Tampa Bay Skeptics Report - vol 02 no 4

Magazine Overview

Title: Tampa Bay Skeptics Report
Issue: Volume 2, Number 4
Date: Spring 1990
Publisher: Tampa Bay Skeptics, Inc.
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Tampa Bay Skeptics Report (TBS Report) focuses heavily on the claims made by Chuck Harder's "For The People" (FTP) organization, which publishes a consumer-oriented magazine and broadcasts a radio program.

Consumer Protection Group Alleges Government UFO Cover-Up

The lead article details the findings of the "For The People" Foundation, which has concluded that UFOs are real and extraterrestrial. Chuck Harder, FTP founder and CEO of the Sun Radio Network, published these findings in the Winter issue of his 64-page magazine. FTP's stated purpose is to provide education and understanding regarding consumer needs. Harder explains that after receiving numerous calls and letters about UFOs, FTP began an investigation.

Harder had previously contacted various groups, including CSICOP, seeking materials for a radio program and interviews on UFOs, promising to publish addresses and phone numbers. CSICOP Executive Director Barry Karr responded with interest and offered assistance. However, Harder's subsequent reply criticized CSICOP's articles as "venom" and "ridicule." Despite this, Harder promised to include CSICOP in his magazine's "contact list."

The "For The People" radio program aired on January 1, and according to the TBS Report, contained no skeptical commentary. Harder endorsed the UFO abduction phenomenon and the validity of the secret "MJ-12" documents, which, if genuine, would suggest a government cover-up of crashed saucers. Contrary to his earlier pledge, Harder did not provide CSICOP's contact information in his magazine. Skepticism was notably absent, as indicated by the cover headline: "UFO STORY UNCOVERED FLYING SAUCERS EXIST!".

Harder reported that "first hand information" indicated the U.S. Government possessed nine alien craft stored near Nellis Air Force Base. The magazine's five pro-UFO articles included one by Richard Walters, who synopsized reports and speculations about alien motives. It mentioned Maurice Chatelain's claim that Apollo and Gemini flights were followed by UFOs and that Neil Armstrong reported seeing UFOs on the moon. The article also highlighted claims by Stanton Friedman and William Moore regarding the "Roswell Incident."

Skeptical Analysis of UFO Claims

An "Open Letter to Chuck Harder" from TBS Chairman Terry Smiljanich critiques the content of FTP's Winter issue, noting its inclusion of sensationalist UFO stories alongside consumer advice. Smiljanich argues that Harder has made up his mind about UFOs without applying scientific analysis, despite his background in consumer advocacy which should foster skepticism towards corporate claims.

Smiljanich applies six rules of critical thinking (Falsifiability, Logic, Comprehensiveness, Honesty, Replicability, and Sufficiency) to the UFO claims. He states that claims based on a pervasive conspiracy and cover-up fail the test of falsifiability. He contrasts this with "cold fusion," a claim that can be proven true or false by evidence. Smiljanich points out that the MJ-12 documents have been conclusively shown to be counterfeit and that the article failed to mention Klass' analysis of these documents.

Smiljanich also addresses the article on Swiss UFO contactee Billy Meier, whose photographs were dismissed as hoaxes. He discusses the alleged 1958 UFO abduction of Brazilian tractor driver Artur Berlet and the claims of Bob Lazar, a scientist allegedly involved with alien craft at Area 51. Smiljanich questions Knapp's endorsement of Lazar, noting that MIT had no record of Lazar's attendance and his birth records had disappeared.

The "John Lear Document" is also discussed, which alleges that extraterrestrial biological entities (EBEs) have a genetic disorder and require human tissue for sustenance, with parts of bodies being stored in underground labs, including one near Dulce, New Mexico. The document suggests that missing children were used for these secretions.

Smiljanich recounts his seven-page correspondence with Harder, who dismissed the criticisms as similar to those encountered when exposing the GM Diesel Engine fiasco, and accused Klass of being a mouthpiece for the military-industrial complex. Harder offered an on-air interview with a PRO-UFO expert present, but later failed to fulfill this promise after Klass accepted.

Smiljanich concludes by looking forward to FTP's Spring issue, hoping for better research on "suppressed cancer cures" and noting that while he is not ridiculing believers, he questions the quality of the "evidence."

Renier vs. Merrell Update

This section reports on the legal battle between psychic Noreen Renier and skeptic John Merrell. Merrell's motion for summary dismissal of Renier's $25,000 libel judgment against him was denied by a bankruptcy judge. Merrell had alleged fraud, misrepresentation, and perjury by Renier, but the court found no such evidence. Merrell has filed an appeal.

Renier contacted TBS Chairman Terry Smiljanich, disputing errors in Merrell's motion. She clarified her credentials at Rollins College, stating she holds "adjunct professor" status. TBS has invited her to submit a proposal for a psychometry test.

Local Astrologer Quoted in Newsweek

Jan Walsek, a St. Petersburg astrologer, was quoted in a Newsweek article. Walsek is a member of the Association for Astrological Networking (AFAN). The article notes that AFAN reviews press coverage for derogatory comments. Walsek stated that astrologers are professionals with a body of knowledge.

Smiljanich recalls a previous TBS event where astrologer Janet Sciales addressed the group. Walsek participated in a Q&A session, criticizing the methodology of a Nature study on astrology for testing the least busy astrologers. Despite an offer from TBS to develop a test for her abilities and a $1,000 prize, Walsek did not respond.

In Brief

• Dr. Joan Straumanis, Dean of Faculty at Rollins College, was elected a TBS Consultant.
• The "Eye on Tampa Bay" program on paranormal claims, featuring James Randi, aired.
• TBS founder Gary Posner spoke at a Mensa Regional Gathering.
• Posner was invited to speak at the CSICOP conference in Washington, D.C., to discuss the "For the People" UFO crusade.

Book Review: Paradigms Lost

Jerry Touchton reviews John L. Casti's book "Paradigms Lost," which examines scientific issues where evidence is not yet conclusive. The book presents claims and evidence from various sides, acting as a "defense" and "prosecution" before rendering a "verdict." Touchton notes that Casti's approach is inductive and that absolute truth is unattainable in science.

The review highlights Casti's discussion of creationism, finding it to be pseudoscience based on criteria like reliance on anachronistic thinking, appeal to myths, casual attitude toward evidence, non-falsifiable claims, and refusal to revise. The book also explores claims about genetic human behavior, artificial intelligence, and extraterrestrial life.

Touchton praises the book for its detailed presentation of arguments, allowing readers to form their own conclusions. He recommends starting with specific claims rather than the introductory chapter on philosophical underpinnings.

Other Skeptical Sources on the Paranormal

A list of recommended skeptical resources is provided, including "The Skeptical Inquirer," "Free Inquiry," Prometheus Books, and the CompuServe Skeptics Teleconference.

Readers' Forum

This section includes a late note from Chuck Harder regarding his "For The People" activities, clarifying that he is no longer owner/CEO of the Sun Radio Network and that "For The People" is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. He also explains that the "UFO Contact List" would appear in the Spring magazine and that CSICOP would be included. Harder regrets his workload affected his responsiveness and that he did not inform TBS prior to publication that the newsletter would cover UFO activities.

Harder states he was not originally scheduled to broadcast on January 1, and the three-hour UFO program was put together with short notice. He claims it would have been impossible to reach CSICOP that day for an interview due to their office being closed.

Regarding the 1947 Roswell incident, Harder mentions first-hand witnesses appearing on national television, including Walter Haut and Major Jesse Marcel, and the wife of Cmdr. "Pappy" Henderson claiming her husband flew cargo with alien bodies or wreckage.

Concerning the Billy Meier case, Harder notes three books that do not dismiss it as a hoax and mentions George Knapp's documentary, "UFOs: The Best Evidence," which includes an interview with investigator Lee Elder, who concluded the case was genuine with 98% certainty. Harder also points to Gary Kinder and Wendelle Stevens' research supporting Meier.

An excerpt from Noreen Renier's press release is included, titled "SKEPTIC FAILS TO DISCREDIT FLORIDA PSYCHIC." It states that Merrell's motion to dismiss the judgment was denied, and Renier's attorney concluded Merrell engaged in distortion and fabrication.

Joan Straumanis, Dean of the Faculty at Rollins College, clarifies that Noreen Renier is employed as a part-time, adjunct instructor in the Center for Life-Long Education, and this does not confer faculty status.

Addendum to Tampa Bay Skeptics Report

An addendum dated March 21, 1990, by Gary P. Posner, clarifies factual points regarding Chuck Harder and "For The People." Posner states that Harder is no longer owner/CEO of the Sun Radio Network and that "For The People" is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Harder receives a modest paycheck from FTP and his primary income is from the Sun Radio Network. Posner also clarifies that Harder's reference to "our upcoming magazine" in August was referring to the Spring issue, not the Winter issue which was already completed.

Harder also informed Posner that the January 1 UFO program was not originally scheduled and was put together with short notice. He also stated that CSICOP's office was closed on January 1, making an interview impossible.

Regarding the Roswell incident, Harder mentions witnesses like Walter Haut and Major Jesse Marcel, and claims about alien bodies from Cmdr. "Pappy" Henderson's wife.

For the Billy Meier case, Harder cites three books that do not dismiss it as a hoax and George Knapp's documentary, where investigator Lee Elder concluded the case was genuine. Harder also notes that Gary Kinder and Lt. Col. Wendelle Stevens have studied the Meier case and do not believe it to be a hoax.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Tampa Bay Skeptics Report consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards paranormal and fringe-science claims. The editorial stance is one of objective inquiry, demanding rigorous evidence for extraordinary claims. The publication actively debunks pseudoscience, highlights logical fallacies, and encourages readers to apply scientific methods to evaluate evidence. The issue demonstrates this by dissecting UFO claims, legal disputes involving psychics, and the validity of astrology, while also providing resources for further skeptical investigation. The magazine's purpose is to educate the public on how to think, rather than what to think, and to challenge unsubstantiated beliefs.

This document is a page from the magazine "For the People," dated March 11, 1990, with content related to UFO phenomena and media coverage. It discusses the Ed Walters/Gulf Breeze case, mentions various media outlets and organizations, and provides a broadcast station list for the magazine's program.

Content Analysis

Ed Walters/Gulf Breeze Case and Media Coverage

The issue references the Ed Walters/Gulf Breeze case, noting that the Gulf Breeze Sentinel offers a package of UFO photographs for $10, taken by local residents. The March 11, 1990 edition of the Pensacola News Journal is cited for quoting local individuals who were initially skeptics but became convinced of UFOs after personal sightings.

Organizations and Information Gathering

The Foreign Broadcast Information Service (FBIS) is identified as a CIA information gathering organization, mentioned on page 7 of the newsletter. The magazine itself is referred to as "For the People" magazine.

Editorial Correspondence and Future Plans

The author acknowledges not interviewing the authors of articles in the Winter issue of "For the People" magazine for a "book review." A "constructive dialogue" is reported to be established between the author and an individual named Harder. This dialogue involves the exchange of materials, including newsclippings from Harder and a tape of a TV documentary by Knapp. Discussions are underway for the author to conduct an on-air interview, and Harder plans to present a three-hour debate between Phil Klass and a pro-UFO researcher once the Sun Radio Network is technically equipped in its new quarters.

Broadcast Information

For readers interested in the "For the People" daily broadcast, a station list is provided, with a note to see the next page for details. Since the publication of TBS Report, the "For the People's" phone number has changed. The active numbers listed are:

• Florida: (800) 242-9968
• National: (800) 642-7861

Broadcast Station List (Page 2)

Page 2 contains a comprehensive "BROADCAST STATION LIST" for "For the People." It is organized by state and lists cities, call signs, frequencies (FRQ.), and broadcast times (am/pm). The list covers states from Alaska to Michigan, including Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maine, and Michigan. It also includes a section for home satellite antenna owners, directing them to send a self-addressed stamped envelope for an instruction sheet on how to receive the program nationwide.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this excerpt are UFO phenomena, particularly the Gulf Breeze case, and the role of media in reporting and discussing such events. The magazine appears to be a platform for disseminating information about UFOs, engaging in dialogue, and facilitating public awareness through broadcast media. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry and discussion, evidenced by the planned debate and the provision of broadcast information to the audience.