Tampa Bay Skeptics Report - vol 03 no 1

Magazine Overview

Title: Tampa Bay Skeptics Report
Issue: Volume 3, Number 1
Date: Summer 1990
Publisher: Tampa Bay Skeptics, Inc.
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 1049-7406
Price: $10/yr. (4 issues)

This issue of the Tampa Bay Skeptics Report, dated Summer 1990, is primarily dedicated to critically examining claims of paranormal phenomena and fringe science. The cover story, "New hoax allegations flying in Gulf Breeze UFO case," highlights new charges and counter-charges surrounding Ed Walters' 1987-88 UFO photos and his book, "The Gulf Breeze Sightings." A model, allegedly used to create the photographs, was reportedly discovered in Walters' attic, leading Gulf Breeze attorney Tom Smith to disclose that Walters had previously admitted his intention to profit from a UFO hoax. The article details the model's construction and Walters' claims that it was planted. It also mentions Walters' past prison sentence for forgery and auto theft, his book advance, and potential media rights deals. The piece notes that the hoax allegations are not only from skeptics but also from some pro-Ufologists, and are suspected by the town's Mayor and Chief of Police.

Noreen Renier and Psychic Claims

The issue also features an update on the legal dispute between Noreen Renier and John Merrell, with Merrell suing Renier for alleged improper collection activities following her bankruptcy court victory. Renier, described as an "Orlando 'psychic'" and "professional 'homicide detective'," had previously sued Merrell for libel.

A "Position Statement of TBS Executive Council on Noreen Renier and 'psychic power'" clarifies the Tampa Bay Skeptics' (TBS) stance. They assert that there has never been a convincing demonstration of paranormal power and that CSICOP is unaware of any verifiable evidence. The statement notes Noreen Renier's prominence and her successful libel suit against Merrell, which some may have misinterpreted as vindication of her psychic abilities. The TBS Executive Council expresses concern over Renier's refusal to undergo a controlled test for "psychometry," as proposed by Chairman Terry A. Smiljanich, and questions her claims.

Smiljanich's "Chairman's Corner" further elaborates on the organization's approach to skepticism, emphasizing that they do not reject claims a priori but require proof. He addresses accusations of being "snotty" and "amateurs," defending skepticism as an approach to knowledge and the scientific method as their operating procedure. He also touches upon the litigious nature of society and the use of legal threats against skeptics, referencing James Randi and CSICOP facing similar claims.

Critique of Creationism

Jerry Touchton's article, "'Young Earth' Creationist Claims," critically examines arguments presented by the Institute for Creation Research (ICR), headed by Henry Morris. Touchton debunks claims that the Earth is only about 10,000 years old, particularly criticizing the ICR's dismissal of radioactive dating methods and their "if I didn't see it, it didn't happen" attitude. He also addresses the creationist explanation for light from distant stars and their theory that the universe was created with an "appearance of age." The article further critiques the exponential growth model used to explain population growth and questions the ICR's arguments regarding the Earth's geomagnetic history. Touchton concludes that creationists often misinterpret scientific debate and resort to political action due to a "miserable failure" in the scientific arena.

Editor's Notes and Correspondence

An "Editor's note" explains the decision to revisit the Chuck Harder controversy, reprinting a "Letter to the Editor" from Harder and providing a rebuttal. Harder criticizes Gary Posner and TBS for their skeptical commentary on Richard Hoagland's presentation about alleged "monuments" on Mars and for their critique of Ed Walters' Gulf Breeze UFO case. Harder accuses Posner of defamation and being a "dangerous person." Posner's reply clarifies his stance, corrects Hoagland's credentials (stating he was a "Coordinator of Special Projects and Public Affairs" at the Hayden Planetarium, not Director, and was described as "largely self-educated"), and explains the circumstances of Hoagland's NASA presentation. Posner also addresses Harder's misrepresentation of his letter to the St. Petersburg Times regarding Ed Walters.

Financials and Events

The issue includes a "TBS Statement of Income and Expenditures for fiscal year 1989 (6/1/89-5/31/90)," showing a net balance of $458.49. It notes that this issue marks the end of the second year of paid subscriptions and urges members to renew promptly due to tight finances. Donations are also requested.

An announcement for the "Tampa Bay Skeptics Quarterly Membership Meeting" on Saturday, July 21, at 11:30 AM at the Tampa Central Library is included. The meeting's focus is a video of Richard Hoagland's presentation on "The 'face' and other 'monuments' on Mars" and a discussion of Noreen Renier's appearance on the "Joan Rivers Show."

Other Mentions

Briefly mentioned are an article in the *Southern Medical Journal* about prayer and CCU patients, a critique of which by Dr. Gary Posner appears in *Free Inquiry*, and Posner's "Weeping Icon" investigative report appearing in *Skeptical Inquirer*.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of paranormal claims, particularly UFO sightings and psychic abilities, and the promotion of skepticism based on scientific evidence and methodology. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, advocating for rigorous testing and evidence-based conclusions. The publication actively engages with proponents of these claims, often through direct critique and debate, while also defending its right to question and challenge such assertions. The issue also touches upon the conflict between scientific inquiry and the use of legal threats by those whose claims are being challenged, as well as a critique of creationist arguments against established science.