The Circular - 1996 No 26

Magazine Overview

Title: THE CIRCULAR
Issue: 26
Date: Autumn 1996
Publisher: CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES
Price: £2.95

This issue of The Circular, the quarterly journal of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, focuses on the remarkable 1996 crop circle season and related research and events.

Editorial

The editorial welcomes members to the Autumn edition and addresses recent changes in council and contact addresses. It reassures members of the council's commitment and outlines a new editorial policy to refrain from "character assassination and political filibustering," focusing instead on the dissemination of information on crop phenomena. The editor expresses concern about the age of some queries and urges members to ensure they are up-to-date with their membership. The editorial also highlights the resurgence of interest in crop formations, evidenced by the success of the Glastonbury Symposium, and emphasizes the importance of membership for the magazine's continued production. It mentions John Sayer's booklet on crop circle listings and the need for accuracy in future listings. The editor also notes the distinction between genuine crop circles and "untidy and uncohesive patches of flattened crop."

Key Articles and Features

Putting "BLT" on the Hot Spot: Questions & Answers on the Biophysical Research

This section, written by the Editor, introduces a Q&A feature with Nancy Talbott of BLT (Biophysical Research Laboratory). Talbott will answer reader questions about BLT's procedures and findings. The editor poses initial questions regarding "Magic Bends," cell malformation as a defensive plant mechanism, and the potential effect of solar radiation on isotope levels in crop circles. Readers are encouraged to submit their questions to the editor for forwarding to Nancy Talbott.

A Change of Season - An Article by Stuart Dike

Stuart Dike reflects on the 1996 crop circle season, describing it as "exceptional" in terms of the size and beauty of the patterns, leading to a return of public interest. He notes the increased enthusiasm and research since the launch of the Crop Circle Connector Internet Page in June 1995. Dike highlights key formations of the season, including an early circle in Lancashire, a petal design near Silbury Hill, a "Tudor Rose" formation at Goodworth Clatford, and the highly significant "DNA" formation at Alton Barnes, which resembled a Double Helix. He also mentions formations at East Field near Alton Barnes and the "Julia Set" (a 151-circle formation) near Stonehenge as milestones. The article touches upon the link between human experiences and crop circles, and the positive reaction from farmers, facilitating access to fields. The author expresses hope that the 1996 season marks a revival for the phenomenon.

Receiving the Messages of the Crop Circles - Molly Harper

Molly Harper discusses the urgent spiritual messages she believes are conveyed by crop circles, viewing them as a "wake-up call" for humanity and the planet. She emphasizes the need for intuitive understanding, complementing logical analysis. Harper outlines a personal experiment involving tuning into crop circle photographs using sensory methods: seeing (design, movement, colours), hearing (music, voices, nature sounds), and feeling (energy flow, time). She provides examples from the "Pleiades" and "Infinity" formations. Harper suggests that this intuitive approach allows access to information and spiritual messages, fostering a sense of connection and "inner knowing." She posits that a central message of the crop circle phenomenon is that "we are not alone" and that these formations help us play our part in the universal order. The article concludes by stating that data collecting is no longer sufficient, and a deeper understanding of the circle makers' messages is needed.

Do You Really Know Your Crop?

This article aims to educate readers on identifying different types of crops commonly used in formations. It explains that "Corn" is a generic term for Wheat, Barley, and Oats in the UK, while "Cereal" is a broader term. The article details the characteristics of grass, rape (canola), barley, wheat, oats, and maize, noting that formations are rarer in oats and maize. It also mentions a reported, but unconfirmed, instance of circles in potatoes. The author encourages readers to send plant samples for identification if they encounter formations in unfamiliar crops.

1996 Glastonbury Symposium: Investigating Crop Circles and The Signs of Our Times

Ray Cox reviews the sixth annual Glastonbury Symposium, describing it as a convivial and fraternal event. The symposium leaned towards intuitive and spiritual presentations. Key events included a coach tour visiting formations near Martock, Stonehenge, and Alton Barnes. Speakers included Colin Andrews, who appealed for open-mindedness from skeptics and discussed the "Julia Set" as a symbol. David Percy presented on Mars/Avebury connections and their correlation to Stonehenge. Dr. Chet Snow spoke on "Signs of the Times, Crop Circles and Native Peoples Prophecies." Other talks covered "The Descent of the Divine," the sacred geometry of crop circles, and etheric formative forces. The review highlights the blend of scientific and intuitive perspectives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis and interpretation of crop circle formations, the research methods employed (both scientific and intuitive), and the spiritual or symbolic messages perceived to be conveyed by the formations. There is a strong emphasis on the 1996 season as a significant period for the phenomenon. The editorial stance promotes open-mindedness, scientific rigor where applicable, and a focus on disseminating information about crop circles. The CCCS is presented as an organization dedicated to understanding and sharing knowledge about crop phenomena, encouraging membership and active participation.

Title: The Circular
Issue: #26
Date: Autumn 1996
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The Circular, dated Autumn 1996, presents a comprehensive overview of crop circle phenomena and related research, alongside a forward-looking discussion on the internet and its potential implications. The magazine features a detailed "Provisional Formation Listing 1996" which documents numerous crop circle occurrences across the UK and internationally, providing dates, locations, descriptions, and sometimes specific grid references.

Key Articles and Features

Provisional Formation Listing 1996

This extensive list details crop formations reported throughout 1996. It begins with the "first UK formation of the year" near Girton in Cambridgeshire on May 11th, a canola circle with a sweeping tail. Subsequent entries document formations in various locations, including Hants, Wilts, Oxon, Lancs, Cambs, Leics, Salop, Berks, Cornwall, Sussex, Essex, and even international reports from Holland, Germany, and the USA. The descriptions often include the crop type (barley, wheat, canola), dimensions, shapes (circles, discs, pictograms, spirals, "keyholes", "dragons feet", "flowers", "sun & crescent", "nuclear symbol", "grey's face"), and sometimes specific features like rings, pathways, or satellite formations. Notable formations mentioned include the "Double Helix" at Alton Barnes (Wilts), the "Silbury Flower" at Silbury Hill (Wilts), the "Julia Set" at Stonehenge (Wilts), and the "Aztec" or "Flowerpot" formation at Basingstoke (Hants).

Cerealogy & The Web by Simon Burton

This article explores the rapid development of the internet and the World Wide Web (WWW), drawing parallels between their structure and the concept of a "planetary brain." The author describes the internet as a chaotic, self-organizing network of networks, growing organically without central control. The WWW is presented as a system of interconnected databases accessible through graphical user interfaces, allowing for the dissemination of up-to-the-minute information globally. The article suggests that the internet's growth is a significant evolutionary step, potentially enabling "Gaia to attain consciousness." It raises the question of whether this technological advancement will lead to humanity's destruction or enlightenment.

CCCS Scientific Research Programme - 1996 by Jim Lyons

Jim Lyons outlines the proposed research for the Crop Circle Studies (CCCS) in 1996, aiming to consolidate new ideas. Key areas of research include:

• Surveying: Emphasizing the need for more accurate measurements of formation geometry, relating shapes to energy line systems (Hartmann and Curry grids), and determining the eccentricity of ellipses. This requires careful measurement of vortical centers and radial energy lines.
• Aura Dowsing: A simple test to assess the energy content of seed heads, tried for the first time the previous year. It involves calibrating aura readings and measuring ratios to indicate energy distribution variations within formations.
• Other Tests: Investigating electrical effects, particularly on batteries, which indicate interaction with subtle energies. The author seeks consistent measurement techniques and offers to act as a contact person for anomalous human or electrical effects. He is also refining a technique to establish resonant frequencies in crops and welcomes samples of interesting formations.

The article stresses the importance of good quality data for understanding the phenomenon and its potential cross-referencing with other natural phenomena.

Other Content

• Barbury Castle: Mentioned as a significant local crop formation site, recognized for its ancient aura and efficacy for meditations.
• Isabell Kingston: A medium who spoke on the power of the land and ancient sites at an event.
• Stephen Alexander: His photographs of crop formations were shown.
• Darryl Anka: Channeled "Bashar, an Extraterrestrial Consciousness" at a Saturday evening event.
• Bath Classical Quintet: Performed on Sunday evening.
• Crop Circle Connector Web Site: Highlighted as a valuable resource providing photographs, notices, reviews, and links to other crop circle and UFO sites, maintained by amateur enthusiasts Mark Fussel and Stuart Dike.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of crop circle phenomena, the exploration of potential scientific and energetic explanations, and the philosophical implications of emerging technologies like the internet. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging research and data collection while also contemplating broader existential questions related to consciousness, evolution, and the potential impact of technology. The magazine actively promotes citizen science by inviting readers to participate in research and report findings.

Title: The Circular
Issue Date: Autumn 1996 (Issue #26)
Cover Headline: THREEFOLD MATTER
Subtitle: - A New Paradigm.
Author: Oriole Parker-Rhodes

This issue of The Circular delves into the speculative theory of 'Threefold Matter,' proposing a new paradigm that attempts to bridge the gap between the physical world studied by science and the subjective realms of emotion, thought, and paranormal experiences. The magazine also features reader contributions, book reviews, and reports on crop circle phenomena from various regions.

Threefold Matter: A New Paradigm

The lead article by Oriole Parker-Rhodes introduces the concept of 'Threefold Matter,' suggesting that matter exists in three 'generations' or 'families.' The first generation constitutes our normal physical world, while the second and third generations are composed of more massive, less perceptible particles. These higher generations are theorized to be the physical basis for emotion, thought, and paranormal phenomena, including the potential for 'devas' or nature spirits to create crop circles.

The author posits that science has historically focused solely on the physical world, neglecting the subjective and imaginative aspects of human life. The proposed theory aims to extend the scientific paradigm to encompass these subjective realms, suggesting that emotions and thoughts have a physical basis and can manifest as forms of matter. The article draws parallels between scientific observations of high-energy particles and mystical concepts of consciousness shifting between levels.

It is suggested that devas, composed of second-generation matter, might be responsible for the appearance of UFOs, which can seemingly appear and disappear. The article also explores the idea that feelings and emotions can be felt at a distance, influencing the 'atmosphere' of a room or being sensed by others, suggesting a form of physical interaction beyond conventional understanding.

Thoughts are described as the third generation of matter, which are usually fleeting unless emotionally charged or purposefully directed. The transmission of thoughts and images between minds is discussed, citing experiments in telepathy and the role of the hypnagogic state and dreams in receiving such information. The author questions whether time lags are involved in these transmissions and if emotions and thoughts are affected by gravity.

The article references Rupert Sheldrake's work on the transmission of emotion and suggests that the astral plane, in mystical terms, corresponds to the second generation of matter. It also touches upon the idea that the human brain integrates these three worlds of experience to create the mind. The concept of 'micro-telekinesis,' where individuals can influence electronic random number generators, is presented as evidence of the mind's interaction with physical reality at a quantum level.

Further scientific concepts are introduced, such as weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPS) and MACHOS as candidates for dark matter, and the debate around neutrino flavors and the MSW effect. The author emphasizes that this theory is a seed for a new paradigm, requiring rigorous physical and mathematical proof and further evidence from various scientific fields.

Crop Circle Phenomena and Related Topics

The issue features several reports and discussions related to crop circles:

• Berkshire: A report details a crop formation near Playhatch, described as a 'badly made' undulating ring with satellites. The author notes the presence of a post hole in the center, possibly from an 'unofficial' visit.
• Cornwall: A report from the Cornwall branch describes a formation at St Austell with three annular rings and corridors. A shimmering effect was observed above the crop, and the formation was estimated to be about a week old.
• Devon: A formation near Brixham is mentioned, conveniently located for observation. The report also touches upon the possibility of life on Mars and the impact of crop circles on electronic equipment.
• Dorset: Reports include sightings of 'Spheres of Light' and triangular objects, and a formation at Martock that occurred between 04.00 and 06.00, accompanied by a strong glow. The farmer's son reported hearing an 'explosion' from the center circle.
• Netherlands: An article translated from 'Volksrant' discusses crop circles in Groningen and Zeeland, with speculation about their origin, including helicopters and messages from a star-group. The concept of crop circles as 'centres for the digestion of sorrow' is mentioned.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters' section includes several contributions:

• Andy Thomas corrects a statement regarding the payment for survey costs, clarifying that 'SC' magazine, not 'CCCS,' bore the expense.
• Lucy Pringle disputes John Sayer's claim that Human Effects questionnaires were paid for by CCCS, stating that her own photocopying was provided free of charge for five years.
• C Richard Shaw expresses gratitude for the magazine's content and congratulates the editorial team. He laments the resignations of the Patron and President, calling for reconciliation. He also suggests the National Lottery as a funding source for crop circle research and advocates for a 'litmus test' for genuine crop circles.
• G Watson sends a subscription cheque and suggests that 'higher beings' are drawing attention to radial forces in rotation as a potential energy source.
• Tim Mayne expresses enjoyment of the magazine and offers to contribute articles, particularly on crop circles.
• S Watkins discusses linear formations of 'damage' in crop fields, suggesting they might be revealed by lines of unknown energy and could be related to underlying granite structures.
• Jeremy Kay (Convener for Oxford) reports on experiments involving meditation to encourage crop circle appearances, with some success in the Wythall area.
• Meike Kuiper-Duursma (from Groningen) attributes a crop circle to a helicopter, dismissing other speculations.

Book Reviews

• "UFOS, CROP CIRCLES, and MARS STRUCTURES - THEIR COMMON ORIGIN" by Mr Canadas is reviewed critically for its poor production and reliance on Zecharia Sitchin's work. The reviewer finds the book's arguments about the connection between Mars structures and crop circles to be based on syllogisms that lack empirical evidence.
• "Paranormal Pranks" by Peter Eade is described as a book of cartoons offering a humorous take on crop formations and related phenomena.

Events and Announcements

• "Cream Teas & Crop Circles" event in Withiel Village Hall on November 2nd.
• Devon Crop Circle Group presents its 1996 annual review of local events on November 19th, featuring speakers on crop formations, UFO discoveries, and EVM findings.
• Glastonbury Tour offers a set of 30 photographs from the West Country, including unpublished formations and aerial shots.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, particularly crop circles, with theories that extend beyond conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears open to speculative theories, such as the 'Threefold Matter' concept, and encourages reader participation and discussion. There is a clear interest in investigating the 'mechanism' behind crop circles and seeking definitive tests for authenticity. The magazine also addresses internal organizational matters, such as the CCCS council changes and reader feedback, while striving to maintain a focus on the core subject matter. The editor's notes often add a personal touch and engage directly with contributors.

The Circular #26 (Autumn 1996)

This issue of The Circular, published by the CCCS (Centre for Crop Circle Studies), provides a comprehensive update on crop circle activity and related research in the UK during 1995 and 1996. It features reports from various regional branches, detailed scientific analysis, and discussions on organizational matters.

Essex Branch

Peter Henden continues as Convener for the Essex Branch. The branch has received reports of two formations, one near Littlebury and another near Colchester. David Ely has stepped down as Suffolk Convener, handing over to Christine Rudderham. Peter Henden, also serving as CCCS Treasurer, is seeking assistance to continue the bulletin, potentially extending to the Suffolk Group.

Herts Interim Report

Mike Rogers reports on five formations in Herts and one just over the border in Essex. These include a line of seven 20ft diameter circles at Rucklers Lane, Kings Langley, similar to a 1995 event and pointing towards a transmitter. Two individual circles, approximately 23ft in diameter, were found in a large field, with one investigator detecting a 'strong Auric Field'. An early July report details a five-circle formation at Lilley, resembling a dice, with one circle emitting a high-pitched noise. A formation at Audley End near the Herts/Essex border, visible from the M11, featured 'standing moon crescents' and caused three cameras to jam. Two formations were reported at Nettleden near Berkhamsted: one on the night of July 21/22 with a central circle and four arms, and another on July 26/27 with a large ring and curious arcs. These Nettleden formations are noted for their consistent radial width, raising suspicions of hoaxing, though the area is known for geological seismic activity. A third large circle formation was found near Nettleden on August 3rd.

Kent Branch

Joyce Galley, Convener for the Kent Branch, reports that the branch holds regular luncheon meetings. Two crop formations have been reported in Kent so far this year. Contact details for Joyce Galley are provided.

Oxfordshire

Jeremy Kay, Convener for Oxfordshire, details the branch's activities, which start in May with Tuesday night meetings to decide on locations. They visit known formations or investigate new reports. A plain circle of 43ft diameter in rape was reported near Denton on June 4th. On June 21st, a large formation near Garsington was discovered, consisting of 4 perfect circles, an oval, and an 'ear', connected by corridors up to 600ft long. Another formation in an adjacent field was older, featuring a large circle with surrounding rings. A fourth formation in the same area had a spiral floor pattern. On July 2nd, a 97ft circle with protrusions was seen at Burford, and another plain circle was found nearby. A 'Thought Bubble' formation near Garsington was surveyed on July 5th, making Oxfordshire a 'hot spot' for 1996. A 92ft circle with satellite circles was surveyed at Shiplake on July 9th. A plain circle at East Ilsley was also investigated on July 16th. The branch also noted an impressive 'Vesica Pisces' formation at Ashbury on August 4th.

Wiltshire

Francine Blake is the Convener for Wiltshire. The branch offers a newsletter called 'The Spiral' and holds monthly meetings. Re-formed in May 1995, the branch has sixty members and is planning to produce a crop circle calendar for 1997. They are also considering producing a calendar for the following year.

Yorkshire

Ann Shepherdson, Convener for Yorkshire, reports six formations so far this year.

ANALYSIS of LIDDINGTON CASTLE by Jim Lyons

This report, compiled by Jim Lyons, CCCS Scientific Officer, analyzes the Liddington Castle crop formation from August 1996. The formation is described as extremely neat, with a five-fold geometry. The major ratio is 3/2, indicating an asymmetric (YANG or male) formation. A toroid model is suggested, with hemispherical bubbles. A map dowsing exercise identified energy densities. Photographic analysis revealed mathematical relationships, including the Golden Ratio and a 'Consciousness Ratio'. Soil tests were conducted by ADAS, showing consistent relative energy distribution. The report includes tables of sample radii and % vorticity, and charts illustrating the data.

1997 CALENDAR

The Wiltshire Group is coordinating a 1997 Calendar featuring crop formations from various regions. Orders are being taken, with prices including post and packing. Group orders receive discounts. Profits will support the 1998 Calendar production. Contact Francine Blake for details.

AERIAL CROP CIRCLE PHOTOGRAPHS FOR SALE

Photographs of crop circle events from 1994-1996, including postcards, are available for purchase. Contact Steve Alexander.

ADVT: The “LIGHT” Video

Copies of a video showing purported 'lights' that created the 'Snowflake' crop formation at Olivers Castle are available from Steven Page. The video consists of a few seconds of looped footage. Orders can be placed for PAL or USA format.

CORRECTION

An error in Issue 25 regarding a Roy Dutton Video offer is corrected. Responses should be sent to Rowlands Video Productions, with cheques made out to C. R. Rowlands. The correction clarifies that writing to Roy Dutton directly may cause delays.

WINTER LECTURES

CCCS is resuming its Winter Lecture series at the Friends International Centre in London. The first lecture is on November 7th, 1996, reviewing 1996 formations. Future dates are scheduled through April 1997. Lectures will cover various aspects of crop circles, including 'STAR CHILD' and stellar patterns. Admission is £5 (£4 for members), including refreshments. Contact Margaret Novakovic for bookings.

A RANDOM HARVEST OF NOTES

THE TEN POINT PLAN

This section outlines a 'Ten Point Plan' for collecting basic data on crop formations, emphasizing the importance of recording dimensions, location, crop type, date, finder's details, photos, farmer's attitude, meteorological conditions, crop flow direction, and 'gut' impressions. The aim is to create a more balanced judgment of formations and encourage reporting.

THE "ROLE" OF CONVENER

Recent events have highlighted the actual role of local conveners. The definition suggests they call meetings, but often end up overworked as secretary, treasurer, chair-person, and counsellor. The CCCS convener should be the main link between CCCS and local branches. The article questions whether the title 'convener' is appropriate and suggests redefining the role. Branch organizations are described as autonomous groups of like-minded individuals. The article notes that in Devon, only a minority of members are CCCS paid-up members, and suggests that increasing CCCS membership is crucial. The author expresses a desire to persuade non-CCCS members to join.

JUST WHAT IS THE CCCS?

The CCCS was founded in 1990 to collect and disseminate information on crop formations. While progress has been made, there is room for improvement. The organization aims to explore all avenues to unravel the mystery of the glyphs and exotic phenomena. The article emphasizes the importance of exploring every opportunity and not being limited by conventional thinking.

CIRCLE INVESTIGATORS UNRAVELLED

This section discusses the claims of researchers being the 'first person' into a circle and the importance of recording all evidence, including potential hoaxes. It highlights the need for honest reporting and balanced recording. An anecdote is shared about early photos exhibiting UFOs, which ceased after the author stopped looking for them.

New Circular Farming Approach by Eric Goss

This article advocates for a new approach to liaising with the farming community regarding crop circles. It stresses the importance of understanding farmers' perspectives, as crop circles are their property and can be a nuisance. The author suggests that farmers could benefit financially by controlling visitor access, charging entry fees, and selling merchandise. The CCCS is encouraged to offer marketing consultancy to assist farmers. The article also touches upon the potential for subsidised flights to spot new circles and the involvement of tourism boards and local businesses.

POSTSCRIPT

This section addresses a letter from Francine Blake, former convener of the Wiltshire Branch. Francine states that the Wiltshire Branch no longer qualifies as a CCCS branch due to insufficient paid-up members and has become an autonomous body called the Wiltshire Circle Study Group. She requests that the Wiltshire branch data be removed from the Circular. The response from the CCCS council expresses disappointment, questioning Francine's interpretation of the constitution and suggesting that her actions are similar to those she has opposed. The council emphasizes the importance of unity within the organization and warns against 'federalist' views that could lead to fragmentation. They also note that the Wiltshire group was established for CCCS members and question the influence of non-members. The council states they have retained the Wiltshire data, hoping Francine will reconsider her decision. They also remind other groups to maintain good relations with non-members.

REPORT OF SOIL TESTS By the Agricultural Development & Advisory Service on UK Crop Formations in 1995

This report details soil tests conducted by ADAS at Cambridge on eighteen British crop formations from 1995, with the support of the CCCS. The research is based on Jim Lyons' hypothesis that crop formations are formed by strong vertical electrostatic fields interacting with atmospheric gases. Soil samples were tested for nitrate-nitrogen levels, which are considered a reliable indicator. The report presents tabular data for formations in Southease, Newington, and Alfriston, showing nitrate levels significantly higher within the circles compared to controls. The dry summer of 1995 provided stable soil conditions for the tests. The report acknowledges the assistance of various individuals and teams in collecting samples.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, detailed reporting, and objective analysis in crop circle research. There's a strong undercurrent of debate regarding the authenticity of formations, with a call for members to report all findings, whether perceived as genuine or hoaxed. The CCCS's role as a central information disseminator is highlighted, along with the need for organizational unity and positivity. The potential for financial benefit to farmers from crop circles is also explored, suggesting a more pragmatic approach to the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging members to contribute and participate actively in the organization's efforts to understand crop circles.

Title: The Circular
Issue: #26
Volume: Autumn 1996
Publisher: Centre for Crop Circle Studies
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of The Circular delves into the scientific analysis of crop circle formations, with a strong emphasis on distinguishing between those that are man-made and those that are considered genuine or geophysically created. The primary investigative tool discussed is the ADAS soil testing, particularly focusing on nitrate levels, as detailed in numerous case studies from 1995 and 1996 across various UK locations.

ADAS Reports and Nitrate Analysis

The core of the issue presents a series of ADAS reports, each detailing the analysis of specific crop circle sites. These reports often include nitrate (N) readings from different points within and around the formations, along with commentary from investigators like Michael Newark, John Sayer, and Jim Lyons.

Several formations are explicitly identified as man-made based on these analyses. For instance, the formation at Telegraph Hill, Winchester (Ref: 95003885) was deemed man-made, with the report noting "interesting anomalous battery effects." Similarly, the West Stowell, Hampshire formation (Ref: 95004531) was considered man-made, providing "the typical range of nitrate levels that might be expected for a man-made formation." The Pentlow, Suffolk formation (Ref: 95004470) showed low nitrate levels, but one sample had a significantly higher reading, attributed to a "quirk of sampling" from a tramline, suggesting a potential man-made influence.

The Beckhampton, Wiltshire formation (Ref: 95003251) presented a surprise with a much higher nitrate level in the center sample, which, like Pentlow, was suspected to be from a tramline. Negative dowsing results further supported the conclusion that it was man-made. The Bratton Castle, Westbury, Wiltshire formation (Ref: 95004512) also showed results suggesting a man-made origin, with a damaged crop supporting this view.

Conversely, the Roundway, Wiltshire formation (Ref: 95005422) was described as "genuine (ie not man-made)" based on field examination and positive dowsing results. The Wandlesbury, Cambridgeshire formation (Ref: 95004795) showed a difference in microbial respiration tests, leading ADAS to conclude it was man-made. The Warnford (East Meon), Hampshire formation (Ref: 95005424) had uniform nitrate readings within normal fluctuations, suggesting it was man-made, and noted that 1995 saw many spectacular formations in Hampshire and Sussex of a similar character.

Some formations, like Arreton Manor, Isle of Wight (Ref: 95005559), showed no clear linear trend in nitrate levels, but a higher reading on the edge of the main circle was anomalous and not explained by a tram-line.

Distinguishing Genuine vs. Man-Made Formations

Jim Lyons, in his summary of the season's work, highlights the consistency of results for some formations, while acknowledging the need for improved protocols due to scatter in the data. He notes that "the important feature that emerges from this research exercise is that it now appears possible to distinguish on empiric grounds between geophysically-created (ie genuine) and man-made formations." He suggests that a high proportion of formations in Wiltshire and Hampshire in 1995 were likely man-made.

Michael Green, in his contribution, raises questions about the methodology for studying crop circle variations, particularly concerning the knowledge of nitrate level fluctuations over time and the factors involved. He invites constructive ideas on how to pursue this line of enquiry.

Apology and Editorial Notes

The issue includes an "APOLOGY" from the editor for the late delivery, citing factors such as data revision, computer viruses, and the need to hold over articles. Contributors are requested to include hard copies with their discs to facilitate easier data reconstitution.

Several articles are being held over, including one by "Dr A.M.Davie FGS., FSA., Dsc." concerning "Contagion" and "Scotch Foot," which the editor finds problematic due to "quantum leaps" and a lack of scientific reference, questioning the author's geological and biological interpretations.

The editor also mentions that membership cards are being sent out and asks readers to report any issues with receiving current or recent copies.

Visuals and Archive Sale

The issue features several diagrams (Fig. 1-3) illustrating the nitrate readings and corresponding crop circle patterns for various formations. Pages 46 and 47 showcase images of specific formations like "The Snowflake," "The Triple Julia," "Stonehenge," and "The String of Pearls," with credits to photographers Lucy Pringle and Steve Alexander.

An advertisement offers an archive of over 400 to-scale drawings of complex crop patterns from 1990-1995, including a chronological index and geometry, printed on 707 pages and bound in three volumes. This archive is strictly limited to 5 copies, with information available from Wolfgang Schindler in Hamburg, Germany.

C.C.C.S. Council and Contacts

The final pages list the C.C.C.S. Council members for 1996-1997 and provide a comprehensive directory of Branch Conveners and Local Contacts across the UK, as well as international contacts in Holland, Canada, USA, and Australia. This section also includes contact details for the Centre for Crop Circle Studies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of crop circles, particularly through soil nitrate analysis, and the ongoing debate about their origin (man-made vs. natural). The editorial stance appears to favor empirical evidence and scientific methodology, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential pitfalls in data collection and interpretation. There is a clear effort to establish criteria for distinguishing between genuine and artificial formations, with a notable inclination to identify many formations as man-made, especially those in Wiltshire and Hampshire during 1995. The editor also demonstrates a critical approach to submitted articles, prioritizing scientific rigor and clear referencing.