North Texas Skeptic - Vol 01 No 01 - 1987

Magazine Overview The Summer 1987 issue of The Skeptic, Volume 1 Number 1, is the maiden publication of the North Texas Skeptics (NTS), formerly known as the Dallas Society to Oppose Pseudo-science (DSTOP). Founded in 1983, the NTS aims to foster critical examination of paranormal phenomena and pseudoscience claims through public education and scientific inquiry. The newsletter announces the reorganization and renaming of the group and outlines its goals and purposes.

DSTOP reorganizes, changes name to North Texas Skeptics This section details the transition from DSTOP to NTS, emphasizing the organization's commitment to critical thinking and scientific investigation. NTS is associated with CSICOP and comprises individuals residing or having interests in the North Texas area. The organization's charter, approved by majority vote, outlines its goals: to promote the scientific method as the most reliable approach to knowledge while not a priori rejecting paranormal claims, but subjecting them to fair testing. NTS plans to assist local educational institutions in teaching scientific inquiry and warning against uncritical acceptance of paranormal and pseudoscience claims.

NTS will also monitor local media to ensure fair and accurate reporting on paranormal phenomena and pseudoscience. Furthermore, the organization will facilitate scientific testing of individuals involved in pseudoscience activities or claiming paranormal abilities, and conduct research for CSICOP.

Membership Categories The newsletter details four membership categories: Patrons, Scientific and Technical Consultants, Fellows, and Associates. Membership is open to all persons in the North Texas area who share the organization's concerns and objectives, regardless of background. Members' views may vary, but all must uphold the principle that truth is established through rational inquiry. Patrons provide financial or resource contributions and are nominated by the board. Scientific and Technical Consultants are experts appointed by the board to assist in investigations. Fellows are the voting members who appoint and remove the board, set dues, and handle organizational business. Associates are non-voting members who receive the newsletter and announcements.

Police investigator to discuss crimes of Gypsy fortune-tellers This article highlights an upcoming presentation by W.J. Hughes, an investigator with the Dallas Police Department's Swindle and Fraud Unit. Hughes will discuss the culture, history, and crimes associated with Gypsy fortune-tellers, noting the widespread practice and prevalence of fraud in the area. He will explain that while fortune-telling itself is not illegal, fraud occurs when practitioners make false statements, demand property, or use sleight of hand. Hughes will present detailed accounts of local crimes and a slide show documenting the schemes used.

Fieldtrip and picnic set for creationist "mantracks" site This section covers a planned field trip to the Paluxy River near Glen Rose, Texas, to investigate the creationist "mantracks" site. The article discusses the controversy surrounding claims of human footprints found alongside dinosaur tracks, which creationists have used to argue against evolution. Ron J. Hastings, Ph.D., chairman of NTS, has conducted extensive investigations and, along with colleagues, concluded that the tracks are likely man-made carvings, erosion features, or misinterpreted dinosaur tracks. Despite scientific findings, some creationists continue to adhere to their beliefs. The field trip, led by Hastings, will include viewing the tracks, a picnic, and a fossil hunt. Participants are advised on appropriate attire for the shallow water environment.

Activist, Ex-fundamentalist To Address Scandals, Conflicts in Religion This article introduces Anne McKinney, an activist and ex-fundamentalist who will address the NTS. McKinney was raised in an ultra-fundamentalist Catholic home and later became involved in the Jesus-movement before withdrawing from organized religion. She found support through Fundamentalists Anonymous (FA), a group for the religiously injured. McKinney will discuss the psychological and emotional challenges faced by those leaving fundamentalist religions and her work as a regional coordinator for FA. She also monitors televangelist broadcasts and has organized events against figures like Jerry Falwell. McKinney's presentation will cover scandals, power struggles, and conflicts among televangelists and religious leaders, and her views on the future of fundamentalist religion.

Briefly This section provides brief updates and announcements. The Summer 1987 issue is the maiden publication, and the newsletter plans to expand in upcoming months to include columns, investigative reports, and feature stories. Membership input is welcomed. The NTS is also compiling a bibliography of materials related to pseudoscience, paranormal phenomena, and skepticism, relying on member contributions. Additionally, the organization is seeking suggestions for future speakers on a wide range of subjects, including UFOlogy, psychic phenomena, and ancient mysteries.

Board of Directors Elected The North Texas Skeptics have elected their Board of Directors: Ron J. Hastings, Ph.D. as Chair; James P. Smith, Ph.D. as Co-chair; John Thomas, J.D. as Treasurer; Mary Hunter as Secretary; and Vicki Hinson-Smith as Liaison. The roles and responsibilities of each board member are outlined.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific method as applied to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and religious phenomena. The NTS explicitly endorses scientific inquiry and systematic testing of claims, while also advocating for a fair examination of all evidence. The newsletter aims to educate the public, counter misinformation, and provide an alternative source of information to the media. There is a clear stance against uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated claims, whether they be paranormal, pseudoscientific, or religious in nature. The organization actively seeks to debunk fraudulent practices and expose the dangers of irrational belief systems.