OVNI - 1991 09 - September

Magazine Overview

This issue of the newsletter '<OVNI>' from the Phenomenon Research Association (PRA), dated September 1991, focuses heavily on the controversial revelation of the 'Great Pictogram Hoax' and its implications for crop circle research, while also touching upon other UFO and strange phenomena cases.

The Demise of the Circles?

The lead article, 'The Demise of the Circles?', addresses the bombshell announcement by Douglas Bower and David Chorley in the 'Today' newspaper on September 9th, 1991. These two men confessed to creating the elaborate crop circle 'pictograms' that had mystified experts and researchers for years. The article acknowledges the significant damage this hoax has done to the field of circle research, affecting its credibility and potentially setting back investigations for years. It notes that while some researchers may have privately doubted the extraterrestrial origin, many publicly proclaimed an 'Alien Intelligence' was at work. The authors ponder whether this marks the end of belief in complicated pictograms but question if it signifies the end of summertime circles altogether.

The article contrasts the hoax with recent alleged genuine sightings. It recounts an eyewitness account from the 'Mail on Sunday' detailing a 'crop circle' forming around a couple, the Tomlinsons, during an evening walk. This event was characterized by tremendous noise, hair standing on end, a rushing of air, a tingling sensation, hovering mist, and whirling air that zig-zagged away. This experience is presented as distinct from the hoaxers' activities.

Another incident mentioned is the terror experienced by a farmer and his wife in Nottinghamshire (reported in OVNI August) when a screeching ball of colored light settled in front of their farmhouse. The article notes that the Carlton-on-Trent circles were four miles from this farmhouse incident, and significantly, 195 miles from the hoaxers' homes in Southampton, suggesting a geographical disconnect from the hoaxers.

Investigating Genuine Circles and Physical Evidence

The newsletter then delves into the research conducted by the Phenomenon Research Association (PRA). It mentions an experience of Vivienne and Gary at Hambledon, which was of interest to Dr. Terence Meaden, founder of the Tornado Storm Research Organisation (TORRO). Meaden's theory involves an invisible column of spinning air and electricity causing crop formations. The PRA, however, has developed its own theory, which is similar but suggests a High Frequency swirl that leaves behind specific markings on crop stems.

During investigations of 'genuine' crop circles (distinguished from the pictograms), researchers noticed single stems of wheat or barley left standing in flattened areas. These stems were bent over at a specific point, typically 22 inches (55cm) from the ground. This measurement, taken over several years and across various sites up to 50 miles apart, became a key feature for identifying genuine events from hoaxes.

The article credits PRA Group members Derek Hodgson, George Sabey, and Paul Foster for their contributions to developing a workable theory. Upon closer inspection of these standing stems, small 'nick' marks and burn rings were found at regular intervals. These features, along with the consistent 55cm bend, are considered unique to genuine crop circle events. The evidence at this stage points towards High Frequency radiation in the lower GHZ waveband, specifically microwaves, as a potential cause.

The samples exhibiting these characteristics are intended for display at the Leeds Conference.

Aerial Photographs and Future Events

Pages 4 and 5 feature aerial photographs of crop formations in Wiltshire, taken on August 9th, 1991, at locations including Lockeridge Downs, Beckhampton Penning, and Woden Hill. These images showcase complex geometric patterns within the fields. The accompanying text poses the question of whether these shapes are true events or hoaxes, stating that 'Only time will tell.' The aerial photos are credited to O. Fowler.

In Our Own Back Garden (Well Almost!)

The final section discusses the growing membership of the PRA Group, driven by increasing interest in UFOs, circles, and other strange phenomena. The newsletter mentions new cases emerging in the Derby area, ranging from ghost stories to alleged alien encounters in Australia. These cases are being correlated for future introduction to members.

Details are provided for the next PRA meeting on Wednesday, September 25th, at The Stanley Social Club in Stanley Common. The meeting time is 7:30 pm for an 8:00 pm start. The change of venue has allowed for a reduced charge of 50p for members and welcome non-members. The main topic for the evening will be 'Mr Burtoo's Encounter With Aliens 1983', presented with slides and tape recordings, introduced by Omar Fowler.

The issue also announces attendance at 'The Leeds Conference 1991', sponsored by Quest International, on Saturday, September 14th, at The Civic Theatre Leeds. The PRA had planned a display stand focusing on aerial and circle photographs, with the intention of showcasing the High Frequency radiation theory. However, the 'Great Pictogram Hoax' might affect the display's focus.

Finally, Omar Fowler appeals for assistance with the translation of foreign documents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of <OVNI> demonstrates a clear editorial stance that distinguishes between genuine unexplained phenomena and deliberate hoaxes. While acknowledging the impact of the Bower and Chorley crop circle hoax, the publication remains committed to investigating and presenting evidence of potentially genuine UFO and crop circle events. The PRA's research into physical evidence (stem bending, nick marks, burn rings) and its proposed theory of microwave radiation highlight a scientific approach to the subject. The newsletter actively promotes engagement through meetings and conferences, encouraging members to share information and contribute to the ongoing investigation of strange phenomena.