FEBRUARY 19, 1978

Full News Archive

• Headline: Russian Flu Epidemic in NJ Schools. Impact: The flu outbreak in NJ led to a nationwide panic, resulting in the invention of the hand sanitizer dispenser. Little did they know, this would eventually lead to a global obsession with cleanliness—thanks, Russian flu!. Fact: Did you know that after this flu outbreak, people started to wear masks to avoid germs? Fast forward a few decades, and they were just trying to avoid their ex's texts..
• Headline: Raffling of First Lady: A Unique Fundraiser. Impact: Rosalynn Carter's dance with a raffle winner sparked a nationwide trend of putting public figures in awkward situations. This led to the rise of social media influencers who dance with random people for 'likes.'. Fact: Did you know this event was also the first time the phrase 'dancing for dollars' was used? It was a slippery slope to TikTok..
• Headline: Scripps Acquires Florida Newspaper Assets. Impact: The purchase of Florida papers by Scripps paved the way for the media monopoly, which ultimately made it possible for reality TV stars to run for office. Thanks, journalism!. Fact: Did you know that E.W. Scripps was initially a newspaper publisher? Now they just publish whatever gets clicks. Progress!.
• Headline: U.S. SAYS L.I, GROUP BROKE ELECTION LAW. Impact: The accusation of election law violation spurred a wave of political memes about transparency. This laid the groundwork for the internet's obsession with exposing political scandals—because nothing says democracy like a good meme.. Fact: Did you know that this event led to the creation of the phrase 'what happens in the ballot box stays in the ballot box'? Just kidding, everyone loves to gossip..
• Headline: LEVESQUE IRKED ANEW BY TRUDEAU'S STANCE. Impact: Levesque's walkout was a pivotal moment that fueled the separatist movement, ultimately leading to a series of dramatic political shows that would make even the best soap operas jealous.. Fact: Did you know that after this event, the phrase 'walking out' became a popular political tactic? Who knew drama could be so effective?.
• Headline: VAULT HOLDS GIFTS OF FOREIGN NATIONS. Impact: The vault of foreign gifts became a sensational topic, leading to increased scrutiny on political ethics and sparking the idea for reality shows about 'rich politicians and their incredible gifts.'. Fact: Did you know that this vault was where the concept of 'political swag' was born? Because nothing says 'I love my country' like receiving a diamond-encrusted pen from a foreign dignitary..
• Headline: A New Head of Steam for the Old ‘Twentieth Century’. Impact: This article on writing a play paved the way for countless terrible Broadway musicals. It served as a reminder that just because you can write a play doesn't mean you should.. Fact: Did you know that Betty Comden and Adolph Green went on to create some of the most beloved musicals? So, clearly, they did it right—unlike some of us who think we can write a hit song after one karaoke night..