Project Red Book vol 4 no 11

Magazine Overview

Title: PROJECT RED BOOK
Issue: Vol.4 # 11
Date: May 2001
Publisher: YUFOS (Yorkshire UFO Society)
Price: £1:50

This issue of Project Red Book, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society, features a prominent debate on the Rendlesham Forest UFO case, an investigation into mysterious humming noises, and updates on other UFO-related events.

The Rendlesham Forest Case: Point / Counter-Point (part 2)

This section presents a continuation of the debate surrounding the Rendlesham Forest UFO encounters, originally published in the International UFO Reporter. The article includes contributions from Richard H. Hall and Jenny Randles, offering differing perspectives on the case.

Richard H. Hall's Viewpoint:

Hall reconstructs the events of December 1980, focusing on the encounters in the woods near Bentwaters AFB/RAF Woodbridge. He highlights the testimony of U.S. Air Force security policemen SSgt. James Penniston, A1C John Burroughs, and Amn. Ed Cabansag, who reported a glowing, triangular craft-like object emitting brilliant light and pulsating body lights. Penniston reportedly touched symbols on the object's surface. Hall also recounts Colonel Charles I. Halt's personal involvement and sightings, including a tape recording of events and the discovery of a potential landing site. He dismisses misidentifications of the lighthouse as the sole explanation, noting the objects' positions and a reported beam of light directed at the ground. Hall emphasizes that the details of the case align with decades of similar sighting reports, including E-M effects, animal reactions, and landing-gear-like imprints, and fit a pattern of strategic military base intrusions.

He addresses discrepancies in witness testimony, attributing them to normal memory failings and the passage of time, particularly concerning the Rayl interviews conducted 17 years after the fact. Hall notes that witnesses were cautious about reporting due to fears for their reputations. He concludes that the Rendlesham Forest UFO encounters remain among the most credible and significant sightings pointing to an 'other-worldly' origin.

Richard Hall's Rebuttal to Jenny Randles:

Hall disagrees with Randles's assertion that physical evidence has become 'less impressive.' He questions the certainty that tree markings were axe cuts and points to abrasions facing the center of the site. He also notes broken tree branches and discusses radiation readings and infrared 'hot spots' correlating with the abrasions and the site's center. Hall dismisses rabbit marks as an explanation for triangular holes found at the landing site, referencing plaster casts taken by himself and colleagues. He describes the object's surface as opaque black glass with 'etched' markings, touched by Penniston. Hall reiterates that even if other aspects were misidentifications, the core event of a non-lighthouse, non-meteor encounter remains significant and fits established UFO patterns.

Jenny Randles's Rebuttal to Richard Hall:

Randles expresses reservations, emphasizing the importance of considering the possibility that the lighthouse was misperceived. She notes its proximity to where the UFO was seen and that the UFO was often described as glows and lights rather than a distinct machine. Randles suggests a close encounter triggered by an unusual light source, possibly the lighthouse perceived through mist, could explain some sightings. She questions why witnesses would hide misperceptions and how sure we can be of their accounts if they were fooled. Randles points out that Halt appears to have made factual errors, specifically regarding the date of the events (stating it was the 26th, not the 27th, supported by police and radar records). She also notes that Burroughs's dating of the first night aligns with his movements. Randles critiques Hall's interpretation of witness testimony, suggesting that witnesses like Burroughs and Penniston underplayed their accounts in written reports 20 years ago. She argues that discrepancies between signed statements and verbal testimony do not obscure the serious problem of misperception, particularly regarding the lighthouse. Randles suggests that a bright meteor or stellar objects could explain some lights, and that the case is a mixture of misperceptions, disorientation, and witness perception foibles. She acknowledges that some aspects, like 'laser beams,' are less easy to resolve, but points to other potential factors like gas-powered searchlights, a British naval exercise, and lights associated with radar buildings.

Isle of Man Update

By Chris Rolfe

This section reports on the mystery surrounding the Snaefell Mountain incident. A breakthrough is suggested due to a tip-off, potentially involving a pair of drones and a Royal Navy frigate ordered to conduct a covert search. A possible remote base and a link to a secret US/UK project are mentioned. The article also references the Isle of Lewis incident of October 1996, where witnesses reported a loud explosion and debris falling from the sky, resulting in a search that found nothing. It is suggested that a cover-up has occurred regarding the Isle of Man incident, with a defense contractor reportedly receiving a damaged drone. Information is still being gathered.

Please Stop Humming

By Jonathan Slater

This article investigates the phenomenon of mysterious humming noises reported worldwide. It details the Taos Hum in New Mexico, a faint, low-frequency sound heard by only about 2% of residents, which began in 1991 and has defied explanation. The hum is described as abrupt, persistent, and noticeable indoors. Similar complaints have emerged globally, including in the UK, notably in Bristol, where the humming has been reported for over 30 years.

Bristol Hum Details:

A survey on the Bristol Hum revealed that it sounds like a diesel engine, is primarily heard by people over 50, and can be heard by a partially deaf person. Tragically, one individual, J. Hall, committed suicide in October 1996, reportedly driven to despair by the hum. The hum is perceived as loudest at a modulation frequency of 2.5–3.5Hz. Direction-finding attempts using loop antennas indicated a distant source, and the signal was not attenuated by soil and rock overhead in a railway tunnel. The hum is described as intrusive, similar to living near a busy road with frequent stopping and starting.

Sheffield Hum:

The article also covers a humming noise reported in Sheffield, with residents describing it as like a fridge or a generator. Sheffield Council's Public and Environmental Health department has investigated, but inquiries have failed to solve the mystery. Theories include supermarket and office building air conditioning units, and even a crematorium. Some residents express relief that others are also hearing the noise, and the council has promised to re-examine the crematorium theory.

Somerset Hum:

Pamela Bridges of Somerset reports a persistent hum at her 300-year-old cottage, which began after a new telephone line was installed. The sound is a mid-range drone that made sleep difficult. Investigations by BT, the local council, and utility engineers have left them baffled. The noise starts in the evening and continues all night, reportedly worsening in wet weather. A similar phenomenon was reported by a group of women in Cheshire, where the noise could only be heard by women.

Theories and Sensitivity:

Various theories for the humming noises include gas pipelines, traffic, and radio waves. It is suggested that women may be more sensitive to certain sounds than men. Some individuals have sought medical explanations, such as inner ear problems or tinnitus, but the phenomenon affects people with no physical issues. The persistent nature and wide geographical spread of these hums remain unexplained.

From Around the World...

This section briefly lists various intriguing items:

• Uri Geller
• Indian Rope Trick
• Yeti Hairs
• Witch Protects Nessie
• Momo is Back!

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Project Red Book focuses on detailed case analysis, particularly the Rendlesham Forest incident, showcasing a commitment to exploring complex UFO phenomena through debate and evidence examination. The inclusion of the 'humming noise' articles highlights an interest in unexplained auditory phenomena and their impact on individuals and communities. The magazine also touches upon potential government cover-ups and the broader implications of UFO reports. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is that the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or YUFOS members, encouraging open discussion and investigation.

This issue of PRB, dated May 2001, focuses on UFOs, conspiracies, and paranormal events, compiled by Dave Baker. The main cover story, "MEXBOROUGH- case ajar," details the final stages of an investigation into a UFO sighting.

The Mexborough Case: A Dead End?

Dave Baker reports on the conclusion of the YUFOS investigation into the Mexborough footage. Despite extensive research and correspondence with the Civilian Air Authority (CAA) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), no definitive explanation for the two unexplained objects seen in the footage has been found. Baker explains his strategy of contacting official bodies as a member of the public rather than as a ufologist to elicit a more serious response. He includes the text of his letter to the MoD, requesting information about military operations in the Mexborough area on March 13, 1999, the date the video was taken. The letter from Mrs. L'C Unwin of the Ministry of Defence Directorate of Air Staff states that the MoD's remit is to identify potential threats to UK airspace, not to provide aerial identification services for UFOs. While acknowledging that military aircraft sometimes fly at weekends, they could not confirm any specific activity over Mexborough due to the extensive checks required. Baker expresses disappointment with the MoD's response, characterizing it as a form letter, and notes the difficulty of investigating old cases due to the cost and effort involved. He also discusses the limitations of computer analysis for the footage, which was taken with a low-end camcorder and has poor resolution. Alternative explanations, such as birds (herons) or micro-lites/hang-gliders, are considered but also found difficult to investigate. The case is declared "ajar," with the possibility that something may still emerge, but the author is not optimistic.

Review: Dr. Richard Wiseman at the Edinburgh Science Festival

Gordon Rutter reviews a talk by psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman at the Edinburgh Science Festival. Wiseman presented the preliminary results of a large-scale investigation into hauntings in Edinburgh. The investigation involved monitoring locations with thermal imaging, magnetic field measurement, and air temperature measurement. Wiseman's team also used questionnaires to assess visitor experiences. A significant finding was the correlation between reported hauntings and physical characteristics of the locations, such as room size and darkness. While the press reported these findings as evidence of ghosts, Wiseman aimed to explore potential physical attributes and psychological explanations. The review details investigations at Hampton Court and Edinburgh Castle, including the underground vaults at Niddrie Street. Anomalies such as temperature fluctuations, magnetic field effects, and visual phenomena like green lights and mist were recorded. The review notes that many participants were already believers and that further investigation into the psychological aspects is needed.

UFO Central: Eyewitness Accounts

Jonathan Slater compiles several eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings:

• Lancaster: In 1979 or 1980, Stuart Andrew Morgan and a friend observed a massive, oblong object with a dark orange glow hovering for about five minutes over a factory in Lancaster before vanishing.
• Hayling Island East Beach Front: Mr. Raymond Lee reported seeing two beams of lights, like searchlights, criss-crossing each other for about 20 minutes while night fishing in September 2000.
• Crich, Derbyshire: Sarah Clements was woken by a bright light and observed a red and green flashing light over Crich for about 10 minutes before it turned bright white and disappeared.

From Around the World...And Beyond!!!

This section compiles various paranormal and unusual news items:

• Uri Pitches In For Cup: Paranormal expert Uri Geller attempted to use his mind power to fix the retractable roof of the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, which had been jammed open.
• Secret of the Indian Rope Trick is Finally Revealed: It's a Hoax: Peter Lamont, a researcher, claims the Indian rope trick is a hoax invented by an American newspaper over 100 years ago.
• Could Hairs Found in Bhutan Belong to the Legendary Yeti?: Scientists analyzing hairs found in a Bhutan forest are mystified, as the DNA does not match any known species, unlike other samples from the area which were identified as pig or bear.
• Family Flees House With 'Chilling History': A family in Winnipeg, Canada, was forced to leave their home due to alleged demonic activity, with reports of a "tortured soul" and subsequent break-in.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a continued interest in UFO phenomena, with a focus on the difficulties of official investigation and the reliance on eyewitness accounts and independent analysis. The magazine maintains a critical yet open stance, presenting evidence and theories while also exploring skeptical viewpoints and scientific explanations. The review of Richard Wiseman's work highlights the intersection of paranormal claims with psychological and environmental factors. The "From Around the World" section showcases a diverse range of unusual events, from alleged paranormal activity to debunked hoaxes, suggesting a broad scope of interest in the unexplained.

This issue of PRB magazine, dated May 2001 (Volume 4, Issue 11), features articles on paranormal and cryptozoological topics, including a witch's intervention in the search for the Loch Ness Monster and a renewed look at the 'Missouri Monster' or 'Momo' sightings.

Witch Casts Spell to Protect Nessie

The article "WITCH CASTS SPELL TO PROTECT NESSIE" by Shirley English, dated April 25, 2001, details an unusual event at Loch Ness. Kevin Carlyon, a 42-year-old High Priest of the British Coven of White Witches from East Sussex, intervened in the ongoing search for the Loch Ness Monster. Bookmakers William Hill reportedly adjusted odds on Nessie being found from 500-1 to 100-1 due to this event. Carlyon's actions were aimed at thwarting the plans of Jan Sundberg, a 53-year-old monster hunter from Motala, Sweden, who, along with six scientists, intended to spend 12 days trawling the loch with a seven-feet-long net to trap Nessie and collect DNA samples. Sundberg believes Nessie to be a monster-size eel.

Carlyon, described as a former wrestler wearing an orange cloak, jogging bottoms, and trainers, clashed verbally with Sundberg at Drumnadrochit marina. Carlyon performed a ritual, igniting incense sticks, chanting magic words, and throwing a stone talisman covered in runes into the loch. He stated he had summoned the elements to ensure the safety of Loch Ness and its creatures, aiming to prevent harm to Nessie. He declared, "So may it be done." He advocated for Nessie to be left in peace.

Sundberg dismissed Carlyon's intervention as "mumbo-jumbo," calling his own expedition "serious." He stated that his net was designed to catch creatures up to seven feet long, with a sonar alarm to alert the team. Locals had mixed reactions. Willie Cameron of Loch Ness Marketing saw the publicity value, while Gary Campbell, president of the Loch Ness Monster Fan Club, criticized the net's effectiveness, comparing it unfavorably to the movie 'Jaws'. A police officer present expressed disbelief at the grown men's behavior.

Momo Mystery Rears Its Head Once More in Louisiana, MO.

This article, by Brandy Warren from Everyday Magazine on May 2, 2001, revisits the mystery of the 'Missouri Monster,' or 'Momo,' in Louisiana, Missouri. The creature, described as large and hairy with a nasty stench, was reportedly seen near Star Hill about 80 miles north of St. Louis in 1972. The initial sightings gained national attention, but the buzz eventually faded, with many locals attributing the stories to alcohol consumption.

However, the story resurfaced due to a recent week-long investigation by the International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC), based in Tucson, Arizona. The ISC members examined the Star Hill area from April 14-20, collecting witness statements and assessing the locale's suitability for sustaining a Bigfoot-like creature. Richard Greenwell, secretary of the ISC and a zoologist, explained that the society, formed in 1982, documents and evaluates evidence of unverified animals. He noted that cryptozoologists have documented animals like the gorilla (1847), giant panda (1869), and giant gecko (1984).

Greenwell stated that while the area appears to have sufficient food, testimonials alone are not enough; the ISC evaluates information rigorously. He was joined on this trip by Bill Riley, who claimed to have seen Momo in July 1972. Riley described the creature as about 8 feet tall and emitting an odor like sulfur and feces. He had kept his sighting secret for six years before confiding in his future wife. Riley mentioned that many other locals have come forward with stories, some as recent as 1996, though many are hesitant to admit their experiences publicly for fear of ridicule.

Some residents, like Candy Barnett (44), who believed in 1972, are now skeptical, stating they would need to see it to believe it. Mary Shrum (52) expressed disbelief, having seen only common wildlife on her farm. Beverly Siders (54) maintained her belief, stating, "I believe there's something out there."

The cryptozoologists' visit was not without incident. Some of their gear disappeared during the week. Police Chief James Graham reported that after officers inquired about it, the researchers found the missing equipment outside their motel room, with no indication of who or what was responsible.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, focusing on eyewitness accounts and the investigations of organizations dedicated to studying such mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting different perspectives and skepticism alongside belief. The articles highlight the enduring public fascination with legendary creatures like Nessie and Momo, and the efforts made to find evidence for their existence, while also acknowledging the skepticism and practical challenges involved.