En Gal Gal Verden - 1995 No 12

Magazine Overview

Title: EN GAL GAL VERDEN
Issue: 12
Volume: 1995
Date: Week 49, 1995 (December)
Publisher: Described as 'Norway's craziest magazine - breaking all records!'
Price: 32.50,- (incl. VAT)

This issue of 'Gal Gal Verden' delivers a collection of extreme and sensational stories, true to its tagline. The cover prominently features a cartoon globe and headlines promising exclusive and unbelievable accounts.

Articles and Features

"HAIANGREPET FORANDRET LIVET MITT!" (The Shark Attack Changed My Life!)

This article recounts the terrifying experience of Andrew Carter, a 32-year-old surfer from South Africa. While surfing with his friend Bruce Corby, they were attacked by a large great white shark. The shark bit a chunk out of Andrew's surfboard and severely injured his leg. Andrew was fortunate to be washed ashore by a wave, but Bruce was not so lucky and died from his injuries. Andrew has since moved to Cornwall, UK, and works in a surf shop, still deeply affected by the incident and the loss of his friend. He expresses that he may never surf again but acknowledges surfing as his life.

"SIAMESISKE TVILLINGER BLE MILLIONÆRER!" (Siamese Twins Became Millionaires!)

The story of Millie and Christine McCoy, born into slavery in Columbus County in 1851. They weighed 7650 grams at birth and were sold multiple times. At age 10, they were bought by J. P. Smith, who began showcasing them in his traveling circus. The twins, who considered themselves 'a woman with two heads,' were even kidnapped and taken to New Orleans before being reunited with Smith and their mother. They later earned money performing songs and dances, even for Queen Victoria. After 30 years in the entertainment industry, they retired with millions and bought the plantation where they were born, building houses for relatives, a church, and a school for Black children. Millie, described as quiet and shy, enjoyed embroidery and decorating their home. The article notes their deep bond, with Millie able to continue Christine's conversations. Millie died of tuberculosis on October 8, 1912, and separation was deemed impossible. Christine died seventeen hours later, singing hymns. Their gravestone inscription reads: 'One soul with two thoughts. Two hearts that beat as one.'

"MOBIL KNIVSLIPER" (Mobile Knife Sharpener)

This short piece features a photograph of a unique mobile knife sharpening cart found in a back alley in the Philippines. The cart, made of planks and bicycle pedals, is operated by a man who cycles through poor neighborhoods offering his services to sharpen kitchen knives, earning his living.

"Anerkjent kinesisk bonde SNEKKER SELEBRITETER I TRE!" (Recognized Chinese Farmer CARVES CELEBRITIES IN WOOD!)

This article introduces Wang Yuping, a 43-year-old farmer from Xiwugou, Shandong province, China, who carves intricate wooden portraits of celebrities. He was discovered at an art exhibition in Peking in 1991, where he won a silver medal. Wang primarily uses birch wood, which he saws into pieces, then designs, carves, lacquers, paints, and polishes. His work is characterized by elegance and humor. Among his creations are portraits of former US President Jimmy Carter, scientist Albert Einstein, film star Sylvester Stallone, and football player Pelé. He also carved a portrait of the Chinese writer Lu Xun.

"Jenta som gjorde stikk motsatt: FRA 50 TIL 135 KILO PÅ TRE ÅR!" (The Girl Who Did the Opposite: FROM 50 TO 135 KILOS IN THREE YEARS!)

This feature tells the story of Serena Hawser, a 28-year-old former model who was on the verge of becoming a top international model. Despite having money and attention from wealthy men, she felt unhappy and psychologically unwell due to the constant pressure of maintaining her physique. In 1992, during a family picnic, she decided to abandon her strict diet and indulge in a hamburger and fries. This marked a turning point, and she subsequently gained 80 kilograms over three years, reaching 135 kilograms. Serena is now content with her life, eating what she wants and no longer pursuing wealthy partners, valuing her happiness over her former career and appearance.

"MÅNEN ER PÅ KOLLISJONS-KURS MED JORDEN" (The Moon is on a Collision Course with Earth)

Astronomer Mark Crealer, citing well-informed sources within NASA, claims that the moon is on a collision course with Earth and that humanity could be wiped out within five years if a miracle doesn't occur. He states that NASA has observed the moon moving closer to Earth, with the distance now being 349,000 kilometers, down from the normal range of 407,000 to 356,000 kilometers. Crealer warns that this proximity will cause catastrophic climate changes, including tidal waves, whirlwinds, droughts, hurricanes, and thunderstorms. NASA has not officially commented on these claims but admits to monitoring the moon's position. The article suggests that the collision, if it occurs, will be preceded by significant, fate-altering changes affecting weather and water.

"VERDENS GALESTE TV-SHOW!" (The World's Craziest TV Show!)

This article describes the Japanese TV show 'Superhuman Colosseum,' which features contestants performing extraordinary and often dangerous stunts. People participate to showcase their unique talents and win prizes, which can amount to a million kroner. Examples of acts include a man juggling refrigerators, another stopping an electric lamp with his tongue, a man hypnotizing chickens, a performer balancing bowling balls, and a man playing the piano with his toes while blindfolded. The article questions whether such a show could be successful in Norway.

"PASS DEG FOR TARANTELLA-MANNEN!" (Beware of the Tarantula Man!)

Don Hendry from California is featured as the 'Tarantula Man.' He is the president of The California Tarantual and Scorpion Society and runs a business called 'Medusa's Head,' which rents out exotic creatures like spiders, scorpions, snakes, and lizards for film and video productions. Hendry lives in a small apartment with approximately 300 scorpions and tarantulas, along with snakes and frogs. The article notes that while scorpion stings can be dangerous, death is rare, depending on the scorpion species. His Medusa's Head tattoo serves as the logo for his business.

"ROCKY VEIER UTROLIGE 122 KILO!" (Rocky Weighs an Incredible 122 KILOS!)

This piece focuses on Rocky Corrone, a three-year-old boy from America who weighs an astonishing 122 kilograms. At birth, he weighed 10.8 kilograms, and his weight has continued to increase rapidly. His mother, Marie Corrone, describes his enormous daily food intake, which includes multiple meals with large quantities of eggs, bacon, bread, pancakes, cereal, fruit, chips, soda, hamburgers, hot dogs, beans, cakes, ice cream, and chicken. Rocky learned to walk late and requires a large cart for transport. Despite the attention he draws, his mother loves him unconditionally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents sensational, often shocking, and extraordinary stories. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the extreme, the unusual, and the survival of individuals against incredible odds. Themes include extreme physical conditions (weight, surviving attacks), unique human abilities or circumstances (Siamese twins, talent show performers), and potential global threats (moon collision). The publication aims to shock and entertain its readers with tales that push the boundaries of the ordinary.

This issue of UKEBLADET, dated 1993 and identified as issue number 11, is published by Hjemmet. The cover prominently features the alarming headline: "UKJENT VIRUS FORVANDLER MENNESKER TIL GRISER!" (Unknown Virus Turns People Into Pigs!), suggesting a major story about a mysterious epidemic.

Unknown Virus Turns People Into Pigs!

The lead article details a new virus, dubbed "Cochino" or "Svinevirus" (Pig Virus) by those affected, which is causing a disturbing transformation in humans. So far, 237 individuals in Colombia and Brazil have been infected, developing symptoms that turn them into pig-like creatures. Doctor Hector Barrancas, head of a new health authority department in Brazil, suspects the virus originates from tapirs and wild pigs and is highly contagious. The transformation involves high fever, swollen joints, deformities, hardened skin, growing noses and ears, and the appearance of facial horns, with the process being rapid and brutal.

Researchers at universities in Colombia and the USA are working intensely to develop a vaccine. Dr. Barrancas explains that the virus spreads through coughing, sneezing, and contact with bodily fluids. He expresses concern that if a vaccine isn't found, the disease could spread globally, leading to widespread transformations.

The Battle Against Obesity

The magazine also features a story about Carel van Aswegen, a 32-year-old man from South Africa who weighs 270 kilograms. He describes his life as undignified and finds his only solace in swimming. Carel claims to eat a controlled diet of porridge, a cooked meal for lunch, and toast for dinner, but the article hints that his eating habits between meals might be the core of his problem.

Controversy Over Munchkin Cats

A piece discusses the Munchkin cat breed, which is only about 10 years old and already highly debated among breeders. The breed is characterized by its short legs, a trait that some find endearing and cute, while opponents argue that the breed has been developed too quickly and that the cats may suffer due to their physical characteristics, such as dragging their bellies on the ground.

Bigfoot is Dead!

In a shocking report, zoologist Michael Crofeld announces the death of a captured Bigfoot creature. The creature, weighing 175 kilograms, had been secretly held in a remote location near Flathead National Forest. According to the report, an unidentified hunter shot and killed the Bigfoot just nine days after its capture on June 5th. Dr. Crofeld expresses his devastation, stating that the loss is immense for scientists who hoped to learn more about the creature's biology, intelligence, and its potential role as a missing link between apes and humans. The Bigfoot died from internal bleeding due to two gunshot wounds to the heart. This was the second Bigfoot captured; the first escaped in March 1991.

Alien Discovery in Arizona

The issue highlights the discovery of a black, metallic-skinned alien in the Paloma Mountains, Arizona. The creature, measuring 240 cm tall, possessed fish-like gills and was found by a hiker. UFO expert Samuel Mullins describes it as a sensational find, noting that previous encounters involved grey, green, or white aliens. The FBI and the White House have remained silent, but a source indicates President Clinton's keen interest. The alien, identified as male, was naked and its gills suggest an ability to breathe in water. Its eyes, nose, and mouth are described as smaller and less pronounced than human features. The creature is undergoing autopsy, and its chrome-based biology is speculated to explain its metallic skin.

Remarkable Animal Journeys

Two separate stories showcase extraordinary animal behavior. One tells the tale of Randall Darby's boa constrictor, Bennie, which escaped in Florida and inexplicably traveled 200 miles to reappear at Randall's new home in Pennsylvania. Randall and his wife Lucille were astonished, as they had no idea how the snake managed the journey.

The second story details an innovative "Python Massage" service offered by John Lawson, a circus director. He uses his four-meter-long, tamed python, Rory, to provide massages for people suffering from neck pain. Rory is assisted by Daniella, who helps position patients. The service has gained popularity, with clients reporting relief from pain.

In-Flight Medical Emergency

Another article recounts a dramatic incident where Paula Dixon became critically ill on a flight at 11,000 meters altitude with a collapsed lung. Surgical Professor Angus Wallace, a passenger on the flight, performed an emergency operation using a metal coat hanger, insulation tape, and a bottle of Evian water and cognac. The makeshift procedure successfully drained the lung, allowing Paula to breathe again and saving her life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UKEBLADET leans heavily into sensational and extraordinary events, covering a range of topics from potential global health crises (the virus transforming people into pigs) to the unexplained (Bigfoot's death, alien discovery) and remarkable feats of nature and human ingenuity (the obese man's struggle, the cat breed controversy, the snake's journey, the python massage, and the in-flight surgery). The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on unusual, often shocking, and intriguing phenomena, aiming to capture the reader's attention with tales that push the boundaries of the ordinary. The magazine seems to embrace the mysterious and the extraordinary, presenting these stories with a sense of wonder and sometimes alarm.

This issue of ALLEMAGASINET, dated 1996 and identified as issue 29, features a collection of unusual and extraordinary stories from around the world. The cover story highlights John Gray, who became known as 'England's craziest man' after reinventing himself as 'Sir Thomas Henry Erasmus Occupier' and marrying his dog. Other articles delve into a child hero who saved his parents, an inventor's claims of a time machine, a paranormal event involving a message from God, an animal rescue, and a unique underwater wedding.

Englands galeste mann slår til igjen: For 17 år siden fikk John nok og hoppet av. På et blunk forvandlet han seg til Englands galeste mann!

The main feature details the transformation of John Gray into 'Sir Thomas Henry Erasmus Occupier'. After a difficult period in 1978, where he lost his job and his wife left him, Gray decided to 'opt out' of conventional life. He adopted the persona of Sir Thomas, claiming to be an adventurer, professional liar, and imposter. His eccentricities include marrying his dog, Pepa, and raising her puppy as his son. He also collects pacifiers, owning around 2000. Gray explains his transformation as a necessity to escape a life that was 'killing him'.

AMERIKAS MINSTE REVOLVERMANN REDDET SIN MOR OG FAR!

This article recounts the dramatic incident on May 9th where two armed intruders broke into the home of businessman Barry Holcin. The robbers threatened to kill the family. However, their four-year-old son, Sammy, bravely retrieved his father's revolver and shot the intruders dead, saving his parents.

MMM, SVINGODT!

This section seems to be a miscellany of short, unrelated stories. One snippet mentions a piglet named Sue in Ottumwa, Iowa, who was overfed. Another mentions a cow named Mu that was surprised by something. The main content of this section appears to be a continuation of the Sammy story from page 2, detailing the aftermath and the parents' concerns about Sammy's future discipline given his heroic act.

TONY HAR OPPFUNNET EN TIDSMASKIN!

This article introduces Tony Bassett, an inventor from Camden Town, London, who claims to have built a time machine. Bassett, who also runs a healing practice with his 'Bio-energizer' apparatus, believes his machines can send people through time. He has reportedly demonstrated this ability to over 50 people. Bassett is also involved with the Mind Development Association and has invented other devices, including a 'Talking Plant Machine' and an 'Orb'.

FRED PÅ FØTTENE IGJEN!

This story is about a hedgehog named Fred who survived a fall of seven meters onto a paved courtyard. His owner, Felicity Cross, recounts how Fred's leg had to be amputated. An occupational therapist, Carolyn Melke, created a prosthetic leg for Fred using a harness, and it appears to be functioning.

UNDERVANNS-BRYLLUP!

This short piece describes the underwater wedding of Domenico Manchia and Marlene Mulet, which took place six meters below the surface off the coast of Tavolara, Sardinia, on July 23rd. The article questions whether the unusual ceremony was a response to the summer heat.

KVinner KOM TILBAKE TIL LIVET - MED BREV FRA GUD!

This article tells the story of Agnes McIntyre, a heart patient who was declared dead on the operating table. She reportedly returned to life with a seven-page letter, purportedly from God, which was sent to the Vatican. Vatican experts are said to be investigating the letter, which is written in gold ink on silk-like fabric, but its contents have not been officially confirmed.

Vinterdagen sluttet med katastofe: LILLE ANNA BLE KNUST TIL DØDE AV EN SNØ-MANN!

This tragic story reports on the death of six-year-old Anna, who was crushed by a large snowman that collapsed on her while she was playing with friends in Austria. The snowman, weakened by the sun and refrozen, fell on Anna when she was too close to escape. The article emphasizes the weight of the snow and ice, comparing it to being hit by bricks.

EN SKIKKELIG TING OG TANG SAMLER!

This feature profiles Max Manent, an eccentric Frenchman from L'Oriol sur Drome, France, who has created a peculiar museum from his vast collection of 'things and tang'. His museum, open daily except Tuesdays, houses items such as 200 old pipes, 15,000 cigar bands, 6,000 matchboxes, African art, erotic postcards, surgical instruments, and sculptures.

AMERIKAS VAKRESTE FAMILIE!

This article introduces the Pancake family from Chattanooga, Tennessee, who are dedicated to entering their four daughters – Blaire, Erin, Elise, and Alexis – in beauty pageants. The parents, Bruce and Debbie, invest significant time and money into their daughters' pageant careers, providing custom-made clothing, dance lessons, and other support. Blaire, in particular, has won numerous awards, including cars and a modeling contract.

SPEILENE SPREKKER NÅR HUN KOMMER FOR NÆR!

This brief article describes a phenomenon where mirrors reportedly shatter within 10 seconds when a woman named Lucy gets too close to them. Researchers are unable to explain this peculiar occurrence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features stories that highlight the unusual, the eccentric, and the extraordinary. There is a clear interest in individuals who defy convention, whether through extreme lifestyles, unique inventions, or seemingly paranormal experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with these phenomena, presenting them with a degree of sensationalism but also providing details that allow readers to form their own conclusions. The inclusion of diverse stories, from child heroism to alleged divine messages, suggests an aim to capture a wide range of reader interests in the unusual.

This issue of EN GAL GAL VERDEN (A CRAZY CRAZY WORLD) presents a collection of unusual and often bizarre stories, covering paranormal phenomena, animal welfare, and human interest tales.

Lucy Benawell: The Woman Who Shatters Glass

The lead story focuses on Lucy Benawell, a 28-year-old woman from Philadelphia, who possesses an unexplained ability to cause mirrors and windows to shatter simply by being near them. This phenomenon, which began after a trip to Egypt, has baffled scientists, including Dr. Maurice Clavinaw, who has studied Lucy for nine months. Instruments detect a strong electrical field around her, but the cause remains unknown. The shattering typically occurs within 30-45 seconds, and if Lucy doesn't move, sharp glass splinters can fly out.

Peter Gurney: The Guinea Pig King

Peter Gurney, after experiencing depression following his divorce, found solace and happiness by collecting guinea pigs. He went from caring for a neighbor's pet to amassing 108 guinea pigs, filling his small apartment. He describes them as clean and odorless, and enjoys waking up to them each morning.

Mandi Duffy's Haunted House

Mandi Duffy, 29, moved into a new house in Battersea, London, but her dream home turned into a nightmare when she discovered four frightening, skull-like faces on her kitchen floor. Despite her friend Reggie Jackson's efforts to fix the floor by replacing and insulating it, the faces reappeared. Mandi even recorded sounds in the kitchen, which revealed growls and sinister voices. The experience was so disturbing that Mandi eventually moved out, and the house remains unsold with the faces still visible.

UFOs Over Disneyworld

On June 7, 1995, three unidentified objects were sighted over Disneyworld's Magic Kingdom. Visitors initially thought they were part of a show, but one object descended and sprayed attendees with a blue-green mist, reportedly granting one individual the ability to move small objects with their mind. The US Air Force and the Pentagon have remained tight-lipped about the incident, but sources confirm they are taking it seriously due to the potential danger to millions of visitors. A 17-year-old from Orlando is reportedly under intense investigation due to developing supernatural powers after the encounter. Officials speculate the UFOs might have been interested in Disney's new "Alien Encounter" attraction.

Freddie DeSenno Sues His Mother

Ten-year-old Freddie DeSenno has sued his mother, Kendra, for 8,000,000 Norwegian Kroner. The lawsuit stems from a bitter custody battle after his parents' divorce. Freddie chose to live with his father, Andrew, but Kendra allegedly prevented him from seeing his beloved dog, Rudy, and playing with his toys. Freddie claims his mother is angry because he chose to live with his father. Despite his claims, Freddie states he doesn't truly want to sue his mother but wishes for her to love him again and allow him to see his dog.

Chuck Hynes: The Non-Smoker Collector

Chuck Hynes, a retired electrician from Minneapolis, has collected 7000 cigarette packs since he was 14 years old. His collection includes rare brands from his travels and military service. He is still searching for specific rare packs, like the "Spud" menthol cigarette from the 1920s, which he believes could be worth a significant amount.

Justin Kase: The Daredevil Stuntman

Justin Kase, a stuntman from Hollywood, performed a dangerous stunt where he jumped off a four-story building into the harbor on a burning bicycle. He miscalculated the speed needed and landed awkwardly, dislocating his jaw and losing a tooth, but he succeeded in his goal of performing the stunt.

Gertrude the Pig's Sun Allergy

Gertrude, a pet pig in Shildon, England, suffers from an allergy to ultraviolet rays, causing her to get sunburned after only a few minutes in the sun. Her owner, Heather Powles, tried sunscreen without success, but found a solution with a sun hat and a towel on Gertrude's back.

The One-Legged Goose

In Turlock, California, a one-legged goose survived being shot in the head with a dart. Animal lovers are outraged by the incident, which also injured a duck. The perpetrator is believed to be a teenager. The goose's mate reportedly protected it, and the dart was later removed, possibly by the same person who shot it.

The Minnesota Twins' Twin Phenomenon

The Unga Ligaen baseball team in Oakland, USA, known as the Minnesota Twins, has an unusual number of twins on its roster. Over half of the team's players are twins, leading to humorous situations where coaches and teammates sometimes struggle to identify them. The team actively recruits twins, continuing a tradition that started in the 1960s.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features stories that highlight the unusual, the unexplained, and the extraordinary aspects of life. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with these phenomena, presenting them with a degree of sensationalism while also attempting to provide some factual background. There's a clear interest in UFOs, paranormal events, and unusual human and animal stories.

This issue of UFO-Aktuelt, dated 1995, features a diverse range of compelling and unusual stories, ranging from animal companions with extraordinary abilities to remarkable medical achievements and unique collections. The cover story highlights a "tough girl on a motorcycle," which turns out to be a dog named Zipp, who enjoys riding on her owner's Harley Davidson.

Article: Zipp, the Motorcycle Dog

The article introduces Zipp, a dachshund who has been riding motorcycles with her owner, Jarl Kaczmarek, since she was a puppy. Initially, she rode in the tank bag, but now has a custom-made bag. Zipp reportedly enjoys rides of 10-15 miles, and even gets impatient if they stop for too long. She wears pilot goggles and a leather cap for protection. During a summer vacation, they took a long trip to Härjedalen, and Zipp also has a special rain jacket, though it wasn't needed that summer.

Article: Baby Born with Head Backward

This section details the incredible story of Medgar Blye, a baby who was born with his head facing backward. His mother, Lucy, was told about the condition and the possibility of a surgery. Despite her fears, she consented to a 17-hour neurosurgery performed by a team of surgeons and pediatricians. The procedure involved carefully dissecting the skin around the neck, separating two cervical vertebrae, and then reattaching the head. Medgar's body temperature and heart rate were lowered during the surgery to protect his vital organs. Miraculously, Medgar survived and, after a period of recovery, is now a normal, active two-year-old.

Article: Lobster Tips Lead to Millions

Michael, a man who claims to have won 24 million in dog races, attributes his success to his pet lobster, Lester. Six years prior, Michael heard a voice in his head at a fish restaurant, urging him to save the lobster. He bought Lester and brought him home. Since then, Michael claims Lester provides him with tips for dog races, leading to an 87% success rate. This has made Michael so successful that he can no longer bet at his favorite track due to the crowds that follow his picks. Lester now lives in a large aquarium and is Michael's best friend.

Article: Steve Gould's Mysterious Blood Disorder

Steve Gould, who took a job as a leader at a youth camp in Gloucester, England, developed a severe and unusual blood disorder. After an ankle injury, he woke up covered in bruises. Doctors diagnosed him with a condition where his blood did not coagulate, making even minor scratches potentially fatal. He was forbidden to shave and had to grow a beard. Doctors treated him with steroids and antibiotics. Eventually, his spleen was removed, and he is now healthy, though he must take medication for life. He expresses gratitude for being alive.

Article: World's Largest Brain Bank

This feature explores a unique collection at Runwell Hospital in England, which houses the world's largest brain bank. Located in an old shelter, the facility contains over 8300 human brains preserved in formalin, collected over many years by Professor Nick Corsellis. Researchers from around the world visit the bank to study diseases such as Alzheimer's, Creutzfeldt-Jakob syndrome, and schizophrenia. The article notes that Professor Corsellis was against boxing due to its harmful effects on the brain.

Article: A Man Made of Animal Parts

Boyd McCartney's body began to fail in 1989 due to diabetes and high blood pressure, affecting his kidneys and liver. While in Mexico, he learned about experimental animal organ transplants. He agreed to the procedures, receiving new kidneys from a baboon in September 1989, followed by a wolf's liver a year later. Both transplants were successful. He later suffered a heart attack and received a hyena's heart. His right eye's cornea was replaced with one from a cat, and he also received pig brain tissue in an attempt to treat Parkinson's disease. Despite the unusual nature of his condition, McCartney states he still feels human and has no risk of growing a tail.

Article: England Competes with Legoland

This section announces that England will soon have its own "Legoland" with a new attraction in Windsor, opening in April 1996. The first model, a 1:50 scale replica of Big Ben, was unveiled, constructed from 65,000 Lego bricks. The project involves 1500 models and represents an investment of 80 million pounds, with expectations of 1.2 million visitors annually.

Article: Cher, the Blind Terrier

In South Africa, a Staffordshire terrier named Cher was born blind. Her owners, Don and Jean Goodison, decided to keep her and provide her with a special companion, Bonny, a Jack Russell mix. Bonny acts as Cher's guide dog, leading her around the house and garden. The two dogs share a strong bond and are inseparable.

Article: Underwater Concert

The "Underwater Music Festival" in Key West, Florida, featured a concert by "The Snorkeling Elvises." The band performed underwater for an audience of approximately 800 snorkelers and divers who could hear the music via underwater speakers.

Article: A Streaker on the Golf Course

During the British Golf Open in Scotland, American golfer John Daly and his wife Paulette were celebrating their victory on the 18th hole when an unidentified streaker ran across the course, pursued by security personnel.

Article: The Ungrateful Lottery Millionaire

Thomas DeCarle, who won 145 million in the lottery, is described as an ungrateful individual who has relied on family and friends his entire life without working. His brother, Paul DeCarle, criticizes him for not showing gratitude after his win and for squandering the money on himself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Aktuelt consistently explores themes of the unusual, the miraculous, and the extraordinary. It showcases stories that defy conventional expectations, highlighting resilience in the face of medical adversity (Medgar Blye, Steve Gould, Boyd McCartney), the surprising capabilities of animals (Zipp, Lester the lobster, Bonny), and unique human endeavors (brain bank, Lego construction, underwater concert). The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the unexplained and the remarkable, presenting these stories as intriguing accounts of life's oddities and triumphs.

Title: En Gal Gal Verden
Issue: 51
Publisher: ALLERS FAMILIE JOURNAL
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "En Gal Gal Verden" presents a collection of peculiar and often sensational stories, covering a wide range of unusual human experiences and alleged phenomena. The magazine invites reader participation through letters and submissions, aiming to explore the stranger side of life.

Thomas: The Ungrateful Lottery Winner

The lead story focuses on Thomas, a lottery winner of 145 million, who is accused of extreme ingratitude by his family and friends. His brother, Paul, recounts donating a kidney to Thomas in 1991, a gesture that was never acknowledged. His sister, Rebecca, allowed him to live in her garage apartment for six years without rent and provided him with pocket money. A friend, Mary Caycer, gifted him cars and furniture. His mother, Renee, not only bought him groceries but also cleaned his apartment weekly, despite her own financial struggles and rheumatism. Even Pastor Francis Mace, who listened to Thomas's problems for years, claims Thomas stole money from the church collection box. Thomas, however, defends his actions, stating that while people helped him when he needed it, he doesn't owe them anything now that he is wealthy. He has purchased a luxury apartment by the sea for 2.8 million kroner, along with a Jaguar, a Corvette, a Porsche, and a Harley-Davidson, and reportedly spends 2,400 kroner daily on dining out. An ex-girlfriend notes that he hasn't invited anyone for dinner, highlighting a lack of gratitude for past support.

Peter: The Guinea Pig King

Peter, known in London as the "Guinea Pig King," is featured for his dedication to sick guinea pigs. He has written two books on the subject, "The Care of Guinea Pig" and "Piggy Potions." Despite living in a small one-room apartment with 108 guinea pigs, he clearly has a passion for these small animals.

Sir Thomas and His Unusual Marriages

Sir Thomas has a colorful marital history, including a wedding to "Soozie The Floozie" in 1985, where he wore a tuxedo and the bride was nearly naked. They divorced in 1992. In the past year, he married for the fourth time, this time to a clay potter. He also claims to have married a dog. He admits he doesn't live with his current wife, as she doesn't like his home. His residence is described as eccentric, with bizarre installations and a tomb crypt for his dog, Pepe. Sir Thomas has also set his own death date for November 4, 2004, when he will be 66 years and 6 months old, referencing the number 666.

Joe Reeves: Fighting Burglars with Landmines

In the small town of Church Enstone, England, Joe Reeves has taken extreme measures against a recent spate of burglaries. He has buried 20 landmines around his garden, stating that while they are small and not intended to cause physical harm, they are meant to scare intruders away. He explains that in the past, explosives were combined with shotguns, but this is no longer possible. Reeves asserts his right to defend his property and declares it is "war" against the burglars.

Brandon Blenner: The Three-Year-Old Master Chef

Brandon Blenner, at just 18 months old, began experimenting in the kitchen. Now three years old, he is described as a true master chef who creates new gourmet dishes daily. A publisher has commissioned a cookbook from him. Food expert Gaston Deleaumond, who is helping Brandon with the book, calls him a "natural gift." Brandon's parents believe his culinary talent stems from being a late talker, using food as his primary form of expression.

Bill Harrison: Gifts from the Other Side

Bill Harrison, a 49-year-old healer from Somerset, England, claims to receive gifts from "the other side." These items, such as a brass candlestick, brass bowls, and a heavy cannonball, mysteriously appear in his locked house. He believes these are gifts from spirits to strengthen him in his healing work. He also claims to practice distance healing, sending cards to patients. One recipient, a local radio representative, reported a boil on his back disappearing the day after receiving a card from Harrison.

Coleslaw Wrestling at Bike Week

Bike Week in Daytona, Florida, features "Coleslaw Wrestling" as a popular entertainment. The event involves a truck dumping a load of coleslaw onto a specially designed surface, making it difficult for participants to stay upright. Two lightly clad women then engage in a wrestling match, cheered on by a boisterous crowd.

Diane Watkins' Dog Eats Money

Diane Watkins from Driffield, England, returned to find her handbag, left with her four-year-old German Shepherd, in tatters. The dog had eaten approximately 12,000 Norwegian kroner worth of banknotes. The insurance company reportedly found the incident amusing, and only identifiable notes will be replaced.

The Haunted "Death Chair"

An antique oak chair from the 1600s at the Busby Stoop Inn in Yorkshire, England, is believed to be cursed. The chair's former owner, murderer Tom Busby, allegedly cursed it before his execution in 1702, stating that anyone who sat in it after his death would also die. The chair has reportedly been responsible for 64 deaths over 293 years, with the latest victim being Ann Conelatter, a revisor from Trenton, New Jersey, who died in a hotel elevator accident shortly after sitting in the chair.

Reader Letters and Magazine Operations

The "Skriv til Oss" (Write to Us) section features letters from readers. Some express appreciation for the "Tør-det-selv" (Do-it-yourself) pages and magic tricks, while others inquire about spirit voices. One reader asks why the magazine isn't in color, to which the editors explain that many submitted photos are black and white, and color printing is more expensive. Another reader questions the magazine's focus on serious topics and asks for more humorous stories. The editors respond that they aim to cover life's serious aspects and do not intend to fill the pages with humor.

A reader named Aage Holm from Steinkjer inquires about an article on an ancient Egyptian recipe for eternal youth, asking for scientific background. The response discusses the connection between sound, form, and frequency, suggesting that certain words and sounds can influence the environment and matter. It touches upon ancient legends of magic and the power of vocalizations.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unusual, the unexplained, and the sensational. It features stories that often border on the bizarre, including paranormal claims, eccentric individuals, and strange occurrences. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these stories as factual or at least plausible, encouraging reader engagement and curiosity about the world's stranger aspects. There is a clear interest in folklore, curses, alleged supernatural events, and extreme human behavior.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"En Gal Gal Verden" consistently delves into the realm of the unusual, the paranormal, and the sensational. The magazine seems to embrace a fascination with unexplained phenomena, curses, eccentric individuals, and extreme human behavior. The editorial stance is to present these stories, often with a sensationalist bent, as intriguing accounts of the world's stranger aspects. Reader participation is encouraged, suggesting a desire to create a community around shared curiosity for the bizarre. The recurring themes include alleged supernatural encounters, unusual talents, peculiar events, and the darker, more mysterious side of life.

Title: EN GAL GAL VERDEN (A Mad Mad World)
Issue: BLAD (Magazine)
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Country: Norway
Original Language: Norwegian

This issue of "EN GAL GAL VERDEN" is a Norwegian magazine filled with unusual stories, 'do-it-yourself' tricks, and a contest. The cover prominently features a giant scorpion costume that appeared on the streets of London, causing a spectacle.

Cover Story: The Giant Scorpion of London

The main story details an incident in London where a giant scorpion costume, worn by three circus artists, surprised motorists and pedestrians. The artists were promoting the summer performance "What on Earth" at London's Natural History Museum. The individuals involved were Suzy Barton (head and claws), Lindsay Butcher (body), and Lou Harwood (tail). The goal was to attract attention, which they successfully achieved.

Personal Incident: Trapped in a Telephone Booth

Another featured story recounts an incident where a woman named Michelle was found inside a telephone booth, having been unnoticed by passersby. She managed to signal for help by sticking out a hand. After being carefully freed, she was taken to the hospital, where it was determined she had only sustained minor bruises and a sprained ankle. A shaken Michelle expressed her relief and stated she would now opt for a mobile phone instead of using telephone booths.

DIY Tricks and Experiments

The magazine dedicates several sections to 'do-it-yourself' tricks and experiments:

Trick 1: Crystal Ball Reading

This section explains how to attempt to see the future using a crystal ball. It advises acquiring a clear glass ball, placing it in a dimly lit room with no reflections, and gazing into it. The process may initially reveal a white mist, but with persistence, light rays might appear, showing figures and events. The source of these visions is attributed by most psychologists to a form of 'visualization' of one's subconscious. The visions can be varied and are in color.

Trick 2: Become the Master of Fire

This trick demonstrates how to relight a candle wick using the smoke from an extinguished candle. By holding a lit match in the smoke, the gas in the smoke ignites, relighting the wick. The article notes that this works because the match ignites the gas within the stearin (wax) smoke.

Trick 3: You Can Calculate It

A reader submitted a mathematical puzzle. The trick involves a person writing a three-digit number with distinct digits, where the first digit is the largest. The solver is then asked to reverse the number and subtract the smaller from the larger. The secret is that the middle digit of the result will always be 9, and the sum of the first and last digits will also be 9. If the result is a two-digit number, the first digit is 0.

Trick 4: Rising Balls

This trick involves making heavy balls (made of clay, glass, or wood) appear to rise through powdered sugar (melis) in a clear bowl. After covering the balls with melis and shaking the bowl vertically, the balls move upwards through the powder. The explanation is that the melis slips under the balls during the upward shaking motion, utilizing the balls' greater mass and inertia compared to the light sugar crystals.

Contest: Win a Harley Davidson Tank Radio

The magazine announces a contest where readers can win a unique Harley Davidson tank radio. The radio features separate controls for engine and headlight sounds, a classic Harley Davidson design, and FM-MW-LW capabilities. To enter, readers must answer two questions: "What does the unknown virus do?" (options: turns people into pigs or gives people long teeth) and "What survived the goose mother?" (options: being hit from behind or a bullet through the head). Entries are accepted by calling a specific phone number from December 5th to January 2nd, with a charge of 6.17 Norwegian Kroner per minute.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine adopts a lighthearted and curious tone, focusing on the unusual, the entertaining, and the slightly mysterious. It encourages reader participation through submitted ideas and contests. The "ADVARSEL!" (WARNING!) box in the tricks section, stating that the magazine is not responsible for any consequences from attempting the described experiments, particularly those related to the 'supernatural' (kontakt med "det hinsidige" - contact with 'the beyond'), suggests a playful caution rather than a serious endorsement of paranormal claims. The overall theme is one of amusement and engagement with the extraordinary aspects of life, presented in an accessible and engaging manner.