The Circular - 1992 Vol 3 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 3, Number 1
Date: April 1992
Publisher: CCCS (Centre for Crop Circle Studies)
Country: England
Price: £1.75

This issue of The Circular, the quarterly crop circle magazine, marks a transition in editorship with George Wingfield taking over from Bob Kingsley, who remains as Letters Editor and Editorial Adviser. Wingfield acknowledges the challenges of editing the publication while managing other commitments and expresses a desire to improve the magazine's quality, particularly in photography. He emphasizes that The Circular is primarily the members' journal and aims to present a balanced view of the crop circle phenomenon.

Introduction by George Wingfield

George Wingfield begins by expressing mixed feelings about taking over the editorship from Bob Kingsley, who started the magazine as a hobby in 1990. Wingfield acknowledges the significant workload involved in running the publication and apologizes for any delays in responding to correspondence. He outlines his intention to maintain the current format while aiming for better quality photographs and a glossier presentation. He highlights the importance of visual representation for crop circles and seeks advice from Richard Beaumont, Editor of Kindred Spirit. Wingfield reaffirms the magazine's commitment to presenting a balanced perspective on crop circles, despite the unpredictable nature of their appearance and the ongoing debate about their authenticity.

He firmly believes that crop circles represent a genuine phenomenon, despite the existence of hoaxes that need to be identified. Wingfield notes the public despondency following the 'Doug and Dave' scam, which was prematurely accepted as a complete explanation for the circles. He also points out the importance of studying the human phenomenon associated with crop circles – how they affect people and change their lives. While CCCS will investigate claims of hoaxes, they must avoid accepting facile solutions without thorough examination.

Wingfield expresses optimism for the 1992 season, anticipating excitement to replace the gloom. He stresses the need for CCCS to focus on obtaining positive scientific evidence, referencing encouraging results from 1991 sample testing that indicated physical effects consistent with high-energy radiation. He notes the irony that initial testing was conducted in the United States due to the perceived antagonistic attitude of some British press sections.

The issue includes a reprint of an article by Michael Strainic on crop circles in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, highlighting visitor reactions and the appearance of dumbbell formations. Another article by Julie Varden and John Wakefield explores connections between crop circle symbols and Mayan and Hopi traditions. Wingfield encourages readers to submit their viewpoints, experiences, and interpretations, emphasizing the remarkable and important nature of the phenomenon occurring worldwide.

Contents

• The issue features a range of articles, including:
• Introduction by George Wingfield
• Once Upon a Time in The Wheat by Michael Strainic
• The Scientific Analysis by Montague Keen
• CCCS Chairman's Speech by Michael Green
• Role of CCCS and The Circular by Ralph Noyes
• Koyaanisqatsi - Life Out of Balance by Julie Varden & John Wakefield
• The Lockeridge Whale Formation - The Underlays by Roland Pargeter
• Close Encounters With Circular Readers
• A Crop Circle Conspiracy by Armen Victorian
• The Strange Affair of The Golden Plates (Translated from German newspaper items)

Once Upon a Time in The Wheat by Michael Strainic

This article focuses on crop circle reports from Alberta, Canada, in 1990 and 1991. Strainic notes that while Canada had crop circle reports in 1990, they were often simple and received little international attention. The 1991 season saw a shift towards more complex 'agriglyphs'. The first 1991 circle was found in Fort Lawrence, Nova Scotia, but the main 'onslaught' of circles in Alberta was not early or prolific but remarkable.

The article credits UFO*BC's Chad Deetken for extensive on-site investigations in Lethbridge, including interviews, photography, and soil sample collection. Special thanks are also extended to Gordon Kijek of AUFOSG for additional information and to the farmers, media, and residents of Lethbridge for their cooperation.

Media Groupies: The first Alberta formation, discovered on August 21, 1991, by farmer Hugh Laycock near the Lethbridge television station CFCN-TV, was a triple-dumbbell configuration. The northernmost circle was swirled anti-clockwise, as were the two outer circles of the dumbbell. The large center circle was clockwise, and the grain in the corridors was flattened outward. The formation was not symmetrical, and the grain was brittle. Informal tests for electromagnetic effects yielded negative results, and a dog showed no reaction. Several anomalous lights were reported in the area prior to the discovery.

This formation was within Lethbridge city limits, mirroring a 1990 event in St. Francois Xavier, Manitoba, where the first circle of a series was also within city limits.

Okotoks Hoax?: On August 27, 1991, a similar triple-dumbbell formation was found in Okotoks, Alberta. However, this formation showed signs of being a hoax, including disturbed dirt, a fracture, an imperfectly formed largest circle, and a partially-started circle nearby. The barley was bent over at a height of about one foot.

• Alberta Formations:
• Hubbard Farm: A simple 'V' shape with three circles connected by two corridors. The outer circles were swirled anti-clockwise, and the center one clockwise. One 'circle' was actually an oval.
• Jenny Skinner's Farm: An unusual triangular pattern of three circles with a crossbar, all swirled anti-clockwise. A 'kink' was present in a connecting corridor, and the grain in the crossbars was parted and flattened in opposing directions.
• Warner Brothers (Four Brother Formation): Described as the most beautiful formation, it consisted of four classic circles in an unequal cross configuration, with two circles swirled anti-clockwise diagonally and two clockwise. The grain was laid down in layers, and some single stalks were found standing at right angles. 'Pop rocks' were also noted, appearing to have moved from their original positions.
• Fred Watmough's Formation (Coalhurst): This formation is described as the strangest and most intricate, resembling a visually-impaired dyslexic's work. It featured an appendage like the letter 'F', a triangle of corridors with no apparent purpose, and a circle formed around a bare patch of ground, giving the impression of an eye.

Strainic notes that the Alberta formations, while similar to British ones, had a unique personality and complexity that evolved rapidly.

Up Standing

This section discusses peculiar features in the Alberta formations, including the 'Single Stalk Syndrome,' where many single stalks of wheat remained standing while surrounding stalks were laid flat. This effect is considered difficult to achieve through conventional methods. The 'eddy' effect, where a corridor spirals towards the center of a circle, is also mentioned as an indicator of the formation process.

My Grain Headaches

This section explores peripheral effects associated with crop circles. It notes that unlike transient UFO events, crop circles remain in fields, leading to anecdotal evidence and local myths. The article suggests a need for a 'Strangeness and Probability Index' for crop circle reports.

Headaches and Malaise: Many people reported headaches, dizziness, nausea, and general uneasiness after entering or being near crop circles. While some causes might be mundane, the pervasiveness of these symptoms suggests a potential basis in reality.

Animal Behavior: Strange animal behavior, particularly excessive barking by dogs, was repeatedly reported prior to formation discoveries. Examples include Jenny Skinner's dog and Fred Watmough's dogs becoming agitated.

Geese Behavior: A notable observation involved a flock of Canada geese near the Watmough formation. Groups of geese repeatedly detoured around the formation, even when flying at low altitudes, without showing fear towards people or vehicles. This behavior is presented as a potential clue to the energies associated with crop circles.

Generally Electric

This section reports on electrical failures and anomalies, mostly occurring within three kilometers of the Warner quadruplets. Microwave ovens were frequently affected, with instances of malfunction and even turning on spontaneously. Radar detectors in cars also reportedly activated without cause.

Radio-Telephone Incident: Roy Tetzlaf reported a peculiar radio-telephone incident in Warner, where his radiotelephone repeatedly lost and regained signal when used near the formation.

Into the Mystic

This section delves into paranormal or poltergeist-like effects reported in crop circle areas.

Strange Noise: Jenny Skinner and her daughter-in-law reported hearing a loud, swishing sound, described as like a 'huge, gigantic bird flapping its wings,' the night before their circle formation was discovered. This sound was heard around the time neighborhood dogs were making a commotion. The sound was loud enough to wake the daughter-in-law.

Watmough Formation Experiment: During a nighttime experiment in the Watmough formation, Chad Deetken and two companions experienced a shared phenomenon. After lying in the formation, Chad felt intense muscle tension and dizziness. Independently, his companions reported hearing distinct sounds of footsteps nearby, as if someone were walking on the dry wheat stalks.

Roy Tetzlaf also reported hearing distinct sounds of footsteps when he was in his circles at night. These identical experiences from different locations suggest a potential paranormal aspect to the formations.

Zeitgeist

This section discusses the public reaction and explanations for the crop circle phenomenon in Lethbridge, Alberta. The consensus initially pointed towards UFOs due to sightings of unexplained lights and the appearance of the formations. However, the article notes that some individuals, particularly the 'Alberta Sceptics,' insisted the circles were hoaxes, though they offered no concrete proof or claims of responsibility.

Other explanations included a Fundamentalist preacher who claimed the circles were the work of the Devil, and a sociological explanation related to 'Fear and Swathing.' The article suggests that while the phenomenon is strange, it simply 'is,' and people are affected by it.

Testing

This section details the laboratory tests conducted on crop circle samples. Initial tests for fungi, herbicides, petrochemicals, and nematodes yielded no significant results. More sophisticated tests for radiation are being conducted at a facility in eastern Canada, and samples have also been sent to Dr. Levengood for analysis. The article notes that no new circles had been reported since September, and the situation in Canada has evolved rapidly compared to England.

The Scientific Analysis by Montague Keen

Montague Keen's article discusses the ongoing efforts of the CCCS to prepare for the crop circle season and the challenges in establishing a sympathetic scientific environment. He recounts a setback with initial radioactive isotope detection from US government laboratory analysis of English crop circle samples, where the detected radioactivity was too low for reliable identification.

Keen emphasizes the need for thorough replication trials and independent testing facilities, including blind testing. He highlights the complexities of sampling and examining plants from formations, stressing the importance of agreement among scientists on standardized procedures, including sample handling, drying, and avoiding sampling from suspect circles.

He mentions differing views among scientists regarding the validity of Dr. Levengood's findings on expanded pit holes in cells, questioning whether they are natural products of plant recovery or indicative of something else. Keen concludes that these doubts should be resolved through improved testing in the upcoming summer. The article also notes that short-lived radioactive isotopes were found in samples from the 'Second Dolphin' formation at Firs Farm on August 2, 1991.

Barnfires in the West

This short piece notes a series of barn fires in England that caused significant damage and baffled police. While spontaneous combustion of straw is possible, firemen did not believe it was the cause. The article draws a tenuous parallel between these fires and crop circle phenomena, particularly the Ickleton Mandelbrot imprint that mysteriously caught fire. It speculates whether rising circle energies could lead to spontaneous combustion, but ultimately suggests a more ordinary explanation for the barn fires.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of crop circles, the exploration of peripheral effects (both physical and psychological), and the ongoing debate between genuine phenomena and hoaxes. The magazine, through its editor George Wingfield, maintains a stance of open-minded inquiry, aiming to document and analyze the phenomenon objectively while acknowledging the need for rigorous scientific evidence. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of empirical data and careful investigation, contrasting with sensationalism or premature conclusions. The CCCS is presented as a dedicated organization striving to understand this complex subject.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 3, Number 1
Date: Spring 1992
Publisher: CCCS (Centre for Crop Circle Studies)
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of The Circular, the official publication of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS), delves into the ongoing scientific and metaphysical investigations into the crop circle phenomenon. The magazine features a chairman's speech, articles on research methodologies, scientific findings, and interpretations from various cultural perspectives.

Chairman's Speech: CCCS Annual General Meeting (28th March 1992)

The chairman's speech addresses the challenges faced by the CCCS as a voluntary organisation studying crop circles. He notes the public's often skeptical or hostile perception of the phenomenon, contrasting it with its significance as a paranormal manifestation. The speech highlights the increasing complexity of formations and the inadequacy of mechanistic scientific hypotheses to explain them. It criticizes the media's quick acceptance of the 'hoax' explanation, citing the case of Doug and Dave, and emphasizes the need for an objective, scientific method to distinguish genuine formations from hoaxes.

The chairman details recent scientific progress, including the work of Dr. W.C. Levengood and Kay Larsen on crop samples showing polyembryony and cellular changes, and Marshall Dudley's findings of a radioactive component in soil samples. He also reports on the CCCS's breakthrough in topographical recording, fostering openness and collaboration among researchers. The speech acknowledges the contributions of expert surveyors and aerial photographers, and notes the involvement of professional bodies like the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments and the University of Cambridge Committee for Aerial Photography.

Challenges in data management and publication are discussed, with a restructuring of the data-base and a new editorial policy for The Circular under George Wingfield. The importance of member contributions to fieldwork and information flow is stressed, along with the need for specialized contacts for specific research areas.

Research and Scientific Findings

Several articles and sections focus on the scientific aspects of crop circle research. The need for a uniform sampling procedure is discussed, with a draft procedure prepared by American researchers. The potential for plants in crop formations to exhibit faster germination and growth, even from flattened seeds, is highlighted, as observed by Lefty Levengood.

Dr. W.C. Levengood's examination of crop samples from English formations revealed evidence of polyembryony and cellular changes in the nodes, suggesting the application of short-lived heat, possibly from a microwave oven. Similarly, physicist Marshall Dudley's tests on soil samples from formations at Oak Ridge Laboratories indicated the presence of a radioactive component not found in control samples. The CCCS's future primary targets include the scientific testing of all major formations to establish authenticity.

Interpretations and Cultural Perspectives

The issue explores interpretations of crop circles from native American traditions, particularly the Hopi and Mayan peoples. According to these traditions, humanity is entering a new age, the 'fifth world,' and crop formations are seen as symbols that will help raise consciousness and facilitate this transition. The Hopi believe that the 'Great Spirit' Maasauu instructed their ancestors to leave physical reminders, and the figure of Pahana (the white man) is expected to return to restore balance.

Hunbatz Men, a Mayan daykeeper, states that prophecies predict the completion of this transition by 2013, and that crop formations are replicas of sacred symbols. He suggests that the DNA of plants in crop formations shows genetic changes and that sacred sites like stone circles were designed to alter brainwave frequencies. The 'tree' formation and the double-headed 'snail' formation are interpreted as symbolic of the double helix and the 'Tree of Life,' respectively.

Nicholas Black Elk, a Sioux Holy Man, is quoted on the sacredness of the circle, symbolizing oneness and the cosmic consciousness. The issue connects these interpretations to the idea of a 'worldwide harmonic convergence' and the need to reopen sacred sites.

CCCS Organization and Activities

The magazine details the organizational structure and activities of the CCCS. It outlines the roles of council members, including the chairman Michael Green, secretary Barbara Davies, and treasurer Lucy Pringle. The importance of branch contacts in disseminating information and organizing local events is emphasized.

Publications by the CCCS are mentioned, including "Crop Circle Classification" by Patrick Palgrave-Moore and "1991 - Scientific Evidence for the Crop Circle Phenomenon" by Montague Keen. A guidebook for field investigators is also in preparation.

The CCCS's public relations efforts include participation in the Equinox television program and a video produced by Circlevision. Lectures and events organized by local branches and international collaborations are also highlighted.

Publications and Resources

The issue includes advertisements and information about related publications. "Scientific Evidence for the Crop Circle Phenomenon" by Montague Keen is available for purchase. A documentary titled "Crop Circle Communiqué" by Circlevision is advertised, featuring aerial sequences and UFO footage. A new book, "Spuren im Korn" (Tracks in the Corn), published in Germany, is also mentioned, with an English edition planned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of crop circles, the challenges of research methodology, the exploration of metaphysical and spiritual interpretations, and the organizational efforts of the CCCS to unite researchers and disseminate information. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific inquiry combined with an openness to exploring the deeper, potentially non-mechanistic, aspects of the phenomenon, while also acknowledging and addressing public skepticism and the issue of hoaxes.

This issue of 'The Circular' (Volume 3, Number 1) focuses on crop circle phenomena, with a prominent article by Roland Pargeter titled 'The Lockeridge Whale Formation: The Underlays'. The magazine also includes a collection of letters and articles discussing various aspects of crop circle research, including hoaxing theories, scientific interpretations, and potential government involvement.

The Lockeridge Whale Formation: The Underlays

Roland Pargeter, a crop circle investigator, presents his findings on the Lockeridge Whale formation that appeared on July 30th, 1991. Contrary to the view that underlying lines of crop indicate a hoax, Pargeter argues that these lines are evidence of a complex sequence of formation, possibly involving multiple agencies working simultaneously. He uses a diagram to illustrate how 'underlays' of flattened crop moved in various directions, forming intricate patterns that would be difficult to hoax. Pargeter suggests that the phenomenon is learning and evolving, effectively creating its own 'tramlines' in some cases.

Building Bridges: The Polarization in Crop Circle Research

Dr. John Cole, in an article shared by J.H. Loudon, discusses the "polarization" within crop circle research between 'scientists' and 'parascientists'. He contrasts the mechanistic, reductionist approach of Newtonian physics with the more holistic and probabilistic views emerging from quantum physics and relativity. Cole argues that the mechanistic approach is inadequate for understanding nature at atomic and cosmic scales, and that a more integrated approach is needed, linking scientific inquiry with subjective experience and ancient knowledge.

Evidence of Hoaxing at Cheesefoot Head?

D. T. comments on Ken Brown's article, noting the presence of thin underlying crop lines in formations in the Avebury area in 1991. While acknowledging that these lines could be evidence of human interference, D. T. questions whether it truly matters if formations are made by people or not, suggesting that the artistic and thought-provoking nature of the shapes is paramount.

Deja Vu: The Recurring Formation

J.H. Loudon reports on a peculiar recurrence of a crop formation at Cheesefoot Head, which reappeared in a field of turnips after initially appearing in barley. The article notes that the secondary growth of barley amongst the turnips was 'noticeably stunted' within the old formation's boundary. While a prosaic explanation involving seeds being knocked into the soil by trampling feet is offered, Loudon finds it difficult to reconcile with the precise nature of the phenomenon and suggests it points to formations originating from below the ground.

Verses by an Anonymous Aviator

This section features a poem dedicated to Mrs. Beth Davis, describing an aviator's surprise at seeing a large, symmetrical shape in a field of corn, initially puzzling over its origin before realizing it was a 'Mandelbrot'. The poem concludes with the aviator burning the 'Mandelbrot' after a shocking realization of its shape.

Close Encounters with Network Contributors

Bob Kingsley presents a round-up of letters from readers. One letter details a strange incident in Westmorland in 1972 where a dead dog, with all its hair removed except for a few patches, was found near a circular area of whipped grass. Another correspondent shares an article from 'Warminster UFO News' about 'grapeshot circles' found in the UK, suggesting the phenomenon may predate the 1980s.

A Crop Circle Conspiracy

Armen Victorian investigates the events surrounding TODAY newspaper's September 1991 exposé on 'Doug and Dave', claiming they were responsible for numerous crop circle hoaxes. Victorian raises questions about TODAY's conduct, including the alleged deception of researcher Pat Delgado and the use of a shadowy entity called 'MBF Services'. The article details the difficulties Victorian faced in obtaining information from TODAY and its associated entities, suggesting a possible government disinformation campaign.

Telephone Conversation with Lloyd Turner

This section includes a transcript of a recorded telephone conversation between A.V. and Lloyd Turner, Assistant Editor of TODAY newspaper, regarding 'MBF Services'. Turner describes MBF as a freelance agency handling copyright and connecting people to reporters, but remains evasive about its specific nature and operations.

Government and CIA Involvement?

Further investigations by the author reveal that the Ministry of Agriculture has a branch dealing with the agricultural implications of the phenomenon. Enquiries to the Ministry of Defence and the CIA regarding funding or research into crop circles yielded responses that were either dismissive or indicated that any information held would not significantly contribute to public understanding.

MBF Consultancy and MBF Services

Research into 'MBF Consultancy', a company registered in Shepton Mallet and directed by Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Clifford, reveals that their firm handles defence research contracts. While they deny involvement with crop circles, the investigation notes a significant financial gain in Dr. Clifford's career, attributed to lucrative defence contracts. No direct link was found between MBF Consultancy and MBF Services.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a growing debate within the crop circle community, highlighting the tension between those who seek rational, scientific explanations and those who embrace more intuitive or parascientific perspectives. There is a strong undercurrent of suspicion regarding media reporting and potential government cover-ups or disinformation campaigns. The editorial stance appears to favor open-mindedness, encouraging a rational yet comprehensive approach to understanding the phenomenon, and questioning the motives behind sensationalist reporting. The magazine also seems to advocate for greater scientific engagement with the subject, criticizing the lack of peer-reviewed research and the prevailing commercialism within the field.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 3, Number 1
Date: March 1992
Publisher: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be related to crop circle studies organizations.
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of The Circular focuses heavily on the phenomenon of crop circles, particularly a developing story involving alleged 'golden discs' found in Germany and a response from the newspaper TODAY regarding its reporting on similar incidents.

The Strange Affair of the Golden Plates

The lead article, "The Strange Affair of the Golden Plates," details an intriguing event in Grasdorf, Germany. A young man, described as having a walrus moustache and wearing painter's overalls, used a metal detector and spade to unearth metallic discs from three corn circles. These discs, approximately 25-30 cm in diameter and heavy as iron, were found at a depth of 40 cm. The man then vanished, leaving his spade and handkerchiefs behind. Farmer Werner Harenberg, whose field was used, expressed surprise that his plough did not reach that depth. The incident attracted numerous visitors to the field, and Harenberg's worker, Cemal K., managed to photograph the mysterious visitor. Later, farmer Harenberg received an anonymous phone call from someone claiming to have found a 'sensational treasure' of golden discs with inscriptions similar to those in the wheatfield, and expressing worry about the police. The farmer also received photos of these discs in the post. The article notes that the farmer has introduced an entrance fee to his field due to the influx of visitors.

TODAY Newspaper's Response to a Complaint

A letter from Lloyd Turner, Assistant Editor of TODAY Newspaper, addresses a complaint made to the Press Complaints Commission regarding stories about corn circles published in September 1991. Turner states that the newspaper never intended to play a hoax and reported what the two 'hoaxers' and an expert, Mr. Delgado, had to say. He mentions taking the hoaxers to a field in Kent where they created a corn circle design, witnessed by the field owner and a local farmer. Mr. Delgado was then asked to inspect the field and declared it a genuine corn circle, despite TODAY's initial suggestion it might be another hoax. Turner asserts that the newspaper reported the views of both the hoaxers and the so-called experts. He warns that the hoaxers might attempt similar deceptions as summer approaches, especially with those who insist on hidden meanings in crop circles. He clarifies that MBF Services, mentioned as copyright owners, stands for Marchurst Barn Farm, owned by him, and was involved in setting up the corn circle exercise, not any hoax or sub-plot. Turner concludes by stating the newspaper and its journalists acted with integrity within Press Complaints Commission guidelines.

Editor's Rebuttal and Further Questions

The Editor of The Circular responds to Lloyd Turner's letter, finding his explanation of MBF Services unconvincing and suggesting TODAY is still withholding the full truth about the 'Doug & Dave' story. The Editor cites a letter from Pat Delgado, who disputes Turner's claim that TODAY considered the circles a hoax, stating they never hinted at such a belief. The Editor also notes that Lloyd Turner is a friend of Mr. Patmore, on whose farm (Mote Farm, Ightham) a bogus crop formation was made. It is mentioned that '10-12 men' were involved in creating the fake circle on September 5th, possibly including Brough, Turner, and Doug and Dave, with assistance from TVS for a helicopter. The Editor questions why no film was made of the creation of the formation, suggesting it was because several people were involved and did not want their identities known. The Editor also challenges the meaning of 'MBF' in 'Marchurst Barn Farm', suggesting it might not stand for 'farm' and that 'Marchurst Barn' is a house, not a farm, in a converted tied housing estate.

Translated Items from German Newspaper

Two extracts from the German newspaper NEUE PRESSE are included. The first, dated August 18, 1991, reports on the mystery visitor in Grasdorf who unearthed the metallic discs. The second, from the following week, details the anonymous phone call received by farmer Harenberg about the 'golden objects'.

Other Articles and Advertisements

Earth Mysteries List: A comprehensive list of books available for purchase, covering topics such as UFOs, paranormal encounters, ancient sites, and mystery animals. Titles include "Alien Animals," "The Secret Country," "Earth Lights Revelation," and "The Dimensions of Paradise."

Jupiter Powerwear Advertisement: An advertisement for "Crop 'Circle' T-Shirts and Sweatshirts" with designs featuring crop circle imagery.

Centre for Crop Circle Studies Events: Announcements for two events:
1. An evening lecture: "The Crop Circle Enigma" at The Maltings, Farnham, on Thursday, April 16, 1992, with Guest Speaker Rupert Sheldrake and Lecturer Ralph Noyes.
2. First International Conference: "Crop Circles, The Enigma For The Nineties" to be held in Winchester, U.K. on July 17th, 18th, and 19th, 1992, featuring international speakers and aerial films of formations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mystery and controversy surrounding crop circles, the potential for hoaxes versus genuine phenomena, and the role of the media in reporting such events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning official explanations and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions, as evidenced by the Editor's challenging response to the TODAY newspaper's account and the inclusion of various perspectives and reports. There is a clear interest in exploring the 'enigma' of crop circles and related phenomena, as indicated by the advertised lectures and conferences.