Pursuit - No 79 - Vol 20 No 3 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 20, Number 3, Whole No. 79
Date: Third Quarter 1987
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine, published by SITU, offers a diverse range of articles exploring unexplained phenomena, from ancient folklore to contemporary paranormal events. The cover features an artistic rendering of a flying saucer, inspired by Russian folk tales of Baba-Yaga, suggesting a potential paleocontact scenario dating back 8,000-10,000 years ago. The journal aims to investigate tangible, unexplained events that orthodox science may overlook.

Membership and Society Information

The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) is detailed, outlining its purpose, membership structure, and operations. Membership is on a calendar-year basis, with fees for one, two, or three years, and includes the quarterly journal PURSUIT and other publications. Back issues are available for purchase. SITU maintains extensive reference files and conducts research, though a fee may be charged. The Society does not hold political, religious, or corporate views, and opinions expressed are those of the individual authors. Contributions to SITU are tax-deductible.

Key Articles and Features

The Paleocontact Evidence in Russian Folktales

This article by R. Furduy and G. Burgansky, Drs., posits that ancient Russian folktales, particularly those concerning Baba-Yaga and Zmei-Gorinich, may be distorted memories of encounters with extraterrestrial beings and their technology. The authors analyze descriptions of Baba-Yaga's hut on 'hen's feet' and her flying mortar, and Zmei-Gorinich's fiery, multiheaded form, suggesting these could be interpretations of advanced craft and equipment by technologically unsophisticated ancient peoples. They propose that Baba-Yaga's actions, like 'raking live coals with her hands,' might refer to operating luminous objects or devices. The 'boney-legged' description is interpreted as part of a sophisticated 'diving' suit. Zmei-Gorinich's description as a multiheaded, spewing-fire monster guarding something and digging into the ground is likened to an automated excavating machine. The article also discusses defensive mechanisms described in these tales, such as 'sleep' sent by witches or 'smell capturers,' and interprets acts like 'eating people's bodies' or 'kidnapping' as potential misinterpretations of scientific investigations or abductions for educational purposes. The authors conclude that these tales might be the only remaining 'memories' of ancient contacts with extraterrestrial civilizations, possibly hinting at future discoveries on other planets through projects like 'Fobos.'

Evidence of Macro-Psychokinetic Effects Produced by Thomas of Brazil

Authored by Lee Pulos, Ph.D., this article details observations of Thomás Green Morton Souza Coutinho, a Brazilian pharmacist who developed paranormal abilities after being struck by lightning. Over a two-week period, Thomás exhibited phenomena such as materializing a silver cross, spontaneous metal bending (spoons, chairs, bottle openers), and the appearance of a jasmine-eucalyptus fragrance, which he attributed to his extraterrestrial guide, Xils. The article describes how Thomás could transmute objects, such as cigarette foil into metal statues of religious figures and currency into higher denominations, though these transformations were sometimes temporary. He also demonstrated a 'healing-mending' ability by fusing a broken chicken bone. The author notes that Thomás sometimes consumed scotch whiskey, which seemed to amplify his powers, and that salt appeared to be important for energy replacement.

Other Articles and Sections

• "...But Nobody Has Ever Seen That!" Johann Peter Hebel's Report on Strange Rains: An article by Ulrich Magin.
• The Female Vampire as a Survival of Ancient Near East Female Demons: By Prof. George A. Agogino.
• Rare Animal Sightings and ...and More on Big 'Cats': These are presented as 'SITUations,' likely brief reports or member contributions.
• Stone Spheres Scrutinized: By Charles Edward Boyle.
• The Nature of the UFO Reality: By R. Perry Collins.
• More Broken Laws: Another 'SITUation' report.
• The Guadalupe Madonna and The Virgin of Los Remedios: The Spanish Answer to the Indian Virgin Of Guadalupe: Both by Prof. George A. Agogino, exploring religious iconography and potential anomalous aspects.
• Scholar May Solve Mystery of Bible's Authors: A 'SITUation' report.
• Report on Three Conferences: By Robert C. Warth.
• Book Reviews and Letters to the Editors: Standard sections for reader engagement.
• The Notes of Charles Fort: Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst.

The issue also includes a cover drawing explanation and a brief mention of a Hungarian researcher, Laszlo Toth, offering a theory about visitors to Easter Island.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit are the exploration of ancient myths and folklore as potential evidence of extraterrestrial contact (paleocontact), the investigation of contemporary paranormal phenomena such as psychokinesis and unexplained sightings, and the examination of historical anomalies. The editorial stance, as indicated by the society's name and the journal's content, is to pursue scientific investigation into subjects often dismissed or ignored by mainstream science, encouraging open-mindedness and critical analysis of evidence, regardless of its unconventional nature. The society positions itself as a platform for reporting and discussing data related to 'unexplaineds' of a tangible nature.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1987, delves into a diverse array of anomalous phenomena, from psychic abilities and ancient myths to unexplained animal sightings and geological mysteries. The publication, aimed at those interested in the unusual and unexplained, presents a blend of personal accounts, expert opinions, and scientific speculation.

Psychic Phenomena with Thomás

The issue features a detailed account of experiences with a psychic named Thomás, who demonstrates a range of extraordinary abilities. The author recounts several instances of materialization, including the creation of small metal monkey statues and the transmutation of a Brazilian currency note into a 10,000 Italian lira note. Thomás also exhibited metal bending, causing spoons to loop and fold, and a dollar bill to be marked with the witness's birthday. Another demonstration involved transteleportation, where Thomás made a pair of glasses reappear, and the reconstitution of a torn dollar bill. A significant event described is Thomás's telepathic reading of numerous credit card numbers and identification details from a pocketbook, which was kept secure and inaccessible to him.

The Vampire Phenomenon

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the topic of vampires. Professor George A. Agogino traces the origins of vampire lore back to ancient Near East female demons like Lilith and Lamia, suggesting an evolutionary link to medieval vampires. The article explores the sexual overtones associated with these figures and their ability to drain vitality. Stephen Kaplan, founder of the Vampire Research Center, is interviewed extensively, debunking common misconceptions about vampires, such as their portrayal in Hollywood. Kaplan asserts that real vampires are living individuals who require human blood, not as a psychological manifestation but as a physiological need. He estimates there are around 500 vampires worldwide, with a significant population in the United States. The article also touches upon the concept of 'vamperoids,' individuals who believe they are vampires and emulate their perceived characteristics.

Further exploration of vampirism includes a discussion on the potential link between the legend and the medical condition porphyria. UCLA folklore scholar Norine Dresser, initially drawn into the debate by a reporter's query about Dolphin's theory, discusses how her tacit acceptance of the link between porphyria and vampire lore led to widespread public response. She aims to differentiate between the 'fans' of vampire lore and the sufferers of porphyria, highlighting the stigma the latter face. The article also notes the threat to the vampire population due to 'hunters' and other factors, with a projection of fewer than 50 by the year 2000.

Rare Animal Sightings

The "SITUations" section reports on unusual animal sightings. These include a rhesus monkey in Pennsylvania, a possible black panther in West Virginia, and sightings of otters and bobcats. The article discusses the difficulty in verifying such reports due to a lack of concrete evidence, such as photographs or tracks, and the tendency for misidentification with domestic animals. The existence of wild cougars in the Eastern US is debated, with official skepticism contrasting with numerous anecdotal reports. The discovery of a new type of large cat, the 'Kellas cat,' in Scotland is also mentioned, with scientific examination underway.

Scientific Explanations for Anomalous Phenomena

Ulrich Magin contributes an article on "Johann Peter Hebel's Report on Strange Rains," examining scientific explanations for phenomena that were once attributed to supernatural causes. Hebel's "Various Rains" categorizes and explains 'rain of sulphur' (pollen), 'rain of blood' (insect larvae), 'rain of frogs' (frogs seeking moisture), and 'rain of stones' (meteors). The article also touches upon 'rain of hats,' explained by a whirlwind.

Another article, "Stone Spheres Scrutinized" by Charles Edward Boyle, discusses mysterious stone spheres found in archaeological sites. Boyle proposes that these artifacts are remnants of an ancient, highly developed system of written communication based on harmonics of light and sound. He suggests that the spheres, found in various sizes and alignments, may relate to solar cycles and ancient languages, with potential connections to Gaelic and other indigenous languages. The author critiques previous interpretations by Drs. Lothrop and Stone, emphasizing the need for further research into unrecognized factors that give character and meaning to these spheres.

Other Notable Items

The issue includes a brief report on the death of Frank Tiewski, a long-time SITU member and board trustee. There is also a mention of Soviet hunters searching for a mysterious one-ton bear in Kamchatka, known as the "Irkuiem."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit are the exploration of the unexplained, the intersection of myth and reality, and the search for rational explanations for anomalous phenomena. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting anecdotal evidence and personal experiences alongside scientific inquiry and historical context. The editorial stance encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding while also seeking verifiable data and logical explanations. The magazine seems to champion the idea that many phenomena, once considered supernatural, can be understood through scientific investigation, albeit sometimes requiring a broader definition of science or a willingness to explore less conventional theories.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: 115 (Vol. 20, No. 4)
Date: Third Quarter 1987
Publisher: Pursuit
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Pursuit magazine delves into the intricate connections between language, ancient systems of measurement, and the phenomenon of UFOs. The cover prominently features a diagram of the Gaelic Alphabet (Aibitir) presented on a wheel, illustrating its geometric and symbolic aspects, alongside a linear projection of the alphabet with corresponding numbers.

The Gaelic Alphabet and Ancient Systems

The magazine explores the Gaelic alphabet, highlighting its potential for geometric form, arithmetic value, and harmonic resonance. The article draws parallels between the eighteen letters of the Gaelic alphabet and the eighteen months of the Mayan calendar, suggesting a unified system of understanding. The concept of Gematria is introduced, where letters are assigned numerical values, and this system is applied to decipher names and concepts related to the spheres and other phenomena.

The text discusses the significance of ancient measures, such as the Sacred Cubit, Royal Cubit, and Phoenician Foot, and how the dimensions of stone spheres found at various sites align with these historical units. The author posits that these spheres, often found at burial sites or associated with mounds, are not random but possess geometric form, arithmetic value, and harmonic resonance, potentially linked to solar symbolism and the concept of life passage.

UFO Encounters and Phenomena

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to detailed accounts of UFO sightings and encounters. These include:

• Art Falco: A Vietnam veteran who experienced a close encounter with a UFO, involving missing time and subsequent memory recall through hypnosis.
• Sgt. Joseph Silhavy: A police officer who witnessed multiple UFO incidents in the Easton, Connecticut area, including glowing disc-shaped objects, cylindrical vehicles, and egg-shaped craft.
• Jim Renfrow: A young man who was taken aboard a UFO and flown to high altitudes, with his experience corroborated by police officers.
• Luciano Galli: An Italian engineer who was taken aboard a saucer-shaped machine and then a large cylindrical ship, described as being used for interplanetary voyages.
• A young couple in South Africa: Experienced a period of missing time while driving, later recalled under hypnosis as an encounter with UFO occupants.
• A woman in upstate New York: Awakened by a bright light from a UFO, experiencing a period of lost time.
• A UFO incident in Manzano, New Mexico: Involving security policemen who encountered individuals attempting to steal nuclear weapons, with one individual firing an energy weapon.
• A UFO incident near Moscow, USSR: Where a large cylindrical object was fired upon by missiles, subsequently causing a power failure.
• A UFO sighting in Connecticut: Witnessed by thousands, including police chiefs, involving an object with distinct lights and slow movement.

Interpretations and Hypotheses

The magazine explores various interpretations of these phenomena. The stone spheres are linked to burial rituals, solar symbolism, and the concept of life and death. The author suggests that UFOs are not a random phenomenon but may be involved in deliberate communication or even a form of learning experience for humanity.

One particularly intriguing hypothesis concerns children born after their mothers experienced UFO encounters. In several cases, these children displayed exceptional intelligence and unique characteristics, leading to speculation about a possible genetic experiment conducted by small, humanoid beings.

The article also touches upon the concept of time travel, with one witness suggesting that UFO occupants travel by time rather than by light to cover vast distances.

Conclusion

The issue concludes by emphasizing the importance of the stone spheres, their placement, and their potential meaning. The author expresses confidence that the evidence supports a language statement and a harmonic resonance within ancient canons, suggesting that these phenomena are comprehensible and serve as a monument to hope and knowledge, despite not being scientifically accepted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the interconnectedness of language, mathematics, and ancient systems of measurement; the pervasive nature of UFO sightings and encounters across different regions and time periods; and the exploration of hypotheses regarding the origin, purpose, and potential implications of these phenomena, ranging from spiritual symbolism to advanced extraterrestrial intelligence and even genetic manipulation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness accounts and theoretical connections without necessarily endorsing them as definitive scientific fact, but rather as evidence that warrants serious consideration and further investigation.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1987, covers a diverse range of topics including UFO sightings, religious phenomena, scientific anomalies, and biblical studies. The content is primarily in English and appears to be aimed at an audience interested in the unexplained and fringe topics.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

The issue features several accounts of UFO sightings. Joseph Zumbo reported seeing a large, luminous object descending near a hill after a car accident, and later found himself miles away with no memory of how he got there. Paul Valliquette described a close encounter with a UFO exhibiting multiple colored lights, which moved with extreme speed and ascended into the stars. Lt. Larry Fawcett of the Coventry, CT police department witnessed a similar object hovering low over a power station, which caused a power failure after it lowered a probe that sparked.

The article "What can we learn from these cases?" attempts to draw general conclusions from UFO reports, suggesting the phenomenon is deeply involved with humanity, displays advanced technology and psychic abilities, and demonstrates an intelligence with intent to manipulate our world. It posits that ignoring the UFO phenomenon poses a significant risk to civilization.

Several specific characteristics of UFOs are listed: abduction of humans with memory erasure, friendly contact without memory erasure, presence of different types of beings (including human-like), interest in nuclear weapons, repeated appearances in specific areas, medical studies of humans (including genetic manipulation), potential use as time-traveling devices, specific demonstrations for witnesses, and vehicles of immense size and performance.

The Guadalupe Madonna

Professor George A. Agogino contributes an in-depth article exploring the origins and significance of the Guadalupe Madonna. He questions whether the painted tilma of the Virgin Mary, credited with converting millions of Indians to Catholicism, was a genuine Christian miracle or a clever hoax by Bishop Juan Zumarraga. The article details the legend of Juan Diego's encounters with the Virgin, the bishop's skepticism, and the miraculous appearance of roses in winter as proof. It also discusses the image itself, its physical characteristics, and the debate surrounding its creation, with some attributing it to an unknown artist or even a hoax, while others, like Jody Smith, suggest it might be supernatural. The article notes that a Catholic investigation in 1556 did not mention Juan Diego or the legend, and discusses the possibility of it being a man-made object or supernatural.

Further investigation into the image by Jody Smith using close-up and infra-red photography revealed that the original image remained clear and vibrant, despite the aging of later additions. The article highlights the mysterious colors and apparent lack of brush strokes, defying conventional explanations. Dr. Philip Callahan, a scientist involved in the investigation, concluded that it was impossible for a human painter to achieve such realism.

The Virgin of Los Remedios

Another article by Professor George A. Agogino discusses the Santo de los Remedios, a wooden icon of the Virgin Mary, which became the chief religious idol of the Spanish in New Spain. It was used to replace an Aztec idol and played a role during the fight for Mexican freedom. The santo is housed at the Shrine of Los Remedios and is honored annually. The article contrasts this with the Lady of Guadalupe, who was followed by Indians and mixed breeds.

Religious Apparitions and Phenomena

The magazine reports on several instances of reported Marian apparitions and miracles.

• Ukraine: Millions have been drawn to a village in western Ukraine following reported appearances of the Virgin Mary, beginning on the anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster. Soviet authorities have attempted to counter the phenomenon, but with limited success due to glasnost. Local believers see these as signs of God's favor.
• Medjugorje, Yugoslavia: Six youngsters have reported daily visions of the Virgin Mary for six years, delivering messages of peace and reconciliation. Despite the growing popularity and claims of miracle healings, the apparitions have not been officially approved by the Pope, and there is division within the Catholic Church and skepticism from local bishops.
• Sri Lanka: A 16-year-old schoolboy reported seeing a statue of the Virgin Mary move its hands and eyes. While some visitors and the parish priest have witnessed or considered the possibility of movement, the priest has deferred to superiors for scientific analysis. The event is seen by some as a sign of hope amidst the country's crisis.

Scientific and Historical Investigations

Physics and Gravity

An article discusses a finding by Dr. John Donoghue and Dr. Barry Holstein that contradicts a common interpretation of Einstein's theory of gravity. Their research, based on quantum theory, suggests that heavier objects fall faster than lighter ones because their inertial mass is slightly lower, making them more responsive to gravity.

Bible Authorship

Richard E. Friedman, a professor at UC San Diego, has spent ten years investigating the authorship of the Old Testament. His forthcoming book, "Who Wrote the Bible?", proposes that certain stories are inventions of authors with specific political and religious motives. He argues that Jeremiah, or his scribe Baruch, wrote the Book of Jeremiah and was the author known as "the Deuteronomist." Friedman's work is noted for its persuasive marshaling of clues and its accessibility to the general public.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews:

• Melbourne Episode: Case Study of a Missing Pilot by Richard F. Haines: This book chronicles the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich and explores various scenarios, including a "Star Wars" level technological experiment gone awry.
• Mysteries of the Unexplained by the editors of Reader's Digest: This volume covers a wide range of phenomena, including prophecies, spontaneous combustion, monsters, UFOs, and miracles.
• Mystic Places (Volume #1 in the Mysteries of the Unknown series) by the editors of Time-Life Books: This visually rich book explores topics like Atlantis, the Bermuda Triangle, Stonehenge, and Nazca lines.
• Stars, Galaxies, Cosmos: A Catalog of Astronomical Anomalies compiled by William R. Corliss: This catalog presents scientific anomalies related to astronomy, from galactic magnetic fields to the origin of the universe.
• Modern Mysteries of Britain: One Hundred Years of Strange Events by Janet & Colin Bord: This book compiles eyewitness accounts of various Fortean events in England, Wales, and Scotland.

Conferences and Reports

Robert C. Warth reports on three conferences:

• United States Psychotronics Association (USPA) Conference: Covered topics such as color alchemy, bio-energy fields, sound balancing, and electromagnetic healing.
• Global Sciences Congress: Focused on advancing spiritually and technically, with lectures on religion, science, ancient languages, and psychic phenomena.
• Ancient Astronaut Society 11th World Congress: Featured discussions on ancient civilizations, extraterrestrial influences, and prehistoric astronauts.

An upcoming conference with Uri Geller is also announced.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around the unexplained, the mysterious, and phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and religious paradigms. There is a consistent interest in UFOs, alleged miracles, and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily endorsing them, but encouraging readers to consider the evidence and draw their own conclusions. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader understanding of reality that includes phenomena not yet fully explained by mainstream science. The emphasis on detailed accounts, witness testimonies, and scholarly investigations (even if on fringe topics) suggests a commitment to exploring these subjects seriously.

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, dated Third Quarter 1987 (Vol. 20, No. 3), presents a collection of articles and letters exploring various unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, teleportation, out-of-body experiences, and historical mysteries. The magazine maintains a focus on fringe science and fortean topics.

Letters to the Editors

The "Letters to the Editors" section features several contributions:

• Daniel Eden responds to Luis Schoenherr's article on "Concomitant Phenomena," discussing acoustic signals associated with teleportation, such as whistling noises or humming, and speculating on vapor condensation effects. He also references Robert Monroe's out-of-body experiences, noting reports of translucency and high-frequency vibrations, suggesting these might indicate "barrier oscillation."
• Luis Schönherr addresses Dennis Stillings' letter regarding the correlation between rebirth experiences and abductions, acknowledging the striking phenomenal correlation and referencing previous articles on UFO hypotheses.
• Kenith W. Templin offers a speculative explanation for the "curious lingering mist" sometimes seen after UFO departures, proposing it could be a trace left by a "seeded" plasma used for boundary layer control, similar to concepts explored in supersonic transport development.
• Stuart W. Greenwood requests a correction for "missing pi's" in a previous letter and provides a corrected mathematical formula.
• Hillyer Senning comments on articles about stone spheres, suggesting they might have served as sophisticated sundials.
• Dr. Horst Friedrich discusses the "Sea Peoples" and their potential connection to natural catastrophes, referencing Immanuel Velikovsky. He also questions the dating of the Kensington stone, suggesting it might be a coded message from Norse runemasters.
• Dr. Horst Friedrich also shares information about a potential "free energy" generator using permanent magnets, citing an article from "The Spotlight."
• Dennis Stillings critiques the interpretation of science fiction in ufology, particularly concerning Budd Hopkins' views and the "New Age" movement, suggesting ufology is evolving into a form of ersatz religion.

Articles and Reports

Strange Encounters of UFOs Over Belleville, Wis.

This report details a series of UFO sightings in Belleville, Wisconsin, beginning January 16, 1987. Police officer Glen Kazmar and his partner Jeff Furseth observed a cluster of lights that remained motionless before moving southwest and disappearing. Subsequent reports in March described cigar-shaped objects and objects obscured by vapor. Over a dozen people reported sightings between January and April, with local media and residents noting the unusual nature of the events.

Objects in Air Still Mystery in Chicago

This article reports on two separate incidents where commercial airline pilots reported near-misses with unidentified objects over Chicago. One pilot reported nearly clipping "four or five parachutists" at 6,000 feet, while another reported seeing "helium balloons" at 5,000 to 6,000 feet. However, air traffic controllers and other authorities found no radar confirmation or corroborating reports.

China Agency Reports UFO Over Shanghai

The official Xinhua News Agency reported that an unidentified flying object, described as oval, a comet, or an orange, flew over Shanghai on a Thursday evening. Military planes were dispatched, but no details of findings were released.

UFO-Shaped Clouds

This piece explains "cumulomammatus" clouds, which are large, circular cloud formations that can resemble upside down mixing bowls and often precede severe thunderstorms. They form high in the atmosphere and are a rare but photogenic meteorological phenomenon.

No One Claims Mystery Object

A pilot of a Delta Air Lines jet reported encountering an object resembling a missile about 4 feet long. The National Weather Service and the Defense Department could not identify the object, and the Federal Aviation Administration stated it was unlikely to be found.

Unknown Forces in the Fields

This report notes the deepening mystery of large symmetrical circles appearing in crop fields in southern England. A large circle with four smaller adjoining ones was seen in Hampshire, with similar formations reported in Dorset and Sussex. The precise cause remains unexplained.

Fist of Colossus Believed Found

Divers in Greece discovered an undersea object resembling a giant clenched fish, believed by some to be part of the ancient Colossus of Rhodes. The object, made of an unspecified material, is being examined by experts.

A Colossal Dispute

Culture Minister Melina Mercouri dismissed claims that a fist-shaped rock found at sea was part of the Colossus of Rhodes, despite insistence from a clairvoyant who helped locate it. Archaeologists identified it as an ordinary piece of stone.

Ancient Town Discovered Under Water by Fishermen

Fishermen off the coast of Hong Kong discovered an underwater village and retrieved two ancient Buddha statues, estimated to be 300 years old.

Evidence Found in Greenland Puts Atlantis Theories in Doubt

Danish scientists studying Greenland ice cores found evidence suggesting the Thera volcanic eruption occurred in 1645 B.C., 150 years earlier than previously thought. This revised date challenges existing timelines for Minoan civilization and its potential connection to the legend of Atlantis.

Creationist Claims Tooth Found with Dinosaur Tracks is Human

Creationists claim to have found a human tooth among fossilized dinosaur tracks, which they believe supports the coexistence of humans and dinosaurs. While some scientists doubt the tooth's human origin, the find has sparked debate.

Cat-eating Rats Reported in Iran

Giant rats, weighing around 26 pounds, have been discovered in the Iranian port town of Chahbahar. These rodents are reportedly a threat to the environment and have killed cats.

Cat Snake Rouses Girl to Rude Awakening

An eleven-year-old girl in Azerbaijan reportedly swallowed a 2-foot-long snake in her sleep, which was later removed by doctors.

Jellyfish Kill Woman in China; 1,500 Hurt

A beach resort in China experienced an unusually large swarm of jellyfish, resulting in one death and over 1,500 injuries.

...and in England

Large jellyfish, some six feet wide, were observed off the South Coast of England during a warm spell.

Flying Fish Lands on Boy

A ray estimated at 250 pounds soared out of the water and landed on a 5-year-old boy aboard a boat in the Gulf of Mexico, sending him to the hospital.

Mayflies Close Bridge, Cause Eight-Car Collision

A massive swarm of mayflies on an Interstate 494 bridge in South St. Paul, Minnesota, forced the closure of the bridge and contributed to an eight-car collision.

QE2 Passenger Lost in Bermuda Triangle

A 28-year-old man disappeared from the luxury liner Queen Elizabeth 2 while it was sailing through the Bermuda Triangle. He was presumed lost overboard.

Human Blood Seeps From Floors of Home

Human blood was reported to be seeping from the floors of an elderly couple's home in Atlanta, Georgia, baffling authorities.

Dream Rings a Bell... and a Million for Mom

Pearl Anderson of Oakland, California, won a $1-million slot machine jackpot after having a dream about money gushing from a machine.

County Isn't Sure What Caused Mysterious Boom

A sharp, startling boom was heard in northern San Diego County, but authorities could not determine its cause.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section, deciphered by Carl J. Pabst, presents a chronological catalog of historical observations and phenomena compiled by Charles Fort. It details various events from 1848-1849, including meteors, auroras, earthquakes, unusual weather phenomena (like black rain and dry fog), strange biological occurrences (like swarms of insects and giant jellyfish), and peculiar human events (such as the case of Francis Bertrand, the "ghoul" of Paris).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features reports on anomalous phenomena, unexplained events, and fringe scientific theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into subjects often dismissed by mainstream science, encouraging readers to submit their own observations and reports. There is a clear interest in UFOs, paranormal experiences, and historical accounts of the unexplained. The "Notes of Charles Fort" section highlights a commitment to documenting historical anomalies, suggesting a belief that patterns and connections exist across time in unusual events.

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 publication details the genesis of The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) and its newsletter, PURSUIT. Founded in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, along with other distinguished authors, the 'foundation' aimed to explore and research the paranormal. The steering group decided to publish a newsletter to engage professionals and enthusiasts. The first issue appeared in May 1967, and its reception was encouraging enough to proceed.

Newsletter No. 2, released in March 1968, announced expanded plans, leading to the formation of The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, a structure larger than initially envisioned. This was formally documented with the New Jersey Secretary of State. The choice of name proved prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson later titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.

By June 1968, another publication was issued, now featuring "newsletter" as a subtitle beneath the name PURSUIT. Issue number 4, dated September 1968 and noted as "incorporating the fourth Society newsletter," formally adopted "SITU" as the Society's designation. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing its members and their affiliations. Administrative matters were relegated to the latter part of the twenty-page publication.

Content Highlights

This issue of SITU/PURSUIT delves into several intriguing topics:

Investigative Reporting

• Great Armadillo Capture: A report on a large armadillo, described as 6 feet long and 3 feet high, allegedly captured in Argentina.
• Instantaneous Object Transportation: Investigations into phenomena involving the instant movement of solid objects from one location to another, including the ability to pass through solids.
• University of Colorado UFO Project: Coverage of the attack on the famed UFO Project at the University of Colorado, led by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Ringing Rocks and Stone Spheres: Updated information on these enigmatic natural phenomena.

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises a distinguished group of experts from various academic and research institutions:

• Dr. George A. Agogino: Distinguished Director of Anthropology Museums and Director, Paleo-Indian Institute, Eastern New Mexico University (Archaeology).
• Dr. Carl H. Delacato: Director, The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured, Morton, Pa. (Mentalogy).
• Dr. Stuart W. Greenwood: Operations Manager, University Research Foundation, University of Maryland (Aerospace Engineering).
• Dr. Martin Kruskal: Program in Applied Mathematics and Computational Mathematics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey.
• Dr. Samuel B. McDowell: Professor of Biology, Rutgers the State University, Newark, New Jersey (General Biology).
• Dr. Vladimir Markotic: Professor of Anthropology, Department of Archaeology, University of Alberta, Canada (Ethnosociology and Ethnology).
• Dr. Michael A. Persinger: Professor, Department of Psychology, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada (Psychology).
• Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Plant Science Department, College of Agriculture, Utah State University (Plant Physiology).
• Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz: Consultant, National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering, Vero Beach, Florida (Mental Sciences).
• Dr. Michael D. Swords: Professor, Department of General Studies Science, Western Michigan University (Natural Science).
• Dr. Roger W. Wescott: Professor and Chairman, Department of Anthropology, Drew University, Madison, N.J. (Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics).
• Dr. A. Joseph Wraight: Chief Geographer, U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, Washington, D.C. (Geography and Oceanography).
• Dr. Robert K. Zuck: Professor and Chairman, Department of Botany, Drew University, Madison, N.J. (Botany).

Governing Board

The Governing Board includes:

• Robert C. Warth: President
• Gregory Arend: Vice-President
• Nancy L. Warth: Secretary and Treasurer
• Trustees: Gregory Arend, Marie Cox, Nancy Warth, Robert C. Warth, Martin Wiegler, Albena Zwerver.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication's stance is clearly focused on the investigation of unexplained phenomena, referred to as "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." The editorial approach involves presenting investigative reports and updated information on a variety of subjects, aiming to engage both professionals and the general public in these uncommon causes. The inclusion of a diverse Scientific Advisory Board underscores a commitment to a broad, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the unexplained.