JULY 21, 1979

Full News Archive

• Headline: New Buses Contract Amid Defects Controversy. Impact: The defective buses led to a citywide transportation crisis, causing a butterfly effect of frustration that spiraled into the rise of ridesharing apps decades later. The next thing you know, everyone is crammed in an Uber, reminiscing about a time when buses were actually reliable. Thanks, Grumman Flxible Industries!. Fact: Fun fact: The defects in those buses were so notorious that they were unofficially dubbed the 'Rolling Coffins' by the transit workers. Who knew commuting could be so exciting?.
• Headline: The Significance of Names in Leadership. Impact: The realization that names have lost their weight triggered an existential crisis among world leaders, leading to a bizarre trend of rebranding themselves with more flamboyant titles, such as 'Supreme Leader of Coolness' or 'Grand Poobah of Global Affairs'.. Fact: Did you know that in 1979, the most popular baby names were still 'John' and 'Mary'? Clearly, some things never change, huh?.
• Headline: Money Grows on Trees. Impact: The rising cost of apples led to a nationwide panic, causing people to hoard apples, resulting in a bizarre black market for Granny Smiths. Yes, 'Apples for Gold' became a thing. Thanks, inflation!. Fact: Fun fact: If apples could talk, they’d probably complain about being the most overrated fruit. Seriously, who needs another apple pie recipe?.
• Headline: G.M. and Union Clash on Absenteeism and Hiring. Impact: The clash between GM and the UAW set the stage for labor movements in the Sun Belt, leading to more strikes, picket lines, and eventually, a whole lot of union swag. Let's just say, 'Caution: Union Activity Ahead' became a common sight.. Fact: Did you know that while they were arguing over absenteeism, GM was secretly working on a car that could drive itself? Spoiler alert: They called it 'The Future'..
• Headline: Music: Franz, Son of Wolfgang. Impact: The concert was a pivotal moment that rejuvenated classical music culture, inspiring a wave of hipsters to trade in their electric guitars for cellos. Thus, the hipster classical revival was born.. Fact: Did you know that Yo-Yo Ma once played in a subway to promote classical music? Turns out, he could make even a rush hour commute seem classy..
• Headline: ADAMS ANGRILY QUITS TRANSPORTATION JOB. Impact: Adams's resignation ignited a series of political shake-ups, leading to a new trend of officials quitting in dramatic fashion. This set a precedent for future politicians to leave their posts in a cloud of intrigue and drama, paving the way for reality TV.. Fact: Fun fact: If you thought political drama was new, think again! Adams’s resignation could’ve been a season finale on a soap opera. 'As the Politics Turn' would have been a hit!.
• Headline: MANAGUA WELCOMES REBEL GOVERNMENT. Impact: The Sandinista takeover forever altered the political landscape of Central America, leading to a series of revolutions and counter-revolutions. Who knew a bunch of rebels showing up could change the course of history so dramatically?. Fact: Did you know that the Sandinista rebels had a knack for dramatic entrances? They really knew how to make an entrance worthy of a Hollywood blockbuster!.