Bigfoot Abstract - No 2 - 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: BIGFOOT ABSTRACT
Issue: #2
Date: May 1988
Publisher: BIGFOOT INFORMATION PROJECT
Editor: Mark Opsasnick

This issue of BIGFOOT ABSTRACT, published by the BIGFOOT INFORMATION PROJECT, addresses the methodology and purpose of compiling Bigfoot sighting data, particularly focusing on Maryland. The publication is described as being on an irregular basis, with subscription rates not yet available at the time of printing.

Using the Bigfoot Listings

Mark Opsasnick, Director/Editor, clarifies his position regarding the "MARYLAND BIGFOOT REFERENCE GUIDE" and subsequent additions published in BIGFOOT ABSTRACT #1. He explains that the purpose of these listings is to serve as a reference source for alleged Bigfoot sightings in Maryland, not to endorse them as genuine, acknowledging the inherent difficulty in validating such reports. Opsasnick's goal is to provide a brief description of each sighting and list the associated literature or the investigator involved. He uses the "Dwayyo" (a regional name for Bigfoot) references from the previous issue as an example, stating that common sense suggests many entries may lack credibility, but it is not his role to judge them. He is compiling a comprehensive database for public use. He will only note a sighting as a hoax if an eyewitness personally admits to fabricating the claim. While he has personal opinions on the credibility of sightings, he keeps them private and offers them only upon direct request.

Opsasnick also discusses the distribution of the publication. The first two free issues were sent to considered correspondents, and he appreciates their past research efforts. Future issues (likely starting with #3) will increase in size and quality and will be sold individually. Free copies will be limited to organizations with whom they exchange publications, as he is not wealthy. He mentions that by the time the issue is received, he will be in Boise, Idaho, making direct contact difficult unless he initiates it. He requests that all publications and magazines continue to be sent to his Greenbelt address. Other correspondence should be directed to BIP c/o STRANGE MAGAZINE, P.O. Box 2246, Rockville, Maryland 20852. Despite his move to Idaho, several BIP projects are ongoing, including the indexing of files and the creation of BIP participant guidelines, which are expected to appear in the next issue.

Recent Publications and Research

The editor highlights two recent articles of potential interest to Maryland Bigfoot followers. The April 1988 edition of "The GATE" features his piece titled "Maryland Bigfoot Captured on Film?", which objectively examines Dennis Volkman's September 2, 1986, videotape shot in Patapsco Valley State Park. Opsasnick feels it is appropriate for him to review such a videotape from Maryland, aiming for full and fair consideration. Additionally, the April 1988 "BIGFOOT CO-OP" included his "Encounters With Maryland's Bigfoot" column, detailing unknown animal tracks he discovered on January 17, 1988, in Laurel, Maryland, along with some area Bigfoot sightings. He offers pictures of these tracks and is open to arrangements for obtaining them. He questions whether Bigfoot is active in P.G. County but admits he cannot explain the tracks, though he has faith in several 1970s eyewitness accounts. He also entertains the possibility of Bigfoot traveling via sewer systems, referencing reports from Buena Park, California in 1982.

Resources and Recommendations

The "MARYLAND BIGFOOT REFERENCE GUIDE" remains available from Arcturus Book Service for $3.50 plus 85¢ postage and handling. Readers are also encouraged to send $5.00 to Arcturus for a year's subscription to their catalogs. Opsasnick recounts an unexpected visit to Bob Girard, the proprietor of Arcturus Book Service, in Albany, New York, in June 1986. He was impressed by the extensive UFO and Bigfoot material available and highly recommends Girard and Arcturus Book Service for their helpfulness. For more information, an S.A.S.E. can be sent to Arcturus Book Service, P.O. Box 831383, Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083-0023, or Bob Girard can be called at 1-404-297-4624.

Acknowledgements and Future Plans

BIP expresses special thanks to Warren Thompson of the Bay Area Group and Mark Chorvinsky of STRANGE Magazine for their recent contributions and research efforts. BIP is collaborating with Mark C. and STRANGE Magazine, and all of their file material is being donated to the STRANGE Archives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the responsible and systematic compilation of Bigfoot sighting data, emphasizing the distinction between collecting information and validating it. The editorial stance, as articulated by Mark Opsasnick, is one of objective data collection, acknowledging the challenges of proof while aiming to create a valuable resource for researchers. There is a clear focus on Maryland-based sightings and related research. The issue also highlights the importance of collaboration within the Bigfoot research community and the value of specialized resources like Arcturus Book Service.