Sussex Circular - 1995 no 41

Magazine Overview

Title: SC: The Monthly Magazine of Crop Circles and Beyond
Issue: 41
Date: May 1995
Price: £1.00
Cover Headline: THE MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF CROP CIRCLES AND BEYOND

The Circles Return

This issue reports on the resurgence of crop formations in 1995, noting their earlier than usual appearance and widespread distribution, including early sightings in Sussex. The report highlights formations at Preston, Lancashire, and a pictogram at Stockbridge, Hampshire. Two significant formations are detailed: one at West Overton, Wiltshire, and an early, high-quality formation at Southease, Sussex, described as a circle with two rings.

Reports - Body of Evidence?

This section details an event held in London where approximately 150 people, including media representatives, were shown a film allegedly depicting an autopsy of an extraterrestrial body from the Roswell 1947 UFO crash. The film, compiled from segments of black and white footage, was presented by Ray Santilli. The report notes the controversial nature of the MJ-12 documents, which were distributed at the event, and the establishment of a committee to supervise contact with UFOs.

The Roswell Incident Film Analysis

The film, described as approximately 20 minutes long, showed an autopsy performed in a sterile room by individuals in protective clothing. The body is described as hairless, about four and a half feet long, with a round head, large eyes, and unusual ear placement. A significant wound was noted on the right leg. The report questions the authenticity of the film, presenting two options: it is a genuine record of an alien autopsy connected to the Roswell crash, or it is a deliberate fabrication. The author, MA, suggests that if authentic, it has profound implications, and that the individual known as 'JB', who allegedly possesses the original film, should make a public statement.

Reports - The Sussex Cerealogical Bonanza

Andy Thomas reports on the Sussex Cerealogical Bonanza (SCB), an event he co-organized. The event, conceived from a conversation about improving upon previous crop circle gatherings, was a two-day affair featuring speakers, workshops, and scientific information. Notable speakers included David Icke, who delivered a lengthy talk, and Michael Glickman. The event also featured a crop circle quiz, poetry readings by Paul Bura, and a session on dowsing. The report emphasizes the positive atmosphere and the success of the event, with a sell-out attendance. The organizers expressed gratitude to all who contributed and hinted at a potential SCB II in 1997.

Event Highlights and Organization

The Bonanza was meticulously planned, with efforts made to create a unique atmosphere, including a backdrop mural by Michael Glickman. The event was supported by proper lighting and sound equipment. The report details the logistical challenges and the collaborative effort involved in its execution. The success of the event is attributed to the warm-hearted audience and the dedicated organizers.

Reports - Elephants on Parade

This section features John Martineau's presentation at the London Winter Lectures, titled 'The Elephants of Geometry'. Martineau's work applies mathematical theory and geometry to crop circles and celestial bodies, suggesting that the placement of planets and the designs of crop formations are not random but indicative of a 'stellar engineer'. His research into the geometrical alignments and tangents within crop circles is described as meticulous. The report notes that Martineau is currently working on a degree thesis about the geometry of the solar system. The article also touches upon the recurring presence of 'hoaxers' at such events, specifically mentioning Doug Bower, and John Martineau's calm response to his disruptive claims.

Letters

This section includes a letter from Erik Beckjord in California, USA, commenting on the magazine's humorous approach to the crop circle mystery and suggesting that humor is needed as a buffer against frustration. Beckjord notes a trend towards ufology in some researchers' work and mentions finding the crop circle phenomenon to be a backdrop for larger issues like UFOs and abductions.

Another letter addresses the cancellation of the Colin Andrews conference, suggesting that poor location choice, rather than other stated reasons, was the primary cause.

Comography with Michael Glickman

Michael Glickman begins his new column, 'Comography', with a nautical metaphor, comparing his move from 'The Cerealogist' to 'SC' as joining a new vessel. He expresses admiration for Dr. Levengood's work on crop circles, which has been published in a peer-review journal, and notes the scientific community's tendency to dismiss such research. Glickman also shares an experience of visiting a small crop circle in Sussex with the editor, Patricia Murray, describing the beautiful setting and the successful photographic documentation of the formation.

Trivia - Who'd a Thought It?

This short piece recalls a spoof 'hoaxing conference' from the previous year and hints at a similar event being planned, possibly as a prank, at the 'Who'd a Thought It' pub. It advises readers to be wary of advertised 'hoaxing conferences'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the crop circle phenomenon with a blend of serious investigation and a light-hearted, sometimes humorous, approach. There is a clear interest in the potential extraterrestrial or anomalous origins of crop circles, as evidenced by the coverage of the Roswell incident and the inclusion of topics like UFOs and dowsing. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging critical thinking while acknowledging the possibility of extraordinary explanations. The magazine also highlights the community aspect of crop circle research, as seen in the detailed report of the Sussex Cerealogical Bonanza.