Tampa Bay Skeptics Report - vol 04 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Tampa Bay Skeptics Report
Issue: Volume 4, Number 2, Fall 1991
Publisher: Tampa Bay Skeptics
Country: USA
Language: English

CSICOP Responds to the Randi/Geller/Byrd Controversy

This section addresses the legal entanglements surrounding James Randi, Uri Geller, and Eldon Byrd. CSICOP clarifies its position regarding a lawsuit filed by Eldon Byrd in June 1989, which alleged that Randi, acting as a CSICOP agent, made defamatory statements about Byrd's personal life. CSICOP asserts that Randi did not have authorization from the Executive Council to make such comments and that their insurer denied coverage.

Furthermore, CSICOP details two lawsuits filed by Uri Geller against Randi. The first, filed in September 1989, alleged libel, slander, and invasion of privacy stemming from statements made at a New York Area Skeptics meeting and in a Twilight Zone interview. This suit was dismissed on procedural grounds due to being filed beyond the statute of limitations. A second lawsuit, filed in May 1991, alleged defamation and invasion of privacy, originating from an interview Randi gave to the International Herald Tribune. Randi resigned from CSICOP on May 5, 1991, a decision the organization deeply regrets.

CSICOP acknowledges that misstatements have circulated regarding these lawsuits and their relationship with Randi. They emphasize the onerous burdens, both financial and otherwise, these suits have placed on both CSICOP and Randi. The organization reaffirms its support for freedom of speech and scientific inquiry, stating its mission to encourage critical investigation of paranormal claims and disseminate factual information.

Due to ongoing litigation, CSICOP states it must decline further extensive comments on these cases at this time.

Randi Responds to Geller

This section features James Randi's formal response, originally published in CSICOP's May 1991 Skeptical Briefs, to Uri Geller's "Open Letter." Randi directly addresses Geller's claim that Randi has been trying to debunk him since the early '70s, stating, "No, Mr. Geller, in the early '70s I did debunk you." Randi notes that Geller's "Open Letter" focuses on a "libel" suit currently being addressed, but also touches on events in Japan in 1988. Randi states he will not comment on the Japan accusations as no action has been brought against him there, but assures that the facts are different from Geller's representation.

Randi discusses the high cost of legal defense, particularly with New York lawyers, detailing his efforts and expenses over 18 months. He mentions that cases were settled against Geller "with prejudice." Randi contrasts his financial situation with Geller's, who he states lives in a mansion outside London worth $20,000,000 and has spoken about the freedom money provides. Randi explains that the MacArthur grant has stopped, and much of it was used for research and free lectures. He notes that funds from the grant and a Granada TV series were paid directly to lawyers.

Randi refutes Geller's claim that he is not interested in skeptics' viewpoints, stating that while they are interested in Geller's viewpoint, they are more interested in the truth, which he defines as something established by proper investigation, not opinion. Randi concludes by stating that Geller's "Open Letter" necessitated his response, but he will not continue the discussion in this manner, preferring to address the matter in court.

Tampa Bay Skeptics Activities and Reports

Guest Editorial: Reversals and Distractions by Yves Barbero
Yves Barbero, editor of BASIS (Bay Area Skeptics), reflects on his editorial role. He initially intended to focus on public education in scientific policy but found himself dedicating much of an issue to the business of psychics. Barbero notes a reversal in his approach, moving from a detached observer to actively writing about psychics. He discusses receiving a letter from James Randi seeking help against psychics using the courts, which led to Uri Geller contacting him. Geller's letter was largely printed in BASIS. Barbero also mentions an article by Loyd Auerbach titled "Taking a Skeptic to Court" and notes that both Geller's letter and Auerbach's article focus on personalities rather than the accuracy of psychic phenomena. He suggests that lawsuits might be a tactic by psychics to distract and appear "wrong" in the public eye, even if they win on minor points. Barbero expresses a desire for lawsuits that test scientific questions, suggesting that a well-organized group like CSICOP could manage such efforts.

Skeptics Participate on Ch. 13 “Haunted Houses” TV Show
Miles Hardy of Tampa Bay Skeptics (TBS) represented the organization on a Ch. 13 program discussing "Individuals Who Have Lived in Haunted Houses." Hardy found the audience to be more skeptical than anticipated and felt the program was successful in promoting skepticism. He notes that one panelist, who had described experiences in four haunted houses, revealed she had quit her job to become a channeler.

...but ‘maybe next time’ on Ch. 8 news
Jeff Patterson, a Ch. 8 reporter, presented a series on "near-death experiences" featuring hypnotists claiming past-life regression as scientific fact. Patterson admitted to not presenting any opposing viewpoints and not using readily available resources like CSICOP and TBS. He agreed that a more balanced approach would be beneficial in the future.

Breast boom, or just bust ???
This section discusses Michael Stivers, a hypnotist offering "non-surgical breast enlargement" for over $1,000. Stivers, a former police officer and wrestler with no medical training, claims a 75% success rate. Experts like Dr. Charles B. Mutter and Michael R. Nash criticize this practice as the unauthorized practice of medicine and question hypnosis's ability to change body contours. Reporter Dave Wagner points out that reported measurements could be influenced by emotional expectations and measurement variables.

SNIPPETS

• UFO Abductions: James S. Gordon, a psychiatry professor, endorsed the reality of UFO abductions after attending a conference. Reviewer William Booth suggests contactees might have been sexually abused as children, transferring this into UFO delusions.
• Citizens Commission for Human Rights (CCHR): This Scientology subsidiary is campaigning to ban Prozac, claiming it causes suicidal behavior. The FDA has found no evidence to substantiate these claims, which are attributed to CCHR distorting research findings.
• Haunted House Lawsuit: The Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court ruled on a case involving a Victorian house in Nyack, N.Y., where the new owner sought to void the sale due to the house's "ghoulish reputation."
• Lost Squadron: Reports of locating "Squadron 19" off Fort Lauderdale were incorrect. A prospect has been located by underwater explorers, but identification is pending.
• Bigfoot Obsession: Tom Steenburg has spent years searching for Bigfoot evidence in Alberta, Canada, but has yet to find conclusive proof.
• Pat Robertson's Hotel: A new hotel in Virginia Beach allows guests of any religion but requires job applicants to affirm faith in Jesus.

Major Tampa Tribune article on psychics, skeptics
Denise Gee's article "Modern Mystics" in the Tampa Tribune featured quotes from James Randi and Gary Posner. Gee noted that many "roadside" fortune tellers were reluctant to be interviewed due to fear of being battered by skeptics and fraud investigations.

"Spontaneous Human Combustion"
This article examines the case of Mary Reeser, who allegedly melted away in 1951. Reporter Jacquin Sanders described it as a mystery. However, researchers Joe Nickell and John Fischer suggest the cause was likely a cigarette igniting the chair's stuffing and the woman's body fat, with the skull possibly bursting from heat. The article criticizes the reporter for not contacting TBS for their investigation.

"Randi Responds to Geller” (Continued)
This continuation details Randi's legal battles and financial situation, contrasting it with Uri Geller's perceived wealth. Randi reiterates his commitment to truth and proper investigation over opinion.

Geller promoting 1-900 psychic phone lines, also suing Timex
Uri Geller was seen promoting 1-900 psychic numbers on television. He is also suing Timex for an advertisement featuring an actor bending a spoon and fork, which Geller claims mimicked his "unique" talents and jeopardized endorsement deals.

"Skeptically Speaking" in Mensa
Gary Posner will write a regular column titled "Skeptically Speaking" for the Tampa Bay Mensa publication, covering TBS activities and his work with the "Skeptics" Member-to-Member Service.

Merrell vs. Renier Update
The lawsuit between John Merrell and psychic Noreen Renier is proceeding, with a summary judgment granted for one count but denied for others, leading to a jury trial.

Hoagland's Mars skeptically reviewed
Alex Heard's "Flights & Fancy" column in Air & Space Smithsonian magazine critically examined Richard Hoagland's claims about Mars, using material from TBS and CSICOP.

Scientific American covers Geller vs. Randi
The September issue of Scientific American features an article by John Rennie about the Randi/Geller libel actions.

LETTERS • READERS' FORUM

• C. J. Wenger (Bradenton) notes Uri Geller's promotion of 1-900 psychic phone lines and hopes the Manatee library will benefit from TBS's donation of The Skeptical Inquirer.
• Gary Posner (Editor) responds to Wenger, stating TBS's financial structure is precarious but encourages donations to local libraries. He also refers to the Geller 1-900 number item on page 6.
• Charles E. Jones, Jr. (St. Petersburg) critiques the "Open Letters" from Randi and Geller, finding them to be fingerpointing without substantive answers. He suggests a third party might be needed to determine who is misleading the public.
• Gary Posner (Editor) replies that the courts will serve as the "third person."
• Charles E. Jones, Jr. (St. Petersburg) also comments on "creation science," explaining the two creation stories in Genesis and arguing that literal interpretation of the Bible is not held by true theologians. He suggests that the interpretation of the First Amendment has led to the exclusion of religious history from public schools.
• The Rev. W. Thomas Leckrone (Hudson) discusses the two creation stories in Genesis, their origins, and the differing interpretations of literal truth versus allegorical storytelling. He criticizes the misinterpretation of the First Amendment, which he believes has led to the exclusion of religious history from public schools.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Tampa Bay Skeptics Report consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific investigation of paranormal and fringe-science claims. The publication actively debunks pseudoscience, highlights media coverage of skeptical issues, and provides a platform for reasoned debate. The editorial stance is clearly pro-skepticism, emphasizing evidence-based reasoning and the importance of scientific methodology. The magazine also addresses the legal challenges faced by skeptics and organizations like CSICOP, underscoring the financial and personal toll of defending against unsubstantiated claims. There is a strong focus on media accountability, encouraging journalists to present balanced viewpoints and utilize available skeptical resources. The publication also engages with broader societal issues related to science, religion, and public understanding of critical inquiry.