En Gal Gal Verden - 1995 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: EN GAL GAL VERDEN
Issue: 5, 1995 (Week 18)
Publisher: Norges sprøeste blad (Norway's craziest magazine)
Price: 32.50 NOK (incl. VAT)

This issue of "En Gal Gal Verden" (A Crazy Crazy World) is a Norwegian magazine filled with sensational and unusual stories, ranging from extraordinary claims of supernatural phenomena to bizarre human interest stories and peculiar inventions.

Cover Stories

The cover prominently features a vintage car, identified as a "Champagne Car," valued at over 500,000 KR. Other headlines include "Vulcan Spits Liquid Gold!" and a heartwarming story about a "Cat rescued by Pig!" A dramatic headline also announces "He Set Fire to 14 Million!"

Satan's Face in Smoke: A Recurring Phenomenon?

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to alleged sightings of a face resembling Satan appearing in smoke from various disasters. The main article details an incident in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where a face was seen in the smoke from a burning industrial area just days after U.S. troops were deployed. The article links this to other alleged sightings, including smoke from an oil spill in Alaska, a fire in Waco, a cave in Afghanistan, over Siberia, an oil drilling field, and even volcanic eruptions like Mount Etna. Bible expert Martha Hayes is quoted, suggesting these are confirmations of worsening global conditions and a sign that the end of the world is near. She states, "People never forget a confrontation with Satan. Even if they want to, they can't."

Terrifying Flight Experience

Passenger Iona Mormocea recounts a harrowing flight from Bucharest to Paris. Despite initial delays, the flight turned into a nightmare with severe turbulence, making the plane feel like it was being tossed by a giant hand. At one point, the plane's engines failed, and it seemed to be crashing, with one wing down and the other up. Miraculously, the pilot regained control, and the plane landed safely, albeit with shaken passengers.

The Man Who Wears Steve McQueen's Helmet

This section tells the peculiar story of Carl Gerter, a motorcycle enthusiast and fan of Steve McQueen. In 1991, he purchased McQueen's old helmet at an auction for 4,500 KR. However, upon trying it on, the helmet became permanently stuck on his head. Despite attempts by doctors to remove it, Carl refuses, considering the helmet invaluable. He has worn it for four years, and his wife, Marla, has grown accustomed to her husband's unique headwear.

The Lobster Boy's Tragic Life

The magazine features the story of Grady Stiles, known as "The Lobster Boy" due to his deformed hands. Despite his success as a circus artist, his personal life was marked by alcoholism and domestic abuse. He reportedly beat his wife, Mary, and his children. In a tragic turn of events, Mary hired a hitman to kill Grady, for which she was sentenced to 12 years in prison. She, however, expressed satisfaction with the outcome.

Bizarre Inventions and Oddities

Several short segments highlight unusual and humorous "inventions" and facts:

• Potato Chip Bags as Golf Club Covers: Readers are shown how potato chip bags can be repurposed as covers for golf clubs.
• False Dentures for Baking: A set of false teeth can be used to prick cakes and as a decorative element for roasts.
• TV Antenna Illusion: Drawing two black rings on a TV screen can make the image resemble Minnie Mouse.
• Ice Cream Cone Chimney: An ice cream cone can serve as a practice hole for golfers indoors during winter.
• Rice on Tires: Covering car tires with rice creates the sound of driving up a long, gravel driveway.
• Battenburg Cake Chessboard: A Battenburg cake can be cut into 16 slices and arranged to form a chessboard.
• Cigar Holder in Shower: Smokers can use a shower cap to keep their cigars dry while showering.
• Telephone Directory Address Book: Old telephone directories can be used as personal address books by cutting out names.
• Toothpaste as Tape: Toothpaste is presented as a cheaper alternative to chewing gum and better for teeth.
• Teabags for Walkman Sound: Teabags can be used between speakers and ears to filter the sound of a Walkman.

The Man Who Made a Letter Press from His Testicles

In a particularly shocking story, Lonnie Destry, a businessman, lost his testicles in a chainsaw accident while preparing to build his dream house. After the accident, he had his testicles preserved and now uses them as a letter press on his office desk. He finds the unusual item draws attention and that people are curious about the story behind it.

Gondola Bar in the Alps

The magazine also features a unique bar located in a gondola in Lech, Austria, situated at 2,350 meters altitude. Visitors can enjoy champagne and a certificate as proof of their experience.

"Most Boring Man" Award

Gordon Davey was named "Most Boring Man of the Year" in 1994 on the TV show "The Vanessa Show." His hobby of collecting brown wrapping paper, particularly a type from China with a special coating, earned him the title. He also collects other items like bicycles and stickers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features sensationalism, the supernatural, and bizarre human interest stories. The editorial stance appears to embrace the unusual and the extreme, presenting these stories with a tone of wonder and sometimes shock, appealing to a readership interested in the unconventional and the sensational aspects of life. There's a clear focus on "crazy" or "gal" aspects of the world, as suggested by the title.

This issue of Aktuelt, dated 1994 (issue 11, volume 1994), published by Hjemmet in Norway, features a cover story about a dramatic mid-air rescue during a skydiving event. The magazine also delves into a variety of human interest stories, including unusual discoveries, personal passions, and peculiar events.

Andy's Daring Rescue

The main cover story details the heroic actions of Andy, a British ex-marinesoldat, who saved a fellow skydiver, Maurizio Brambilla, from certain death. During a jump from 4500 meters, Maurizio was knocked unconscious by a strong wind and began to fall uncontrollably. Andy, seeing his plight, dove after him, increasing his speed to over 300 km/h. He managed to grab Maurizio's parachute harness just 25 meters from the ground, allowing him to deploy both their parachutes. Maurizio, upon landing, had no memory of the incident but was later reunited with Andy to express his gratitude.

Amanda's Passion for Swatch Watches

Amanda Cronin, a 22-year-old model, shares her passion for collecting Swatch watches, viewing them as both a hobby and a good investment. She highlights how some rare Swatch models, initially sold for a few hundred kroner, can now be worth up to 1 million kroner. Examples include the 'Jelly Fish' from 1983, now valued at 36,000 kroner, and Keith Haring designs from 1986, worth 72,000 kroner. She also mentions a set of six Swatch watches in a faux fur case valued at 1 million kroner.

Michael Fuller's Container Nap

Michael Fuller, 23, from Nashville, USA, had a terrifying experience after falling asleep in a container. He woke up to find himself being emptied into a garbage truck, a consequence of his night out.

The Giant Lobster Sculpture

The magazine features a giant lobster sculpture created by artist David Tonkin, located outside the restaurant "The Bigs" in Kingston, Australia. This impressive metal, netting, foam, and fiberglass sculpture stands 17 meters high and measures 15.2 meters from mouth to tail, weighing over 4 tons.

Dennis Woodruff: The Actor's Billboard Car

Dennis Woodruff, an unemployed actor in Hollywood, transformed his old Cadillac into a mobile advertisement. The car is covered with his picture, agent's contact information, and slogans like "Born to act." While his unique approach has garnered media attention, it has yet to secure him an acting job.

The Money and Horse Manure Experiment

Psychology students Frank Mellick and John Webster conducted an experiment in Sydney, Australia, to test people's greed. They placed four 20-dollar bills in a bucket of horse manure, and within minutes, passersby were digging through the mess to retrieve the money, demonstrating the strong allure of financial gain.

Alain Robert: The Solo Climber

French climber Alain Robert is highlighted for his solo ascents in extreme environments, particularly in Moab, Utah. The article emphasizes individualism in sports and Robert's daring approach to climbing, noting his technique is faster and more dangerous.

The Volcano Spouting Liquid Gold

An ancient legend from the Andes mountains in Colombia spoke of a river of liquid gold flowing from a volcano. American researcher Fraser Goff and his team confirmed this phenomenon, discovering a volcano that spouts several kilograms of gold daily. Local missionary Titi Montz and doctor Montez corroborate these accounts, describing golden lava and "golden rain" following eruptions. The volcano, named Galerasi, is estimated to be around 500,000 years old.

Stuart Myers: Swimming for Charity

Stuart Myers, a young man born without arms, demonstrated incredible determination by swimming 700 meters to raise money for the sick and homeless. Despite the pool being ice-cold due to a power outage, Stuart completed the swim, impressing his coach, Alma Collins, and highlighting his generous spirit.

The Popcorn Sobriety Test

In Boston, USA, experts have proposed a new method for testing suspected drunk drivers: the "popcorn method." Suspects are asked to throw popcorn in the air and catch it with their mouths. Failing to catch two out of three pieces indicates intoxication. Psychologist Herman Duckmond believes this method is more reliable than traditional tests.

The Haunted Screen Door

The Neace family in the USA has been experiencing a strange phenomenon: a ghostly face appearing on their screen door every evening. The face changes shape and has been witnessed by numerous visitors, leading to speculation about the property's history, possibly being built on an old Native American burial ground.

Hope Howard's Nash Telephone Kiosk

Hope Howard, who loved her 1959 Nash, converted it into a telephone kiosk outside The Hampton Hollywood Café after an incident where her husband, Stanley, pushed the engine too hard. The car now serves as a functional advertisement and a unique roadside attraction.

Mark Coe's Near-Fatal Crash

Race car driver Mark Coe, 31, miraculously survived a severe crash on a highway where his head was pinned between the car and the road. He sustained a broken arm and two broken ribs, attributing his survival to a guardian angel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine showcases a consistent theme of extraordinary human achievements, resilience in the face of adversity, and the reporting of unusual or unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with these stories, presenting them in a straightforward, informative manner that encourages reader engagement with the remarkable aspects of life and the world.

This issue of UFO-Aktuelt, dated 1995 and identified as issue number 4, is a Norwegian publication featuring a diverse range of articles that blend the extraordinary with the everyday. The cover story highlights the "World's Most Expensive Toothbrush," a lavish creation from China. The magazine delves into topics such as potential encounters with ancient civilizations, unusual wills, extreme hobbies, and intriguing animal sightings, alongside more grounded human interest stories.

Articles

The World's Most Expensive Toothbrush

The lead article introduces a toothbrush crafted in China that is described as the "World's Most Expensive Toothbrush." It is made of 24-karat gold, ivory, and features eyes made of glowing sapphires and balls of rubies. The handle is inlaid with five large and fifty small diamonds, symbolizing the five continents and the five billion people on Earth. Designed by Wang Jincheng of Zhongda Health Products Co. Ltd., it is unlikely to be offered for sale, being presented as a work of art rather than a functional item.

A Woman's Bizarre Will: Five Million Kroner for a Houseplant

This feature tells the story of Katerina Clement, an eccentric woman who left her entire fortune of 5 million kroner to her houseplant. The will stipulated that a caretaker, Patrice Mattle, would receive half a million kroner annually to look after the plant, ensuring it was watered, fertilized, and played "Edelweiss" for eight times a day. The judge, Samuel Snider, found the will highly unusual, noting that if the plant dies, the fortune would be donated to botanical research.

Japanese Submarine Encounters Atlantis?

A Japanese research submarine, on a mission to investigate ruins reported by a Russian submarine in 1986, encountered a powerful energy field near the Portuguese coast. The field caused the submarine's instruments to go haywire, with clocks running backward and crew members experiencing hallucinations. Researchers believe this phenomenon supports the existence of the lost city of Atlantis, with Dr. Tavares Caminho suggesting the crew was affected by an unknown energy field.

Bobbi Vaughan's Motorcycle Ordeal

Bobbi Vaughan, a 53-year-old motorcycle enthusiast from California, recounts a terrifying incident where she was pulled under an 18-wheel trailer while riding her Harley Davidson. Despite being dragged for a considerable distance at high speed, she managed to remain upright and signal the driver, who eventually stopped, saving her from serious injury.

Alex Shear's Soda Can Collection

Alex Shear has amassed a unique collection of 90 robots, lamps, and other items, all made from recycled soda cans. These creations, made by ordinary workers, demonstrate a long-standing tradition of recycling and creativity, predating modern environmental awareness.

Stuntmen Become Supermen

Stuntmen Shon Wolfe and Gary Page recreated a Superman-like feat by driving through a planned car crash, flying through the air. While their landing was not as graceful as Superman's, they achieved their goal of performing a spectacular stunt, with the explosion of gasoline adding to the dramatic effect.

Japan's Plan to Launch Scrap Cars into Space

Japan is reportedly planning a radical solution to its growing problem of old, rusted cars: launching them into space. Researcher Kazuo Narita proposes using a spacecraft called "Nishi Shuttle One" to transport thousands of compressed scrap cars into orbit. While proponents argue it solves a waste problem and could create jobs, environmentalists like Elena Lopes condemn the plan as dangerous and irresponsible.

The Mystery of Rudolf's Red Nose Solved?

Zoologist Morgan Treamont claims to have discovered a herd of reindeer in Alaska with luminous red muzzles, potentially explaining the legend of Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. While these reindeer do not fly, Treamont speculates that their diet, rich in phosphorus, might be responsible for the red coloration, and that these animals could be the inspiration for the famous Christmas song.

Danielle's Miracle Recovery

This article details the remarkable recovery of a young girl named Danielle, who suffered severe facial injuries from a dog attack. After undergoing multiple surgeries, including the reattachment of her nose tip, Danielle has made a near-full recovery, with doctors and her family expressing joy at her progress.

Mike Owen's Revenge

Mike Owen sought revenge on his unfaithful wife, Jane, by posting a sign outside their house declaring "Adulterous Wife For Sale" and a message on their answering machine implying he was harming her. The couple had a son and a daughter, and the affair was with a carpenter named Ian Felgate.

Dining Like a Roman in Jerusalem

The restaurant Cardo Culinaria in Jerusalem offers a unique dining experience, recreating Roman banquets from ancient recipes. Diners are dressed in togas and served food in a historically accurate setting, complete with entertainment.

The Male Stripper Overwhelmed by Fans

Tim, a male stripper, had to be taken to the hospital after being mobbed by an overly enthusiastic audience during his second performance. The article suggests he had had enough of stripping.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unusual, the extraordinary, and the unexplained. There is a clear fascination with mysteries, whether they be ancient civilizations like Atlantis, bizarre human behavior, or unexplained natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a willingness to report on sensational and often unverified claims, presenting them as potential truths or intriguing possibilities. The inclusion of personal stories of survival, unusual inheritances, and extreme hobbies adds a human element to the more speculative content. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the fringes of science, history, and human experience.

This issue of EN GALGAL VERDEN features a diverse collection of human interest stories, ranging from unusual personal achievements and tragedies to unexplained phenomena.

Stripper Attacked by Fans

The lead story details the alarming experience of Tim Metheny, a 26-year-old male stripper. During only his second public performance at a nightclub, an audience of over twenty women became so excited that they stormed the stage. Metheny was overwhelmed, with the women tearing his shirt, pulling off his underwear, and physically assaulting him. He was taken to the hospital, where he was treated for a dislocated shoulder and a mild concussion. Despite the traumatic event, Metheny stated he would not press charges and has decided to quit stripping, valuing his life too much.

The Woman in the Iron Lung

Dianne Odell has lived in an iron lung for 44 years since contracting polio at the age of three. Despite her condition, she expresses contentment with her life, stating she has never missed anything. Her mother, Geneva, has ensured Dianne has a rich social life, inviting friends and hosting parties. Dianne enjoys the company of others and is described as radiating warmth and humanity.

Miraculous Survival in a Fire

David Reed of Castalia, Ohio, recounts how his property was completely destroyed in a massive fire. Seventeen fire stations and 40 fire trucks battled the blaze, but to no avail. The fire consumed his house, car dealership, his father's store, several cars, and satellite dishes. However, a crucifix and a statue of the Virgin Mary, placed on a tree and in the yard respectively, remained miraculously unharmed. Firefighters were astonished, noting that the items should have been destroyed or at least blackened by soot. This event led Reed to believe in divine intervention.

Solo Atlantic Swim Attempt

Frenchman Guy Delage is undertaking an extraordinary feat: swimming across the Atlantic Ocean alone, without a support boat. Delage, who previously flew solo across the Atlantic in a microlight aircraft in 1991, plans to swim from the Cape Verde Islands to the West Indies, a journey of approximately 3,800 kilometers. He expects to swim for ten hours a day with short breaks. The journey is estimated to take two to three months.

UFO Collision Theory for Flight 427 Crash

The federal investigation into the crash of USAir's Flight 427, which killed 132 people, is considering the possibility of a collision with an unidentified flying object (UFO). This theory gained traction after a note was found on a deceased passenger describing a massive, glowing object the size of a house. Additionally, the pilot's final, panicked radio transmission included phrases like "traffic emergency situation." While some investigators, like Lester McCrionell, believe mechanical failure or pilot error is more likely, UFO researcher Phil Brunei is convinced of a UFO involvement and calls for a presidential inquiry.

The 73-Year-Old Lawnmower Journey

Alvin Straight, a 73-year-old man, embarked on a 38-mile journey to visit his brother, Hank, who had suffered a stroke. Unable to drive due to his eyesight, Alvin used his four-wheel-drive ride-on lawnmower. The trip took six weeks, during which he slept by the roadside and camped on lawns to save money. He encountered mechanical issues, requiring a 2000 kroner repair, and dealt with mosquitoes and bad weather. He arrived unannounced at his brother's home, where they shared stories.

Fox Cub and Dachshund Friendship

Elisabeth Grümer found a nearly starved fox cub by the roadside and rescued it. She named the cub Fritzi and nursed it back to health. Fritzi quickly bonded with Elisabeth's 13-year-old Dachshund, Anne, and they have become inseparable best friends, playing together and even going for walks on leashes.

The Magnetic Woman of Bochum

Erika Zur Stirnberg, a 56-year-old German woman, has demonstrated an astonishing ability to attract metal objects to her body, similar to a magnet. After seeing a similar phenomenon on television, she discovered she could stick spoons, irons, and other metal items to herself. Doctors and professors, including neurologist Dr. Günther Schumann and Professor Kaminski, have examined her but cannot explain the phenomenon, suggesting it may be due to unknown mystical forces within the human body.

Homeless Couple's Tragic End

Jack Smart and Sally Sloane, a homeless couple who met and married in a dumpster, tragically died when their container was crushed. They had lived together in dumpsters, finding solace in each other's company. Their friend, Jimmy Schumont, described their life as romantic despite their poverty and expressed hope that their deaths would raise awareness about the dangers of homelessness.

Heathrow Night Flight Protest

Residents living near Heathrow Airport in London protested against increased night flights, which they claimed were disrupting their sleep. Dressed in pajamas, they gathered to express their frustration, carrying teddy bears and signs with slogans like "Save our sleep!" and "Wake up." The protest aimed to draw attention to the issue and pressure the government to address the noise pollution.

World's Largest Lego Car

The issue also features a brief mention of the world's largest Lego car, the "Supercar," which was exhibited at a car show in Paris. It took 4,400 hours to build and is made of 650,000 Lego bricks.

Learn to Drive a Tank

Another brief item promotes an experience in England where individuals can learn to drive a 55-ton tank, offering it as an alternative to activities like paintball and go-karting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on extraordinary human experiences, resilience in the face of adversity, and unexplained phenomena. There's a strong emphasis on individual stories that highlight courage, love, and the unusual aspects of life. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the bizarre and the inspirational, presenting these diverse narratives to its readers without overt judgment, often with a touch of sensationalism.

This issue of UFO-Aktuelt, dated 1995 and identified as issue number 4, is a Norwegian publication focusing on a variety of unusual and intriguing topics, ranging from alleged alien encounters and historical mysteries to unique hobbies and human interest stories. The cover prominently features a dramatic headline about an alien abduction and a depiction of an alien face, hinting at the extraterrestrial themes within.

Article: Tank Driving Courses in England

A brief article describes a business in Highlands Park, Wiltshire, England, that offers four-hour courses in driving main battle tanks like the Chieftain (55 tons) or lighter vehicles such as the Abbott Tank (19 tons) and FV432 (12 tons) for 85 pounds (approximately 1000 Norwegian kroner). The courses are set in the picturesque countryside.

Article: John Mantz and His Barbed Wire Hobby

This feature story introduces John Mantz, a 67-year-old man with an unusual passion for collecting barbed wire. Known as 'Piggtråd-John' (Barbed Wire John), he is a leader in The American Barbed Wire Collectors Society, which boasts 30,000 members. Mantz's interest began in 1972 when he discovered a unique piece of barbed wire at a ranch in Elko, Nevada, identified as the first patented by Michael Kelly in 1868. He claims to collect 45 cm pieces and can sell rare types for up to $300. He has even sent barbed wire samples to Presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, receiving a thankful reply from Reagan.

Article: Keith's Alien Abduction Experience

A shocking account details the alleged abduction of a man named Keith on August 3rd near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Keith claims a bright light and a loud, surrendering sound drew him out of his car. He was then lifted into a large oval object where he encountered four strange beings with large eyes, no visible noses or mouths, who communicated telepathically. They assured him he would not be harmed if he cooperated. After the encounter, Keith's blood was allegedly drained and replaced with a yellow fluid. His doctor confirmed that his veins contained this sticky, yellow substance, and he now receives daily blood transfusions. Keith also reports feeling more energetic and needing only two hours of sleep, though he has developed strange eating habits.

Article: Police Officer Lance Rescues Family from Train Tracks

This article recounts a heroic act by police officer Lance, who saved a woman named Jan and her 3-year-old son Vance when their car stalled on train tracks. As a train approached, Lance single-handedly lifted the 1500 kg car off the tracks just moments before the train passed. Jan expressed immense gratitude, calling it a miracle.

Article: Tower Bridge Built with Lego

A visually striking piece showcases a massive Lego model of London's Tower Bridge, which is set to be displayed at 'Lego World' in Windsor in 1996. The model, measuring four meters long and two meters high, required 46,000 Lego bricks and 600 hours of work, weighing 125 kilograms and reinforced with steel. Clive Nichols from Lego World describes the job as interesting, likening it to playing all day.

Article: Gemisto Carlo Villani, Europe's Oldest Student

This human interest story features Gemisto Carlo Villani, a 102-year-old man born in 1892, who is pursuing his education. Having worked in mines and factories throughout his life, he decided to learn after retirement. He is described as the most popular student in his class and is seen by teachers as a colleague.

Article: The Self-Setting Tent

Dubbed 'The tent for the lazy', this article introduces the 'Poff-Teltet', a tent that automatically unfolds itself when thrown into the air. The user only needs to anchor it. Made of nylon, it is fire-resistant and waterproof, described as perfect for holidays.

Article: Carl Hummler Burns His Fortune

A sensational story about pharmaceutical manufacturer Carl Hummler, who, two weeks before his death from lung cancer, burned his entire fortune of 14 million in cash and his mansion valued at 24 million. His secretary, Cynthia Specht, explains that Hummler hated the idea of anyone else enjoying his money and believed charities were run by scoundrels. He left his secretary a small sum to manage. His brother and nephews, whom he considered parasites, were forced to watch as their inheritance went up in smoke.

Article: The 'Bottle Car'

This piece highlights a unique vehicle, a 'bottle car', created by Dave Bickers. The car, built over six months, features a 4.2-liter XJ6 Jaguar engine and can reach speeds of 193 km/h. It was commissioned by a wine importer to promote champagne globally. Bickers, a former motocross world champion, expressed some nervousness about driving such an unusual vehicle on public roads.

Article: Monti the Dog Gets a Spanish Passport

This quirky story details how Gerd Pohlman and his wife Margret, who spend much of the year on Mallorca, obtained a Spanish passport for their 15-year-old Bedlington Terrier, Monti. They sought to avoid paying German dog taxes for the months Monti was not in Germany. After a dispute with tax authorities, they presented Monti's Spanish passport, making him a Spanish citizen and exempting him from German taxes when he visits.

Article: The 'Face on Mars'

This article discusses the mysterious 'Face on Mars', first photographed by a Viking probe in 1976. A secret NASA report allegedly suggests that the stone formation was designed and built by an advanced civilization on Mars 4000 years ago, contemporary with Egyptian pyramid construction. The report posits that civilizations on both planets developed side-by-side before catastrophic events wiped out life on Mars. A new image is presented, purportedly showing human-like features that prove intelligent design.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unusual, the unexplained, and the extraordinary. It presents stories of alleged extraterrestrial encounters, historical enigmas, and unconventional hobbies with a tone that leans towards sensationalism while also including elements of human interest and historical reporting. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the fringe and the extraordinary, aiming to captivate readers with tales that challenge conventional understanding.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated 1997, presents a collection of intriguing and often bizarre stories, ranging from alleged extraterrestrial encounters and ancient mysteries to unusual animal feats and economic collapses.

Cover Story: 'BUR PÅ HJUL!' (Cart on Wheels!)

The cover story, "Kanskje noe å ta opp igjen?" (Perhaps something to revisit?), is accompanied by the headline "BUR PÅ HJUL!". It features a photograph from 1918 of a motorcycle policeman with a mobile prison, suggesting a look back at historical methods of law enforcement. The article notes that in the early 20th century, people were treated less humanely, and those who didn't adhere to societal rules were quickly imprisoned. This image is part of a collection by retired police photographer Richard Kalk, which may be exhibited at The Los Angeles Police Historical Society.

Mars Mystery: NASA's Secret Report?

An article discusses a secret NASA report that allegedly confirms the existence of intelligent life on Mars. Paul Minart claims to have obtained a copy of this report, which he describes as a "a strange admission from such a conservative department within the government." According to Minart, the report suggests that NASA has evidence supporting its claims, and that the 'leak' was orchestrated to gauge public reaction. The report allegedly states that the 'face' on Mars, previously dismissed as a natural rock formation, has human-like features and contains inscriptions that have not yet been deciphered. Furthermore, NASA reportedly believes the beings were human-like. Minart questions how NASA dated the construction, suggesting that two top-secret probes in 1991 and 1992 provided new evidence of past life on Mars. An astronomer quoted in the article expresses concern about public panic if the face is revealed to be artificial, as it challenges humanity's perception of being unique.

The Case of Mary and the Hitman

A brief, separate story details a woman named Mary who, after divorcing her husband Grady due to his alcoholism, remarried. However, her ex-husband returned, and she eventually hired a hitman to end her husband's life, stating, "Otherwise he would have killed my family." She expresses relief that her family is now safe.

Latex Stone: A Smart Australian Solution

An article titled "Blink for smart australier: LATEKS-STENEN BLE EN KJEMPE-SUKSESS!" (Blink for smart Australians: The Latex Stone Became a Huge Success!) describes how Bruce Reilly developed latex stones to deter people from stealing rocks from national parks. The idea was that people could buy these artificial stones for their gardens instead. The business became a success, especially when Bruce Jr. integrated speakers into the stones, creating a novelty item.

"Ape Art": Louis the Chimpanzee

"En ny Rembrandt? EN SJIMPANSE SOM ER EN KLØPPER TIL Å MALE!" (A new Rembrandt? A chimpanzee who is a whiz at painting!) introduces Louis, a chimpanzee from Mollie Badham's Twocross Zoo in England, who creates paintings. Louis and his companion Kip are described as being popular on British television. The article questions whether Louis could become the next Rembrandt.

Hyperinflation in Yugoslavia: "HER ER PENGENE VERDI-LØSE!" (Here are the worthless money!)

This section details the severe hyperinflation in the former Yugoslavia, where the dinar became virtually worthless. The inflation rate reached one million percent per month at one point. Banknotes were used as bedding for zoo animals or as play money for children. A typical pension was 20 million dinars per month, which would have required a huge pile of the smallest denomination bills. Consumers tried to pay with checks, as their value decreased further by the time they were cashed. Some businesses only accepted German Marks or US Dollars, with one shop owner expressing shame but admitting practicality.

Alaska's "Parking Fairies"

"ALASKAS ALVER!" (Alaska's Elves!) tells the story of Linny Pacillo, who, after being fined $75 for a parking violation in Anchorage, Alaska, decided to take action. She and her sister Susan dressed up as "elves" and began helping people with parking issues, becoming popular figures in the city.

Gorillas Taking Medicine

"TA DET SOM EN MANN!" (Take it like a man!) shows two gorillas, Hans and Konig, at the Frankfurt Zoo being given medicine for a severe influenza. The image captures their displeasure.

The Haunted Doorway

"HVER KVELD DUKKER ET ONDSKAPSFULLT ANSIKT OPP I DØREN DERES!" (Every evening an evil face appears in their doorway!) describes a phenomenon where a frightening face appears on a door at night, visible only from the inside and disappearing if the net is removed. Phyllis believes it is divine protection.

Trapped Under a Trailer

"JEG BLE SUGD INN UNDER TRAILEREN!" (I was sucked under the trailer!) recounts Bobbi Vaughan's near-fatal accident where she was trapped under a trailer. She was freed by her husband, Bill, who deflated the motorcycle tires. Bobbi sustained multiple fractures and nerve damage but is recovering and intends to ride her motorcycle again.

Mike the "Ten-Thumbed" Builder

"MIKE ØDELA SITT EGET HUS!" (Mike Destroyed His Own House!) features Mike Coughlin, who decided to renovate his five-room house himself. His ambitious project, which involved tearing down walls and even setting fire to the staircase, led to the municipality condemning and demolishing the house due to safety concerns. Mike and his wife are now living in a caravan on the property, with neighbors apprehensive about his plans for a new construction.

Keith Bryson and the Shark Revenge

"HAN TOK HEVN PÅ HAIEN!" (He Took Revenge on the Shark!) tells the story of Keith Bryson, a 72-year-old fisherman from Townsville, Australia. Bryson claims to have killed over 10,000 sharks. He recounts an incident where a shark bit off his thumb and attacked his boat. Years later, he managed to harpoon and kill the shark, which he claims was nearly 7 meters long. He also harvested 90 liters of oil from its liver, which he uses as a rust preventative.

Kellie the Cat's Nine Lives

"MEN NÅ HAR KELLIE BARE SYV IGJEN!" (But now Kellie only has seven left!) details the incredible journey of Kellie, a 9-year-old cat, who spent five days and traveled 144 miles hidden in the engine compartments of two different cars. She was eventually reunited with her owner, Erika Nordin.

Alien Implant Removed from Brain

"KIRURGER FJERNET OVERJORDISK SENDER FRA HJERNEN HENNES!" (Surgeons Removed an Extraterrestrial Transmitter from Her Brain!) reports on Astrid Ramos, who claims to have been abducted by aliens. After experiencing severe headaches, she consulted surgeon Antonia Borja, who removed a metallic object from her brain. Experts believe this object was an alien transmitter, as it was made of an artificial material not detectable by X-rays. Victor Pinto, author of "The UFO Experience," is cited, noting that Astrid's story is not unique among the 31 individuals he interviewed who claim alien abduction and implantation.

The Black Widow Roller Coaster

"DEN SORTE ENKEN SKREMMER VETTET AV FOLK!" (The Black Widow Scares the Hell Out of People!) describes the "Black Widow," a life-sized spider-shaped roller coaster at "Six Flags Great America" in Illinois, designed to enhance the thrill of the ride.

Anthony Nutter's Train Survival

"Toget kjørte over ham: MEN ANTHONY SOV ROLIG VIDERE!" (The train ran over him: But Anthony slept peacefully on!) tells the story of Anthony Nutter, who, after consuming a liter of whisky, fell asleep on train tracks in Stockport, UK. He was run over by a train traveling at over 60 km/h but miraculously survived with only minor injuries. He was charged with trespassing and ordered to remain sober.

Blessing of Tulips

"Årets avling velsignet i kirken: TUSENVIS AV TULIPANER!" (This year's harvest blessed in church: Thousands of Tulips!) reports on a ceremony in Amsterdam where thousands of white and yellow tulips were displayed in the "Nieuwe Kerk" (New Church) for a blessing, a tradition similar to harvest blessings for crops.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, extraterrestrial encounters, and unusual human and animal stories. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these accounts as potentially factual, often citing witness testimonies and expert opinions, while maintaining a sense of wonder and intrigue about the unknown. There is a clear interest in UFOs, alleged alien activity, and strange phenomena, alongside human-interest stories that highlight resilience, bizarre circumstances, or unique achievements.

Title: EN GAL GAL VERDEN
Issue: 4
Volume: 1
Date: May 1994
Publisher: LARS BRANDER / TRANSWORLD
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0803-6000
Price: Kr. 325,- for 12 issues

This issue of "EN GAL GAL VERDEN" (A Crazy Crazy World) delivers a collection of unusual and compelling stories, focusing on survival, devotion, and animal heroism.

Feature Stories

"TENNENE REDDET LIVET HANS!" (Teeth Saved His Life!)

The lead story details the remarkable survival of Dick Daniels, a retired electrician from Miami, Florida. Daniels was shot by a robber during a home invasion. Fortunately, the bullet struck his lower jaw, hitting his teeth. This impact caused the bullet to ricochet, exiting through his cheek and narrowly missing vital organs. Daniels recounts the incident, stating that if the bullet had been a few millimeters higher, he would have been dead. He even humorously noted that upon being discharged from the hospital, he discovered the beer he was drinking was leaking through the hole in his cheek.

"HUDEN HANS ER EN HYLLEST TIL ELVIS!" (His Skin is a Tribute to Elvis!)

This article introduces Jed White, a 37-year-old unemployed man from Newark, USA, who is an ardent fan of Elvis Presley. White has dedicated a significant portion of his body to Elvis-themed tattoos. The most prominent is a natural-sized portrait of Elvis on his back, which took 60 painful hours to complete and cost 3,600 kroner. White plans to continue adding more Elvis-related imagery, including portraits of Elvis's parents, Gladys and Vernon, and song titles. He describes it as his personal tribute to "The King," emphasizing that he is not crazy, just perhaps a bit original.

"GRISEN DRO BORT DEN PÅKJØRTE KATTEN FRA MOTORVEIEN!" (The Pig Carried Away the Hit Cat from the Highway!)

This heartwarming story features Daisy, a pig, and Penny, a cat, who, despite their initial animosity, become heroes. Penny was hit by a truck while attempting to cross a busy highway near their owner Grace Shelton's home. Daisy, seeing Penny injured and in danger of being hit by other vehicles, bravely ran onto the heavily trafficked road. With immense courage, Daisy grabbed Penny and dragged her to the safety of the roadside, just seconds before another truck passed. Grace Shelton expressed her astonishment at Daisy's selfless act, noting that Penny suffered a broken hind leg and a deep ear wound but is expected to fully recover. The incident transformed the relationship between Daisy and Penny, making them best friends.

"NÄRA ATT KROSSAS TILL DÖDS I SOPBIL!" (Near Crushed to Death in a Garbage Truck!)

This Swedish-language article recounts a terrifying near-death experience of a man identified only as Michael. While sleeping in a container, he was inadvertently scooped up by a garbage truck and dumped inside. The compactor began to operate, and Michael found himself being crushed by the machinery. He describes the intense pain and the feeling of impending explosion. Miraculously, the compactor stopped, and the crushing plate retracted. Michael managed to climb out of the truck, sustaining a cut above his eye that required stitches. He attributes his survival to an unknown obstruction that stopped the compactor and vows never to sleep in a container again.

Contest and Subscription Information

The magazine also includes promotional material for a contest to win a unique Harley-Davidson tank radio. To enter, readers must answer two questions related to the magazine's content: who inherited five million (Potteplanten or Kanarifuglen) and what aliens implanted in a woman's brain (Kamera or Sender). Participants are instructed to call a specific phone number between May 1st and June 4th, with calls costing kr. 6.17 per minute. Subscription details for "EN GAL GAL VERDEN" are also provided, offering 12 issues for kr. 325,- or 6 issues for kr. 195,-.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of "EN GAL GAL VERDEN" appears to be centered on presenting extraordinary, often unbelievable, human and animal experiences. The magazine highlights stories of survival against incredible odds, extreme devotion (as seen with the Elvis fan), and acts of unexpected heroism from animals. The inclusion of a near-death experience in a garbage truck and the survival of a gunshot due to dental impact reinforces the theme of the bizarre and the improbable. The overall tone is one of fascination with the unusual and the remarkable events that occur in the world.