The ISC Newsletter

Magazine Overview

The ISC Newsletter - Spring 1991, Vol. 10, No. 1

This issue of The ISC Newsletter, published by the International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC), serves as an official publication for its members and institutional subscribers. The editor is J. Richard Greenwell, and the ISC Secretariat is located in Tucson, Arizona. The newsletter is not intended for permanent scientific record. The issue features a comprehensive bibliography of cryptozoological books published between 1987 and 1990, along with numerous book reviews.

Cryptozoology Books 1987-1990

The main feature of this issue is an annotated bibliography of cryptozoological-related books published between 1987 and 1990. This bibliography includes 55 works, with an additional 17 volumes published prior to 1987 that were not previously listed. The editor has included prices and, where applicable, ordering addresses for less well-known publishers. The ISC Secretariat does not sell books but encourages members to order through bookstores. The Secretariat is also seeking new or old volumes for future bibliographies.

The bibliography covers a wide range of topics within cryptozoology, with individual entries providing details on the book's author, title, publication year, publisher, page count, price, and a brief description of its content. Many of the reviewed books focus on well-known cryptids such as Bigfoot, Yeti, Mokele-Mbembe, Nessie, and sea serpents, as well as extinct animals and lesser-known regional mysteries.

Examples of books reviewed include:

• The Southern Ark: Zoological Discovery in New Zealand by J.R.H. Andrews (1986), covering the discovery of New Zealand's fauna, including moas and the takahe.
• Creatures from Elsewhere: Weird Animals That No-One Can Explain edited by Peter Brookesmith (1984), an anthology of articles on various unexplained creatures.
• Other Origins: The Search for the Giant Ape in Human Prehistory by Russell Ciochon, John Olsen, and Jamie James (1990), discussing Gigantopithecus and the concept of 'wildmen'.
• Tom Slick and the Search for the Yeti by Loren Coleman (1989), detailing the life and searches of an oilman interested in the Yeti and Sasquatch.
• Extinct Birds by Errol Fuller (1987), a comprehensive volume on extinct and thought-extinct birds, including those still reported.
• Big Foot Country: Big Foot in Poems and Prose by Arline B. Lawrence (1987), a collection of literary works on Sasquatch.
• Mystery Cats of the World: From Blue Tigers to Exmoor Beasts by Karl P.N. Shuker (1989), a survey of felid cryptozoology.
• The Sasquatch in Alberta by Thomas Steenburg (1990), an investigation of Sasquatch sightings in Alberta.
• Mysterious Creatures (Time-Life Books, 1988), a popular work emphasizing marine monsters, Nessie, Bigfoot, and the Yeti.

Message from the Editor

J. Richard Greenwell's message focuses on the retirement of ISC Vice President Roy P. Mackal from the University of Chicago after 43 years. Mackal, who holds degrees in chemistry, biology, and biochemistry, was involved in various research projects, including the 'virus project' and the Manhattan Project. The editor highlights Mackal's diverse interests, including Liberian stamps, musical boxes, Victorian actresses, and physics. A significant portion of the message is dedicated to Mackal's lesser-known past work in rocketry in the mid-1950s with the Pacific Rocket Society, where they attempted to launch the world's first artificial satellite. The message also touches upon the space race between the US and the Soviet Union, with Sputnik 1 being the first satellite launched.

Membership Survey

A majority of ISC members have returned their completed survey questionnaires for 1991. The survey aims to gather feedback on the society's publications and overall operations. The Secretariat requests that members who have not yet returned their questionnaires do so as soon as possible, as they will be accepted until February 28, 1992. Only 1990 members renewing for 1991 are expected to complete these questionnaires.

Cryptoletters

This section features letters from readers. One letter discusses a book about Edward Chace and his experiences in Patagonia, mentioning an anecdote about strange tracks and an animal seen in Argentina. Another letter discusses the historical significance of ground sloth sightings in Argentina. A letter from Roderick Moore in Liverpool, England, inquires about further ground sloth reports or investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the comprehensive cataloging and review of cryptozoological literature, with a strong emphasis on books published in the late 1980s. The editorial stance, as reflected in the book reviews and the editor's message, is one of scholarly inquiry and a broad interest in unexplained phenomena, while maintaining a grounded approach, as seen in the skepticism towards large, unknown animals in Loch Ness and the detailed scientific discussions. The ISC appears to be a hub for researchers and enthusiasts interested in a wide array of cryptozoological subjects, from folklore to scientific investigation.

The ISC Newsletter, Spring 1991, Volume 10, Number 1, is published by the International Society of Cryptozoology. This issue delves into various aspects of cryptozoology, conservation, and animal phenomena.

Letters to the Editor and Articles

Ground Sloth Evidence in Patagonia H. Hesketh Prichard's unsuccessful search for living ground sloth evidence in Patagonia, as detailed in his 1902 book, is mentioned. The author notes that while others may have searched in South America, no additional sighting reports have been published, and inquires if President Heuvel-mans has more recent information.

Cryptozoology and Conservation Robert S. Carr of the Archeological and Historical Conservancy, Inc., addresses criticisms of cryptozoology, particularly those raised by Jared Diamond and Fiona Doig. Carr argues that cryptozoology students should support the preservation of endangered species and that their interest creates a moral obligation to protect the natural habitats of potentially unknown species.

Griffin Research and Fieldwork Adrienne Mayor of Princeton, New Jersey, reports on progress in her griffin research, stemming from a folklore conference in Guildford, England. She presented her paper on griffins at Villanova University and is collaborating with Michael Heaney on an article about the relationship between Arimaspeans, almases, and griffins. The Society and its journal inspired her earnest pursuit of this project. She has been invited to participate in an archaeological excavation of Scythian tombs near Issyk in Kazakhstan.

Melanism in Black Pumas and Bobcats Jay W. Tischendorf of the American Ecological Research Institute discusses the incidence of melanism in animals, referencing comments by Thomas Eveland on black pumas. He cites research by Timothy W. Regan and David S. Maehr of the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission on melanistic bobcats in peninsular Florida. These cases, recorded between 1939-1990, are predominantly found in two ridge systems near Lake Okeechobee. Regan and Maehr speculate that the phenomenon is linked to the 'dark, poorly drained soils associated with wetlands adjacent to scrub ridges.' Tischendorf questions whether this melanism is more unusual in Eastern North America and considers environmental factors like shade, soil, and minerals as potential influences, rather than purely genetic ones. He also references a photograph of a dark puma from Costa Rica in Jim Bob Tinsley's book, 'The Puma: Legendary Lion of the Americas,' suggesting it lived in a dense, dark, moist environment. Tischendorf notes that Bruce Wright, who has advocated for the existence of Eastern pumas, may one day be vindicated.

Notable Quotes Two quotes are featured: "One of the most cherished rights is the right to be left alone" by Louis Brandeis, U.S. Supreme Court Justice, and "Now and then it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy," from an unknown source.

Society Information and Membership

Society Purpose and Policy The International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC) is described as a focal point for the investigation, analysis, publication, and discussion of animals of unexpected form, size, or occurrence. It also serves as a forum for public discussion, education, and providing reliable information to authorities. The Society maintains a neutral stance on the existence of cryptozoological animals and the authenticity of evidence.

Membership and Subscriptions Inquiries regarding membership and subscriptions should be directed to the ISC Secretariat in Tucson, Arizona. Annual membership is US$30 or £18, which includes the quarterly ISC Newsletter and the annual journal Cryptozoology. Joint memberships for couples are available for US$35 or £21. Institutional subscriptions are US$45 per year. Payment can be made by personal check drawn on a U.S. or U.K. bank, or by international postal money order. Members outside the U.S.A. and U.K. can pay in their local currencies if the equivalent of US$30 is sent. Eurocheques in Sterling are accepted from other European countries.

Back Issues Back issues of The ISC Newsletter and the journal Cryptozoology are available for purchase. Prices range from US$3 or £1.75 for single issues to US$18 or £11 for annual subscriptions. Discounts are offered for larger orders (10% for orders over US$100, 15% for orders over US$200). A free order form listing all back publications can be requested.

Field Medical Advisor Dr. Michael J. Manyak, M.D., serves as the Field Medical Advisor and can be contacted for medical/health care advice, particularly for fieldwork in tropical areas.

Honorary Members and Benefactors The newsletter lists several Honorary Members from various countries and Benefactors who have contributed to the Society.

Corporate Sponsors The ISC Newsletter and the International Society of Cryptozoology's contact information and address are provided, along with a non-profit organization status and postage permit information.

Archival Material Members are urged to send copies of cryptozoology-related newspaper reports, popular magazine articles, and scientific papers to the ISC Secretariat for preservation and potential use in the Newsletter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing investigation into cryptozoological subjects like griffins and ground sloths, the importance of conservation efforts for potentially unknown species, and the scientific exploration of animal phenomena such as melanism. The editorial stance, as stated in the Society's policy, is one of neutrality regarding the existence of cryptozoological animals, focusing instead on investigation, analysis, and discussion. The newsletter serves as a platform for members to share research, observations, and opinions, fostering a community dedicated to the study of the unexplained in the natural world.