Nessletter - No 153 - 2007

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 153
Date: November 2007
Publisher: R.R.Hepple
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter continues the discussion from previous editions, addressing technical difficulties with PC formatting and the ongoing quest for definitive evidence of the Loch Ness Monster. The editor, R.R.Hepple, maintains a skeptical yet open approach, presenting information and encouraging readers to draw their own conclusions.

C-QUESTER

The issue opens with the editor detailing his struggles with PC formatting, humorously noting the machine's resistance to his preferred methods. He recounts an anecdote about the 'mad cyclist,' an eccentric character from the LNI days who believed Nessie laid eggs in 'Nessie Nests' along the loch shores. This character's theory is revisited in light of new technology that could potentially explore such areas.

Erik Beckjord Correspondence

The editor received a call from Erik Beckjord, Director of the National Cryptozoological Society, who expressed disappointment with the generally skeptical tone of the Nessletters. Beckjord felt that the editor often provided ordinary explanations for sightings. Their conversation touched upon various topics, including pancake universes, ghosts, and UFOs, referencing Ted Holiday's books 'The Dragon and the Disc' and 'The Great Orm of Loch Ness'. Holiday's theory about fossil Tullimonstrum in the USA, an invertebrate with characteristics similar to Nessie sightings, is discussed as a possible explanation for the lack of skeletal remains.

The editor clarifies his role as a presenter of information, acknowledging that details are often lacking and sometimes questionable. He uses his experience with loch conditions to suggest possible ordinary explanations, leaving the final interpretation to the reader.

NEW VIDEO

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to a new video footage of a potential Nessie sighting by Gordon Holmes, recorded on May 26th, 2007. Adrian Shine, described as an 'arch sceptic,' reportedly called it some of the best footage he had seen. Dick Raynor also found it interesting. The video shows a jet-black object, estimated to be 4-6ft long, moving at about 6mph on the surface of the loch, approximately 100 yards away. Holmes initially speculated it could be a large eel.

However, the editor's investigation into Gordon Holmes revealed his involvement in self-publishing materials about fairies and strange figures, linking them to megalithic art and celestial patterns. Holmes also described a personal experience of 'Trice Visualisation.' This background led the editor to question the objectivity of Holmes's claims. The Director of the American National Cryptozoological Society, after viewing the video online, described the object as not a normal animal, flexible, and moving like a slug.

Dick Raynor, after examining the video, suggested it might be a whirlwind or vortex, a phenomenon he has observed at Loch Ness. The editor concludes that his initial excitement about the video may have been premature.

Dick Raynor's Research

Dick Raynor provides an update on his ongoing work at Loch Ness. He operates a webcam at Temple Pier and is developing an underwater webcam with remote control capabilities. He is also seeking more bandwidth to enhance his project, which includes adding a hydrophone and a fixed station sonar. Raynor met Marty Klein of the Academy of Applied Sciences, who expressed interest in offering advice.

The editor expresses reservations about webcams and blurry images, citing past instances where objects like a holiday barge and Adrian Shine's craft 'Deepscan' were misinterpreted. He hopes that modern equipment will produce clearer images, acknowledging Raynor's dedication to his research.

HOLIDAYS 2006

This section recounts a trip to Loch Ness in 2006, which the author notes has become a routine visit over the past 40 years. The holiday involved typical activities such as watching the water, visiting local attractions like Inverness, Fort Augustus, and Glen Affric, and attending the Black Isle Agricultural Show. The author also mentions meeting Steve Feltham and having a conversation with Adrian Shine.

A significant event during the holiday was a breakdown of the author's van, which damaged the crankcase and led to a loss of oil. This necessitated arranging for rescue and organizing their journey home. The author also notes that this was likely their last trip to Loch Ness with his wife Doris and her sister Audrey due to their worsening health. Audrey is now on oxygen, and circumstances at home prevent the author from traveling alone.

Conclusion and Membership Information

The editor apologizes for the delay in publishing the newsletter and thanks members for their tolerance. He provides contact information for subscriptions and encourages members to share their news and views. The newsletter concludes with a brief mention of the Director of the National Cryptozoological Society being Mr. Erik Beckjord.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing investigation into the Loch Ness Monster, the analysis of eyewitness accounts and photographic/video evidence, and the personal experiences of researchers and enthusiasts. The editorial stance, primarily represented by the editor R.R.Hepple, is one of cautious skepticism. While presenting intriguing reports and new evidence, the editor consistently seeks rational explanations and highlights the limitations of available data, encouraging readers to critically evaluate the information themselves. The newsletter also touches upon related phenomena such as UFOs and Bigfoot, reflecting a broader interest in unexplained mysteries within the cryptozoological community.