Shadow of a Doubt

Magazine Overview

Title: Shadow of a Doubt
Issue: June 2001
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Date: June 2001

This issue of 'Shadow of a Doubt' serves as the monthly calendar for the National Capital Area Skeptics and contains information about upcoming events, board elections, and membership renewals.

NCAS Spring Cookout

The primary event highlighted is the NCAS Spring Cookout, scheduled for Saturday, June 16, 2001, at 2:00 pm in Fairfax, Virginia. This event is described as the final get-together for the 2000-01 season. Attendees are encouraged to meet fellow skeptics and discuss skeptical, credulous, or other relevant and irrelevant ideas. Participants are also invited to share their ideas for programs that NCAS could organize in the coming months. NCAS will provide burgers, drinks, and hotdogs, and attendees are asked to bring anything else they would like to share. An RSVP is requested by June 12 to ensure an accurate headcount. A note clarifies that this cookout is at a different location than previous ones, and attendees should not go to the previous Silver Spring address.

NCAS Board Election Results

The issue announces the final tally for the NCAS Board for the 2001-2002 term. The elected board members are listed as: Barry Blyveis, Herb M. Federhen, Paul Jaffe, Walter F. Rowe, Marv Zelkowitz, Jonathan Boswell, Jim Giglio, Rita Malone, Scott Snell, Chip Denman, Stephen J. Goodson, Eugene W. Ossa, Gary Stone, Grace Denman, Mary S. Pastel, and Jamy Ian Swiss. Helen Hester-Ossa is noted as a non-voting board member.

Membership Renewal

A section titled 'Time to Renew?' urges members to check their mailing labels for their renewal date. The cost for a one-year renewal is $20 for an individual or $30 for a two-member household. Members are advised that if their renewal date has passed, they will be dropped from membership. The publication notes that NCAS has not previously raised its membership dues but may need to do so in the fall, encouraging members to renew promptly to save money.

Other Information

Friday the 13th

In July, the publication notes that Friday the 13th falls on a Friday. It mentions that CSICOP has a 'Superstition Bash' website (www.csicop.org/superstition) that offers content and event ideas for groups interested in holding such an event.

Contact Information

Contact details for NCAS are provided, including a mailing address (P.O. Box 8428, Silver Spring, Maryland 20907), a general information telephone number (301-587-3827), an email address ([email protected]), a specific email for 'Skeptical Eye' submissions ([email protected]), and the organization's website (www.ncas.org).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are community engagement within the skeptical movement, the importance of critical thinking and scientific understanding, and the practicalities of running a non-profit organization, such as membership management and event planning. The editorial stance is clearly pro-skepticism, promoting rational thought and encouraging active participation in the organization's activities. The publication emphasizes inclusivity, stating that "Members and nonmembers alike are welcome."