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 August 27, 1984
Full News Archive
- Headline: Fun Fungi Festival in the Pine Barrens. Impact: The fungi foraging craze led to the invention of 'Mushroom-lympics,' where people compete to find the rarest mushrooms under the influence of questionable herbal teas.. Fact: Did you know that some mushrooms can be hallucinogenic? Maybe that's why they were crying out in 'archaic tongues'—they were on a spiritual journey!.
- Headline: Fountain Pens: A Resurgence of Style. Impact: The resurgence of fountain pens sparked a global shortage of ink, leading to a black market where people were forced to trade their vintage typewriters for a drop of blue ink.. Fact: Did you know that the fountain pen was once considered a symbol of sophistication? Now, it’s just a fancy tool to write your grocery list in style!.
- Headline: WHAT'S NEW IN HEALTH CARE COSTS. Impact: The soaring health care costs prompted a secret society of doctors to emerge, dedicated to developing the world’s first health insurance plan that actually covers your sanity.. Fact: Did you know that health care costs are so high that some people consider a trip to the doctor a luxury vacation? Just don't forget your wallet!.
- Headline: NASSAU TUNES UP FOR ARTS FESTIVAL. Impact: The Nassau Arts Festival became so popular that it inspired a movement to bring art to the most mundane places—like your local DMV, where now you can admire the 'Art of Waiting'.. Fact: Did you know that art is subjective? Just like how you might think that waiting in line is a form of performance art. Bravo!.
- Headline: LONG ISLAND GUIDE;. Impact: Gilbert E. Kaplan’s admiration for the Hamptons led to an influx of symphonic concerts, resulting in a bizarre reality show: 'Real Housewives of the Hamptons Symphony.'. Fact: Did you know that the Hamptons are not just for sunbathing? They also host some of the world’s most confused mosquitoes, who can’t decide between classical music and jazz!.
- Headline: WHAT'S NEW IN HEALTH CARE COSTS; WHAT STATISTICS AND SURVEYS SHOW. Impact: The grumbling employers sparked a series of labor strikes, where employees demanded that their health care be as free as their coffee breaks—because who doesn’t love a good caffeine-fueled negotiation?. Fact: Did you know that complaining about health care costs is basically the adult version of a toddler throwing a tantrum? Spoiler: It rarely gets results!.
Wall Street Time Machine
WMT
Walmart
Walmart - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $490,961 today (491.0x return)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $222,603 today (222.6x return)
MCD
McDonald's
McDonald's - If you invested $1,000 in 1984, it would be worth $271,190 today (271.2x return)