JANUARY 13, 1968

Full News Archive

• Headline: Capitol's First Videotape Studio Unveiled. Impact: The installation of this fancy TV studio led to Congress members realizing that they could now make their own reality shows. Fast forward to today, and we have politicians using TikTok to explain complex policies with dance moves. Truly, the butterfly has flapped its wings into chaos.. Fact: Did you know that for just $20, you could film your own five-minute political propaganda? Now that's what I call a bargain! Where do I sign up?.
• Headline: Mills Opposes Tax Increase on Budget Concerns. Impact: Mills' refusal to raise taxes might have saved some wallets in the short term, but it also paved the way for the endless cycle of budget crises and fiscal cliff negotiations. Who knew that one man's stubbornness could lead to centuries of government dysfunction?. Fact: Did you know that saying 'no' to taxes is a classic way to get re-elected? It’s like the political version of 'I’ll start my diet tomorrow.'.
• Headline: Mrs. Arthur N. Penny's Contribution. Impact: This headline is like a ghost of history, haunting us with the realization that even Mrs. Penny had to scream for attention in the chaotic news cycle. It established the precedent that if you want to be heard, just slap your name in the headlines. The ripple effect? Everyone and their mom now has a podcast.. Fact: Did you know that back in the day, just mentioning your name in the newspaper was a big deal? Imagine if that were still true—everyone would be namedroping their way through brunch..
• Headline: Sale of Decomposed Meat Is Charged in Reading, Pa.. Impact: Selling decomposed meat sparked outrage that eventually led to food safety regulations. The butterfly effect here means that every time you see a 'best by' date, you can thank Diamond Meat Co for their little 'experiment' with meat that was more decomposed than a fossil.. Fact: Did you know that in some places, 'decomposed meat' is just a fancy way of saying 'aged to perfection'? Just kidding. Let's hope not..
• Headline: TRANSPORT NEWS: BOEING PRICE RISE; Aircraft Maker Lifts Cost of 737 by Up to $400,000. Impact: Boeing's price hike on the 737 models led to airlines squeezing every last penny from passengers. One could argue that this is how the ‘add-ons’ for flights were born—a direct result of corporate greed that has us paying for peanuts in the sky.. Fact: Did you know that a $400,000 increase is just a drop in the bucket when it comes to airline tickets? Next time you pay for a window seat, just remember you could've bought a small car instead!.
• Headline: Canal Zone Inspection. Impact: Repr. Murphy’s inspection of the Canal Zone probably made him realize that bureaucracy is a never-ending loop of red tape. The ripples? A hundred years later, we’re still inspecting things that probably don't need inspecting.. Fact: Did you know that inspecting a canal is just as thrilling as it sounds? Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of paperwork and maybe a duck or two..
• Headline: Shumlin Weds Mrs. Krasny. Impact: The marriage of Shumlin and Mrs. Krasny could be seen as the start of countless political dynasties. Who knows, perhaps their union led to the rise of a future president? Or at least someone who really knows how to throw a party.. Fact: Did you know that politicians often marry for power? It's like a game of chess, but instead of a checkmate, you end up with a wedding ring..
• Headline: Noise of Loud Bands Found To Harm Ears of Teen-Agers. Impact: Dr. Pollock’s findings on rock 'n' roll harming teen ears contributed to the establishment of parental advisory labels. The ripple effect? Countless teenagers would later ignore these warnings while blasting music, furthering their rebellious streak. Thanks, Doc!. Fact: Did you know that 'turn it down!' is the universal language between parents and teenagers? It’s a timeless classic, much like the rock 'n' roll they're trying to drown out..
• Headline: JOHN T. SCULLY. Impact: John T. Scully might not have made the history books, but his name’s appearance in the headlines reinforces the idea that sometimes, it’s the little guys who carry the weight of history. Who knows, his descendants might one day run for office!. Fact: Did you know that Scully is a popular last name? Good luck finding a unique one in a family reunion—it's like searching for a needle in a haystack!.
• Headline: Saigon Power Strike Widens. Impact: The power strike in Saigon highlighted the fragility of infrastructure during conflict. The ripple effect? A hundred years later, we’re still debating the merits of worker rights while power plants are still at risk of going offline during a protest.. Fact: Did you know that power strikes are just one more reason to invest in solar energy? Because nothing says 'I love democracy' like a blackout during a debate!.