AI Magazine Summary
Pursuit - No 75 - Vol 19 No 3 - 1986
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Title: Pursuit Issue: Volume 19, Number 3, Whole No. 75 Date: Third Quarter 1986 Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'
Magazine Overview
Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 19, Number 3, Whole No. 75
Date: Third Quarter 1986
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'
This issue of Pursuit, the quarterly journal of SITU, presents a diverse range of articles exploring unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on the theory of pole shifts and the role of consciousness. The cover features an artist's concept of an automobile engine stalled by a UFO, hinting at the blend of UFOlogy and other unexplained topics within the publication.
Consciousness Research and Planetary Transformation by John White
John White's article delves into the concept of 'earth changes' and pole shifts, drawing from the psychic predictions of Edgar Cayce and research by Dr. Jeffrey Goodman. White discusses how psychic forecasts, despite often being wrong about specific events, have consistently pointed towards significant global changes, including radical shifts in geography and climate, culminating in a pole shift. He explores the theoretical mechanisms of a pole shift, such as the crust slipping over the molten core, and the potential for worldwide cataclysm including massive tidal waves, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The article highlights evidence such as flash-frozen mammoths, ancient maps of Antarctica, and glacial striations as potential indicators of past pole shifts. White emphasizes that the human element, specifically the collective consciousness, is considered a critical factor in influencing the outcome of these potential events. He argues that positive consciousness and virtuous living can stabilize Earth's energetic matrix, while negative states like hatred and greed contribute to geophysical instability. The article concludes by suggesting that a pole shift is not inevitable and can be influenced by changes in human consciousness, promoting a shift from self-centeredness to a recognition of a benevolent universal wisdom.
Paranormally Linked Sealed Rings by Berthold E. Schwarz, M.D.
Dr. Schwarz details an experiment involving the paranormal linkage of sealed metal rings. The experiment, conducted with members of the SORRAT group at Skyrim Farm, involved specially prepared sealed jars and unlinked metal rings. During the session, alleged communicators indicated that the rings would be linked. Subsequently, the participants confirmed that the orange and black painted rings, previously unlinked and sealed in a plastic bag, were indeed linked. The article describes the meticulous preparation of the rings and the sealed containers, including measures to prevent fraud. X-rays of the rings confirmed they were solid metal. The success of the experiment is attributed by some participants to the harmony and emotional dynamics of the group. The implications of this phenomenon are considered enormous, touching upon various scholarly disciplines and potentially offering practical applications.
Other Articles and Sections
- Self-Starting Engines, UFOs and Higher Dimensions by Luis Schoenherr: This article, referenced on the cover, likely explores the connection between UFO phenomena and advanced or unusual engine technologies.
- In Search of Mysteries at the AAAS Convention by Michael D. Swords: This piece offers a perspective on the mysteries encountered or discussed at a convention of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
- Progress of U.S. Psychotronic Research by Thomas Valone with Lynn Surgalla: This article likely covers advancements in the field of psychotronics within the United States.
- Celtic Cave Drawings in Colorado? a SITUation: This section presents a case study or report on potential Celtic cave drawings found in Colorado, examined by SITU.
- A "Demon" in Pittston, PA? a SITUation: Another case study from SITU, investigating an alleged demonic encounter in Pittston, Pennsylvania.
- The Notes of Charles Fort Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst: This article likely offers an interpretation or analysis of the extensive notes and observations compiled by the renowned researcher of anomalies, Charles Fort.
SITU Operations and Membership
The journal also includes information about SITU itself, detailing its purpose, membership benefits (including the journal PURSUIT and special publications), and subscription costs. It outlines the organization's operations, including its reference files and the management of its legal affairs by a Board of Trustees and a Scientific Advisory Board. Important notices clarify that SITU does not hold political or religious views and that its membership list is restricted for mailing purposes. Contributions to SITU are noted as tax-deductible.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit revolve around the unexplained, with a particular emphasis on the potential for global cataclysm through pole shifts and the influence of consciousness. The journal consistently promotes the idea that science should not shy away from investigating phenomena that fall outside conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging research into subjects like UFOs, psychic phenomena, and earth changes, while maintaining a critical and evidence-based approach, as exemplified by the detailed reporting of the paranormal ring linkage experiment. The publication aims to inform its members and the public about these often-controversial topics, fostering a deeper understanding of the unexplained.
Title: Pursuit
Issue: Third Quarter 1986
Cover Headline: Self-Starting Engines, UFOs and Higher Dimensions
This issue of Pursuit features an in-depth article by Luis Schoenherr exploring the enigmatic phenomenon of self-starting internal combustion engines in the context of UFO experiences. The article posits that this phenomenon may be an indication of the UFO phenomenon's connection to higher spatial dimensions, challenging conventional explanations.
Article: Self-Starting Engines, UFOs and Higher Dimensions by Luis Schoenherr
Introduction and Background
Schoenherr introduces the self-start phenomenon, noting that while it constitutes a small percentage of UFO-related vehicle interference cases, it is increasingly difficult to dismiss as mere illusion or faulty memory. He cites researchers like McCampbell and Falla who have documented such cases, and mentions his own file of 54 cases. The author suggests that the self-start feature, being counter-intuitive, might be easily forgotten or repressed by witnesses, potentially leading to an underestimation of its frequency.
Materials and Methods
The author classifies reports into two groups: those where the self-start is explicit after the vehicle has stopped, and those where the wording is imprecise, making it questionable whether a self-start occurred or if it was due to momentum while coasting. He uses the mnemonic "?SELF" for the latter category.
Sample Case Histories
Two representative cases are detailed:
1. Long Prairie, Minnesota, USA (October 23, 1965): A 19-year-old radio announcer's car engine and lights suddenly stopped while he observed a large, rocket-ship-like object. After the object and its occupants left, the car restarted on its own. Physical traces were found at the alleged landing site, but Blue Book did not file an official report.
2. Lake Huaypo, Peru (April 1972): Four vehicles stalled simultaneously. After a disc-shaped object, surrounded by an orange halo, submerged in the lake, the car engines restarted on their own.
The Self-Start Phenomenon and Higher Dimensions
Schoenherr proposes a fundamentally different explanation for the self-start characteristic, linking it to higher spatial dimensions. He draws upon the concepts of the space-time continuum developed by Hermann Minkowski and the theories of John William Dunne.
#### The Space-Time Continuum
Diagrams are used to illustrate the concept of world-lines, representing the path of objects through space-time. Minkowski's geometry provided the framework for understanding these four-dimensional paths.
#### Substratum and Travelling Field of Presentation
Dunne's concept of the "substratum" (a four-dimensional reality) and the "field of presentation" (a three-dimensional field of perception moving through the substratum) is introduced. According to Dunne, our perception is limited to what is covered by this field at any given "now."
#### Causality and Self-Starts
Dunne's ideas are applied to explain causality. The author uses diagrams (#3-#6) to illustrate how interventions by an observer's travelling field can alter world-lines ahead of it. Diagrams #7 and #8 then illustrate how a UFO's travelling field (Fo) could influence the world-lines of a car's engine and starter (F), causing it to start unexpectedly for the driver in field F, even if the driver took no action.
Results and Implications
Schoenherr concludes that the self-start phenomenon, though rare, is likely a factual occurrence and may indicate a connection between UFOs and higher dimensions. He suggests that this phenomenon could be an observational window proving the physical reality of higher spatial dimensions. He also raises the possibility that the stopping of engines might be governed by the same mechanism and calls for a reconsideration of electromagnetic interference explanations.
Discussion
#### Hallucination or Reality?
The author acknowledges the tendency to relegate self-start reports to psychological explanations, such as highway hypnosis or amnesia. However, he argues that the consistency and specific nature of self-start reports, often bringing witnesses back to reality, support the idea of a real event. He contrasts this with 'Nachnageln' (afternailing) in engines, which is a different, opposite phenomenon.
#### Self-Start and Mode of Disappearance
Statistical analysis by Rodeghier suggests self-starts are correlated with the anomalous disappearance of UFOs. Schoenherr links this to Dunne's concept of disappearance from three-dimensional space when a travelling field reaches the termination of a world-line, leaving the object behind in time. Ball lightning is cited as a similar phenomenon.
#### Vehicle Interference and Distance
Investigating the relationship between UFO distance and vehicle interference, Schoenherr notes that studies by McMahon, Johnson, and Rodeghier show no simple correlation with distance. There is a clustering of interference cases at certain distances, particularly for ground-based or low-level UFOs. The author suggests that the observer's field of vision and attention might influence reporting, and that the distance in the fourth dimension (between travelling fields) might be more relevant than three-dimensional distance.
#### Self-Start Induced by Ionization Breakdown
While some researchers consider self-starts as illusions, McCampbell suggests they could be actual events resulting from specific mechanical and electrical conditions. The article briefly touches upon the technical aspects of car ignition systems, including breaker timing and the role of the ignition coil and spark plugs, but emphasizes that these conventional explanations do not fully account for the self-start phenomenon in the UFO context.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue strongly advocates for exploring unconventional hypotheses, particularly those involving higher dimensions and alternative causality models, to explain anomalous phenomena like self-starting engines associated with UFOs. It encourages a scientific approach that does not dismiss unusual reports solely based on current physical understanding but remains open to extraordinary explanations when evidence warrants it.
This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1986, delves into several intriguing and often unexplained phenomena, with a primary focus on vehicle self-starts, anomalous vehicle behavior, and the concept of geophysical prediction. The magazine presents a detailed examination of the technical aspects of engine operation and explores numerous case studies where vehicles have inexplicably started on their own, often in proximity to UFO sightings.
The Self-Start Phenomenon
The issue begins by exploring the hypothesis proposed by McCampbell regarding the conditions necessary for a vehicle engine to self-start, particularly in the context of UFO interference. McCampbell's theory suggests that ionization of the air within the breaker compartment by UFO-emanating fields could simulate an asynchronous breaker operation, leading to the engine starting. The article meticulously analyzes the mechanics of an eight-cylinder Ford V-8 and a four-cylinder Ford Taunus 12M engine, illustrating the critical timing of piston, valve, and breaker point operations. It concludes that the specific conditions required for such a self-start, as proposed by McCampbell, are highly improbable to occur naturally.
Despite the technical challenges, the magazine presents several case histories where self-starts have allegedly occurred under extraordinary circumstances, often linked to UFO encounters. These include a Volkswagen in Belgium that self-started in fourth gear after a UFO encounter, a Ford Cortina in Australia that started after a UFO passed overhead, and a motorcycle in Spain that started after a mysterious light appeared. The article also considers alternative, more conventional explanations for self-starts, such as faulty electrical components or mechanical issues, but finds them insufficient to explain the reported incidents.
Anomalous Vehicle Behavior and UFO Interference
Beyond self-starts, the magazine investigates other anomalous behaviors exhibited by vehicles in the presence of UFOs. This includes instances of transmissions inexplicably shifting gears on their own, engines stalling and restarting in response to a UFO's presence, and even lasting physical damage to vehicles. The article suggests that these phenomena, along with self-starts, might point towards a more complex form of interference, possibly related to higher-dimensional physics.
Prediction Before Prevention: The Geological Background
A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to an article titled "Prediction Before Prevention: The Geological Background" by Andrew Davie. This section shifts focus from vehicle anomalies to the realm of geophysical phenomena and their potential to predict human events, specifically illnesses and deaths. Davie introduces the concept of "earth-energy stresses" that can be precisely defined, leading to the prediction of deaths, spontaneous combustion fires, and even natural disasters like earthquakes. The article discusses how these events appear to follow a geometric pattern and a "Time = Distance = Element syndrome."
Davie explores research into spontaneous combustion, noting that many cases occurred at predetermined times and locations. He also examines the correlation between geophysical phenomena and various illnesses, including cancer and cardiac infarction, suggesting that these conditions might be linked to underlying geological factors. The article highlights the work of researchers who have developed methods to forecast these events with a high degree of accuracy.
Interference and Its Dangers
The article strongly warns against attempts to interfere with these natural geophysical phenomena. It posits that such interference, even with the intention of prevention, can be dangerous and may lead to unforeseen consequences, including physical damage to individuals and equipment. The magazine emphasizes the complexity of these systems, involving factors like Time, Distance, Elements, and Color, and cautions that a thorough understanding of "Catastrophe Theory" is necessary before attempting any intervention.
Other Topics and Final Remarks
The issue also touches upon the development of modern ignition systems, such as transistorized ignitions, and their potential implications for self-start phenomena. It briefly discusses the concept of "percipient-dependent components" (PDCs) in UFO experiences, acknowledging the possibility that some aspects of witness accounts might be subjective. The article concludes by urging investigators to be more aware of the self-start problem and to meticulously gather data on engine and ignition systems involved in such cases. It also references various scientific papers and books related to UFOs, physics, and time, providing a comprehensive list of notes and references.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes throughout this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around the intersection of unexplained phenomena, advanced technology (or its apparent malfunction), and the potential for predicting future events through scientific or pseudoscientific means. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these often-controversial subjects, presenting hypotheses and case studies for consideration while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and caution against premature conclusions or dangerous interventions. The magazine encourages a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from physics, engineering, geology, and even historical accounts to understand these complex phenomena.
This issue of PURSUIT magazine, dated Third Quarter 1986, covers a range of anomalous research and scientific inquiry, with a particular focus on psychotronics, cryptozoology, and alternative physics. The issue features reports from several conferences and meetings, including the AAAS Convention, the United States Psychotronics Association (USPA) Conference, and a Cryptozoology Meeting.
AAAS Convention Report
Michael D. Swords reports on the AAAS Convention, highlighting sessions on the interplay between the mind and the immune system, where experts confirmed that stress negatively impacts the ability to fight disease, while a positive mindset can optimize immune response, though the exact mechanisms remain elusive. The report touches upon the potential for faith healing to influence immune activity and notes the dramatic shifts in immune system activity observed in a patient with multiple personalities.
Another session discussed abnormalities in sex chromosomes and their potential seasonal correlation with hormonal cycles, possibly influencing fetal development and leading to increased odds of criminality or aggression. The report also delves into neurobiology and violence, explaining how an overactive acetylcholine neurotransmitter can lead to extreme aggression, citing cases of poisoning and potential 'psyching' oneself into such states. The connection between temporal lobe epilepsy and 'ego-alien' violent actions is also explored.
Physics sessions included discussions on string theory, aiming for a unified force theory, and the concept of parallel universes. The search for large extra-solar planets ('brown dwarves') is also mentioned, with researchers finding signs of their prevalence. The feasibility of interstellar travel using antimatter reaction drives and microwave lightsails, like Robert Forward's StarWisp probe, is presented as a potential solution for covering vast distances.
The report also criticizes Paul Kurtz of CSICOP for his views on prayer and his dismissal of research into certain areas, labeling his stance as biased and elitist. Kurtz's organization is accused of promoting 'deprogramming' students and exhibiting insensitivity towards cultural practices.
USPA Conference Report
Thomas Valone and Lynn Surgalla provide a comprehensive report on the 1986 USPA Conference, themed 'It's All In The Mind.' The conference covered a broad spectrum of topics including psychotronics, radionics, bioelectromagnetics, and 'new physics.'
Key presentations included Dr. Bob Beck's overview of psychotronics and radionics, detailing various radionic devices and his own instruments for measuring Earth's Schumann resonance. Dan Carlson's 'Sonic Bloom' invention, which uses audio frequencies to stimulate plant growth up to 400%, is highlighted as a significant agricultural breakthrough. Norman Mikesell discussed the concept of 'structured water' and its role in biological systems.
In bioelectromagnetics, Lynn Surgalla reviewed research on ELF and Navy antennas, discussing the ambient ELF magnetic oscillations of Earth and their relation to the human heart and brain. Dr. Andrija Puharich proposed a theory of healing based on pulsed ELF magnetic fields and 'Kervran weak transmutation reactions.'
Computer applications in psychotronics were demonstrated, including Ivan Krugat's 'Mind Mirror' and Dr. Roy Curtin's 'Hololinguistic Processor' (Interro), which uses 'electro-acupuncture' for patient assessment and has shown an 85% success rate with multiple sclerosis.
Theoretical physics discussions included Dr. Moray King on 'zero point' energy, Dr. Jack Dea on 'scalar waves,' and Preston Nichols on the use of vacuum tubes as scalar amplifiers. Eric Dollard presented corrections to EM textbooks, emphasizing electricity as a separate science from physics and EM.
Cryptozoology Meeting Report
Michael D. Swords covers the Cryptozoology Meeting, detailing presentations on the 1986 American Yeti Expedition, Bigfoot research, and ice-age mammals.
The Yeti expedition involved several individuals, including Dr. Mark Miller and Thukten Phillip Sherpa. A video presented by William Cacciolfi showed alleged Yeti scalp artifacts, with claims of U.S. testing indicating they were not animal or human. Thukten Sherpa shared local Himalayan tales of the Yeti, distinguishing three types and recounting a significant encounter. Dr. Roy Mackal's objective view on the Yeti scalp artifact, suggesting it might be a ritualistic item, is also noted.
Dr. Grover Krantz presented research on Bigfoot, analyzing fossil evidence and concluding that Gigantopithecus blacki is the most plausible candidate, though its posture remains uncertain. Dr. Christine Janis discussed the possible survival of ice-age mammals into historic times, citing museum artifacts depicting creatures resembling extinct animals.
Richard Greenwell presented findings on the 'Onza,' a large Mexican cat, with new evidence from a second specimen shot in Sinaloa. The possibility of the Onza being a distinct species or an aberrant cross-breed is being investigated through tissue analysis.
The report also mentions ongoing research into the 'Mokele-mbembe' (Congo dinosaur) by Dr. Mackal.
New Frontiers Center Conference Report
Mary Jo and Walter Uphoff report on the New Frontiers Center conference, themed 'A Look at Other Dimensions of Reality.' Prof. Walter A. Frank lectured on developing 'extrasensory' abilities and led a 'metal-bending party.' Dr. Frank emphasized the importance of thought and the existence of fields influencing behavior.
Peter Sugleris demonstrated his psychic abilities by moving a compass needle and identifying a specific film can from an experiment the previous day, though a 'snafu' occurred when a coin was still in the can. Vince Wiberg discussed dowsing experiences and the effects of geopathic zones on health.
Other presentations included William O. Faber on health care modalities, Frances E. Ehrlich on auricular acupuncture, and Frank Farrelly on 'Psychotherapy in the 21st Century.' Prof. Sidney Greenfield showed films of 'psychic surgery' performed by Dr. Edson Quieroz, who reportedly channels Dr. Adolph Fritz.
Lynn Gardner led a workshop on 'Psychic Awareness' and demonstrated her ability to pick up accurate information about disturbing entities. Richard Heiden, Don Schmitt, and Nick Meiers discussed government admissions about UFOs.
Other Psychotronics Groups
The issue lists several other psychotronics organizations, including the Western Psychotronics Association ('Global Sciences Congress'), the British Radionics Association, and the International Association for Psychotronic Research (IAPR).
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific understanding, including psychotronics, radionics, bioelectromagnetics, cryptozoology, and parapsychology. The magazine appears to advocate for an open-minded approach to these subjects, presenting research and theories from various conferences and meetings. There is a clear interest in the mind-body connection, the potential for psychic abilities, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging further research and open discussion, even for topics that are considered controversial or outside conventional scientific paradigms. The criticism of CSICOP suggests a leaning towards supporting research that is not narrowly defined by traditional scientific dogma.
This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1986, features a cover story titled "The Coffin of the Restless Priests" by George A. Agogino, Ph.D. The magazine covers a range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, including historical mysteries, alleged paranormal events, and UFO research.
The Coffin of the Restless Priests
The main article by George A. Agogino, Ph.D., details the legend of two murdered priests, Fray Francisco Padilla and Fray Juan J. Padilla, associated with the pueblo of Isleta, New Mexico. Fray Francisco Padilla was reportedly murdered shortly after Coronado's expedition and his body was allegedly concealed in a hollow log until after the Pueblo Rebellion in 1692. A new church was built in Isleta, and his dehydrated body was interred near the altar. The legend of the "restless priest" suggests his coffin periodically surfaces. A second claimant for this title is Fray Juan J. Padilla, who served at the Laguna mission and was murdered in a snowstorm. His body was found by a horse and he was buried near Fray Francisco Padilla. Church records confirm the murder and burial of Juan J. Padilla. The article notes that the church has never claimed these sightings as miracles, but a scientific explanation suggests that the shifting sands of the Rio Grande force the coffins to the surface. The pueblo church now has a wooden floor, making it harder for the coffins to surface, but a crack in the altar base leads to ongoing speculation.
Books Reviewed
Robert Barrow reviews two books related to Mars: "The Face on Mars: Evidence for a Lost Civilization?" by Randolfo Rafael Pozos, Ph.D., and "Planetary Mysteries: Megaliths, Glaciers, The Face on Mars and Aboriginal Dream-Time," edited by Richard Grossinger. Barrow notes that the "Face on Mars" interpreted by modern computer technology is disturbing and suggests NASA may need to alter its Mars exploration plans. The books explore the Cydonia region's face-like feature and pyramid-shaped objects. Richard Hoagland, a science writer, is featured, and his views on the "Face on Mars" as a message are discussed. Hoagland believes the face is not from a Martian culture but is a message. Pozos' book focuses on the nuts-and-bolts aspects of a potential ancient Martian society. The review also mentions a 1983-84 computer network symposium on the implications of the Martian face.
Robert Barrow also reviews "UFOs and the Extraterrestrial Contact Movement: A Bibliography" by George M. Eberhart. He compares it to Morris K. Jessup's "The UFO Annual" and highlights Eberhart's extensive work, which lists thousands of sources on UFO phenomena. The bibliography covers general works, case studies, UFOs in space and sea, historical UFOs, and related phenomena. The review notes the high price of the two-volume set ($97.50) and suggests it is more suited for libraries. The author reflects on the significance of the UFO phenomenon and the impact of the deaths of L.J. Lorenzen and Dr. J. Allen Hynek in 1986.
SITUations
This section reports on contemporary curious and unexplained events:
- Bigfoot Leaves Imprint On Small Ohio Town: Don Keating of Newcomerstown, Ohio, claims there are at least half a dozen Bigfoot creatures within a 20-mile radius and describes them as large, upright, hairy primates. He reported a sighting of a white Bigfoot.
- Mysterious Noise Follows Dakota Pair: Wallace and Donna Lewis of Fargo, N.D., reported a high-pitched whistle that seemed to follow them around town, initially suspected to be from a microwave.
- Workmen Flee After Seeing 8-Foot Creature: Five workmen in Inyo National, California, reported fleeing from an 8-foot-tall, human-looking creature screaming in a forest clearing. Federal rangers suggested it might have been an upright bear or a mountain lion.
- Teens Report Panther Sighting: A couple in Waterford Township, Michigan, reported seeing a black panther cross a road.
- 'Tiger' Probably is Just a Puma: An expert suggests that an animal sought in Pennsylvania was more likely a native puma than a Bengal tiger.
- 'Strewth Mate It's a Kangaroo': Two wallabies escaped from a private collection in Holcombe, England, and were sighted around town.
- Ghost Light in Texas: The legend of the ghost light of Brit Bailey, appearing every seven years near Angleton, Texas, is recounted.
- Pebbles Mystery is Solved: Glowing pebbles found on a North Wales beach were attributed to plankton, not Sellafield or Chernobyl.
- Family's Dog Returns Home After Two Years: A German Shepherd named Duke returned home to Tel Aviv, Israel, after being missing for two years.
- Ticking Tomb?: A ticking sound in a cemetery in London Tract, Delaware, has various attributed causes, from a historical chronometer to water dripping underground.
- Hailstones Kill 100 in China: Violent hailstorms in Sichuan province, China, killed 100 people and injured 600.
- Falling Ice Probe: Reports of ice blocks falling from the sky, believed to be from airliners, are investigated.
- Fish Story: A senior ring lost in Lake Palestine, Texas, in 1981 was found inside a crappie.
- Giant Hail Kills 16: Hailstones weighing up to 11 pounds killed villagers in southwestern China.
- Police Probe Triangle' Mystery: Police are investigating the disappearance of two teenage sisters in 1985 and two men in 1947 from Filey Beach, North Yorkshire, suggesting a possible "Bermuda Triangle" phenomenon.
- Yacht Mystery Deepens: The disappearance of a lone woman sailor, Miss Ann Miller, from her yacht in the mid-Atlantic remains a mystery.
- China Has Lake Tianchi Dragon: Local legends of a dragon-like creature in China's Lake Tianchi are discussed.
- 'Tarzan' Boy Found in Jungle: A child who behaved like a monkey was found in Uganda, living wild with apes.
- "Extinct" Lemur Rediscovered: A bamboo-eating lemur, thought to be extinct, was rediscovered in Madagascar.
The Notes of Charles Fort
This section, deciphered by Carl J. Pabst, is a detailed catalog of anomalous events, primarily meteors, earthquakes, and other natural phenomena, compiled from various historical sources and publications from the mid-19th century. It includes specific dates, locations, and references to scientific journals and newspapers.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical anomalies, and potential extraterrestrial or paranormal influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into subjects often dismissed by mainstream science, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations. The "SITUations" section, in particular, highlights contemporary reports of the unusual, suggesting a belief in the ongoing nature of unexplained events. The inclusion of Charles Fort's work underscores a long-standing interest in cataloging and analyzing anomalous occurrences throughout history. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader perspective on reality, acknowledging that "our greatest threat comes not from the sky but from our unwillingness to face ourselves."
This document is the first page of a publication from The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained, identified as SITU/PURSUIT, with a mailing address in Little Silver, NJ, USA, and a phone number. The issue date is September 1968, and it is identified as Vol. 1, No. 4, with the ISSN 0033-4685.
Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board
The publication lists its Governing Board, with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. Other board members include Marie Cox, Frank Tiewski, Martin Wiegler, and Albena Zwerver.
The Scientific Advisory Board is extensive, comprising distinguished professionals from various fields such as anthropology, archaeology, biology, psychology, plant science, and geography. Notable members include Dr. George A. Agogino (Eastern New Mexico University), Dr. Carl H. Delacato (The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured), Dr. Martin Kruskal (Princeton University), Dr. Samuel B. McDowell (Rutgers the State University), Dr. Vladimir Markotic (University of Alberta), Dr. John R. Napier (Queen Elizabeth College, 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).
Origins of SITU/PURSUIT
This section details the establishment and evolution of the society and its publication. It begins by introducing Ivan T. Sanderson, a zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist, who, along with other authors, established a "foundation" in 1965 for the exposition and research of the paranormal. To engage professionals and interested non-professionals, a newsletter was launched in May 1967. The positive response encouraged the founders.
Newsletter No. 2, dated March 1968, announced plans for a larger structure to be built upon the foundation, to be called the Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, with documents filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name was prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.
Another publication in June 1968 featured the name PURSUIT above the "newsletter" subtitle. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968 (which incorporated the fourth Society newsletter), the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted as the Society's designation. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board. Administrative matters were relegated to the last four pages of the twenty-page issue. The majority of the content was dedicated to investigative reporting on phenomena such as a "great armadillo" (6 feet long, 3 feet high) reportedly captured in Argentina, the instant transportation of solid objects, an attack on the University of Colorado UFO Project led by Dr. Edward U. Condon, and updated information on "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."
Thus, SITU was born, and PURSUIT began to chronicle the investigation of the unexplained.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The publication's primary theme is the investigation of the paranormal and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, evidenced by the establishment of a formal society, the inclusion of a distinguished Scientific Advisory Board composed of academics and researchers, and the dedication to publishing investigative reports on diverse anomalous subjects. The content highlighted in the origins section suggests a focus on empirical reporting, even when dealing with extraordinary claims like object teleportation or unusual biological captures.