The Circular - 1996 No 27

Magazine Overview

Title: THE CIRCULAR
Issue: 27
Date: Winter 1996/97
Publisher: CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2.95

This issue of The Circular, the quarterly journal of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, focuses on the 1996 crop circle season and related phenomena. The cover features an aerial photograph of crop circles at Liddington Castle, with the main headline highlighting this location.

Editorial

The editorial section, dated Winter 1996/97, extends New Year wishes for 1997 and discusses the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). It announces the introduction of a new, irregularly issued 'Bulletin' to improve communication between members and keep them informed of CCCS business, new ideas, lectures, and local events. Members are encouraged to submit proposals for the AGM and are asked if any Chartered Accountants are available to provide a professional audit of the accounts. The editorial also highlights the significant workload of officers and calls for volunteers to assist in various departments, such as minutes secretary, data-base/archive management, sales, and organizing meetings.

New addresses and officer changes are noted, with Michael Green unanimously voted in as President of the CCCS. The 'Light' video, related to the 'Snowflake' crop formation, is discussed, with the author expressing skepticism and calling it a potential hoax, while acknowledging the ongoing debate.

Formation Listing & Reporting

This section emphasizes the importance of detailed and official reporting of crop formations, contrasting good reports with casual ones. It mentions reports from various regions and individuals, including Tony Caldicott, Jeremy Kay, Ray Cox, Jim Lyons, John Sayer, and Francine Blake. The use of an 'official' report form is encouraged to ensure thoroughness. The need to tie up loose ends from the 1996 season is stressed, with a call for any outstanding information to be submitted.

Articles

Frolics Amidst The Fractals by Lucy Pringle

Lucy Pringle reflects on the successful 1996 crop circle season, noting the appearance of formations with astounding geometric precision that defy human skill. She recounts her experiences flying over fields to photograph formations and mentions her work being featured in The Daily Mail and Nature magazine. Pringle also details a lecture she gave at Christ's College, Cambridge, to the Darwin Society, indicating a growing academic interest in the phenomenon. She discusses the human effects research, including reports of nausea, disorientation, and fatigue, as well as psychological benefits. Pringle assures members that their reports are kept confidential.

String of Pearls

This section details specific crop circle formations. The Double Helix formation at East Field, Alton Barnes, is described as a wondrous and precise formation measuring 648 feet. Pringle notes the geometric precision and the unusual spacing of the circles. She also discusses her research methods, including using a pendulum and dowsing, and the psychological effects experienced, such as difficulty performing logical tasks. The section also touches upon the 'Inability to Count' syndrome reported by people when counting stones in stone circles.

Who rang the church bells in the middle of the night?

This piece presents three independent reports of 'luminosities' on the night the Double Helix formed. One report is from a man who witnessed bright lights and experienced shaking. Another comes from Yuzuru and Akiko Kase, who observed luminous objects spinning in the sky and heard a strange buzzing noise. A third report mentions church bells ringing in Avebury at midnight, which were not supposed to be rung at that time, raising questions about mechanical activation by UFO-related electromagnetic fields.

Three healing experiences are reported from people visiting a formation, including cleared sinuses and relief from hay-fever. The constant over-flying of military helicopters near formations is also noted, with an incident where a woman was intimidated and fell from her car roof while filming a helicopter.

Stonehenge - 'Julia Set'

This section describes the mysterious appearance of the 'Julia Set' formation near Stonehenge on July 7th. It is described as a complex, computer-generated fractal image, with interpretations from mathematicians, musicians, marine biologists, and the medical fraternity. The formation is noted for its rapid appearance, with evidence suggesting it formed in less than 15 minutes. Visitors reported experiencing nausea and fatigue, which quickly subsided. The section also includes a curious story related by Mike Rogers about a woman who claimed her husband was an RAF officer attached to Roswell in 1947 and witnessed the retrieval of alien bodies.

A harkback to ancient fertility rites?

This section explores potential connections between crop circles and ancient fertility rites. It discusses reports of abnormal menstrual bleeding in women after visiting formations and links this to microwave and radio frequency (RF) fields. The author suggests that natural static energy in sacred areas might have assisted conception and that solar radiation played a role in human fertility, affecting the pituitary gland. A report from Oregon notes a recurring pattern of synchronized or abnormal menstrual cycles in women affected by crop circle formations, suggesting a connection to ancient rituals.

'In no other way were they like human beings'

This is a retelling of the Roswell incident, where a woman's husband, an RAF officer, allegedly witnessed the retrieval of three dead alien bodies from a crashed craft. He was sworn to secrecy and offered a Swiss bank account in exchange for his silence.

Just below the Ridgeway.

Two formations, the Caterpillar Fractal and the Solar/Lunar Eternity symbol, near Liddington Castle are mentioned. Some visitors experienced nausea, leading to speculation about the energies involved. Animal reports include a dog exhibiting strange behavior near a formation and a cat named Hero becoming unusually aggressive after being exposed to barley samples from the Avebury Trusloe spiral.

Where the Michael and Mary lines meet.

The Triple Spiral formation, appearing below Windmill Hill, is described as the year's final masterpiece. It is a large formation with 194 graded circles spiraling symmetrically. No negative reports were received from visitors, but a report of intense lights and objects moving in a strange manner in the sky was mentioned.

Ray's Column by Ray Cox

Ray Cox discusses the connection between crop circles and UFOs, suggesting they might be aspects of one identity. He notes the gap between the artistic creations in the fields and the perceived nature of hoaxers, questioning if the creators are truly pathological liars. Cox also comments on media reporting of crop circles, noting the superficiality and debunking in the press, and expresses disappointment with publications like The Daily Mail and The Daily Telegraph for not printing relevant letters. He questions how long it will take for crop circles to gain more respectability, comparing it to the UFO phenomenon.

Cox also explores the positive psychological effects of being in crop circles, describing feelings of comfort, peace, and well-being, likening it to a return to early childhood or 'Earth Mother' comfort. He highlights the intricate patterns and the sensory experience of being in a cornfield.

Crop Circles of '96 - Exciting Stuff! by Michael Newark

Michael Newark reviews the 1996 crop circle season, noting the appearance of unusual grid patterns and leys. He describes several formations, including those at Girton/Coton (oil-seed rape and barley), the Barham formation, a formation near Leicester, and a nine-pointed star shape near Blaby. Newark discusses the dowsing of earth energies, noting that while the energy was weaker in 1996 compared to previous years, many formations were still genuine. He mentions the 'Double-Helix' and the 'Julia Set' as particularly photogenic formations. The loss of natural earth energy at ancient sites is also noted, with speculation about cosmic disturbances.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed reporting and analysis of crop circle formations, the investigation of their potential causes (whether human or unknown), and the exploration of their effects on humans and animals. There is a strong emphasis on the scientific and research aspects, with calls for detailed reporting and the collection of data. The journal also delves into the psychological and physiological impacts of crop circles, as well as their possible connections to broader paranormal phenomena like UFOs and ancient beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the mystery while encouraging rigorous investigation and member participation. The CCCS positions itself as a central hub for this research, aiming to demystify the phenomenon and foster understanding.

The Circular - Issue Number 27 (Winter 1996/97)

This issue of The Circular magazine, dated Winter 1996/97, focuses heavily on the phenomenon of crop circles, presenting a collection of reports, research findings, and anecdotal accounts from 1996 and previous years. The publication explores various aspects of crop circles, including their physical characteristics, potential origins, and the scientific investigation into their formation.

Crop Circle Reports and Observations

The magazine features numerous reports of crop circle formations across the UK and internationally. Early in the issue, several formations are detailed:

• Morville, Salop (Late June): An eye-shaped crop circle, approximately 45 feet long and 25 feet wide, was found to dowsed well.
• Shrewsbury (Bayston Hill, July 26): Six crop circles formed in a large field, with an additional four appearing the following night. These were described as dowsing genuine.
• Sibson (End of July): A formation on the airfield featured a double circle-path linked by an "S" shape. The larger circle path was 108 feet wide, the linking path 158 feet long, and the crop was laid anti-clockwise. A 44-foot crescent shape was also noted, and a photographic anomaly of a bright light was captured.
• Barham: This formation is highlighted as one of the best of the year, described as having a huge, powerful force and strong Yang earth energy. The dowsing aura from the seed and soil indicated stronger readings in smaller circles and the tail area.
• Duloe (First week of July): A large crop circle with a standing circle off centre, 148 feet in diameter, laid clockwise with an anti-clockwise lay in the centre circle. It contained numerous radial and concentric earth energy lines.
• South of Birmingham (Late July): Two formations were reported by Sheila Watkins: a double grape-shot and a circle with a ten-foot tail. Another formation nearby, found by a dog, was about 28 feet wide with an eye shape and a small tail.
• Longbridge (Hopwood, Early August): A double ringed circle, 111 feet in diameter, formed in barley, featuring strange 'writing' around its inner ring, which dowsed as marks of energy.
• Oliver's Castle: The formation and its video recording are mentioned as being mind-blowing.
• Badingham, Suffolk ('Bandit' formation): Reported in The East Anglian Times, this formation appeared in canola and was spotted by a micro-lite pilot.
• Avebury, Wiltshire ('Face' formation): Spotted on or about July 27th, 1996, in a wheat field on the northern slopes of Waden Hill.

The magazine also includes a list of several other formations with locations and dates, including Logan, Utah; Columbia City, IN; Butte, NE; Watertown, SD; Chehalis, WA; Adrian Tnshp, MI; and Paulding, OH.

Biophysical Perspective on Crop Formations

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the biophysical investigation of crop formations, primarily focusing on the work of Dr. Wm C. Levengood and the BLT Research Team, led by Nancy Talbott. This research examines physical alterations in plants found within crop circles.

Key findings from the BLT Team's research, published in scientific literature, include:

1. Abnormal enlargement of cell wall pits in bract tissue, which transports nutrients to the developing embryo.
2. Grossly enlarged plant stem nodes (pulvini).
3. Marked bending of plant stem nodes, ranging from 10° to 90° or more.
4. Presence of "expulsion" cavities (holes blown from the inside-out) in the parenchyma tissue around the nodes, with exudate causing blackening.
5. Stunted, malformed seedheads with missing or severely reduced seeds.
6. Markedly altered germination and growth rates of seeds from formation plants when compared to control plants.

These findings are described as statistically significant and have been observed in over 90% of samples examined from various countries. The research suggests that these aberrations cannot be explained by simple human activity like stomping with planks and rollers.

The issue also addresses the question of whether 'Magic Bends' only occur in crop formations. It explains that while phototropism (a plant's tendency to turn towards light) can cause bending, it does not account for the node elongation or expulsion cavities observed in crop circles. Several factors are considered when determining the cause of bending, including the time of formation, crop maturity, node elongation, and the presence of expulsion cavities.

The BLT Research Team is developing a primary hypothesis based on the data, noting the involvement of a complex, interactive, turbulent energy system with brief bursts of high heat and an electromagnetic component.

Personal Accounts and Interpretations

Beyond the scientific research, the magazine includes personal accounts and interpretations:

• RJD Blois's Letter to 'Pilot': A pilot, initially a sceptic, sent a photograph of a crop circle, interpreting it as evidence of visitors from outer space and a 'cosmic revelation'. He expressed awe and trepidation regarding the beings who 'write' these formations.
• Valerie Martin's Contribution: A photo of an event in Dorset, seen by a relative, was added to the database, confirming a 1995 event that was previously only hearsay.
• Steve Page's Christmas Card: A friend generated a computer graphic of a crop circle with 'little balls of light' and a 'Mother Ship', which some interpret as proof of 'Snowflake Creators' practising.
• Lucy Pringle's 'The Torpedo': While flying to photograph a crop circle, Lucy Pringle spotted and christened a formation 'The Torpedo'.
• Steve Canada's Books: Two books by Steve Canada are reviewed: "Crop Circles: Interim Report on the 1994 Season in England" and "Crop Circles - The End of Time." Canada interprets crop circles as a communication system from beings from the 10th planet, Nibiru, warning of the end of historical time and their intended return.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that crop circles are genuine phenomena, often linked to unexplained forces, extraterrestrial intelligence, or unusual earth energies. There is a strong emphasis on scientific investigation, particularly through the biophysical research presented by the BLT Team. The publication encourages readers to contribute their own sightings and information, fostering a sense of community among those interested in these mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the exploration of these phenomena while cautioning against hasty judgments based on limited evidence. The recurring themes include the biophysical effects on plants, the potential for extraterrestrial communication, the role of earth energies and ley lines, and the concept of synchronicity. The magazine also highlights the importance of respecting farmers' land and adhering to country codes when investigating formations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue of The Circular are the mystery and significance of crop circles, their potential connection to extraterrestrial intelligence or unknown energies, and the scientific efforts to understand them. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of crop circles being genuine phenomena, often man-made in the sense of being created by non-human intelligence, and encourages continued research and open-mindedness. The publication values detailed observation, scientific analysis (particularly biophysical), and personal accounts that contribute to the collective understanding of these events. There is an underlying tone of wonder and a belief that these formations hold important messages for humanity. The magazine also promotes a sense of community among researchers and enthusiasts, encouraging the sharing of information and experiences. The importance of respecting the land and property of farmers is also a recurring point, with pleas for readers to adhere to country codes.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Number 27
Date: Winter 1996/97
Publisher: Centre For Crop Circle Studies

This issue of The Circular magazine delves into the ongoing mysteries surrounding crop circles and introduces the phenomenon of 'Marine Light-Wheels'. It features reports from various regions, scientific investigations, and personal accounts, alongside organizational updates.

Yorkshire Branch Notes

Ann Shepherdson, Convenor for Yorkshire, writes to George, expressing her renewed membership and anticipation for the 1997 season. She highlights the challenges of organizing meetings in Yorkshire due to geography but notes that monthly meetings are held at her home for anyone interested, covering topics from crop circles to UFOs and ghosts. Shepherdson mentions interesting and surprising crop formations in Yorkshire and hopes for their publication to encourage interested individuals to attend meetings. She reflects on her extensive personal investigation into crop circles over recent years, exploring various avenues such as map analysis, geometric parallels, prehistory links, dowsing, analyzing crop lay and farmer accounts, and even observing hoaxers and de-bunkers. Despite her efforts, she admits to being no closer to solving the puzzle, concluding that the circles are a work of art to be admired and that the enigma will reveal itself in time.

Midlands Report 1996

Ray Cox reports on crop circle events in the Midlands region during 1996. While the number of formations was few, Cox notes their intriguing nature, particularly 'repeating' sites and those not easily visible. He details an event in Wythall where two plain anti-clockwise circles appeared in a wheat field previously associated with a ball of light in 1991. These circles were not visible from the road, requiring a walk around the field edge. Cox mentions Sheila Watkins, who has found circles in the area and, on one occasion, after asking for a circle during a group meditation. The event was deemed 'genuine' by Michael Newark through dowsing. Cox also reports a grass circle spotted near Coventry from the M6 motorway, identified by dowsing responses. Shropshire is noted as becoming 'circle-prone,' with several fields containing formations in 1995 and 1996. Specific examples include six plain circles at Bayston Hill and a 'dragon's foot' formation nearby. Cox draws parallels to a 'dragon's foot' formation at Uppington in 1995 and mentions other 'dragon's foot' patterns. A formation at Hopwood featured two wide rings and alternate clockwise/anti-clockwise lays, with nearby power lines and indentations around the inner circle. Michael Newark's dowsing responses were strong in these marks. The formation's center was off-center, and none of the features were perfectly circular, possibly due to the field's slope. The ley grid across the field and angles within the formation are noted, with a comparison to the Great Pyramid and the Golden Ratio.

Marine Light-Wheels: Crop Circles of the Sea?

Kris Sherwood explores the phenomenon of 'Marine Light-wheels,' also known as 'Submarine Light-wheels,' which have been reported for over a hundred years. These displays are primarily seen in the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, and South China Sea, near the latitude of 19.5 degrees. Sherwood describes them as gigantic, rimless wheels of light, seen on or just under the water's surface, sometimes appearing aerially. While attributed to bioluminescent marine organisms like Noctiluca miliaris, the stimulus for their formation remains a mystery. Witnesses describe approaching lights with radiating spokes that revolve rotationally. The bands of light curve concavely and pass ships at speeds of 60 to 200 miles per hour. The light-wheels do not appear to affect boats, though they sometimes seem to follow them. The spokes are described as forming 'sinusoidal curves' or 'flattened S's,' with diameters estimated from 500 to 600 yards, though varying sizes are reported. Overlapping wheels and concentric radiating rings are also described. Some sightings include 'three separate vortices' emitting light rings. Horizontal bands of light have preceded the wheel displays. Sherwood notes that the sea's surface can appear to 'boil,' accompanied by a 'swishing' sound, and compasses can malfunction. Scientists have largely ignored the phenomenon, dismissing it as 'wild sailors' tales.' Sherwood draws parallels to the Crop Circle Phenomenon, suggesting a critical combination of elements and physics, possibly involving lightning strikes and ground-based electro-magnetic components, including ley-line energies and Earth energy grid points.

Letters

Lucy Pringle's Letter: Pringle congratulates Michael Green and Jim Lyons on their initiative to test soil samples from crop-circle formations in 1995. She refers to a previous report on soil tests, which focused on nitrates based on Jim Lyons's deduction. Pringle acknowledges that the absence of nitrate anomalies does not rule out other elements causing anomalies. She cautions against dismissing formations as man-made based on a single selective test, citing Telegraph Hill and East Meon as examples where such dismissals were made. Pringle notes that in the Telegraph Hill 'Clutch-plate' formation, four electrical camera batteries failed within 48 hours. She also reports curious animal effects, including a crackling noise and dogs attacking each other and their owners, suggesting possible frequencies affecting electrical equipment and animals. Jim Lyons also reports positive dowsing results from crop samples taken from this formation. Samples from the 'Nested Crescents' at East Meon showed energy delineation and 'blown nodes,' with water samples buried inside the formation showing a substantial increase in bacteria compared to those buried outside, a finding Dr. Levengood considers significant. Pringle concludes that ADAS tests are valuable but that formations should not be condemned as man-made solely because one test yielded no unusual results, emphasizing the need to consider all research aspects.

Eric Jenner's Letter: Eric Jenner, from the Isle of Wight, expresses his long-standing intrigue with crop circles since retiring and dedicating time to studying the subject through books and CCCS publications. He finds the scientific contributions fascinating but somewhat disappointing. Jenner, an engineer, emphasizes logical thinking, clear expression, and focusing on the objective. He believes the primary aim of crop circle research is to identify WHO, HOW, and WHY they are created. Despite years of research, Jenner states that no one has a clear idea, questioning if scientists are bogged down. He lists facts: hundreds of formations worldwide, the makers possess intelligence, and they are either rich humans or non-humans. He deduces that, excluding hoaxes, formations are made by intelligent non-humans. Jenner suggests the obvious ways to investigate are by watching them being made or by communication. He notes rare sightings of atmospheric phenomena during formation occurrences but believes makers can avoid watched sites. Therefore, communication is presented as the obvious future research field. Jenner mentions a 'litmus' test for genuine formations but notes it doesn't reveal the maker. He recounts the first crop formation on the Isle of Wight in East Cowes in July 1994, which was apparently not reported to the CCCS, describing it as ten metres across and beautifully formed.

Editor's Response to Jenner: The editor acknowledges Jenner's points, suggesting a 'think-tank' approach. However, the editor cautions against judging formations as genuine solely on size, referencing the 'Barnum-Bailey' effect. The editor also notes that even a visible formation like the 'Julia-Set' had no witnesses, raising questions about sinister causes or collusion. The need for repeatable demonstrations and scientific explanations for ALL effects is stressed. The editor suggests settling for incremental discoveries until a comprehensive blueprint emerges, likening the situation to the blind men and the elephant.

Mark Pawson's Letter: Mark Pawson writes about a formation at Martock on July 17th, 1996, coinciding with the Sixth Round Conference in South Petherton. He questions the conference's focus, noting it was supposedly about 'all things round' but not specifically crop patterns. Pawson suggests the Martock formation might be an example of the 'collective unconscious' operating, with organizational energy from the conference building to a climax and manifesting as a pattern two days before the event's opening.

Research Not Rumour

Nigel Thomsett and Debbie Pardoe detail the work of the BLT Research Team in Sussex, England, investigating crop formations. Their process involves rapid surveying upon formation appearance, collecting electrostatic data using an Electrostatic Volt Meter (EVM) as anomalies dissipate quickly, and using a magnet to detect magnetic properties. They meticulously sample crop stems, noting locations and collecting control samples for Dr. W C Levengood in Michigan. Levengood analyzes seeds and nodes, observing germination rates and plant development. If formations occur in young, green crops, seed embryos may not develop properly, showing malformation and premature dehydration. Conversely, if formations occur in ripe crops, seeds show enhanced germination. The interaction of electric fields with plants is thought to induce 'intra-cellular electrophoretic currents' stimulating root growth. Nodes can be thicker, and small pits in cell walls may be enlarged, with a superficial black coating possibly due to rapid microwave heating. This theory is supported by evidence of a reddish glaze found in a 1993 formation near Avebury, identified as meteoritic dust, possibly concentrated by an iron plasma vortex from the Perseid meteor showers. The team now drags a magnet through formations, bagged to collect samples. They explain that ion plasma vortexes, clouds of electrically charged atoms, can generate microwave emissions. However, these forces alone cannot account for complex patterns without intelligent control. The team conducted experiments in the 'Wessex Triangle,' noting that flattened crop within formations gave neutral electrostatic readings, while upright crop at edges gave negative readings, which should not occur. EVM readings are taken early in the morning to avoid solar influence. In 1995, five EVM surveys were conducted in Sussex. A formation at Southease showed negative readings and nodal expansion, suggesting energetic plasma vortex processes. A formation at East Grinstead yielded zero readings due to charge dissipation, highlighting the importance of timely data collection. A large sampling project at East Grinstead collected 2000 seed-heads, but most were lost. A formation at Ovingdean in 1996 showed highly negative readings (-40V and -50V), with controls at zero, and also exhibited nodal bending, swirls, and alignments near ancient sites. Despite evidence of genuine phenomena, the authors lament that some still believe circles are made with rope and planks.

Centre For Crop Circle Studies Financial Reports

Peter Henden, Honorary Treasurer, presents the accounts for the eleven months ending November 30, 1996. The accounts are based on those presented at the last Council meeting and are not audited. Stock movement is not reflected, with the 1995 stock value carried forward. A strict policy for expenditure control was introduced in September 1996 to avoid heavy expenditure without consideration. Subscriptions are holding up well, but complacency is warned against. Fund raising activities were curtailed, and generating income in a voluntary organization is challenging. Donations are appreciated, and their donors will be listed. Costs for 'The Circular' have notably increased, with steps taken to reduce them. Contributions to aerial surveys have been curtailed due to financial problems and the contentious nature of the field. Other expenses show reductions due to decreased activity, tighter financial policy, and members moderating claims. Overall, the accounts give room for cautious optimism, showing a surplus of £375 for the period, a significant improvement from a deficit of £5,310 in 1995.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of crop circles, the scientific efforts to understand their origins and mechanisms, and the exploration of related anomalous phenomena like marine light-wheels and UFOs. There is a clear stance favoring rigorous scientific investigation and data collection, while acknowledging the limitations of current research and the need for open-mindedness. The magazine promotes the idea that crop circles are not mere hoaxes but likely the product of intelligent, possibly non-human, forces. The editorial also highlights the importance of community and shared research, as evidenced by the branch notes and letters from readers. The financial report indicates a commitment to continuing the organization's work despite financial challenges, with a focus on prudent management and cautious optimism for the future.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Number 27 (Winter 1996/97)
Publisher: Centre for Crop Circle Studies
Date: Winter 1996/97

This issue of The Circular, published by the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, focuses on the potential energetic and scientific underpinnings of crop circle phenomena, alongside organizational updates for the CCCS. The magazine includes a balance sheet for the CCCS Treasury, articles exploring physics and earth energies, and a directory of council members and branch convenors.

Article: Gravitation plus Cavitation = Salvation?

By Jim Lyons, this article explores the nature of energy involved in the creation of crop circles. Lyons posits that the energy is related to 'zero-point' energy, a concept first identified by Einstein and studied by physicists like Casimir and Sakharov. This energy is described as an all-pervading universal energy, also known as Chi, Ki, Vril, Prana, or 'The Life Force', which is linked to consciousness.

The article draws parallels between ancient concepts of Earth energies and modern scientific ideas, referencing the 'Gaia' hypothesis proposed by James Lovelock. It suggests that Earth energies manifest through an 'earth energy grid' connected by sites like stone circles. The author notes that while mainstream science has historically been dismissive of such energies, there is a growing resurgence of interest and acceptance, with techniques like Healing, Tai-Chi, and Homeopathy relying on this concept.

Wilhelm Reich's work on this energy is mentioned, along with the difficulties he faced from the scientific establishment. The article highlights current research in Germany and the US on healers and the detection of electric fields and photons emitted from their hands, as well as changes in brain patterns during healing.

Lyons connects these concepts to crop circles, suggesting that the energy involved is 'zero-point' energy. The phenomenon of 'luminosities' or balls of light, often associated with Earth energies and lightning, is explained through cavitation – the spontaneous implosion of bubbles. This process, known as sono-luminescence, emits light that is distinct from that of an energized electron. The article posits that vortices of subtle energy, excited at microwave frequencies, suck in zero-point energy through a process of 'rectified diffusion', effectively maintaining the light.

The article also delves into the geometry of crop circles, relating them to universal dual tetrahedral structures and toroidal forms, which are seen as fundamental mathematical shapes. The specific angle of 19.47° is highlighted, linking it to the geometry of the Giza pyramid, planetary features like Jupiter's Great Red Spot and Mars' Mount Olympus, and the Mayan city of Tianhuanaco. This angle is also related to plasma waves and the angle of a ship's wake.

Article: The Views of Physics

This section addresses the skeptical scientific view of crop circles, stating that existing laws of physics would deem their creation impossible. The author seeks to bridge mainstream science with the crop circle phenomenon by identifying a link through 'zero-point' energy. The concept of vacuum state energy, studied by Casimir, is presented as a potential source of gravitational force and inertia. The article notes that ideas about this energy have been suppressed but are now resurfacing, citing the success of Cold Fusion research as an example of a previously dismissed concept gaining acceptance.

It is suggested that crop circles are a manifestation of this zero-point energy, with the observed luminosities being explained by cavitation and sono-luminescence. The article reiterates that these phenomena are ways in which 'Gaia' demonstrates the fundamental energy that sustains her.

Article: Quo Vadis

This piece reflects on the approaching end of the 20th century and the Earth revealing its true nature. Crop circles are seen as mirroring ancient mandalas and sacred geometry, as well as modern non-linear dynamical views ('Chaos Theory'). These together are presented as demonstrating properties of a fundamental energy source, referred to as the Universal Aether. This concept is linked to what physicists are currently studying, contrasting it with the passive luminiferous aether of the 19th century. The current view is of a highly active state capable of generating structure and matter, and it is also linked to human consciousness.

The author expresses hope that if humanity can remain politically stable enough to recognize the potential benefits of this energy source, then both Gaia and humanity could be safe.

Illustrative diagrams are included: 'Basic Model for Pattern Formation' (Fig. 2) showing nested tetrahedra, tori, and a sphere, and 'Cavitating Vortex' (Fig. 3) illustrating zero-point energy within a microwave ambient pulsating field.

Centre for Crop Circle Studies Updates

This section addresses internal matters within the Centre for Crop Circle Studies. It clarifies a situation arising from a published letter between Francine Blake (Branch Convenor for CCCS Wiltshire and Wiltshire Crop Circle Study Group Co-ordinator) and George Bishop (editor of The Circular). The author, identified as the CCCS Branches Liaison Officer, aims to clarify the situation, stating that the letter should not have been published and that George Bishop should not have replied without council consultation.

• Key points clarified include:
• No financial assets were transferred from Wiltshire CCCS or the main CCCS to WCCSG.
• Francine Blake remains both the CCCS Wiltshire Branch Convenor and the WCCSG co-ordinator, serving as the CCCS point of contact for Wiltshire.

Furthermore, the article explains the election process for branch convenors, emphasizing that a branch exists as long as a convenor is in place, regardless of the number of active members. It also clarifies that membership in CCCS automatically includes membership in the local branch of one's county, and local branches may have their own membership fees but cannot be disbanded.

The situation in Wiltshire is compared to other counties where two groups operate concurrently. The article concludes by referencing a formation that appeared at Ashbury in Oxfordshire as a neat summary of this situation.

C.C.C.S. COUNCIL FOR 1996-1997

This section provides a directory of the CCCS Council members for 1996-1997, listing their names, addresses, and contact telephone numbers. It includes general council members and those with special responsibilities, such as the CCCS Bulletin editor and Branch Convenor Co-ordinator.

BRANCH CONVENORS/LOCAL CONTACTS

This is an extensive list of Branch Convenors and Local Contacts for the CCCS across various regions in the UK (Avon, Berkshire, Cambridgeshire, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, E. Midlands, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Herefordshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Norfolk, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Suffolk, Surrey, Sussex, W. Midlands, Wiltshire, Yorkshire) and internationally (Holland, Canada, Saskatchewan, Ontario, United States - Oregon, Connecticut, Colorado, Arizona, Illinois, Virginia, California).

Balance Sheet

The Balance Sheet for the Centre for Crop Circle Studies Treasury as at 30 November 1996 is presented. It details:

Fixed Assets: Office Equipment valued at £848, with depreciation of £140, leaving a net value of £708.

Current Assets: Stock (£2,245), Debtors and Prepayments (£210), Bank - General (£2,166), and Bank - Argus (£255), totaling £4,876. The movement year-to-date for current assets was (£562).

Current Liabilities: Provision for Circular Payment (£1,390), Provision for Calendar (£1,350), and Sundry Creditors (£313), totaling £3,053. The movement year-to-date for current liabilities was (£1,077).

Net Current Assets: £1,823.

Total Assets: £1,823.

Members Fund: Opening Balance (£1,448), Surplus/(Deficit) for the period (£375), and Closing Balance (£1,823). The movement year-to-date for the Members Fund was £375.

The Treasurer is identified as Peter Henden.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific and energetic explanations for crop circles, particularly focusing on 'zero-point' energy and cavitation. There is a strong emphasis on bridging the gap between mainstream science and phenomena that have historically been dismissed. The magazine also highlights the importance of Earth energies and the concept of Gaia, suggesting a holistic view of the planet and its inhabitants. Internally, the magazine addresses organizational structure and clarifies administrative matters within the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, promoting transparency and clear communication among members. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unconventional scientific theories and a commitment to fostering a community around crop circle research and related phenomena.