The Circular - 1992 Vol 3 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: THE CIRCULAR
Issue: Volume 3 Number 2
Date: July 1992
Publisher: THE JOURNAL OF THE CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES
Price: £2.50

This issue of The Circular, the quarterly crop circle magazine, delves into the 1992 crop circle season, addressing the return of formations after a period of doubt and skepticism. The cover features a striking aerial photograph of a crop circle formation with the headline "Return of the Circles in '92." The magazine includes articles on specific formations, scientific research, and the ongoing debate surrounding the origin of these phenomena.

Introduction

George Wingfield's introduction addresses the prevailing skepticism and potential media assaults on crop circle research, drawing parallels to past hoaxes like the Doug and Dave scam. He emphasizes that the "some hoaxing means everything is a hoax" fallacy is being disproved by the evolving nature of the circles themselves. Wingfield highlights the CCCS's focus on "Project Argus" for positive scientific results, involving American colleagues in crop and soil sampling in Wiltshire. He discusses the preliminary findings of Dr. W.C. (Lefty) Levengood regarding organic effects in affected crops, suggesting high temperatures acting for very short durations. Wingfield expresses his confidence in Levengood as a meticulous scientist and notes that these effects cannot be reproduced by mechanical means. He criticizes those who disregard scientific evidence due to lingering paranoia from past hoaxes and questions the logistics of a hypothetical army of unseen hoaxers. The introduction also touches upon the 1992 formations, noting that while some are scruffy, fine formations have been reported from other regions. The upcoming CCCS international conference in Winchester is mentioned as a significant event for the field of cereology.

The Return of the Circles in '92

George Wingfield reports on the resurgence of crop circles in Wessex during 1992. He notes that the season began with plain circles and groups, mentioning a 72 ft diameter circle in oil-seed rape at Sutton Scotney with a unique swirled pattern. Wingfield discusses the atmosphere of suspicion that often leads to early circles being dismissed as hoaxes, even when evidence suggests otherwise. He points out that early season circles are often rougher and less geometrically perfect than those appearing later in the summer. The article highlights the phenomenon of "add-ons" appearing on existing formations and mentions examples at Chilbolton and Lockeridge. The "Brain" formation near Froxfield from August 1991 is recalled. The Lockeridge field yielded impressive circles, including one with a long tail and a "signature" resembling the early Christian fish symbol. Despite scientific findings inconsistent with human-made effects, skeptics still pronounced it a hoax. The Overtown Triangle formation, appearing on June 4th, is described as a magnificent set of three circles with tails and a prominent "fish" signature, suggesting intelligent design. Wingfield counters the "footprint under the laid crop" argument as a common suspicious sign, differentiating it from visitor tracks. He notes the prevalence of plain, ringed, tailed, and grapeshot formations, with pictograms appearing later in the season.

Baltic Farm Incident

George Wingfield recounts his visit to Baltic Farm on June 12th, where a large flattened oval and several smaller circles were observed. Despite the formation appearing rough and straggly with existing tracks, the farmer insisted no circles were present the previous evening. In a nearby field, a line of eight circles in green wheat looked more promising. Wingfield notes that the circles crossed tramlines and changed direction, with some isolated from the tramlines. He discusses the possibility of circles appearing during daylight, which is rare, and contrasts this with a photograph by Busty Taylor showing a partly drawn oval outline, suggesting an abandoned hoax attempt. This raises the question of how genuine circles could appear alongside suspected hoaxes, and the article questions the feasibility of a large-scale hoax operation given the bending of plant nodes observed.

Signs of Hoax

This section discusses the challenges in identifying hoaxes, noting that even when a formation is suspected of being a hoax, other circles in the vicinity may appear genuine. The article questions the effort involved in producing complex formations and the bending of plant nodes within a short timeframe, suggesting that a total hoax scenario is far-fetched. It concludes that the crop circle enigma remains curious, with phenomena changing yearly. While 1992 circles may lack the symmetry of 1991 masterpieces, the article suggests that judging genuineness should not solely rely on aesthetics. The advice given is to observe closely, keep an open mind, and collect samples for scientific examination.

Progress with CCCS Circles Research Preparations for 1992

Montague Keen, CCCS Crop and Soil Research Coordinator, outlines the preparations for the 1992 research program. He mentions the upcoming "Cereologist's Circle-making Contest" as a potential source of lessons for identifying fake circles. Keen describes the logistical challenges of coordinating researchers, including biologists, physicists, and soil scientists, and the need for specialized equipment. He highlights the development of a Field Guide to aid researchers. The article touches upon the controversial nature of revealing methods for detecting hoaxes, with a majority arguing against keeping such knowledge secret. Keen emphasizes the importance of open scientific investigation and criticizes the secrecy surrounding the field.

Detecting Hoaxes

This section details the difficulties in distinguishing genuine crop circles from hoaxes. It mentions that two specific sections in the Field Guide caused delays: one dealing with distinguishing genuine from false formations. The article argues that revealing methods for detecting fraudulent activities is not only beneficial but also necessary, countering the idea that such knowledge should be kept secret by a select few.

The Sampling Problem

This section addresses the significant challenge of finding suitable volunteers for scientific sampling of crop circles. The ideal volunteer would have expertise in botany, soil science, and plant pathology, along with laboratory equipment and the availability to act quickly. The article notes that universities are often unable to provide timely assistance due to academic schedules and administrative procedures, and that their services come at a cost.

Operation Argus

Operation Argus is presented as a complex and expensive scientific investigation into the effects of crop circles on soil and plants. CCCS is dedicating significant resources to this project, which aims to be the first of its kind. The investigation, coordinated by Michael Chorost, involves collaboration with professors from the University of Nevada at Las Vegas and is partly funded by an American businessman. A key objective is to sample soils inside and outside formations to evaluate radioactivity. Previous research had identified potential radioactive isotopes, and Operation Argus will feature on-the-spot facilities for measurement, utilizing advanced equipment.

Meetings in London

A schedule of upcoming events in London is provided, including a post-mortem of the Crop Circle Making Competition, presentations on latest events and new theories, scientific developments in Project Argus, and discussions on surveillance techniques. Dr. Terence Meaden is scheduled to present his latest theories on crop circles, and Michael Chorost will discuss Project Argus findings. Rupert Sheldrake will host a post-mortem on the competition, and Montague Keen will lead an open evening.

The Brain, Or Serpent, At Froxfield August 1991

Jurgen Kronig, London correspondent for the German newspaper Die Zeit, recounts his discovery of the "Brain" (or "Serpent") circle formation near Froxfield in August 1991. He describes the formation as a free-flowing pattern of passageways evolving from small circles, noting its sinuous nature and strong dowsable energy counterflows. Kronig, accompanied by helicopter pilot Nick Bailey, was fascinated by the completely new and exciting pictogram. They observed that the crop formation appeared untouched, with no visible marks or footprints. The article notes that another small circle was found at the edge of the field, and later, a different pictogram in the shape of a turtle appeared in an adjacent field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Circular consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific investigation into crop circles, while acknowledging the persistent challenges posed by skepticism and hoaxing. The editorial stance supports the idea of open scientific inquiry and the sharing of knowledge, as exemplified by Project Argus and the critique of secrecy. There is a clear effort to move beyond anecdotal evidence towards empirical data, with a focus on organic effects, soil analysis, and radioactivity. The magazine highlights the evolving nature of crop circle formations and the difficulty in definitively proving their origin, whether human-made or otherwise. The overall tone suggests a commitment to exploring the phenomenon with an open mind, while maintaining a critical and scientific approach. The recurring theme is the ongoing enigma of crop circles and the quest for understanding, despite the challenges and controversies surrounding the subject.

This issue of "The Circular" (Volume 3, Number 2) is a magazine focused on crop circles and related phenomena, published by the CCCS Sussex Branch. It features articles, reviews, letters, and information about upcoming events and resources within the crop circle research community.

Feature Article: The 'Brain' Formation

The lead article describes an investigation into a complex crop circle formation, dubbed the "brain" formation, discovered near Chicago. The authors, who visited the site, were impressed by its complexity and accuracy, noting that the wheat stems were cut at approximately 22 inches with blackened surfaces, and that the pathways were precisely laid, sometimes ending abruptly. They found it virtually impossible to imagine such a formation being created by a sophisticated ground-based hoaxer. The formation was only visible for a short time before the field was harvested. The article also touches upon the potential meaning of the formation, with "brain" and "serpent" being suggested interpretations.

Review of "The Summer of 1991: Crop Circles"

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a response by Michael Chorost to a review of his article "The Summer of 1991 Crop Circles" by Paul Fuller, editor of "Cropwatcher". Chorost defends his scientific investigation, which involved crop and soil sampling, against Fuller's criticisms. He argues that his work marked a historic moment in cereology by engaging with raw figures published by a rival. Chorost refutes Fuller's statistical analysis, particularly the use of a "mean control" reading, arguing that natural variations in soil radioactivity make such a mean meaningless. He presents data from a crop circle near Chicago showing significantly higher radioactive emissions within the circle compared to the surrounding area, suggesting this is a key indicator of authenticity. Chorost also criticizes Fuller's reliance on eyewitness testimony and his tendency to dismiss formations as hoaxes without sufficient evidence, particularly regarding the Barbury Castle formation.

Scintillation Counts from a Crop Circle Near Chicago, Illinois

A table presents scintillation counts from soil samples taken from a crop circle near Chicago, estimated to have formed in late September 1991. The counts for samples taken inside the circle (Batch 1, 2, 3) were significantly higher than those taken outside (Batch 4, 5, 6), indicating potential anomalous radiation.

Barbury Castle Triangle (17/7/91)

Chorost further defends his analysis of the Barbury Castle formation, contrasting his nuanced approach with CERES's definitive declaration of it being a hoax. He highlights that his own analysis found the formation presented "a perplexing challenge" and required further investigation, rather than being summarily dismissed. He criticizes the reliance on vague eyewitness accounts and the lack of published, verifiable data by some researchers.

CCCS International Conference in Winchester, July 1992

Details are provided for the first CCCS International Conference, titled "Crop Circles, The Enigma for the Nineties," to be held in Winchester in July 1992. The two-day program includes talks by international speakers on various aspects of crop circles, including scientific evidence, structure, physiological effects, and the metaphysical dimension. An excursion to visit local crop formations is also planned, weather and accessibility permitting.

Book Review: "Crop Circles. Conclusive Evidence?" by Pat Delgado

Brian Grist reviews Pat Delgado's book, "Crop Circles. Conclusive Evidence?" He notes the book's "squared" format, common for titles with significant photographic content. Grist expresses disappointment that the book does not delve deeper into some of the more controversial episodes in Delgado's involvement with crop circles, such as the "WEARENOTALONE" hoax or the "Doug & Dave" saga. He criticizes the book for its short captions, variable photo quality, and for failing to identify suspected or proven hoaxes, which he sees as a "withholding of vital evidence." Grist concludes that the book is "profoundly disappointing" and offers little of real interest beyond pictures.

Music for Crop Circles

A section promotes "MUSIC FOR CROP CIRCLES" by Andy Thomas and David Swingland, described as "10 soundscapes intended to convey the sense of awe and mystery of the crop formation phenomenon." The product is available for purchase from the CCCS Sussex Branch.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters from readers offer diverse perspectives:

• Chris Green (Ingatestone, Essex) discusses the nature of crop circles, suggesting some are hoaxes encouraged by newspapers to spread misinformation. He wonders if the migration of circles in complexity and location could be a sign of "End Times" and questions science's ability to explain the phenomenon, referencing the "whirlwind" theory and biblical passages.
• Andy Thomas (Sussex CCCS Branch) raises concerns about the CCCS's perceived secrecy regarding crop circle locations, arguing that information should be more accessible to members and the public. He believes that restricting access hinders research and the collective understanding of the phenomenon, and that the "us and them" situation is detrimental.
• George Bishop (Cornwall) expresses disquiet about the CCCS's data handling, suggesting that valuable material may be lost or filtered. He urges the organization to broaden its horizons, consider all theories, and cooperate more openly, emphasizing the importance of sharing evidence rather than hoarding it.

Other Sections

• The Circle Informer: An advertisement for a new crop circle magazine, detailing its features and subscription information.
• CCCS Members Hotline: Information on a hotline service available for members.
• Local Branches: A note encouraging members to join or establish local branches for better PR and groundwork.
• Photographs: A call for good crop circle photographs for the CCCS archives, with options for donation or sale.
• ENIGMAS: An advertisement for a magazine covering paranormal topics, including UFOs and hauntings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that crop circles are a genuine phenomenon requiring serious scientific investigation, while acknowledging the existence of hoaxes. There is a strong emphasis on data collection, analysis, and the importance of sharing information within the research community. The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry and a critical examination of evidence, often contrasting this with what is perceived as secrecy or dogmatism within certain organizations (like CERES). The magazine also highlights the community aspect of crop circle research, encouraging participation through local branches and the sharing of information and experiences.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 3, Number 2
Date: Spring 1993
Publisher: CCCS (Civilian Centre for Crop Circle Studies)
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2.50
ISSN: 0960-9702

This issue of The Circular focuses on the perplexing auditory phenomena associated with crop circles, the ongoing debate about their origins, and investigations into specific incidents. It features articles by Colin Andrews, Stanley Morcom, Maria Ward, and Lucy Pringle, alongside correspondence from readers.

The Trilling Noise: The Circles Sound: The Whole Story

This extensive article by Colin Andrews addresses the controversial claim that the mysterious 'trilling noise' recorded at crop circle sites, such as Operation White Crow, is merely the song of a Grasshopper Warbler. Andrews recounts his personal experiences and presents evidence from various analyses, including those conducted by the British Library of Wildlife Sound and Jet Propulsion Laboratories. These analyses reportedly found differences between the bird's song and the recorded circle noise, suggesting an 'artificial' source and noting similarities to sounds reported during UFO activity. The article also touches upon the possibility of psychic interaction and the unique characteristics of the sound, such as its directional nature and interference with electronic equipment, which are inconsistent with birdsong.

Ken Brown, a CCCS member, is presented as the proponent of the Grasshopper Warbler theory, which Andrews dismisses as an attempt to 'smear' and distort facts. The article includes a comparison of sound analyses, highlighting discrepancies between the Gropper's full-song and the circle trilling noise, particularly in tone and density.

D & D Encounter

This section features a letter from Julie Varden (now Wakefield) recounting an encounter with individuals named Doug and Dave at Cheesefoot Head. The letter discusses their theories on crop circle hoaxing, with Doug suggesting it was a hoax for financial gain and Dave proposing earth energy as a cause. Doug's skepticism extended to international crop circles, which he believed were also hoaxes. The account highlights Doug's assertive demeanor and Dave's less involved participation. The letter also touches upon the authenticity of petal formations, with Nick asserting the genuineness of the first one he discovered.

No Pictogram at Highland, Kansas

Rosemary Guiley investigates an alleged US government cover-up of a pictogram in Highland, Kansas, as described in Pat Delgado's book. Mr. Delgado claimed a partially destroyed pictogram was found, with government agents attempting to obliterate it. However, investigations by Maurice Schwalm, Midwest Coordinator for the Centre for North American Crop Circle Studies, found no evidence to support these claims. Interviews with local residents, including farmers and law enforcement, revealed that a large area of a farmer's field was ploughed as part of a murder investigation, not a pictogram cover-up. The article debunks the CIA involvement theory, citing inconsistencies and the lack of corroborating evidence. It suggests the story may have arisen from a mix of factual elements, including the murder investigation and local youths' activities.

Characteristics of the Crop Flattening Force

Stanley Morcom, an expert on crop formation survey and analysis, details his observations on the mechanics of crop circle creation. He describes a 'flattening force' that appears to have a flat front and back, capable of creating square-ended components and concentric rings. Morcom theorizes that the force must be able to switch on and off to form different shapes and that the lay of the crop changes from rotational to radial as the force moves towards the center of a circle. He discusses the width of the flattening force, noting variations in different formations, and suggests that 'pulsed' operation, evidenced by radial lines ('dartboard' marks), is a key characteristic. Morcom also explores the concept of the force's speed influencing the lay pattern, proposing that variations in speed could explain different types of formations, including spiral swirls and radial lays. He concludes that while these observations are speculative, they prompt further research into the nature and operation of the crop flattening force, leaning towards a non-hoax hypothesis but acknowledging the need for more evidence.

More Headaches!

Lucy Pringle, CCCS Treasurer, recounts a visit to two early 1991 insectograms in Hampshire, UK. She describes an unusual energy experienced at the Upham Insectogram and a healing formation at Cheesefoot Head. Pringle also details an experience of finding a circle using dowsing rods after feeling a 'tight band' around her head, suggesting that dowsing can be effective for locating circles not visible from the ground. She humorously notes her own unreliability as a navigator but expresses optimism that the expedition helped improve her 'bump of location'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently grapples with the unexplained aspects of crop circles, particularly the auditory phenomena and the physical formation process. There is a clear editorial stance against simplistic explanations, such as attributing the 'trilling noise' solely to birds, and a skepticism towards claims of hoaxes without thorough investigation. The magazine encourages open-mindedness and further research into the phenomenon, while also critically examining specific incidents and debunking unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the Highland, Kansas pictogram case. The CCCS, as the publisher, appears to be a central organization for research and discussion within the crop circle community, with contributors actively involved in fieldwork and analysis.

Title: The Circular
Volume: 3
Issue: 2
Date: April 22, 1992 - May 23, 1992

This issue of The Circular, published by Gateway Books, delves into the burgeoning 1992 crop circle season, capturing the palpable excitement among members of the CCCS (Civilian Crop Circle Study) and the wider cereological community. The magazine also features new book releases and information about related research groups.

CIRCLEMANIA by Gloria Wingfield

Gloria Wingfield's personal account vividly portrays the overwhelming nature of being deeply involved in crop circle research. She describes the relentless barrage of telephone calls starting at 7 a.m., often from overseas, seeking the latest updates. The correspondence is equally demanding, filled with diagrams, photographs, videos, and soil samples. Wingfield humorously notes how family and friends have given up sending letters, knowing they will go unread. The arrival of a new pictograms/circle necessitates immediate investigation, often involving a team of researchers who gather information on its discovery, swelling of nodes, swirl direction, and proximity to other circles. The day is packed with interviews, farm visits, and animated discussions, often extending late into the evening. Even after a long day, the work continues with messages on the answering machine and faxes, and the five-hour time difference with the East Coast of America often leads to calls at inconvenient times. The author concludes with a humorous self-description as a 'manic cereologist' whose peace is only broken by the dog or the need to stumble to bed.

SURREY CCCS 'TEMS' GROUP

This section details the formation of the 'TEMS' (The Enigma of the Mysterious Structures) Group in January 1992, covering the Middlesex and Surrey areas. The group emerged from a private meeting in Hampton on October 6, 1991, where Stanley Morcom shared insights into underlying patterns in crop formations. TEMS maintains close ties with the Essex Branch of the CCCS, Crop Watcher, The Cerealogist, Contact, ASSAP, and BUFORA. They organized a crop circle afternoon on May 31, featuring a talk and videos, and plan shared light-aircraft flights and field trips. TEMS will also advise on whether formations are in 'sensitive' areas. A rumoured first circle of the year, 72 feet across with two satellites, appeared in oil-seed rape in the Sutton Scotney area in late April, immediately sparking controversy about its origin. Lionel Beer is listed as a contact for the group.

DONATIONS MADE TO CCCS FOR PERIOD 22/4/92 TO 23/5/92

A list of donations received by the CCCS between April 22 and May 23, 1992, totaling £241.00, is provided, with individual donors and amounts listed.

New Publications from GATEWAY BOOKS

Gateway Books, located in Wellow, Bath, offers a range of informed and up-to-date cereological publications:

• CIPHERS IN THE CROPS: The Fractal & Geometric Circles of 1991 Edited by Beth Davis, this book explores the shift in crop circle phenomena in 1991, focusing on the 'scientific ciphers' like the Mandelbrot, Barbury Castle, and the Serpent. It aims to stimulate a more thoughtful approach to deciphering these formations. It features 16 colour photos, is 88 pages, and costs £5.95.

• CROP CIRCLES - HARBINGERS OF WORLD CHANGE Edited by Alick Bartholomew, this paperback examines the meaning and significance of crop circles. It reports on the dramatic shifts in complexity and variety of formations in 1991 and presents radical holographic ideas and speculations about their wider world context. It includes 67 colour and 51 b/w illustrations, is 192 pages, and costs £9.95.

• THE CROP CIRCLE ENIGMA Edited by Ralph Noyes, this book is presented as an introductory guide covering questions raised by crop circles. It traces their history, mechanisms, myths, and metaphysics. It has received praise for being a comprehensive and thought-provoking appraisal. It contains 68 colour and 62 b/w illustrations, is 192 pages, and costs £9.95.

• CROP CIRCLE CALENDAR 1993 A 12" square calendar featuring beautiful photos of crop circles from the Celtic Cross to the Mandelbrot, with photos by various photographers. It includes a monthly calendar and costs £6.96 (or £6.00 for CCCS members), available from August 1, 1992.

• CROP CIRCLE POSTERS Available in 1991 series (350x490mm) featuring Barbury Castle and Mandelbrot, and 1990 series (490x680mm) with various locations. Posters cost £1.95 each (or £1.60 for two or more).

• CROP CIRCLE POSTCARDS Two sets of eight different cards from 1990 and 1991 are available for £2.50 per set.

Orders can be placed through Gateway Books via mail, phone (0225-835127), or fax (0225-840012).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intense activity and public interest surrounding the 1992 crop circle season, the challenges of research and communication, and the promotion of new literature and research groups in the field of cereology. The editorial stance appears to be one of enthusiastic engagement with the phenomenon, providing detailed accounts of research efforts, community activities, and informative publications. There is a clear effort to document and analyze the crop circle phenomenon, encouraging deeper inquiry and understanding.