NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 142
Date: February 2002
Publisher: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter is primarily a personal account from Steve Feltham, who has spent ten years living at Loch Ness in pursuit of the 'monster hunting' life. The issue also includes contributions and observations from other individuals, touching upon personal experiences, scientific investigations, and broader societal issues.

Steve Feltham: Ten Years at Loch Ness

Steve Feltham reflects on his decade-long vigil at Loch Ness, which began in July 1991. Initially a believer based on extensive reading and previous visits, his conviction has deepened over the ten years. He attributes this to establishing himself on the loch-side and gaining the trust of local residents, which has led him to hear numerous firsthand accounts of sightings from reliable witnesses who might not otherwise speak to outsiders. While he can sift through and dismiss accounts from tourists or youths seeking attention, he notes that a steady trickle of stories, perhaps three or four per year, cannot be dismissed for various reasons. These include the number of witnesses, such as the twenty-three people at the Craigdarroch Hotel who witnessed something on June 15th, 1996, or the accounts of long-term residents like Roland O'Brien and Margaret Maclennan, who have had multiple sightings.

Feltham also mentions interesting echo-sounder contacts made by Ronald Mackenzie of the 'Royal Scot' pleasure boat, including a large contact on July 2nd, 1997, and three more two days later, which remain unexplained. He acknowledges that these contacts alone won't solve the mystery but contribute to the overall picture.

Despite the lack of a definitive sighting for himself in recent years, Feltham expresses no regrets, finding fulfillment in his pursuit. He lives a simple, hand-to-mouth lifestyle, supported by his 'Nessie models fund'. He emphasizes the importance of following one's dreams and finds life at Loch Ness to be a constant adventure, surprising him daily. His ultimate goal is to add just one piece of evidence, perhaps a photograph, to the mystery.

Henry Bauer's Visit and Observations

Henry Bauer, author of 'The Enigma of Loch Ness', visited Loch Ness in September 2001. His stay was overshadowed by the events of September 11th in New York, which made the time away from home difficult. He notes the support of the local community, including the opening of a book of condolence and an ecumenical service. Bauer reports on his Nessie spotting experiences, the most exciting being on September 16th, where he observed a large semicircular set of ripples followed by a black head and a glimpse of a grey side. However, he identified this as a seal, having seen them often in the ocean.

He also recounts seeing a 'VERY POOR model' of a Nessie being towed near Urquhart Castle, which he believes is part of a tourist attraction for businessmen. Bauer critiques the local Tourist Board for not providing better information about Nessie. He also comments on the Original Loch Ness Monster Exhibition, noting its new video and a misrepresentation of sonar chart origins.

Personal Reflections and Broader Issues

The author, 'Rip', shares personal reflections on the terrible events of September 11th, drawing parallels to his childhood experiences during World War II. He describes the shock and horror of witnessing the events on television and expresses his thoughts and prayers for those affected.

Rip also discusses his hobby horse, recommending LPG Autogas for vehicle conversion due to its cost savings and reduced emissions. He shares his experience converting his petrol Transit van and highlights the benefits of running on Liquid Petroleum Gas.

Holiday Experiences and Investigations

The issue details holiday experiences around Loch Ness in July and August 2001. Rip describes his setup on the Old Pier at Abriachan and his interactions with his wife Doris and her sister Audrey. He mentions meeting Dick Raynor and learning about the ongoing work of Bob Rines and the Academy of Applied Sciences at Temple Pier.

During his stay, Rip visited the Abbey at Fort Augustus, noting its dilapidated state but appreciating the historical significance. He recounts Mr. Lipinski's remarkable experience in October 1975, where he saw a 'large back' in the water near the River Tarff.

Rip also details a visit to Tychat to see Bob Rines, reminiscing about past encounters and noting the active role of Bob's son, Justice, in the Academy's 2001 expedition. He praises the town of Drumnadrochit for its preparation for the 'Britain in Bloom' competition.

Video Analysis and GM Crops

Rip discusses his meeting with Adrian Shine, who was investigating the Gray photos. Shine was not satisfied with the results, citing unanswered questions about the photographs. Shine also corrected Rip regarding the use of pulleys for underwater object manipulation, explaining that anchor weights and string are sufficient.

Shine also addressed Graham Hazelwood's comment about the music in an exhibition being 'jolly and frivolous'. Adrian argued that the music changes and is not frivolous. He further shared his work on the Dinsdale film, using a computer program to analyze frames and superimpose them. While this process aimed to eliminate interference, a pale blob remained where a 'heimsman' might be expected, leaving Rip convinced that Tim Dinsdale's 1960 film was not of a boat.

Rip then delves into concerns about genetically modified (GM) crops. He cites a study showing high mortality rates in Monarch Butterfly caterpillars exposed to GM corn pollen and expresses worry about potential environmental dangers. He questions the need for GM crops, especially when farmers are paid not to grow food. He also raises concerns about GM crops producing non-viable seeds, forcing farmers to repurchase seeds annually, and mentions reports of cross-fertilized GM types.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Nessletter consistently focuses on the Loch Ness Monster phenomenon, presenting eyewitness accounts, research updates, and personal reflections from individuals involved in the field. The editorial stance, as represented by 'Rip', is one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of unknown phenomena while maintaining a critical approach to evidence. There is a strong emphasis on personal experience and the importance of sharing stories within the community of researchers and enthusiasts. The inclusion of broader topics like 9/11 and GM crops suggests a view that these phenomena are part of a larger, interconnected world, and that critical thinking is applicable across various domains.