Nessletter - No 126 - 1994

Magazine Overview

This issue of the NESS Newsletter, identified as number 126, is dated December 1994 with an update in June 1996. It is published by the NESS INFORMATION SERVICE and carries the ISSN 0204-7001. The newsletter focuses on books, magazines, and recent events related to Fortean phenomena, particularly UFOs and lake monsters like the Loch Ness Monster and Ogopogo.

Books and Publications

The "BOOKS ETC." section begins by noting the successful transition of 'Fortean Times' magazine to monthly publication. It then introduces 'Alien Encounters,' a new magazine dedicated to UFOs, covering topics such as Greys, Ancient Astronauts, and the Roswell/Santilli update. The newsletter also highlights a catalogue from Steven Simpson Natural History Books, offering titles on Cryptozoolgy and mentioning specific books like Tim Dinsdale's 'Loch Ness Monster' (£22.50) and R.P. Mackal's 'The Monsters of Loch Ness' (£40.00).

A new book, 'Strange Encounters: UFOs, Aliens and Monsters Among Us' by Curt Sutherly, is reviewed. Sutherly is described as an author, journalist, and ufologist who compiles fifteen unique stories from his investigations, including an interview with Kenneth Arnold. The book is an American publication, potentially difficult to obtain in the UK.

Karl Shuker's latest book, 'In Search of Prehistoric Survivors,' subtitled 'Giant Extinct Creatures Still Exist,' is highly praised. Shuker, an expert in Cryptozoology with a PhD from Birmingham University, explores the belief that modern science has overlooked evidence of living prehistoric creatures. The review commends the book, placing it alongside Bernard Heuvelman's work, and notes its chapters on various cryptids.

Andreas Trottmann's Loch Ness Newsclipping Service (NIS124) is reported to be operational. The newsletter also mentions a French multimedia company's CD-Rom, 'Mythes et Legendes' (French only), which includes a chapter on the Loch Ness enigma.

Loch Ness Monster and Related Activities

Several reports and mentions related to the Loch Ness Monster are included. Jeff Rumble sent news of a 'Morgawr' teapot and a 'monster teapot' made in Cornwall. Gary Campbell, an insurance company area manager, reported a brief sighting of a black hump in Loch Ness on March 14, 1996, near Abriachan.

The formation of 'The Official Loch Ness Monster Fan Club' by Gary Campbell and his wife is announced. Membership costs £7.50 or £12 for overseas, and it aims to publish lists of sightings. The newsletter expresses a need for thorough research before publishing reports.

Steve Feltham's activities are also detailed. He is described as being deeply involved in the Loch Ness problem and has received a 15-foot Gemini inflatable boat with a 25hp motor, enabling permanent water access and making him a reporting auxiliary Coastguard. He also has a mobile phone for emergency contact.

Steve's letter includes two sighting reports: one from Gary Campbell (already mentioned) and another from John Northcote on March 1, 1996. Northcote described a large brown mass appearing in the loch, moving rapidly, and then disappearing without producing a wake.

Weather conditions during sightings are noted as mild with light breezes and calm to light ripple surfaces. The size of the observed mass was estimated at twelve meters long, moving at about 3-4 knots.

Steve also recounts a report from Dave Munroe on June 13, 1996, who, along with his wife Kate and guests, witnessed a wake moving at high speed across Foyers Bay. The wake was described as similar to a boat wake but moving much faster, with nothing visible on the surface causing it. The phenomenon lasted about 7-8 minutes.

Other Sightings and Reports

An unusual report from the Loch Ness Society's first expedition 'Attractant '96' is mentioned, taking place from July 28 to August 3. Ian Kelloway provided details for their LNS News Spring '96.

In early April, the 'Inverness Courier' reported a sighting by two family groups, including Bill Kinder. They saw something black emerge from the water, described as shiny black like a seal's skin, leaving a 30-foot trail. Yurong Ling, his wife Wensa, and colleague Mike Ma confirmed seeing a long trail and two humps in the water, which they could not explain.

Philip Evett, a visitor from Devon, took a photograph on August 5, 1995, near Castle Urquhart, showing an inexplicable wake that he felt was very different from a boat wake.

The newsletter explains the phenomenon of a 'boat wake' or 'Kelvin Wave Pattern,' describing how a boat's hull displaces water, creating waves that move away from the craft's path. These waves can appear as humps, especially on a calm surface, and can take a significant time to reach the shore.

Video Releases

Another video, a programme-length documentary about the Ogopogo creature inhabiting Okanagan Lake in British Columbia, Canada, is announced. Produced in co-operation with CHBC-TV, it explores the myth and reality of Ogopogo using historic records, first-hand accounts, and interviews. Information for the video is available from Kelowna Museum.

A video titled 'The Loch Ness Monster,' produced in 1994 by Castle Vision (serial number JME 1758), is also mentioned. Colin Mckay found it well-produced and available at a special offer price of £6.99 from John Menzies.

Personal Notes and Subscriptions

Wal Smith plans to be at Loch Ness between July 27 and August 10, based in the Foyers area. Andreas Trottmann and his wife Angela expect to be at Strone in mid/late July, as will Henry Bauer from Virginia, and Alastair and Sue Boud. Other members, including Doris and Audrey, will be present from July 21 to August 3.

The newsletter concludes by inviting members to send in their news and views. Subscription rates are £2.75 for UK members and $10.00 for USA members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing investigation and reporting of lake monster phenomena, particularly the Loch Ness Monster and Ogopogo, and the review of literature and media related to these and other unexplained phenomena like UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent reporting and encouraging detailed accounts from witnesses and researchers, while also providing critical analysis of books and media. There is a clear emphasis on factual reporting and the dissemination of information within the Fortean community.