MARCH 14, 1958

Full News Archive

• Headline: Tax Cooperation in 1958. Impact: This agreement set off a chain reaction where politicians realized that cooperation was actually a thing. Eventually, this led to the invention of the bipartisan high-five, which, while not effective in governance, became the go-to move for photo ops.. Fact: Did you know that taxes were first introduced to fund wars? Imagine if we just threw a bake sale instead! 'Cupcakes for Combat,' anyone?.
• Headline: Police Officers Charged in Theft Scandal. Impact: The arrest of these four policemen caused a sudden spike in shoe store security measures, leading to the eventual invention of the 'shoe vault'—where even the fanciest shoes were locked up tighter than a secret government file.. Fact: Did you know that in many places, the police are tasked with protecting property? Clearly, these officers missed that memo..
• Headline: DISPUTED CONTRACT IS KILLED IN HUDSON. Impact: The cancellation of this contract opened the floodgates for more competitive bidding, ultimately leading to the establishment of the world's first office supply bidding war, which was less exciting than it sounds but still a spectacular waste of time.. Fact: Did you know that the office supply industry has been known to keep people awake at night? Just ask anyone who’s ever counted paper clips..
• Headline: JOBLESS AID BILL VOTED IN ALBANY; Maximum Up to $45 a Week -- Harriman Approval Seen JOBLESS AID BILL VOTED IN ALBANY. Impact: This bill's passage led to a sudden boom in thrift stores and a resurgence of DIY skills, as folks learned how to make the most out of $45 a week. Who knew that unemployment could inspire such creative budgeting?. Fact: Did you know that $45 in 1960s money could buy you a fancy dinner or about three cups of coffee today? Inflation is a real buzzkill..
• Headline: WMCA WILL PUSH FOR FLUORIDATION; Station to Begin 'Singing Editorials' Next Week -Sinatra Weighs Plans. Impact: This push for fluoridation combined with Sinatra's involvement led to an unexpected rise in dental hygiene awareness and a surge in dentist visits. Who knew a little fluoride could spark a musical revolution of pearly whites?. Fact: Did you know that fluoride is the only chemical that can make your teeth shine brighter than your future?.
• Headline: Article 2 -- No Title. Impact: The regret of I M Laykin's colleagues over the failed Explorer mission prompted a series of over-cautious space missions, resulting in an entire generation of scientists who prefer the safety of their labs over the great unknown of the cosmos.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more out of this world than space exploration is the number of people who think they can launch their own rockets from their backyards?.
• Headline: HANSON DECRIES HILLBILLY MUSIC; Tells Senate Unit Hearing Tunes Heard on Air Are 'Madison Ave.' Version. Impact: Dr. Hanson's outcry against hillbilly music led to an underground movement of authentic country artists, which then led to the birth of hipster country—because who doesn't love a plaid shirt and a banjo?. Fact: Did you know that 'hillbilly' is actually a term of endearment in some circles? Just ask the folks at the family reunion!.