Sussex Circular - 1996 no 51

Magazine Overview

Title: SC
Issue: 51
Date: April 1996
Price: £1.00

This issue of SC, 'The Monthly Journal of Crop Circles and Beyond', features a striking cover illustration of an eye symbol and highlights key articles on the 'Stratford Eye' crop formation, the views of ufologist Jacques Vallee, and a new 'sceptic strategy'. The magazine is edited by Andy Thomas, with contributions from Barry Reynolds and Kaye Thomas.

The Stratford Eye: Hoax or Synchronicity?

The lead article investigates the 'Stratford Eye' crop formation that appeared in the West Midlands in July 1995. Initially, rumours suggested it was a hoax orchestrated by the band Pitch Shifter, who were playing at a nearby festival. However, the article, written by Martin Noakes, debunks these claims. No evidence was found to support the hoax theory, and the band members themselves expressed surprise and had no prior knowledge of the formation. The article suggests that the formation's appearance in connection with the festival might be an example of the circle-making forces 'tying in' with local events or symbols, a phenomenon also observed with the Mandelbrot Set appearing near Cambridge.

Jacques Vallee on UFOs and Research

Ufologist Jacques Vallee, coming out of retirement, delivered a controversial talk at the Omega UFO Conference. Lois Horowitz reports on Vallee's perspective, which has shifted from a 'nuts-and-bolts' UFO/ET theory to a wider view, suggesting the phenomenon represents evidence for other dimensions beyond space-time. Vallee expressed concerns about the current state of ufology, calling it a 'festival of absurdities' and cautioning against accepting messages from 'heaven' at face value. He criticized the reliance on hypnosis in abduction research, deeming it unscientific and potentially unethical, and suggested that many experiencers' accounts might be influenced by therapists. Vallee also touched upon government data on UFOs, suggesting they might be covering up their own lack of understanding rather than actively hiding evidence. He also alluded to the use of UFO beliefs for mind control projects. Addressing scientific research, Vallee stressed the need for rigorous investigation and criticized the lack of credible examination of facts in ufology, advocating for 'REAL RESEARCH' beyond sensationalism.

The New Hoax Strategy: Tiny Cogs in a Circular Machine

Andy Thomas examines the evolving tactics of those who claim responsibility for crop circles. Previously, the focus was on debunking the phenomenon as a prank. Now, 'hoaxers' like Chris Kenworthy are embracing the paranormal and mathematical aspects of crop formations. They position themselves not as pranksters, but as individuals who attract anomalous events through their 'handiwork', suggesting they are making metaphysical connections and that phenomena like balls of light are attracted to their creations. Thomas argues that while some reported effects might be real, this approach risks a narrow focus, potentially missing a larger picture. He questions the claim that the 'vast majority' of crop circles are man-made, citing the sheer volume and complexity of formations that would require numerous teams working constantly, yet the identity of these 'A Team' circlemakers remains unknown. The article also highlights the difficulty in accurately executing complex designs overnight without mistakes, and the mystery of how human teams could achieve such precision in darkness.

Crop Formation Survey: Sussex 1995

Barry Reynolds reports on crop formations in Sussex during 1995. The 'Cocking' formation, described as a 'winking, smoking, smiley face', is noted. Reynolds also mentions the 'Saltdean' formation and the graffiti added to it. The article touches on the potential for formations to be man-made but highlights the lack of direct evidence and the possibility of genuine phenomena.

Swings and Roundabouts Part 2

Lucy Pringle continues her investigation into strange effects experienced in crop formations from 1995. She describes the 'Caduceus' formation at Litchfield, noting the disorientation and dizziness experienced by some visitors, including herself and her daughter. She also recounts an experience with a man and his dog who were affected. Pringle details the common adverse effects of formations, such as nausea and headaches, but also notes positive effects like healing and a sense of peace. She highlights two particularly harmonious formations: one resembling the back of a shell near Cissbury Ring and the nested crescents at East Meon, interpreting their symbolism.

Michael Glickman on Cornography

Michael Glickman shares his experiences and observations on crop circles. He expresses surprise that the phenomenon is largely ignored by the public, despite its proximity to London. Glickman suggests that the management of crop circle misinformation has been highly successful, questioning who is orchestrating it. He recounts an anecdote about receiving photos of a formation from the RAF. Glickman also discusses the Winter Lecture series, praising Andy Thomas's talk on attempts to establish contact with circle makers. He notes a shift in the centre of crop circle activity from Wiltshire towards Hampshire, Surrey, and Sussex, though he admits this is a prediction without evidence.

Reports: Kingtuplet

This section discusses a television programme about the 'Cosmati Floor' in Westminster Abbey, which features geometrical patterns. The article draws a parallel between these patterns and a 'kingtuplet' formation observed in crop circles, consisting of a large central circle orbited by four smaller ones, similar to formations from the 1980s. It questions whether the monarchy is aware of this symbolism and if it relates to recent troubles for the Royals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing debate between hoax theories and genuine paranormal explanations for crop circles. The magazine consistently questions simplistic hoax claims, highlighting the complexity and scale of formations that challenge human-made explanations. There is a strong emphasis on the need for 'real research' and critical thinking, as exemplified by the inclusion of Jacques Vallee's views. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded skepticism, acknowledging the possibility of genuine phenomena while demanding evidence and rigorous investigation. The magazine also explores the psychological and physical effects reported by individuals who have encountered crop circles, suggesting a deeper, perhaps misunderstood, aspect to the phenomenon.