Project Red Book vol 6 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: PROJECT RED BOOK
Issue: Vol 6, #2
Date: September 2002
Publisher: YORKSHIRE UFO SOCIETY
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of Project Red Book, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society, offers a diverse range of articles covering ufology, cryptozoology, and other paranormal phenomena. The cover features a striking illustration and headlines hinting at mysteries like new Nessie pictures and a 'Big Cat Summer,' alongside a regular column by Jenny Randles.

The View from Britain - The Jenny Randles Column

Jenny Randles critically examines the controversial use of regression hypnosis in UFO investigations, particularly highlighting the differing attitudes between Britain and the US. She explains that while not a complete ban, British UFOlogy generally opposes its widespread use due to several primary factors: witnesses reporting negative psychological effects, personal experience with the pitfalls of the technique, and observed risks of misinterpretation and genuine harm to witnesses. Randles recounts the history of regression in British UFO cases, starting in the 1960s and becoming more prevalent after 1978. She details the development of a self-regulatory code of ethics in the UK in 1982, mandating medical supervision for hypnosis. A significant turning point was the 1988 BUFORA moratorium, later extended to a five-year ban, aimed at preventing potential psychological damage and encouraging other groups to reconsider the automatic use of hypnosis. Randles shares a personal experiment where she was regressed and provided significant misinformation, leading her to conclude that at least 50% of the data obtained through hypnosis could be unreliable, potentially contaminating UFO evidence and causing witnesses to accept fantasies as reality. She argues that this practice sacrifices witness welfare for the sake of sensational evidence.

Message from the Mere

Cryptozoologist Jon Downes of the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) provides an update on the investigation into the 'Monster of the Mere.' He clarifies that while the CFZ has been investigating, they have not caught any monster. Richard had three sightings, and John Fuller had four sonar contacts. Downes debunks claims that the creature was car-sized, stating that what Richard saw appeared to be a wels catfish of approximately 6'7" and 20 stone. He attributes quotes about size and diet to Sir Christopher Lever's 1975 book, 'Naturalised Animals of the British Isles,' and mentions the possibility of the Acclimatisation Society introducing these fish. Downes expresses gratitude for public support and mentions the CFZ's ongoing expeditions and their transition to a registered non-profit trust.

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

This section, compiled by Dave Baker, presents a collection of intriguing reports:

Explorers Close to Proving Yeti Exists

A group of British explorers in Western Sumatra has submitted hair samples to an Australian expert for testing, hoping to prove the existence of a 'Yeti-like' creature. The hairs do not match known native species, and an analysis of a footprint is also underway. The discovery, if verified, could have significant anthropological implications.

Hollywood Falls Under Crop Circles' Spell

Disney is hosting a private screening of the film 'Signs' for Douglas Bower, the gardener credited with inventing the crop circle art form. The article notes the resurgence of crop circles, with complex designs appearing, and discusses the debate between those who believe they are alien-made and those who see them as a form of land art. The success of 'Signs' has led to increased tourism in Britain for crop circle viewing.

Bright Lights Seen in Sky Over Cornwall, England

Reports of strange lights seen over Cornwall have prompted calls to BBC Radio Cornwall. While some suggest explanations like the International Space Station or meteorites, the phenomenon remains a mystery, with local investigations planned.

Fiction: To Contact Ethel

Philip Parkin of YUFOS contributes a fictional piece exploring paranormal themes.

"Monkey-Man" Out, Muhnochwa In!

This short piece introduces a new 'breed of terror' in India, referred to as 'The Face Scratcher.'

Another Fine Ness...

A brief, skeptical commentary on 'Nessie' photos.

Earth Has "New Moon" of Sorts...

A brief, unspecified report.

Doctors Create Out-of-Body Sensations

An article based on BBC News Online reports that doctors have triggered out-of-body experiences (OBEs) in a patient by stimulating her brain. The research, conducted at Geneva University Hospital, suggests the angular gyrus plays a role in matching visual and tactile information, potentially explaining OBE phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the boundaries between belief and skepticism, particularly evident in Jenny Randles's strong stance against the uncritical use of regression hypnosis. The magazine presents a variety of paranormal and unexplained phenomena, from cryptozoological reports to UFO sightings and crop circle mysteries, often with a critical or investigative approach. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and caution against accepting extraordinary claims without sufficient evidence, while still acknowledging the public's fascination with these subjects. The inclusion of fiction and a 'Group Mascot' suggests a community-oriented approach to the publication.

This issue of "Project Red Book" (Vol. 6, #2, September 2002) delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, including out-of-body experiences (OBEs), widespread big cat sightings across the UK, and a fictional supernatural story.

Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs)

The magazine reports on research published in the journal "Nature" by a Swiss team, which suggests that OBEs occur when the body becomes dissociated. Professor Blanke suggests that an overactive angular gyrus might be responsible, or that electrical stimulation could depress activity in this brain area. The research found no evidence linking OBEs to epilepsy, noting they occur in both neurological patients and healthy individuals. The article highlights the potential for this research to encourage more open discussion about OBEs and for physicians to take the phenomenon more seriously.

A personal anecdote from the editor's note describes an uncle who experienced two OBEs after suffering heart attacks. During one incident, he reported floating above his body and witnessing paramedics work on him. During another, he described floating in a corner of the emergency room and recalling conversations.

The editor also recalls an experiment researchers were eager to try, involving placing printed cards with pictures in high places within hospitals, visible only to someone in an OBE. The aim was to verify the reality of the experience by seeing if the person could identify the cards. The editor wonders if this experiment ever took place.

Big Cat Sightings Across the UK

This section details a summer filled with reports of large cats in the United Kingdom. Several specific incidents are highlighted:

• Cumbria: Cluistine Dodgson reported seeing a large black cat in a silage field, describing it as being like a big cat. Terry Hooper, who compiles an exotic animal register, stated that Cumbria is good territory for these cats due to abundant deer, rabbits, and fresh water, and has logged many sightings since 1975.
• Bexley: A community farm was alerted after sightings of a huge black cat in Hillview cemetery. Edward Cain reported seeing the cat from a distance. Bexley Council acknowledged two sightings but suggested it could be a large domestic cat. A local cat lover noted that some domestic cats can grow to the size of a dog.
• Bexley (continued): The cat was spotted again near Plumstead Common. Dave Loson saw a large black cat, thought to be a panther, standing 75-100 yards away.
• South East Wales: A major search involving two helicopters with thermal imaging cameras was conducted after police spotted two large unidentified 'cat like' animals near Goldcliff, Newport. Peter Beese, who has seen the big cat about 10 times, initially spotted one walking across a field. Police officers, initially skeptical, were shocked when they saw the animals, describing one as being about 300 yards away and as big as the front wheel of a tractor.
• Derbyshire: The elusive big cat has been sighted for over a decade. While some believe it's a panther or puma, others think it's a figment of imagination. However, Derbyshire police have compiled an official report concluding the creature exists. PC Tony Umney logs sightings and is convinced of its existence.

The British Big Cats Society (BBCS) has received over 800 reports of animals like pumas, black panthers, and leopards in the past 12 months. Daniel Bamping, the society's founder, noted sightings from various regions of the UK. He acknowledges that many sightings are misidentifications of domestic cats but believes "firm evidence" exists, including photographs and paw prints. A proposed "Trigger Camera" project aims to capture photographic evidence.

Concerns are raised about the origin of these cats, with suggestions including escaped exotic pets or even lynxes released by pro blood-sport activists. The BBCS believes many are descendants of big cats kept as pets in the 1960s and 70s, released after the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976. The possibility of paranormal explanations, such as sightings occupying the same reality as ghosts or time-slips, is also mentioned.

Supernatural Fiction: "To Contact Ethel"

This issue features a fictional story by Philip J Parkin, exploring themes of supernatural contact. The story is set in London in 1925, where Ethel dies in a car crash. Her family, Albert, Kate, and Patrick, hire a renowned medium, Constance Porter, to contact Ethel's spirit. The narrative details the séance, the challenges faced by Constance, and the emotional turmoil of the family.

During the séance, Constance experiences ominous signs and visions of evil, including an "army of snakes" and a "Hooded Mancrow" figure. She warns the sitters that they "would starve children to their deaths!" This leads to Kate's own unsettling experience of seeing a "shadow snake" on the wall.

Despite initial difficulties and Constance's own struggles with her mediumship, a second attempt to contact Ethel is made. This time, Constance successfully communicates with Ethel's spirit, confirming her death and assuring the family that she is "ok" and has "moved on from our physical dimension."

The story also touches upon the family's love and the complexities of human relationships, particularly Kate's yearning for love and approval.

"Monkey-Man" Out, "Muhnochwa" In!

This article discusses recent phenomena in India. It begins by referencing past mass-hysteria events like "Monkey-man" and "Chinese 'Penis stealers." It then focuses on the "muhnuchwa," or "face-scratcher," a new bogey-man terrorizing villages. Initial reports described strangulation marks and scratches, with some witnesses describing a "red (or blue) light" or a "flying octopus" that attacked faces.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) was asked to help identify the cause, with suggestions including an "electronic device" or "mysterious object" that flies and emits light. The attacks reportedly occurred during nights and power cuts. The phenomenon gained international attention, with reports of unexplained deaths in Uttar Pradesh.

Villagers formed protection patrols, and authorities considered criminal charges for spreading rumors. While the direct responsibility of the muhnochwa for deaths is unproven, the panic has led to at least one death during a protest march. Police offered explanations such as a "three-and-a-half-inch-long winged insect" or ball lightning, though the latter is considered rare.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, paranormal, and fringe aspects of reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting research, witness accounts, and fictional narratives that challenge conventional understanding. There is a clear interest in phenomena that blur the lines between the physical and the unknown, whether it be OBEs, cryptids like big cats, or supernatural encounters.

The inclusion of both scientific research (on OBEs) and anecdotal evidence (big cat sightings, personal OBE accounts) suggests an attempt to cover the topic from multiple angles. The fictional story further broadens the scope by exploring spiritualism and paranormal contact through narrative.

The magazine seems to encourage reader participation, as seen in the editor's note seeking information about the OBE experiment. The overall tone is investigative and curious, aiming to inform readers about various mysteries and unexplained events.

PRB, Volume 5, Issue 6, dated December 2001, is a magazine focused on unexplained phenomena and intriguing news. The issue features a prominent cover story about a purported Loch Ness Monster sighting and a separate article detailing a unique piece of space junk.

Social Panic and Mass Hysteria

An introductory section discusses social panic and mass hysteria, using the example of 'Monkey-man' and 'muhnochwa' cases. Dr. Narrotam Lal from King George's Medical College in Lucknow suggests that victims often unconsciously inflict their own symptoms. The article notes how the internet and satellite news channels accelerate the spread of such panics, allowing observers to witness them unfold from small incidents into widespread hysteria with little or no real evidence. Sources cited include The Times of India, Daily Pioneer, and The New York Times from August 2002.

Another Fine Ness...

The main cover story, written by Dave Baker, details a "spectacular" new series of photographs that have reignited interest in the Loch Ness Monster legend. The photos were taken on August 21 near Inchnacardoch, Scotland, by retired printer Roy Johnston and his wife Janet. While stopped to admire the view, Roy walked to the water's edge with his Nikon camera. He claims to have seen a long neck, described as being "several metres" long, rise from the water before splashing back and disappearing. Johnston initially thought it might be an elephant's trunk or a conger eel, but realized it was much larger, estimated to be seven or eight feet out of the water, with a black, greyish color but no visible head. He took several photos, including one showing a significant splash.

Initially, his wife Janet was skeptical, but she believed him after the pictures were developed. The photos first appeared in The Daily Mail on September 6th, with managing editor Lawrence Sear vouching for their authenticity. However, other media professionals expressed doubt. Kayt Turner, picture editor of Scotland on Sunday, noted that the third picture appeared lighter in color than the previous two and suggested that the images could have been reproduced using computer imaging software or even by throwing a brick into the water. She emphasized the need to see the original negatives for verification. The News of the World has reportedly enlisted Nessie expert Adrian Shine to analyze the pictures.

Despite the skepticism, the article notes that tourism in the area is expected to flourish due to the publicity. Malaina Krott-Thiarry from the loch's tourist information centre believes the event could boost business. The media coverage also humorously focused on the perceived size of the creature, with some reporters noting it seemed smaller and thinner than in previous alleged sightings, while also acknowledging that many of those past photos were considered fakes.

Earth Has "New Moon"

This section, written by Alexandra Witze, Science Editor for The Dallas Morning News (dated September 30, 2002), reports on a unique piece of space junk. A mystery object, identified as J002E3, has become the only known object to orbit Earth after previously orbiting the sun. J002E3 is the third stage of a Saturn rocket from the Apollo 12 mission, jettisoned in 1969. It orbited Earth chaotically for 15 months before shifting to an orbit around the sun, and then returned to Earth's vicinity in April of the current year. An amateur astronomer spotted it on September 3rd. Astronomers confirmed its brightness and reflectivity matched that of a rocket stage. The errant stage is expected to escape Earth's orbit again in June. More information is available at http://neo.jpl.nasa.gov.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to maintain a stance of presenting intriguing, often unexplained, phenomena while also acknowledging skepticism and the role of media in sensationalizing events. The articles on social panic, the Loch Ness Monster, and space junk highlight a fascination with the unknown, the power of belief, and the critical examination of evidence. The inclusion of diverse viewpoints, from eyewitness accounts and expert opinions to media analysis and scientific explanations, suggests an editorial approach that encourages readers to consider multiple perspectives on extraordinary claims.