Pursuit - No 72 - Vol 18 No 4 - 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 18, Number 4 (Whole No. 72)
Date: Fourth Quarter 1985
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine, the quarterly journal of SITU, explores a diverse range of unexplained phenomena, from ancient history and linguistics to contemporary reports of unusual events. The cover features images related to telekinesis and possibly ancient artifacts, with a prominent headline about "Some Recent Developments in the SORRAT Experiments" using telekinesis, directing readers to page 160.

Membership and Organization

The magazine opens with details about SITU, defining it as a Latin word meaning 'place' and an acronym for The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. SITU's mission is to collect data on unexplained phenomena, promote investigation, and report significant findings to its members. Membership details are provided, including subscription rates for the United States and other countries, and information on how to submit materials for publication. The Society maintains extensive reference files and offers research services for a fee. Its legal affairs are managed by a Board of Trustees, and it is advised by a Scientific Advisory Board. Important notices clarify that SITU does not offer services to non-members, does not hold political or religious views, restricts its membership list, and that contributions are tax-deductible.

Contents and Featured Articles

The table of contents reveals a rich array of articles:

• Ancient Mines in America by Evan Hansen: This article delves into the possibility of advanced ancient civilizations in America, challenging conventional archaeological views. Hansen argues that evidence suggests the use of metal tools and sophisticated mining techniques predating European contact. He discusses his experiences with VISTA, his interactions with Native American cultures, and his research into petroglyphs and linguistic connections, particularly linking ancient American cultures to European traditions through possible transatlantic contacts and the Iroquois Confederation's influence on the U.S. Constitution.
• Ice Falls (Editorial/Report): This piece discusses numerous reports of ice falls, some weighing around 50 pounds, occurring since the early 1950s. It questions the common media explanation that these are simply discharges from commercial aircraft toilets, suggesting that the phenomenon has a longer history and may warrant a closer look.
• SITUation entries: These appear to be brief reports or updates on various unexplained phenomena, including "Champ Observed 14 times in 1985" and a "Baffling String of Deaths" in New Jersey attributed to the desecration of an Indian graveyard.
• Some Recent Developments in the SORRAT Experiments by Dr. John T. Richards: This article, highlighted on the cover, likely details advancements or findings in experiments related to telekinesis.
• The 'Sea Serpent' of Loch Ness - Resident or Visitor? by Ulrich Magin: An exploration into the enduring mystery of the Loch Ness Monster.
• The Westchester Wing - Part II by R. Perry Collins: A continuation of a previous article, likely detailing an investigation or report.
• An Interim Report on the Search for Mokele Mbembe by Herman A. Regusters and Dr. Kai L. Vandusen: An update on the ongoing search for the legendary Mokele Mbembe, a cryptid believed to inhabit the Congo River basin.
• The Mexican Church at Catorce - Temple of Miracles by Drs. George, Mercedes and Alice Agogino: An examination of a church in Mexico known for reported miracles.
• Report on Conferences by Robert C. Warth: A summary or review of recent conferences related to unexplained phenomena.
• Letters to the Editor: A section for reader correspondence.
• The Notes of Charles Fort Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst: An analysis or interpretation of the writings of Charles Fort, a pioneer in the study of unexplained phenomena.

Ancient Mines and Linguistic Connections

The article "Ancient Mines in America" by Evan Hansen presents a compelling argument for a more complex pre-Columbian history of the Americas. Hansen, drawing from his experiences with VISTA and extensive research, suggests that ancient Native American cultures possessed advanced knowledge, including metalworking, and that their political and social systems shared similarities with European traditions. He highlights the potential influence of the Iroquois Confederation on the U.S. Constitution and explores the possibility of transatlantic contacts predating Columbus, citing evidence from linguistics and archaeology. A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the decipherment of petroglyphs, which Hansen believes are ancient maps. He discusses the use of Ogam script and its connection to Celtic languages, suggesting that these inscriptions point to the locations of ancient mines. His research leads him to discover and investigate several potential gold mine sites in Utah and Arizona, dating back thousands of years, and protected by the Wilderness Act.

The SORRAT Experiments and Ice Falls

Dr. John T. Richards' article on the "SORRAT Experiments" likely details research into psychokinesis or telekinesis, given the cover's emphasis. The "SITUation" entries and the editorial on "Ice Falls" address more contemporary mysteries. The "Ice Falls" piece specifically challenges the simplistic explanation of falling ice as solely a byproduct of aircraft toilets, pointing to historical accounts of large ice chunks falling long before the advent of modern aviation, suggesting a phenomenon that requires deeper investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit reflects SITU's core mission: to investigate and report on phenomena that lie outside the scope of conventional scientific inquiry. Recurring themes include ancient mysteries, linguistic puzzles, cryptids (Loch Ness Monster, Mokele Mbembe), and unexplained events. The magazine adopts a stance of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations and to engage with the evidence presented, even when it challenges established paradigms. The emphasis on historical research, linguistic analysis, and detailed reporting of individual cases underscores a commitment to rigorous, albeit unconventional, investigation.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Fourth Quarter 1985, covers a diverse range of topics including ancient mining, cryptozoology, and paranormal phenomena.

Ancient Mining and Gold Deposits in Utah

The article details an investigation into a pit and tunnel in Utah, revealing signs of human digging and the presence of gossan. Testing of gossan samples yielded numerous gold flakes, suggesting the site was operated for gold extraction. The author notes the difficulty in determining the exact methods and motives of the ancient miners, and the possibility of contamination in some samples. The article also discusses the geological context, with copper ore layers found in nearby areas, and the challenge of detecting gold in thin layers.

The 'Sea Serpent' of Loch Ness: Resident or Visitor?

Ulrich Magin explores the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster, questioning the existence of a breeding herd. He analyzes 'fringe' reports, including landsightings and sightings outside the loch, suggesting that marine visitors might be responsible for the phenomenon. The article presents tables of land sightings and multiple sightings, detailing dates, locations, and observers. It also discusses sightings of 'sea serpents' in the Moray Firth and other Scottish waters, proposing that these are marine creatures that occasionally enter Loch Ness. The author suggests that the presence of marine visitors explains the 'flap years' and the variety of reported forms.

Related Situation: Champ Observed 14 Times in 1985

This section reports on the investigation of 'Champ' sightings in Lake Champlain. Joseph W. Zarzynski, director of the Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation, cataloged over 250 sightings, with 14 reported in 1985. The article discusses the possible identities of 'Champ,' including plesiosaurs, zeuglodons, or a new species of sea lion-type creature, and highlights the encouragement these sightings provide for cryptozoological research.

Ice Falls and Hailstorms

Several reports of unusual ice phenomena are presented. These include a basketball-size ice chunk falling from an aircraft near Mercer County Airport, a 20-pound ice chunk hitting a home in Pomona, California, and a severe hailstorm in Brazil that killed at least 20 people and caused extensive damage with 2-pound hailstones.

Some Recent Developments in the SORRAT Experiments

This article by Dr. John Thomas Richards details the SORRAT (Society for Research on Rapport and Telekinesis) experiments, focusing on psychokinesis and telekinesis. It describes the group's formation in 1961 by Dr. John G. Neihardt and their progression from table levitations to more complex phenomena. The article mentions the involvement of Dr. Joseph Banks Rhine and William Edward Cox, who developed methods for recording PK phenomena. It also touches upon the controversy surrounding SORRAT and the publication of a book detailing its history. A specific experiment involving a test bottle with pipestem cleaners and a pencil stub is described, along with a later experiment where a letter vanished from a sealed mini-lab.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, including ancient mysteries, cryptozoology, and paranormal events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories for reader consideration, while acknowledging the controversial nature of some topics and the need for further investigation. The publication encourages public participation in research, particularly in areas like epigraphy and cryptozoology.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Fourth Quarter 1985, is primarily dedicated to exploring paranormal phenomena and UFO activity, with a significant focus on the "Westchester Wing" wave of sightings. The magazine features articles by R. Perry Collins and others, detailing investigations into psychokinesis, unexplained communications, and numerous UFO encounters.

Paranormal Phenomena and SORRAT Investigations

The issue highlights the ongoing work of W. E. Cox and the SORRAT (Society for Psychical Research and Research Advancement) group. Cox's experiments involve "Recurrent Spontaneous Psychokinetic" (RSPK) messages, where pens levitate and write messages, sometimes appearing in sealed boxes or mailed to distant locations. These messages are described as paranormal and often answer test questions or provide lists of numbers. The article details experiments with a "plastic test box" where letters were paranormally written and then vanished, with spectrographic analysis used to detect possible erasures.

Other phenomena investigated include paranormal "ground raps" in the Siouxan Prayer Garden, which spelled messages using an alphabet code. Cox also conducted experiments with a camera capturing a levitated pen writing a message. The magazine mentions that these RSPK messages have been mailed to people in distant cities and countries, sometimes with foreign stamps added, and occasionally postmarked before vanishing.

Shirley Starke, associated with a SORRAT splinter-group, is featured for her work with linked plywood rings. These rings have been examined by researchers like Dr. John Hasted and Dr. John Beloff, who found no normal explanation for their linkage. The wood was not cut, jigsawed, or separated, and the glue was original. The group is now experimenting with metal, leather, and paper rings, with one paper ring igniting during an experiment due to friction.

Metallurgist Donald Clark has provided oval metal rings for testing. A specific experiment on July 15, 1984, at Skyrim, involved Cox's red felt pen writing "PERSEVERE – MORE IS TO COME" on the bottom of a sealed plastic box. By Christmas 1984, the ink had almost vanished, a phenomenon Cox claims cannot be explained by normal fading.

Dr. James McClenon, a sociologist/parapsychologist, has completed the first volume of "The Entity Papers: Messages from the Mini-Lab." His wife, Wendy, is the editor of "The SORRAT Newsletter."

The Westchester Wing UFO Wave

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Westchester Wing" UFO wave, which continued into 1985. R. Perry Collins, an aerospace engineer and UFO investigator, details numerous incidents and observations. The wave is characterized by large, V-shaped or wing-shaped displays of lights, often described as silent and hovering at low altitudes.

Collins notes that federal interests in "coverup" attempts and the active pursuit of these objects are evident. He recounts a humorous incident where he joked about belonging to the "Krypton Special Police" (KSP) to investigate UFO investigators, leading to a cut phone line.

Lt. Lesnick and Phil Imbrogno, key investigators, are mentioned as being followed and surveilled. Imbrogno witnessed a helicopter with a camera pointed at him. The "Wing" is described as making friends among the populace and causing alarm to the establishment.

"Psychic" interaction between witnesses and the objects is a recurring theme. Objects reportedly recede when witnesses become fearful, come closer when they desire a better look, and respond to viewing positions with maneuvers and displays of lights. Objects have hovered over homes and families, displaying breathtaking effects and beautiful lights that correlate with witness presence.

There are reports of attention being paid to nuclear weapons storage areas, with demonstrations of the ability to nullify ballistic missile installations and aircraft interception attempts. This activity has been ongoing for years.

J. Allen Hynek identified the "Westchester Wing" as one of the largest and most consistent displays in history, centered over an affluent population center. The reports in 1985 decreased in number, but Collins focuses on three specific events.

Incident 1: Indian Point Nuclear Facility (July 24, 1984)

This incident, which came to public attention in January 1985, involved guards at the Indian Point nuclear facility reporting a huge "V"-shaped object descending to within 300 yards. Guards were issued shotguns, and nearby Fort Smith was alerted. Plant authorities denied and downplayed the incident, with security coordinator John Branciforte calling claims "pure speculation." Lt. George Lesnick and Phil Imbrogno investigated, interviewing guards and other witnesses. They found indications of a cover-up, with jobs threatened and an effort to keep the story from surfacing. Security cameras were reportedly not working that night due to a "technical malfunction," which Lesnick, a former police officer, found difficult to believe.

Incident 2: Meriden, Connecticut (April 1985)

This incident involved a "V"-shaped object seen moving slowly, apex towards the ground, near the Merritt Parkway and I-91. Shortly after, a military-gunship-like helicopter of unusual design was observed flying at low altitude, making sweeps of the area. The helicopter was painted dark blue with commercial NS numbers in red. Collins notes the coincidence of the UFO sighting and the helicopter's presence in the same area.

An engineer coworker and his wife also reported seeing a UFO that morning, with similar characteristics. Collins speculates on the connection between the UFO sighting and the unusual aircraft, noting that the helicopter's registry number was linked to an individual in Torrance, California, and that no private individual could easily afford or operate such a craft.

Incident 3: Formation of Lights over Connecticut (February 1985)

This incident, while not directly involving the "Westchester Wing," is presented as an example of efforts to dismiss UFO activity. During a TV interview about the UFO wave, an apparently immense ring of slowly moving lights appeared over Bridgeport. The formation, described as eight planes flying in precision, was seen over New Haven and central Connecticut. While initially mistaken for a UFO, it was later identified as aircraft. The pilots were never found, and their origin remained a mystery. Collins questions the coincidence of this display occurring immediately after investigators presented evidence of UFO activity.

Witness Accounts and Characteristics

Numerous witness accounts are detailed, describing objects of various shapes, including V-shaped, wing-shaped, and boomerang-shaped. Lights are described as red, white, blue, and green, sometimes changing multiprismatically. Size estimates vary, with some objects described as a quarter mile long or longer. Behavior includes hovering, silent movement, rapid acceleration, and responding to witness presence.

One witness, Bill Hele, a meteorologist, described a "V"-shaped display of lights that seemed to stare, analyze, and reject him. Another witness, Dennis Sant, described a large "boomerang"-shaped object with red, white, blue, and green lights, and a yellow light in the middle, which hovered silently and then emitted a brilliant beam.

R. Perry Collins recounts his own sighting in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in August 1983, describing three lights that appeared, went out, and then reappeared as a wing-shaped array of lights. He noted the object's slow, silent movement and its ability to change shape.

Reports from October 17, 1985, describe a "V"-shaped object with white, red, green, and blue lights seen over Bridgeport, CT, moving slowly, stopping, hovering, and then rapidly accelerating. Witnesses described the size as larger than a large jet airliner. Police chief John P. Basile also reported seeing a similar object.

Addendum and Further Sightings

An addendum notes that since the article's submission in September 1985, there have been two more clear cases of unknown objects seen over populated areas of New York and Connecticut, with a rise in isolated reports of unusual lights. These include a September 12th sighting over New York City with a large, studded object, and an October 17th sighting over Bridgeport, Fairfield, and Danbury, CT, involving a V-shaped object seen by an estimated two thousand witnesses.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFOs and paranormal phenomena as real and worthy of serious investigation, challenging conventional explanations and alleged government cover-ups. The editorial stance suggests that UFOs represent a significant aspect of reality that humanity is not yet prepared to fully comprehend. The articles advocate for an open mind and a willingness to explore these phenomena, suggesting that they may hold keys to understanding our place in the universe and potentially influencing our future development. The recurring theme is that these events are not coincidental and warrant deeper inquiry beyond simple misidentification or denial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine strongly advocates for the reality of UFO phenomena and paranormal events, challenging established scientific and governmental narratives. The recurring themes include: the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs) with advanced capabilities, the possibility of extraterrestrial or non-human intelligence, alleged government secrecy and attempts to explain away or cover up sightings, the reality of psychokinetic abilities, and the idea that these phenomena are part of a larger, evolving understanding of reality. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, urging readers to consider the evidence presented and to question official explanations. The magazine positions itself as a platform for presenting detailed accounts and investigative findings that go against mainstream scientific consensus, suggesting that UFOs may be a force that could shape humanity's future, for better or worse.

This issue of SITUation, dated Fourth Quarter 1985, features two primary investigative articles. The first, "In New Jersey A Baffling String of Deaths Blamed on Desecration of Indian Graveyard," details a series of unexplained accidents and fatalities occurring during the construction of Route 55. The second, "An Interim Report on the Search for Mokele Mbembe," by Herman A. Regusters and Dr. Kia L. Vandusen, chronicles the TRACE-I expedition's efforts to find evidence of a large, unknown creature in the Congo Basin. A third article, "The Mexican Church At Catorce: Temple of Miracles," by Drs. George, Mercedes and Alice Agogino, explores the reported miraculous cures associated with a church in Catorce, Mexico.

New Jersey Deaths Linked to Indian Graveyard Desecration

The article begins by quoting Carl Pierce, identified as Sachem Wayandaga and a chief and medicine man for the Delaware Indians. Pierce claims that the construction of Route 55 in Deptford, Gloucester County, New Jersey, disturbed an ancient Delaware Indian burial ground, triggering a curse. He states that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) was warned two years prior to construction, which began in March 1983.

Following the commencement of work, a series of tragic events occurred: a 34-year-old construction worker was killed by an asphalt roller truck; another worker fell from a bridge during high winds; an inspector died of a brain aneurysm; other workers and their families experienced cancer and other serious illnesses, including one worker whose feet turned black; a van carrying five crew members caught fire and exploded; and the mother and father of an asphalt worker died in a car accident, while the brother and father of an office worker died the same weekend.

Bernie McCabe, site manager for John M. Rousse Construction Co., acknowledges the problems, stating, "But the state (DOT) people have had a lot of problems, a lot of deaths in the family and that sort of thing." The article notes that workers were even out of communication with their home office due to a power outage.

Pierce reiterates his warning, stating, "The damage is done. The problem is I feel sorry for some of the people who will be traveling that road in the future." He expresses his reluctance to travel in the area, especially after dark.

Not all Native Americans agree with Pierce. Chief Roy Crazy Horse of the Lenape Reservation in Burlington County dismisses the artifacts found as insignificant and suggests Pierce was used by preservationists. However, he acknowledges hearing of similar misfortunes at disturbed burial sites, stating, "There are things that we don't talk about." He affirms, "We are 100 percent against disturbing our relatives."

Pierce, who identifies himself as Powhatan and from Virginia, not New Jersey, insists that burial grounds are present, citing that "Wherever you had an encampment of any duration, you'll find a burial ground within 500 feet." He highlights the long history of Native American presence in the region.

Evidence of an Indian settlement and burial ground was found in June 1983 when state Historic Preservation Department workers unearthed coins, jewelry, and bones. An effort to preserve the site as a national monument that year was unsuccessful. Pierce identified artifacts such as spear points, arrowheads, tomahawk heads, and cooking utensils.

DOT spokeswoman Debbie Lawlor declined to comment. Randy Linthurst, another DOT spokesman, provided details on the Route 55 expansion program, which will eventually run about 40 miles.

The Search for Mokele Mbembe (TRACE-I Expedition)

This section details the TRACE-I expedition's search for a creature known as Mokele Mbembe in the Congo Basin. Herman A. Regusters, an aerospace engineer, describes his involvement, which began in 1980 while working at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) on precision navigation equipment. He collaborated with Dr. David Nevin on a concept integrating GPS and LANDSAT for mapping. Regusters became interested in reports of a dinosaur-like animal in Equatorial Africa and contacted Dr. Roy Mackal at the University of Chicago.

Regusters offered his expertise to design an expedition plan and utilize NASA/JPL resources, with a dual purpose: demonstrating GPS/LANDSAT for scientific exploration and studying the physical characteristics of the Congo Basin. His proposal was presented to the Department of Defense (DoD) and Caltech, but received no federal funding. However, he secured in-kind support from various companies.

Regusters notes a separation from Mackal due to differing methodologies, with Regusters emphasizing practicality. He recounts Mackal's later public statement downplaying Regusters' involvement, which Regusters claims is contradicted by correspondence.

The TRACE expedition, funded primarily by Regusters and his wife, Kia, along with contributions from engineers and the wife of Justin Dart, took place from September to December 1981. The Congo Basin is described as a vast, isolated ecosystem.

Regusters worked with geologist David Jordt to define the environmental profile of the Lake Tele area. He acknowledges assistance from researchers like Dr. David Nevin, Dr. Dick Cooke, and Dr. Charles Elachi.

The natives at Boa informed them that travel to Lake Tele by water was impossible, so they walked the final 65 kilometers. Lake Tele is described as a unique, circular feature north of the Equator, with no rational explanation for its existence. Native folklore attributes it to a fiery ball from the sky. The lake has an average diameter of about 2½ miles, is extremely murky, and has no apparent entry or exit for water flow. The water circulates clockwise in a 40-hour cycle. A story about a whirlpool that could suck people down into the depths was related by villagers.

The expedition cataloged fifteen species of fish, clams, crabs, shrimp, and various turtles. Reptiles included four species of crocodile and numerous serpents. The jungle and swamp teemed with birds, four-legged creatures, elephants, gorillas, and primates.

Using satellite imaging and water-motion intelligence, the average depth of the lake was calculated at 48 feet. Passive microwave imaging identified a deep hole near the center. During measurements, their line extended to at least 200 feet. The possibility of a meteorite beneath the lake bottom was considered, as the lake is thought to be a source of magnetic disturbance.

The Monster: Reports of monster creatures in Africa date back to European intrusions. John Jordan reported shooting a creature that matched the description of an Ankylosaur dinosaur. In 1910, the Seattle Times published a story about a "Giant Dinosaur Still Alive?" The article cites over a dozen eyewitness creature reports from Westerners since the beginning of the 20th century.

The article draws a parallel to the discovery of gorillas, which were initially dismissed by scientists until 1856. It notes that the existence of Mokele Mbembe cannot be dismissed as myth any more than the gorilla could.

Vocalization Analysis: Audio recordings made at Lake Tele were analyzed by experts including Kenith Templin, Dr. David Weishampel, Dr. G. DeGraaff, Dr. Rufin Oko, and Dr. Harvey Fischer. Spectrograms of the creature's vocalizations were created, and after filtering out jungle noise, a 300-400 Hertz band was isolated. Comparison with other African animals showed no resemblance. The voiceprints indicated the presence of a previously unknown animal.

Copies of the tapes were sent to researchers in Europe and Africa, who corroborated the findings. Dr. Weishampel stated, "I cannot say it is a dinosaur, but you have found something new and different out there..." Dr. Oko noted that the recording was played for an audience of professors and military officers who were "amazed and convinced of an animal we do not know."

The Back Bone of the Story: In 1982, a pilot from Nigerair reported finding a large deposit of bones in the desert of Niger. The bones, identified as belonging to a sauropod species dinosaur, Ouranosaurus nigeriensis, were examined by paleontologists at UCLA, UC-Berkeley, and other institutions. Dr. Rainer Burger at UCLA estimated the bone to be "a little over a million years" old, not 65 million years as typically believed for dinosaur extinction, suggesting it was "partially opalized, it is not fossilized."

Regusters and Jordt used the creep-rate of the Sahara Desert to estimate that the bone discovery site was jungle and swamp about 10,000 years ago. They suggest a depressed area became isolated and shrunk, trapping animal bones.

Further analysis of the bone sample indicated an age of 10,000-70,000 years old. The articulated skeleton of Ouranosaurus found in Niger measured 12 meters, similar to the estimated 35-foot length of the Mokele Mbembe observed at Lake Tele.

Regusters concludes that the reign of dinosaurs, spanning 150 million years, is too short a period to fully understand, and that "there is much yet to be understood."

TRACE-II Expedition: Regusters planned a second expedition (TRACE-II) to the RPC, with a general agreement signed in August 1985. He notes that over 70 companies have contributed over $150,000 in equipment and supplies. The expedition is seeking $50,000 in financial support.

The Mexican Church at Catorce: Temple of Miracles

This article describes Catorce, a former silver mining town in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, now considered the largest ghost town in Mexico. Founded in 1772, it once had a population of 50,000. The town's church, named after St. Francis, is a pilgrimage site, attracting religious visitors who believe the Santo of Saint Francis can produce miracles. Over one thousand testimonials of miraculous recoveries are displayed on the church walls.

The Santo's curing origins are traced to an incident nearly half a century ago where two men fighting in the church were separated by a figure resembling St. Francis. The men later found the Santo's clothes cut by knives, leading them to vow to abstain from drinking.

Catorce lies at an altitude of nearly 8,500 feet. Despite its low resident population, local buses bring over 100 tourists daily. The town's church is a major attraction, with buses often carrying over 200 people daily.

The article also mentions the Huichol Indians, who travel from Nayarit to the Catorce region each spring to collect peyote cactus for their rituals. The area between Catorce and Matahuala is known for its psychoactive plant. Huichols believe peyote is essential for understanding supernatural forces, and elders who have made the long journey are revered.

During a visit in May 1984, the authors observed Huichol Indians placing a yarn drawing before the Santo, indicating a cure for illness, as they are illiterate and cannot write testimonials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SITUation are the unexplained, the mysterious, and the intersection of folklore, belief, and scientific investigation. The magazine appears to present a platform for reports that challenge conventional scientific paradigms, whether it be the alleged supernatural consequences of disturbing sacred sites, the existence of unknown creatures, or the reported miracles of religious figures.

The editorial stance, as suggested by the content, is one of open inquiry into phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific acceptance. The articles encourage readers to consider alternative explanations and to question established dogma, particularly in areas where scientific understanding is incomplete, such as cryptozoology and the interpretation of unexplained events. The inclusion of detailed scientific analysis, such as the vocalization studies of Mokele Mbembe, alongside anecdotal accounts and cultural beliefs, indicates a desire to bridge the gap between the empirical and the extraordinary.

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: 183
Volume: 18
Date: Fourth Quarter 1985
Publisher: SITU
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of PURSUIT magazine delves into a variety of anomalous phenomena, historical accounts, and conference reports, offering a rich tapestry of Fortean research and unexplained events.

Huichol Traditions and Testimonial Drawings

The issue begins with an exploration of the Huichol people, who, despite being pseudo-Christians, maintain their pagan religious beliefs, with their central rite being the peyote pilgrimage. Their yarn paintings, created as a sacred storytelling device, are believed to be aided by the Gods, with the beeswax used in their creation requiring specific working conditions. The article notes that these paintings communicate myths and events, and one interpretation of a specific painting suggests it represents Christ suffering, while another suggests it depicts a Huichol man surviving a high-voltage electric shock, serving as a testimonial to his recovery. The town of Catorce, Mexico, is highlighted as a location with a famous curing santo and a high volume of miracle cure testimonials, necessitating periodic replacement of older testimonials on church walls.

Conference Reports

The "Report on Conferences" section details three significant events attended by researchers. The "Birth and Death - The Gates of Consciousness" conference in Todtmoos, Germany, featured numerous lecturers, though simultaneous translation was lacking. The "100 Years of Research in the Great Mysteries of Man" congress in San Jose, Costa Rica, faced challenges with invited speakers not attending, leading to extended panel discussions. The "Consciousness and Survival" conference at Georgetown University covered topics such as life after death, the mind-body problem, and near-death experiences, with a panel including notable figures.

SITUations: Contemporary Anomalies

The "SITUations" section, dedicated to contemporary curious and unexplained events, features several intriguing reports:

• Bigfoot Sightings in Northeast: Multiple individuals in Vermont and upstate New York claim to have seen a 7-foot tall, gorilla-like creature known as "Bigfoot." The reports include sightings by loggers, groundskeepers, police officers, and farmers, with one witness describing a hulking, hairy anthropoid.
• Creature Haunting Central Texas Town: Residents in Hearne, Texas, report seeing a tall, mysterious creature that has been damaging property, including chewing up porch railings and window screens.
• Keystone Big Foot?: In East Pennsboro Township, Pennsylvania, residents reported an ape-like apparition, dubbed "the creature," accompanied by screeching sounds and a stench. Police initially suspected a prankster, noting the sale of gorilla costumes that matched descriptions.
• Seekers of Elflike Creatures Enrage Villagers in Java: Hundreds of mystics and parapsychology buffs traveled to a Javanese village seeking "tuyuls," elflike creatures, but were met with anger and turned away by villagers and police.
• 'Nessie' Back Again: A bagpiper reported sighting a black object in Loch Ness, Scotland, described as a "hump" and resembling a fireman's helmet.

Personal Accounts and Investigations

Several personal stories and investigations are featured:

• Man Missing For 15 Years Returns to Wife: James McDonnell, declared legally dead after suffering amnesia and vanishing 15 years prior, recovered his memory after hitting his head and returned home to his wife on Christmas Day.
• Pilots Wearied By Flight in Triangle: Two men experienced an "emotionally drained" 843-mile flight through the Bermuda Triangle, encountering difficult weather and losing radio contact.
• Psychic Solves Case That Baffled Police: A psychic, Greta Alexander, provided accurate information that helped police locate the body of a missing man, Ronald Dean Hicks, who had been shot twice.

Natural World Anomalies

• A Real Cat Burglar: In Nashville, Tennessee, a cat named Stymie has been stealing items like potholders, underwear, and dresses from clotheslines and garages.
• Out-foxing Golfers: A red fox with a taste for golf balls has become a hazard on the Longview Golf Course in Timonium, Maryland.
• Cleric Turns Attack by Birds into Learning Situation: A clergyman in New Jersey turned an incident where large black birds attacked children into a "learning situation."

Scientific and Archeological Discoveries

• 'Missing Link' Search Focuses On Agriculture: An expedition in Papua New Guinea is searching for evidence of early agriculture that could solve mysteries about the emergence of modern man.
• Soot Evidence Links Firestorms to Demise of Dinosaurs: Scientists at the University of Chicago found evidence that continent-sized firestorms, possibly triggered by an asteroid impact, contributed to the extinction of dinosaurs by blackening the skies with soot and causing a global freeze.
• China Reports Finding Very Unusual Trees: China has reported the discovery of trees that secrete oil, produce salt, and forecast weather.
• Cornering the Lumber Market: A forest of trees with square trunks has been discovered in China.
• Chinese "Worm Fluid" Yuck!: Chinese researchers have developed a "worm fluid" from earthworms in alcohol, claimed to reduce fever, smooth wrinkles, and add zest to drinks.

The Notes of Charles Fort

The "Notes of Charles Fort" section continues its meticulous cataloging of historical anomalous events. This installment covers a wide range of phenomena from 1813 to 1817, including:

• Meteorological Events: Falls of red snow, dust, and other substances; unusual atmospheric phenomena like auroras and luminous objects; and reports of storms and unusual weather patterns.
• Geological Events: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions (Vesuvius, Mayon, Sumbawa, Goentoes), and unusual sounds associated with geological activity.
• Astronomical Observations: Reports of sunspots, meteors, fireballs, and unusual solar appearances.
• Other Anomalies: Sightings of strange objects, unusual animal behavior (frogs, birds), and unexplained sounds.

Each entry is meticulously cross-referenced with contemporary publications and sources, providing a detailed historical record of Fortean observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PURSUIT are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, the intersection of science and the paranormal, and the meticulous documentation of historical anomalies. The magazine maintains a stance of presenting diverse accounts and research, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations. The "Notes of Charles Fort" section, in particular, underscores a commitment to historical research and the cataloging of events that challenge mainstream scientific understanding. The editorial also emphasizes the importance of reader contributions and adherence to submission guidelines for potential publication.

Title: The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained
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 document details the genesis of The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) and its publication, PURSUIT. Founded in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, along with other authors, the "foundation" aimed to foster the exposition and research of the paranormal and "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." To engage professionals and enthusiasts with similar interests, a newsletter was conceived. The inaugural issue was released in May 1967. The positive, though not overwhelming, response encouraged the founders, solidifying their belief in public interest.

Newsletter No. 2, published in March 1968, outlined plans for a larger structure to be built upon the foundation, which would be known as The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, a name formally filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name proved prophetic, as 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, this time featuring "PURSUIT" as the main title, with "newsletter" as a subtitle. By September 1968, with Vol. 1, No. 4 (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 its members and their affiliations. Administrative matters were relegated to the latter part of the publication, with the majority of the content dedicated to investigative reporting.

Content Highlights

Issue number 4 of PURSUIT (Vol. 1, No. 4) featured investigative reporting on various phenomena. Among the topics covered were:

• A "great armadillo (6 feet long, 3 feet high) said to have been captured in Argentina."
• The phenomenon of instant transportation of solid objects, described as moving "from one place to another and even through solids."
• An account of the "attack on the famed University of Colorado UFO Project headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon."
• Updated information regarding "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

Thus, SITU was born, and PURSUIT began its chronicle of the investigation into the unexplained.

Governing and Scientific Advisory Boards

The publication lists the members of both the Governing Board and the Scientific Advisory Board. The Governing Board includes President Robert C. Warth, Vice-President Gregory Arend, Secretary and Treasurer Nancy L. Warth, and Trustees Gregory Arend, Marie Cox, Frank Tiewski, Nancy L. Warth, Martin Wiegler, and Albena Zwerver.

The Scientific Advisory Board is extensive, comprising distinguished professionals from various fields:

• Archaeology/Anthropology: Dr. George A. Agogino (Eastern New Mexico University), Dr. Vladimir Markotic (University of Alberta), Dr. John R. Napier (Queen Elizabeth College, London).
• Mentalogy/Mental Sciences: Dr. Carl H. Delacato (The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured), Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz (National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering).
• Astronomy: Dr. J. Allen Hynek (North-Western University).
• Mathematics/General Biology: Dr. Martin Kruskal (Princeton University).
• Biology/Plant Physiology/Botany: Dr. Samuel B. McDowell (Rutgers the State University), Dr. Frank B. Salisbury (Utah State University), Dr. Robert K. Zuck (Drew University).
• Psychology: Dr. Michael A. Persinger (Laurentian University).
• Cultural Anthropology/Linguistics/Geography/Oceanography: Dr. Roger W. Wescott (Drew University), Dr. A. Joseph Wraight (U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue, and of the Society itself, is the investigation of unexplained phenomena, encompassing the paranormal and mysteries of the natural world. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, scientific inquiry, as evidenced by the establishment of a distinguished Scientific Advisory Board composed of academics and researchers from diverse scientific disciplines. The publication aims to present investigative reporting and encourage participation from both professionals and the general public interested in these subjects.