FEBRUARY 16, 1978

Full News Archive

• Headline: Forest Hills Hosts Major Men's Tennis Tournament. Impact: The $300,000 Men's Tournament at Forest Hills inspired a whole new generation of weekend warriors who thought they could play tennis, leading to countless sprained ankles and a booming market for ankle braces.. Fact: Ever wonder why tennis players grunt? It's to distract from the sound of their bank accounts crying after losing matches..
• Headline: Legacy of Professor Norman R. Dixon. Impact: Norman R. Dixon's influence in higher education led to the creation of a secret society of professors who met annually to discuss the merits of grading papers while wearing pajamas. This society still exists today, and they have a great cookie recipe.. Fact: Did you know that in academia, 'higher education' often translates to 'how to avoid real work for as long as possible'?.
• Headline: The Gadgets. In Your Future. Impact: Joan Kron’s predictions about future gadgets led directly to a generation of people who can’t live without their smartphones, thus creating a global crisis in face-to-face communication skills and a thriving market for awkward small talk.. Fact: Did you know that the first gadget was actually a stick used to poke at things? Unfortunately, it didn’t have WiFi..
• Headline: Ilka Chase, Act'ress and Author, 72, Is Dead in Mexico. Impact: Ilka Chase's passing sent ripples through the entertainment world, reminding everyone that age doesn’t discriminate when it comes to the final curtain call. Ironically, her death sparked a resurgence in 'vintage' lifestyle blogs.. Fact: Ilka Chase was known for her wit and charm; they say the secret to her longevity was a steady diet of sarcasm and a good Cabernet..
• Headline: A Reign Is Ended As Face Shows Stings of Defeat. Impact: The defeat referenced in Dave Anderson's commentary sent shockwaves through the ranks of those who thought they could run a marathon without training. This led to an increase in motivational quotes on social media, which ironically motivated no one.. Fact: Did you know that 'defeat' is just victory's way of saying, 'Try again, but like, with actual effort this time'?.
• Headline: Advertising. Impact: Gruner & Jahr's attempt to enter the US market turned into a massive publishing battle resembling a soap opera, complete with dramatic betrayals and surprise plot twists that would make any reality TV producer jealous.. Fact: Fun fact: The publishing industry is basically where dreams go to die, but with more coffee breaks..
• Headline: News Summary. Impact: Begin's acceptance of the invitation to visit Washington was the first step in a long, convoluted relationship that would have more ups and downs than a roller coaster, ultimately leading to a diplomatic language that could only be understood by the most skilled codebreakers.. Fact: Did you know that diplomatic visits are basically just high-stakes game nights with a lot of snacks and awkward silences?.
• Headline: H. R. Gokhale, Ex‐Minister in India. Impact: H. R. Gokhale's legacy in Indian politics led to political debates being compared to Bollywood movies, complete with dramatic plot twists and the occasional dance number to distract from the actual issues.. Fact: In Indian politics, it's said that the real competition is not who can govern best but who can pull off the most extravagant wardrobe changes during debates..