Sussex Circular - 2000 no 92

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Bimonthly Journal of Crop Circles and Beyond, issue 92, dated September-October 2000, is presented as the final printed edition. The cover prominently features the "FULL 2000 SEASON REPORT" alongside headlines about "MAGNETIC THEORIES", "MOSAIC BOOK CLUES", and "CRIMES AND MISDEMEANOURS IN THE FIELDS". The price is £2.00.

Editor's Farewell and Transition to Digital

In a significant announcement, editor Andy Thomas explains the decision to cease the printed journal. He states that while the next issue (94) will be the final one, Southern Circular Research (SCR) and its regular meetings will continue. The transition to a new web site is planned to widen reach and provide a more effective platform for reporting and commentary, especially given the increasing reliance on the internet for information. Thomas cites personal reasons, including the significant time commitment required for producing the journal, which has impacted his other projects and writing. He expresses a desire to move forward with other inspirations and writing vocations. The move is framed as a strategic decision to adapt to the changing media landscape, acknowledging that while many readers may be disappointed, especially those without internet access, the new format is seen as a necessary evolution.

The Turbulent 2000 Season: Sceptics vs. Believers and Hoax Claims

The issue delves into the "turbulent atmosphere" of the 2000 crop circle season, noting a "ceaseless battle between sceptics and 'believers'". The article "CROSSED LINES" by Andy Thomas highlights the violation of established boundaries by both sides. A new breed of human circlemaker, exemplified by Matthew Williams and Paul Damon, is criticized for their aggressive tactics, including sending threatening emails and disrupting meetings. These individuals are accused of seeking to "destroy" the phenomenon's credibility. The article also touches upon tales of drug abuse and bad behavior within some segments of the crop circle community, leading to a desire for "cleansing" and new gathering centers.

Critiques of New Theories and Research Methods

"SOPHISTRY & Self-Deception" by Michael Glickman critically examines the work of Colin Andrews and the 'machine' developed by Ron Russell and Simeon Hein. Andrews's new theory that 20% of crop circles are caused by natural magnetic fields is presented as vague and lacking scientific rigor, with criticism directed at the media's portrayal of his claims. The Hein/Russell machine, intended to distinguish real from hoaxed circles, is described as a "shambles" and a "bogus episode", particularly after it reportedly gave positive readings for a formation that was later admitted to be man-made. Glickman argues that the focus should be on the commitment and integrity of researchers rather than on unproven technological gadgets.

Formation Reports and Analysis

The bulk of the magazine consists of detailed reports on crop formations from across the UK, compiled by Andy Thomas. These reports cover formations in Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Humberside, Isle of Wight, Kent, Leicestershire, Oxfordshire, Shropshire, Somerset, Sussex, Wales, and Wiltshire. Each report includes dates, locations, descriptions of the designs, and observations on their execution, lay, and potential origins. Notable formations discussed include:

• Avebury Trusloe, Wiltshire (22 July): Hailed as the "masterpiece of the year", this highly complex "magnetic fields" pattern is described as resembling iron filings around magnets.
• East Kennett, Wiltshire (13 July): A heart-shaped formation is suspected to be man-made, with claims of it being commissioned for a wedding.
• West Tisted, nr New Alresford, Hampshire (23 July): A "triple-looped chain of circles" is noted for its unique design.
• Istead Rise, Kent (29 July): An elaborate "6-pointed star with radiating grapeshot" is praised as one of Kent's most beautiful formations.
• Everleigh Ashes, nr Milton Lilbourne, Wiltshire (19 July): A "Celtic cross of quartered circles" around a round barrow is highlighted for its integration with the landscape.

Several reports also touch upon the debate between man-made and non-man-made origins, with specific formations being attributed to groups like "Team Satan" or questioned for their "crude execution" and "geometrical errors". The issue also includes a letter from Nick Kollerstrom suggesting that some formations' designs are derived from John Wilson's book "Mosaic and Tesselated Patterns".

Letters and Other Sections

The "LETTERS" section features a contribution from Nick Kollerstrom, drawing parallels between crop circle designs and patterns from a book. The magazine also includes a "NEWS" section with a brief mention of a new tape of "rods" and "balls of light" from NASA footage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debate about the origin of crop circles (man-made vs. non-man-made), the critique of research methodologies and theories, and the transition of the publication itself to a new medium. The editorial stance, particularly from Andy Thomas and Michael Glickman, is one of critical analysis, questioning unsubstantiated claims, and advocating for rigorous scientific investigation while acknowledging the mystery and beauty of the phenomenon. The issue concludes with a sense of closure for the printed journal but an anticipation of future developments in the digital realm and continued research into crop circles.

Title: SC
Issue: 92
Volume: 20
Date: Sep/Oct 2000
Publisher: SC
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue features a column by Michael Glickman titled 'Cornography,' reflecting on the 2000 crop circle season. The cover headline is 'Cornography with Michael Glickman.' The cover image is a black and white photograph of a man.

Cornography with Michael Glickman

Michael Glickman begins by noting the short visit of the Colin Andrews Circus, highlighting the ringmaster's 'unusually outrageous performance' as a 'scientist' and his 'amusing prattle.' He mentions that 'Dr' Colin has returned to Connecticut for a break.

Glickman then turns to the crop circle season, expressing difficulty in deciding which researcher caused the most damage. He states that 'this year, I think we can all agree, as outlined in other articles this issue, there needs to be a joint first prize for mindless self-destruction.' He suggests that those who have positioned themselves with 'criminal hoaxers' have little choice but to leave crop circle studies. He expresses compassion for these researchers, wondering what motivates them and noting that the community will miss them.

He describes the 2000 season as the 'most inventive and varied' despite a slow start, with formations dropping 'like confetti.' He recounts an incident involving the Bishops Canning farmer who had previously cut out a 'basket weave' formation in anger. This farmer was persuaded to leave an 'Octagram' and install an honesty box. Glickman was asked to discuss a visit by coaches from the Glastonbury Symposium, and the farmer agreed. Subsequently, another formation appeared in the same field, which the farmer did not appreciate, as he still believes all circles are man-made.

Glickman admits that his column has largely dealt with 'gossip and bad politics' and apologizes, but reiterates that while the formations were astonishing and spending time with friends was wonderful, he feels 'bruised and shaken' by the season.

He reflects on the need to answer questions and ponder conundrums over the winter. He states that for years he assumed others would at least respect the subject, even if they didn't share his reverence, but the 2000 season 'shattered that illusion.' He concludes that 'the way to wisdom, they say, is through lost illusion and expectation.'

Glickman then recounts an incident at Alton Priors where Janet Ossebaard was taking photographs. Matthew Williams, described as an 'amateur hoax claimant,' approached her, wanting to show her something. He opened his car boot to reveal a plank of wood wrapped in black plastic tape, calling it 'hoaxing equipment.' Janet, worried about his mental health, hurried away.

Glickman asks readers to discuss this episode in terms of:

a) Social dysfunction
b) Psycho-sexual symbolism
c) Rural petty criminals
d) Desperate boredom among the unemployed
e) Evidence of attention-starvation during childhood

He signs off as 'MG.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue, as presented in Michael Glickman's column, are the review of the 2000 crop circle season, the behavior and motivations of crop circle researchers, the prevalence of hoaxes, and the author's personal disillusionment with the subject. The editorial stance, as expressed by Glickman, is one of disappointment and concern over the perceived 'mindless self-destruction' and lack of respect shown by some individuals within the crop circle community. There is a strong emphasis on the shattering of illusions and the need for a more grounded approach to understanding the phenomenon.