Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON June 8, 1979
Full News Archive
- Headline: Philadelphia's Bid for the 1980 Democratic Convention. Impact: If Philadelphia had just accepted its fate as the city of brotherly love without begging for political attention, perhaps we wouldn't have the infamous 'Philly cheesesteak vs. New York pizza' wars today. A world without food rivalries? Shocking.. Fact: Did you know that Philadelphia is so desperate for attention that it once tried to host the Olympics? Spoiler alert: it didn't work out. Shocking, right?.
- Headline: Trial of 8 for Vietnam Smuggling in Hong Kong. Impact: This trial set off a chain reaction, leading to stricter immigration laws worldwide. Who knew that smuggling would cause countries to tighten their borders? It’s almost like people don’t want others to come in and enjoy their superior Wi-Fi.. Fact: Did you know that smuggling people is illegal? Shocking, I know. It’s almost like they didn’t read the fine print..
- Headline: Milt Jackson's 40-Year Jazz Celebration. Impact: Milt Jackson's influence in jazz led to an explosion of vibraphone players, all trying to cash in on the 'cool factor.' Now every time you hear a vibraphone, somewhere a hipster is trying to sell you a record.. Fact: Did you know that jazz was once considered 'devil's music'? Guess they should have stuck to polka, huh?.
- Headline: Medical Catastrophe Plans Seen Diverting Resources to the Dying. Impact: This revelation triggered a series of debates about healthcare priorities that ultimately led to the birth of the phrase 'death panels.' Because what’s more comforting than bureaucracies deciding who gets to live?. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'death panels' was used so often it practically became a meme? Turns out, healthcare can be quite the joke..
- Headline: WASHINGTON. Impact: Every time a new proposal like this comes up, it’s like a game of political hot potato, where the only one who gets burned is the public. But hey, at least the politicians are having fun!. Fact: Did you know that Washington D.C. is basically just one giant reality show? And the ratings are terrible!.
- Headline: About Real Estate. Impact: The obsession with real estate in the 80s led to the modern-day nightmare of housing prices that make people consider living in a van down by the river. Thanks, condos!. Fact: Did you know that real estate agents are basically professional liars? They sell you a dream and then you find out it’s more of a nightmare..
- Headline: Schlesinger Optimistic On Gasoline. Impact: Schlesinger's optimism about gasoline led to a collective sigh of relief, only to be followed by a price spike that made everyone think they were fueling a rocket to Mars. Spoiler: We weren't.. Fact: Did you know that optimism in politics is just as rare as a unicorn? And just as mythical!.
- Headline: Propane in Ample Supply. Impact: This announcement led to BBQ season getting out of hand, where people in backyards began competing for 'Best Ribs' and forgetting that propane is not meant for cooking your neighbor's dog.. Fact: Did you know that propane is actually heavier than air? So, if you smell it, just run—unless you want to become a crispy critter!.
- Headline: F.W. TOMKINS DEAD; ECUMENICAL LEADER. Impact: Tomkins' passing marked a significant loss in the ecumenical movement, reminding us all of the fragility of interfaith dialogue and the importance of unity in diversity. A legacy that echoes in the hearts of many.. Fact: Did you know that ecumenical leaders often have to mediate between differing religious beliefs? It’s like being a referee in a game where no one wants to play fair..
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $6,997,064 today (6997.1x return)
INTC
Intel
Intel - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $199,890 today (199.9x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1979, it would be worth $417,979 today (418.0x return)