1989 A.G.M.

- 1 May 1990

The 1989 Annual General Meeting of NZCSICOP was held at the Science Lecture Theatre, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, on 3 September 1989.

Reports of the New Zealand Skeptics’ work countering the paranormal was a feature of the A.G.M.

Bill Morris, convenor of the Medical Sub-Committee, told the meeting the sub-committee had prepared a “truth kit” on homeopathy and was preparing others on iridology and acupuncture.

Media Representative, Denis Dutton, reported on the success of the Whitley Strieber “truth kit”. He had twice been invited by the media to present a sceptical viewpoint on Strieber’s claims. He said there was a need to do repeat distributions to the media of the “truth kits”.

“Psychiatry and the Courts” was a suggestion from the floor for a future “truth kit” topic.

Ray Carr reported on his representing the Skeptics at a meeting of the media in Auckland with the visiting Mr Vogel who claimed crystals had paranormal effects.

The Chairman, Tony Vignaux, thanked retiring editor Keith Lockett, and the newsletter producers for their work and complimented them on the quality of the New Zealand Skeptic. He reported that the outgoing committee had appointed Philip Bradley as the new editor.

The following officers were elected: Chairman: Warwick Don;

Secretary/Treasurer: Prof. Bernard Howard;

Committee Members: George Errington, Rosalind Evans, Maggie Holmes, Heather Mackay, and Cynthia Shakespeare,

It was resolved that the 1990 Conference and A.G.M. be held in Wellington.

(Since the A.G.M. Mrs Shakespeare has resigned from the committee and an offer by Palmerston North members to host the 1990 Conference has been accepted.)

The matter of a suitable logo was referred to the incoming committee.

Finally, the New Zealand Skeptics upheld their tradition of “believing in something”: The A.G.M. recognised and applauded the valuable paranormal role of the Wizard of Christchurch and encouraged him and his assistants in many more years of powerful psychic effects, especially on the temperature.