Sussex Circular - 1994 no 32

Magazine Overview

Title: SUSSEX CIRCULAR
Issue: 32
Date: August 1994
Publisher: CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES (Sussex Branch)
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of the Sussex Circular magazine delves into the 1994 crop circle season, offering detailed reports on formations found in the Sussex region. It also includes commentary on astronomical events, critiques of hoax theories, and a humorous take on scientific news.

Cover Story: Parody and Protest

The front cover features a parody of the ancient Sussex hill figure, The Long Man of Wilmington, created by political cartoonist Steve Bell. This artwork was a protest against government roadbuilding schemes. The cover also highlights the magazine's issue number (32) and the publication date (August 1994), along with subscription and single copy prices.

News and Reports: Sussex Crop Formations 1994

The magazine extensively covers the crop formations of 1994 in Sussex. It details specific incidents with locations, dates, descriptions, and survey information. Key formations reported include:

• SUSSEX 1994/06: A double ringed circle in wheat at South Harting, West Sussex, formed around July 15th, laid clockwise, and surveyed by Keith Parker. It was noted for its neat lay and central swirl, with small shards of white plastic found.
• SUSSEX 1994/07: A standing crescent with tail in wheat at East Dean, West Sussex, formed around July 23rd/24th. This was described as the largest and most impressive Sussex formation of the year, receiving significant publicity. It was allegedly visible from Goodwood Racecourse.
• SUSSEX 1994/08: A standing ring with tail in barley at East Dean, West Sussex, formed around July 23rd/24th. This formation was less accessible and virtually invisible from the ground, noted for its rougher lay compared to the crescent formation.
• SUSSEX 1994/09: A single circle in rape near Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex, formed around July 26th. This was the first recorded Sussex rape formation, described as unusual with a neat swirl and perhaps 30% broken stems.

Birling Gap Formations Controversy

The Birling Gap formations, reported in the previous issue, generated significant interest and controversy. While Colin Andrews dismissed them as rook damage, the article questions this explanation. It highlights the advanced weaving effect of the stems, the impact on other plants like rape and poppies, and the presence of a bird scarer, suggesting that rook activity alone cannot explain the phenomenon. The article urges for more research before concluding.

Other Notable Formations and Trends

The issue notes the prevalence of 'Think Bubble' designs, characterized by large rings or 'Scorpion' heads with long tails of diminishing circles. The formation near Devizes is cited as a prime example. The year 1994 is also highlighted as the year of standing tufts, observed in formations like the 'galaxy' formations at Avebury and West Stowell. The 'Eye' formation at East Field, Alton Barnes, is also mentioned, along with alleged tampering to make it appear as a hoax. Other formations discussed include the 'Infinity' symbol at West Overton and the 'Scarab Beetle' or 'Bee' at Barbury Castle.

Editorials and Opinions

Editor's Notes

Editor Andy Thomas addresses the confusion regarding the location of formations, clarifying that the 'Birling Gap' formations are distinct from those near East Dean. He also mentions that Sussex has set a record with ten formations this year and urges those commenting on the Birling Gap events to conduct thorough research.

'The Cerealogist' Controversy

Andy Thomas corrects claims made in 'The Cerealogist' regarding the Bython Mandala and the magazine's stance on photographs. He clarifies that Sussex Circular acknowledged the existence of photographs but argued they did not show the claimed details. The article also addresses accusations about 'Bill Bailey' and Julian Richardson, asserting that Julian Richardson was always known and appeared at the Bython Trial.

Features and Reviews

'Blame It On Jupiter... A Conversation With Joeb' by Paul Bura

This article explores the psychological and atmospheric changes experienced by individuals, linking them to the Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet's impact on Jupiter. Joeb, a 'channelled companion', explains that the comet fragments acted like acupuncture needles on Jupiter's energy grid, altering subtle radiations affecting Earth. The article suggests these changes are part of Earth's Ascension process and are linked to increasing subtle weather changes.

Review: BBC 2's 'The Crash Bash'

Andy Thomas reviews the BBC 2 program 'The Crash Bash', which covered the Shoemaker-Levy 9 impacts on Jupiter. He criticizes the program for its lack of spectacular television viewing, its reliance on repetitive interviews, and its failure to show the impact images until the very end. The review concludes that the program was a 'total swizz'.

'Jupiter Mystery Solved' by Danny Sotham

In a humorous and satirical piece, this article 'solves' the Jupiter mystery by claiming the impacts were caused by massive excess stock of 'The Cerealogist' magazine being ejected into space via NASA's Discovery shuttle. It mocks the magazine's content, describing it as containing 'Hokum, Poppycock and Cobblers'.

The Crop Circle Scene in Wessex

'Tales From The Wessex Triangle 1994' by Andy Thomas

This report reflects on the 1994 crop circle season as a 'fine vintage', comparable to 1990 and 1991. It notes the return of crop circles with renewed vigor, dispelling 'circles are dead' sentiments. The article discusses the 'Think Bubble' design, the farmer's reactions (including signs and guards), and the legal implications of crop circles being considered criminal damage. It also touches upon the phenomenon of standing tufts and the farmer who destroyed a formation at Avebury.

The 'Hoaxbusters' and Cropwatch Vigilance

The article describes the 'Hoaxbusters', a group using a converted Ford Capri with flashing lights and searchlights to deter hoaxers. It notes that their actions can lead to legitimate cropwatchers being wrongly accused. The author also discusses the challenges of effective cropwatching, mentioning personal experiences of falling asleep during vigils and the difficulty in distinguishing anomalous lights from other sources.

The Barge Pub and Community

The Barge pub at Honeystreet is portrayed as a central hub for the crop circle community, attracting enthusiasts, debunkers, and various personalities. It's described as a place where open discussion occurs, and where myths are often born. The article criticizes the community for sometimes building up myths around hoaxers and for not always being critical of information shared.

Andover Lectures and Hoax Meetings

Marcus Allen reports on a talk by Colin Andrews and Timothy Good in Andover. Colin Andrews emphasized the reality of crop circles and attacked hoaxers. Timothy Good presented evidence of US government concern over UFO sightings, suggesting a cover-up. Allen also attended a 'Hoax Meeting' that was cancelled, with rumors of 'Hoaxbusters' and farmhands patrolling the area contributing to the disarray.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sussex Circular strongly advocates for the reality of crop circles as a phenomenon worthy of serious study, while critically examining claims of hoaxing. The magazine appears to champion rigorous research and evidence-based conclusions, as seen in the detailed reporting of formations and the questioning of simplistic explanations like 'rook damage'. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, particularly those found in publications like 'The Cerealogist'. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, with a touch of humor and satire, especially evident in the 'Jupiter Mystery Solved' piece. The magazine aims to inform its readers about the latest developments in crop circle research and related phenomena, while also engaging in debates within the community.