cave in England, dating back to the mid-19th century. Eyewitnesses described loud reports, sounds like tumbling stones, and the issuance of blue flames or "aqueous vapor" from rock fissures. The phenomenon was associated with high winds and occurred primarily in December, January, and April. Pounder hypothesizes that the explosions were caused by the accumulation and ignition of inflammable gas, likely methane, produced by the decay of organic material and pyrite in the subterranean Manifold River system. He suggests that high winds could have diluted the gas to an explosive concentration and possibly provided the ignition source through static electricity generated by blowing sand and soil.

New Evidence for Psychic Phenomena

Michael H. Brown reports on research into Extra Sensory Perception (ESP) and psychokinesis (PK) using Random Event Generators (REGs). The article highlights the work of psychologist Perry Eugene and researcher Charles Honorton, who believe REG tests provide extraordinary results that defy the laws of chance. Helmut Schmidt, a German physicist, developed the first REG in 1967, using the decay of radioactive nuclei. Subjects consistently scored higher than predicted by probability, sometimes beating odds of 500 million to one. The research suggests that subjects with psychic backgrounds, who are not depressed or neurotic, and who are in a non-analytical state of mind, tend to perform better. The article also mentions that the Central Intelligence Agency has funded parapsychological studies, indicating a growing interest in the field.

B.C. Bigfoot Report

George W. Earley recounts his 1982 summer backpacking trip through Bigfoot territory in Alberta and British Columbia. Despite the growing acceptance of Bigfoot, Canadian officials are reluctant to discuss the phenomenon. Earley shares two anecdotes from park wardens in eastern British Columbia who, while not having direct sightings, gave credence to reports of tracks and "strange cries" heard in the wilderness, citing the "high veracity" of the men who reported them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the boundaries of known science, examining phenomena that challenge conventional explanations. Themes include unexplained creature sightings (Bigfoot, mystery kangaroos), geological anomalies (natural explosions), and the potential for psychic abilities (ESP, PK, remote viewing). The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded, investigative stance, presenting evidence and theories from researchers while acknowledging the skepticism and need for further rigorous study. The recurring motif of "synchronicity" or meaningful coincidences, particularly with names and events, is also a notable element.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Fourth Quarter 1982
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained
Date: Fourth Quarter 1982

Stalking the Cape Cod Cougar

The cover story, "Stalking the Cape Cod Cougar" by E. J. Kahn, Jr., investigates the phenomenon of alleged mountain lion sightings on Cape Cod, particularly in Truro, Massachusetts. Kahn recounts numerous reports, starting with the discovery of mauled house cats in North Truro in September. This was followed by incidents involving mauled pigs in December, with scratch marks on their backs. Eyewitness accounts include those of Mark Peters, a former policeman, and residents like William and Marsha Medeiros, who described a large feline creature. Truro Police Officer Rodney Allen reported a close encounter on Pamet Point Road, identifying the animal as a mountain lion. The article also touches upon the rarity of such sightings in New England, citing historical records and expert opinions, including those of biologist Robert Downing and animal behaviorist Virginia Fifield. Despite skepticism from some officials, like National Seashore chief park ranger Irving Tubbs, who attributed many reports to misidentification or imagination, the sheer volume of accounts suggests something unusual is occurring. The article also notes the difficulty in finding definitive proof, such as tracks, and the potential for misidentification, as seen in the case of a dolphin mistaken for a whale.

Further Notes on The Planetary Grid

John T. Sinkiewicz's article, "Further Notes on The Planetary Grid," expands on his previous work, discussing the spherical icosa-hedron and dodeca-hedron structures and their functions in energy and form. He explains that while the pyramid form is not natural to Earth, the tetra-hedron and dodeca-hedron are harmonic to the planet. Sinkiewicz's research corporation, L.I.F.E. Research Corp., uses the dodeca-hedron for acoustical rooms to enhance energy packets and the tetra-hedron as an energy transformer. He also mentions a projected new pole location aligning with Ruth Montgomery's book and discusses the ability of sensitive individuals to detect active grid crossings. The article is excerpted from The Journal of Borderland Research.

Planetary Grid

This section, excerpted from The Journal of Borderland Research, discusses the concept of a worldwide power grid, referred to as the Russian Grid or Etheric forces, which Flying Saucers are thought to use for travel. It references Christopher Bird's work and Captain Bruce Cathie's book "Harmonic 33." The article notes that an elite group of American scientists may have been developing a secret grid map in cooperation with "Flying Saucer entities." It also highlights John T. Sinkiewicz's article in Pursuit, which provides a detailed numbering system for the grid system and its refinements. The section explores the idea of the Chartres Cathedral being aligned with Telluric forces and the possibility that ancient figures like Plato and Pythagoras had advanced knowledge of Earth's structure, possibly through extraterrestrial contact or out-of-body experiences.

A Treatise on Anti-Gravity and Light

Dr. Joseph L. Intelisano's article, "A Treatise on Anti-Gravity and Light," continues from a previous issue, discussing the historical fear of humans by "etheric overlords" due to their developing consciousness and potential for time travel. He posits that man has not yet attained the spiritual level to master time travel. The article introduces a mathematical exercise based on the natural logarithm and the Golden Mean (.618034) as a possible first step toward understanding anti-gravity and levitation science. It connects this to geomancy, described not as divination but as the mathematical design and construction of megalithic structures like pyramids and Stonehenge, which represented miniature solar systems and were used for interstellar travel and other functions. The article also references "Project Sanguine" and its use for radio transmission to submarines, and discusses the harmonic mass of a proton and its relation to transmutation and teleportation. Editors' notes correct printer's errors from the previous installment.

'Soft Burning'

Boyd Hill recounts a personal experience titled "'Soft Burning,'" which occurred on August 22, 1976, in Hawaii. His wife, Michelle, experienced a sudden sensation of "soft burning" on her left shoulder. There were no flames or smoke, but her terry-cloth housecoat was scorched on the outside, and she had a mild redness on her skin that quickly disappeared. Hill notes that this incident differs from typical spontaneous human combustion (SHC) accounts, as Michelle felt the burning, it stopped abruptly, and it originated externally to her clothing.

Astrology and Charles Hoy Fort

Allan Grisé's article, "Astrology and Charles Hoy Fort," examines Charles Fort's birth chart in relation to astrological texts. Grisé analyzes Fort's Sun in Leo, Aries Moon, and planetary aspects, including Uranus, Pluto, Mercury, Mars, and Jupiter. He suggests that Fort's personality traits, such as his intelligence, wit, independence, and skepticism, are reflected in his astrological chart. The article highlights Fort's dedication to his work, his sense of humor, and his confrontational style, linking these to his astrological influences. It also touches upon Fort's financial aspects, noting Venus conjoining Jupiter, which relates to money and good fortune.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of the unexplained, paranormal phenomena, and alternative scientific or historical perspectives. There is a strong emphasis on eyewitness accounts and personal experiences, particularly concerning unusual animal sightings and unexplained events. The articles on the Planetary Grid and geomancy suggest a belief in ancient, advanced knowledge and hidden energy systems. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that fall outside conventional scientific understanding, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond the mainstream. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and detailed investigations into specific cases reflects a commitment to exploring the Fortean aspects of reality.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Fourth Quarter 1982, features a diverse range of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, Fortean topics, and scientific curiosities. The cover story, "The True Nature Of New Milford's Talking Stove..." by Dale Hartford, investigates a famous ghost case from 1930. The issue also includes an astrological analysis of Charles Fort's birth chart, discussions on higher dimensions and teleportation, and various 'Situations' reports on unusual events.

The True Nature Of New Milford's Talking Stove...

Dale Hartford recounts the 1930 New Milford, Connecticut, ghost phenomenon involving a voice emanating from an old wooden stove. Initially attributed to a ghost, the story attracted significant media attention. The article reveals that the phenomenon was a hoax orchestrated by local men, including Hawk Palardy, who used a cable connected to the stove to transmit voices. The 'ghost' communicated various messages, including claims of being buried and pleas for retribution, drawing crowds and media scrutiny.

Astrological Analysis of Charles Fort

An astrological chart for Charles Fort, born August 9, 1874, is presented, analyzing the geocentric positions of the Sun, Moon, and planets. The analysis highlights Mars in an energizing 60° from Jupiter, suggesting idealism and honesty. Mars square Neptune is noted for promoting illusions and mind control, referencing Fort's 'Super-Sargasso Sea' concept. An opposition of Saturn to Uranus is identified as the aspect of an iconoclast, fitting Fort's role as a critic of science, earning him the moniker "the arch-enemy of science."

Higher Dimensions and The Barrier

This section explores the concept of higher dimensions as a potential framework for understanding paranormal phenomena like 'appearing points' and poltergeists. It discusses the work of Charles Fort and the idea of a 'barrier force' that separates our three-dimensional world from a hypothetical fourth dimension (R4). The article suggests that objects or phenomena attributed to higher spaces might be explained by interactions with this barrier, potentially involving unknown intelligences or subconscious factors. It also touches upon the concept of teleportation, where objects or people disappear from one location and reappear elsewhere.

Teleportation of Humans, Animals, and Objects

This article examines the phenomenon of teleportation, as described by Charles Fort, which involves the sudden disappearance and reappearance of objects. It notes that various cultures have interpreted such events through their own beliefs, attributing them to supernatural agencies. The article also discusses the work of researchers like J. Allen Hynek and Karl Brunstein, who explore the possibility of higher spaces and new physical forces to explain UFO sightings and other anomalous events. The concept of a 'barrier' is revisited, with potential physical features like electron tunneling and slight temperature increases upon penetration being considered.

Situations: Unexplained Events

This section reports on various curious and unexplained events:

• Pyramid on Maldive Island: Thor Heyerdahl discovered a limestone pyramid, estimated to be 40-50 feet high, on a remote island in the Maldives Archipelago. The pyramid, built in a stepped style, is believed to be astronomically oriented and may be related to the Indus Valley civilization.
• Money Tree?: Researchers have identified trees in Alberta, Canada, whose leaf dust can be used as nuclei for snow-making, allowing snow to form at temperatures up to 32°F, potentially saving significant energy in the recreation industry.
• Medicinal Tree?: In Miami, Florida, an elderly blind man, Alfredo Varona, claimed to regain his sight after washing his face with sap from a sea grape tree. This led to a crowd gathering, but the tree was subsequently cut down. Doctors suggest the tannin in the sap might have cleared mucous deposits, potentially aiding his cataracts.
• Search for a Lost Army: Gary Chafetz is using a sophisticated radar unit to search for the lost army of 50,000 Persian soldiers dispatched by Cambyses in 525 B.C. to sack a temple in Egypt, which reportedly vanished in the desert.
• Deadly Wait for a UFO: Gerald Flach and Laverne Landis drove to northeastern Minnesota to await messages from a "higher power" related to UFOs. They were found in their snowbound car; Miss Landis was dead from hypothermia and dehydration, while Flach was hospitalized.
• Two-Meteorite Town: Wethersfield, Connecticut, became one of only two communities to experience a second meteorite fall within its boundaries when a 6-pound meteorite crashed through a home's roof in November 1982, following a previous fall in 1971.
• A Fish Story with a Curious Ring: Joseph M. Cross lost his University of Virginia school ring while sailing on Chesapeake Bay. Two weeks later, the ring was found by Coleman V. Maddox at a market, having apparently been eaten by a fish and then sold.

Books

• VERDICT ON THE SHROUD by Kenneth E. Stevenson and Gary R. Habermas: Reviewed by Dennis W. Prater. This book examines evidence for the Shroud of Turin, presenting scientific data and historical accounts. The reviewer notes that while the book is factual, the authors' Christian perspective limits their consideration of Fortean phenomena and leads to strong pronouncements about the Resurrection.
• GREAT EXPLORATION HOAXES by David Roberts: Reviewed by George W. Earley. This book examines ten explorers, finding nine to be fakes. It focuses on the claims of Admirals Peary and Byrd reaching the North Pole, suggesting their accounts are unsubstantiated and likely fraudulent.

The Schrodinger Equation

A brief explanation of the time-dependent Schrodinger equation is provided, noting its similarities to wave concepts and its representation of a "nonphysical" wave of probability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, aligning with a Fortean perspective. It highlights unexplained events, historical mysteries, and alternative theories, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the paranormal and the unusual, presenting evidence and theories that deviate from established scientific paradigms. The inclusion of astrological analysis, ghost stories, and discussions of higher dimensions underscores a commitment to exploring the fringes of knowledge.

This issue of Pursuit (Fourth Quarter 1982, Vol. 18) is a dense exploration of unexplained phenomena, UFOs, and historical mysteries. It features book reviews, letters to the editor, and detailed accounts of intriguing cases.

Book Reviews

"Mysteries of the Unexplained" by Reader's Digest General Books

Reviewed by Sabina W. Sanderson, this book is praised for its production values, bibliography, and index, but criticized for its content, which is deemed repetitive for veteran Forteans and includes questionable cases like the disappearances of Leslie Howard and Glenn Miller, and the unexplained aspects of Mallory and Irvine's fate on Mt. Everest.

"UFOs-African Encounters" by Cynthia Hind

Robert Barrow reviews Cynthia Hind's book, highlighting its focus on African UFO experiences. Hind expresses uncertainty about the nature of UFOs but is convinced they are not terrestrial. The book covers various investigated reports, including a farmer's encounter, a physical relationship with a UFO humanoid, the 1972 Fort Beaufort incident where a UFO was fired upon, and the 'Peter and Frances' story involving a car transported by UFOs. The review notes the book's charm, particularly due to witnesses far removed from typical UFO hoopla.

"After Man: A Zoology of the Future" by Dougal Dixon

George W. Earley reviews Dougal Dixon's speculative work on the future of Earth and its species 50 million years hence. The book envisions a world reshaped by continental drift and climatic changes, populated by new animal species evolved to fill ecological niches left by humanity's potential extinction. Earley commends Dixon's scientific background and imagination, noting the book's detailed descriptions and illustrations.

"Genesis" by W. A. Harbinson

George W. Earley also reviews this UFO-themed fictional novel, describing it as "the most disquieting piece of UFO fiction" he has read in over thirty years. The novel follows two UFO researchers and a series of mysterious killings and kidnappings within the UFO research community, referencing real-world ufology figures and events.

Letters to the Editor

Ancient Astronomy and Measurement

Henry A. Hoff contributes a detailed letter challenging the possibility of ancient astronomers measuring the speed of light or the diameter of Mercury using available technology. He discusses the limitations of mirrors and lenses, the measurement of the Earth's radius, stellar aberration, and mixed color occultation. Hoff concludes that Wilson's model has significant errors and that ancient capabilities were insufficient for such measurements.

UFO Technologies and Patents

A member of SITU expresses interest in psychotronics, new energies, and UFO technologies, mentioning a list of patents and books related to these subjects.

Crystal Skull Discussion

Hillyer Senning comments on George A. Agogino's article about the Crystal Skull, suggesting that anthropologists should attempt to identify the creators of these skulls by analyzing their racial features.

Causality and Synchronicity

Kim L. Neidigh critiques Dr. Cahoon's article on causality and synchronicity, arguing that the expansion of the universe does not logically imply a multiplicity of identical individuals and that Dr. Cahoon's reasoning for synchronicity is circular.

UFOs Exist

A letter from Dr. Harley Rutledge, a physics professor, asserts that real UFOs exist and are not natural phenomena, based on his extensive field study. He criticizes a PBS program for presenting UFOs as potentially natural occurrences.

The Notes of Charles Fort

Carl J. Pabst continues his deciphering of Charles Fort's notes, focusing on abbreviations and entries related to various phenomena, including weather events, geological occurrences, and astronomical observations from the 19th century.

Feature Article: Another Death by Lightning

Sabina W. Sanderson recounts an incident from Siberia where, during a mutiny of gold-diggers, a thunder-storm arose and a lightning strike killed the ringleader. She discusses the curious nature of the event, questioning whether it was a coincidence or a directed event, and notes that the source considered the account reliable.

Astrology and Charles Hoy Fort

This section continues the discussion on the relationship between astrology and Charles Hoy Fort's work, suggesting that astrology, despite its current fringe status, may one day be scientifically validated. It includes a bibliography of astrology-related books.

How Much Did You Know About UFOs?

This section provides answers to a True/False and Multiple-Choice questionnaire on UFOs previously published in Pursuit No. 59.

Memos & Miscellany

This section includes a reminder about membership renewal, announcements of two conferences attended by SITU's President Bob Warth (U.S. Psychotronics Association and a seminar on Healing Modalities), and corrections to a previous review.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and the critical examination of scientific and historical claims. The magazine maintains a stance of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints and detailed accounts of intriguing cases, while also engaging in critical analysis of evidence and methodology. There is a consistent interest in historical anomalies and the potential for unconventional explanations, as seen in the discussions on ancient astronomy, the Kaspar Hauser mystery, and the nature of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging rigorous investigation and challenging conventional scientific paradigms when evidence warrants it. The inclusion of letters to the editor and detailed notes from Charles Fort's work underscores a commitment to exploring the fringes of knowledge and history.

This document is the 1982 index for 'Pursuit' magazine, published by THE SOCIETY FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE UNEXPLAINED (SITU). The masthead indicates the society's mailing address in Little Silver, New Jersey, and its telephone number. The publication is identified as 'Pursuit Index 1982' and lists articles, authors, and reviewed books from that year.

Origins of SITU/PURSUIT

The society and its publication, 'Pursuit,' have a history dating back to 1965 when Ivan T. Sanderson, a zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist, established a foundation for the research of the paranormal. The initial publication was a newsletter, with the first issue appearing in May 1967. The response was sufficient to encourage the founders. By March 1968, plans were announced for a larger structure to be called the Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, which was formally established in the New Jersey Secretary of State's office. Dr. Sanderson himself titled one of his books 'Investigating the Unexplained,' published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.

In June 1968, another publication was issued, with 'Pursuit' displayed as the main title and 'newsletter' as a subtitle. By September 1968, the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted as the society's designation. Issue number 4 also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing its members and their affiliations. Administrative matters were then relegated to the back pages, with the majority of the content dedicated to investigative reporting.

Notable topics covered in that issue included reports on 'a great armadillo (6 feet long, 3 feet high) said to have been captured in Argentina,' the phenomenon of instant transportation of solid objects, the 'attack' on the University of Colorado UFO Project led by Dr. Edward U. Condon, and updated information on 'ringing rocks' and 'stone spheres.' The document concludes by stating, 'Thus SITU was born, and thus Pursuit began to chronicle our Investigation of The Unexplained.' The publication is printed in the U.S.A. and carries the ISSN 0033-4685.

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The Governing Board is listed with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. Other trustees include Steven N. Mayne, Martin Wiegler, Albena Zwerver, and Donald DeLue (pro tem.).

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises a distinguished group of professionals from various fields, including anthropology, psychology, astronomy, mathematics, biology, and botany. Notable members include Dr. George A. Agogino (Eastern New Mexico University), Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Northwestern University), Dr. Martin Kruskal (Princeton University), Dr. Samuel B. McDowell (Rutgers University), Dr. Vladimir Markotic (University of Alberta), Dr. John R. Napier (University of London), Dr. Michael A. Persinger (Laurentian University), Dr. Frank B. Salisbury (Utah State University), Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz (National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering), Dr. Roger W. Wescott (Drew University), Dr. A. Joseph Wraight (U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey), and Dr. Robert K. Zuck (Drew University).

Index Contents

The 1982 index lists numerous articles and their corresponding page numbers. Topics range widely, including:

• Ancient Civilizations and Mysteries: 'Ancient Letters from Iberia,' 'Ancient Space Flight: Search for Evidence,' 'Giza's Pyramids Do Not Show Evidence for the Stability of the Solar System Since c. 2700 B.C.,' 'Origins of Lemuria,' 'High Hopes for a New-Age Pyramid,' 'The Planetary Grid: Cornerstone of Science and Evolution,' 'Parting the Curtains of Prehistory for a Look at the Nether World,' 'Search for Ancient Aquanauts,' 'The Origins of Lemuria' (Parts I, II, III).
• UFOs and Anomalous Phenomena: 'Vermont's UFO Invasion,' 'UFO Reports Involving Vehicle Interference,' 'UFOs-African Encounters,' 'The Tuscarora Mountain T-Birds,' 'New Evidence for Psychic Phenomena,' 'The Parascience Controversy,' 'ESPionage: Have 'Mind Control' Techniques Supplanted the Cloak and Dagger?,' 'How Much Do You Know About UFOs? (A Quiz),' 'The Strange Case of the Two Charlie Wetzels.'
• Biology and Cryptozoology: 'B.C. Bigfoot Report,' 'Bigfoot Casebook,' 'After Man: A Zoology of the Future,' 'Stalking the Cape Cod Cougar,' 'Tracking the Yeti in the Snowfields of the Himalayas.'
• Physics and Science: 'Discovery of the Second Law of Gravitation,' 'Causality and Synchronicity as Natural Principles,' 'Proposed Data Base for Unorthodox Energy Science,' 'Treatise on Anti-Gravity and Light,' 'Soft Burning,' 'Speculations on Natural Explosions at Old Hannah's Cave.'
• Psychology and Parapsychology: 'Parapsychology in China,' 'Theatrical Ghosts,' 'Vampire as Reality,' 'The Political Impact of the Accident at Three Mile Island.'
• Other Topics: 'Darwinian Transformism: A Reaffirmation,' 'Obesity and the Enterprise,' 'The Politics of Water,' 'Earth Changes Ahead,' 'Great Airship Mystery,' 'Crystal Skull, The: Fine Fake or Authentic Artifact?,' 'Morag of Morar,' 'Fish Story with a Curious Ring, A,' 'Enigmagrams,' 'Endless Procession, The,' 'The True Nature of New Milford's Talking Stove, The.'

Books Reviewed

The index also includes a section for 'Books Reviewed,' featuring titles such as:

• 'How to Build a Flying Saucer (and Other Proposals in Speculative Engineering)' by T. B. Pawlicki
• 'Ice: the Ultimate Human Catastrophe' by Fred Hoyle
• 'Loch Ness Monster' by Tim Dinsdale
• 'Mysteries of the Unexplained' by Editors of Reader's Digest General Books
• 'Parapsychological Impact of the Accident at Three Mile Island' by Larry Arnold
• 'Terror' by Michael D. Albers
• 'UFO Reports Involving Vehicle Interference' by Mark Rodeghier
• 'UFOs-African Encounters' by Cynthia Hind
• 'Verdict on the Shroud' by Kenneth E. Stevenson and Gary R. Habermas
• 'Wholeness and the Implicate Order' by David Bohm

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes evident in the 1982 index of 'Pursuit' magazine are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and other anomalous aerial events, paranormal occurrences, and mysteries of the natural world. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet investigative stance, featuring contributions from scientists and professionals across various disciplines, as indicated by the extensive Scientific Advisory Board. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging serious inquiry into subjects often relegated to the fringes of mainstream science, as suggested by the society's mission statement and the diverse range of topics covered.