ISC Newsletter - Vol 10 No 4 - 1991

Magazine Overview

This issue of The ISC Newsletter, Volume 10, Number 4, from Winter 1991, is published by the International Society of Cryptozoology and edited by J. Richard Greenwell. The cover prominently features a panel discussion on the North American Sasquatch, with a map illustrating the potential migration route from Asia.

The Bigfoot Debate - Part II: A Panel Discussion on the North American Sasquatch

The issue presents the second part of an edited transcript from a panel discussion held during the Society's symposium 'Sasquatch Evidence: Scientific and Social Implications' at Washington State University in Pullman on June 24-25, 1989. The discussion begins with an 'Unidentified Man' questioning the process of specimen collection and the role of scientists, expressing concern about universities potentially taking over findings.

Panelists like Kinnie and Tyler address these concerns, with Tyler stating that if one finds a Sasquatch, it is theirs to decide its fate. Mark Francis, however, states he would sell a Sasquatch body to the highest bidder rather than take it to a scientist, citing a lack of legwork by scientists. This sparks a debate about the definition and role of science and scientists.

An 'Unidentified Woman,' a graduate student in archaeology, defends academia and the scientific method, emphasizing that science is a methodology of inquiry, not a belief system. She argues that anyone using inductive and deductive logic, hypothesis-testing, and data collection is a scientist.

J. Richard Greenwell acknowledges a resentment among Sasquatch hunters towards scientists, partly because professional scientists are not actively searching for Bigfoot. He notes that this has led to non-professionals taking the lead in fieldwork.

Markotic suggests that while the situation has improved since the 1960s when scholars were uninterested, there's still a divide between scientists and hunters. He advocates for closer collaboration.

Lonnie Sommer's investigation, which contradicted some hypotheses, is cited by Sauter as an example of good science. Sauter also recounts an instance where a university department head was afraid to speak on the record about the possibility of Sasquatch, highlighting the fear and suppression some scientists face.

Bob Titmus, a taxidermist, emphasizes the importance of preserving the skin of a Sasquatch, noting its rapid deterioration and potential value. He suggests hiding the skin while handing over the body to scientists.

Greenwell discusses the challenges of organizing cryptozoological investigations, contrasting the proactive approach of UFO organizations with the ISC's broader scope. He stresses the need for a scientific approach and questions the necessity of a manual when the scientific method is the primary tool.

Concerns are raised about the potential for exploitation and the desire for personal gain from Sasquatch discoveries. The discussion touches upon the ethics of animal rights, with Robert Hutchison advocating for the humane treatment of animals.

Questions arise about how to capture a Sasquatch, with suggestions ranging from using bait to employing an army. The panel also considers the implications of proving Sasquatch's existence, including potential endangerment and its use in biomedical research, with Tyler arguing against its use for AIDS research.

Editorial: The Danta and the Horse-Bear

In his editorial, J. Richard Greenwell recounts two incidents that highlight the importance of accurate translation and avoiding preconceived notions in cryptozoology.

The first incident involved a 'horse-bear' in the Sinkiang region of China. Initially thought to be a cryptid due to its description, it was later identified by Greenwell as a subspecies of brown bear, *Ursus arctos pruinosus*, commonly called the 'horse bear' due to a yellowish or whitish coloration on its shoulders. This bear is known to be aggressive and feared by locals.

The second incident involved the 'danta' in Chiapas, Mexico. Initially described as an elephant-like creature, it was identified by Greenwell as Baird's tapir (*Tapirus bairdii*), a large, hairy animal with a trunk, whose local name 'danta' is a colloquial term for tapir in several South American countries.

Greenwell emphasizes the need for skepticism and caution in cryptozoology, urging researchers not to let enthusiasm cloud their judgment but also not to be overly skeptical, as real discoveries like the okapi or kouprey may exist.

Journal Reprint and Membership

The issue announces the reprinting of Volume 1 of the Society's journal, published in 1982. It also details the Society's membership drive, noting that 300 contributors (298 individuals and 2 Corporate Sponsors) became Sustaining Members for 1991, an increase of 61 percent over the previous year. The newsletter lists the names of Sustaining Members across four donation categories and provides renewal information for 1992, with dues set at US$30 or £18.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of cryptids, particularly Sasquatch, and the often-contentious relationship between professional scientists and amateur researchers. The editorial stance, as articulated by Greenwell, is one of cautious skepticism, emphasizing the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, accurate translation, and avoiding confirmation bias. The Society positions itself as a platform for open discussion, even of ideas that may not represent mainstream thinking within the organization, while advocating for a scientific approach to cryptozoology.

The ISC Newsletter, Winter 1991, Vol. 10, No. 4, is published by the International Society of Cryptozoology. This issue focuses on upcoming features for 1992 and provides essential information for members regarding payments and Society policies.

Forthcoming in 1992

Several features originally scheduled for 1991 have been postponed to 1992 due to space limitations. Upcoming articles will include:

• An update on the pygmy elephant controversy, presenting new evidence.
• A review of evidence for the thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger) on mainland Australia.
• An update on the analysis of Onza tissue.
• Results of the biochemical analysis of a piece of the Bermuda Blob.
• An update on the Eastern cougar situation.

Additionally, the newsletter plans to feature a comprehensive review of major vertebrate species discoveries and rediscoveries since 1982, which may span two issues, and a new annotated bibliography of cryptozoological books. A membership survey and other regular columns like 'News & Notes' and 'Cryptoletters' are also anticipated.

Payment Instructions

The newsletter provides detailed instructions for members on how to pay for memberships and subscriptions. For members outside the U.S.A., payment methods include:

• A bank draft for US$30 drawn against a U.S. bank (a fee may be charged by the member's own country).
• An international postal money order for US$30 sent via the postal department of the country of origin to the U.S. Postal Service.
• Cash in the amount of US$30 or £18 is acceptable but not encouraged.
• A personal cheque for £18 drawn against a British bank is accepted from members in the U.K.

Members in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Italy, and Switzerland can pay by personal cheques in their own currencies, provided the equivalent of US$30 is sent and the cheque is drawn against a local bank.

Members in other European countries may pay by Eurocheque in Sterling (£18), but Eurocheques in other currencies are not accepted.

Summary and Member Requests

The 'Summary' section requests members to renew promptly to avoid reminder mailings, follow the specified payment methods, use the enclosed renewal envelope, indicate any address errors, and consider making a voluntary donation. The Society expresses gratitude for member cooperation and support.

Discussion on Pygmy Elephant Anatomy

A section discusses the pygmy elephant, referencing a previous issue. It raises questions about whether studies have been conducted on recently killed specimens regarding stomach contents and soft anatomy, and if the diet differs from that of the forest elephant. The writer suggests that anatomical differences might indicate semi-aquatic adaptations, similar to ancient mastodonts.

Editor's Response to Pygmy Elephant Query

The 'Editor's' response to the query about the pygmy elephant states that, to their knowledge, no living or recently killed pygmy elephant has been available for study. Therefore, soft anatomy and biochemical analyses have not been performed. The primary available evidence consists of skulls, specifically those in the Belgian museum that formed the basis for studies by Eisentraut and Bohme. The editor concludes that the only current evidence comprises skulls and observational reports on behavior and ecology.

Society Purpose and Policy

The second page reiterates the purpose and policy of the International Society of Cryptozoology. It states that the Society serves as a focal point for investigating, analyzing, publishing, and discussing animals of unusual form, size, or occurrence. It also acts as a forum for public discussion and education, and for providing information to authorities. The Society maintains a neutral stance on the existence of supposed animals and does not endorse individual opinions expressed by members.

Membership and Subscriptions Details

Details are provided for membership and subscription inquiries, which should be addressed to the ISC Secretariat in Tucson, Arizona. Annual membership is US$30 or £18. Sustaining Members contribute additional amounts. Membership includes The ISC Newsletter quarterly and the journal Cryptozoology annually. Joint memberships for couples are available for US$35 or £21. Institutional subscriptions for organizations like zoological parks and libraries are US$45 per year. There are no additional fees for memberships or subscriptions outside the U.S.A., apart from the specified payment methods.

Back Issues and Field Medical Advisor

Information on purchasing back issues of The ISC Newsletter and the journal Cryptozoology is provided, with prices listed in both USD and GBP. Discounts are offered for larger orders. The newsletter also lists its Field Medical Advisor, Michael J. Manyak, M.D., who can be contacted for medical and health advice for members planning fieldwork, especially in tropical areas.

Honorary Members, Benefactors, and Corporate Sponsors

The issue lists several Honorary Members, including Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer (South Africa), John Green (Canada), The Lord Hunt of Llanfair Waterdine (U.K.), Marie-Jeanne Koffmann (U.S.S.R.), Theodore Monod (France), and Robert Titmus (Canada). It also lists Benefactors and Corporate Sponsors, such as the Academy of Applied Science and The Conservation Agency.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights the Society's commitment to exploring cryptozoological topics through its publications and member contributions. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry and information sharing, as evidenced by the 'Cryptoletter' section which facilitates member-to-editor dialogue. The Society's neutral policy on the existence of cryptozoological subjects is consistently maintained, focusing on the investigation and discussion of evidence and reports.