MAY 11, 1986

Full News Archive

• Headline: Historic Homes Tour in Watchung Hills. Impact: The opening of historic homes in Watchung Hills rekindled interest in American architecture, causing a nationwide obsession with colonial-style homes. This led to a spike in 'ye olde' theme parties, where people dressed like early settlers and argued about whose turn it was to churn butter.. Fact: Did you know that some of these homes are older than the concept of Instagram? So no, you can't take a selfie in front of it and make it look 'vintage'—it already is!.
• Headline: Exploring Monochrome Art at Gallery North. Impact: The black and white exhibition at Gallery North prompted a worldwide movement among artists to explore monochrome aesthetics. Ironically, this turned out to be the breeding ground for a new generation of hipster coffee shops that only serve black coffee in white mugs.. Fact: Black and white art isn't just a style; it's also a mood! Especially if you’re trying to seem deep and philosophical while sipping on your overpriced espresso..
• Headline: GARDENING; EDIBLE ADDITIONS TO THE LANDSCAPE. Impact: The push for home gardening led to an entire movement of urban farming, which inexplicably culminated in a nationwide competition for the largest zucchini. This contest not only united neighborhoods but also sparked an underground zucchini black market.. Fact: Growing your own food is great, but remember: if your zucchini is bigger than your dog, it's probably time to rethink your gardening strategy..
• Headline: ART; DIFFERENT SPACES, DIFFERENT FORMS. Impact: The exploration of different art spaces led to a renaissance of DIY galleries, where even the most mundane basements became hot spots for avant-garde exhibitions. This trend eventually led to an explosion of 'art' made from recycled pizza boxes.. Fact: Public library exhibits are like the rebellious teenager of the art world—always trying to break free from tradition while sneaking in a few classics on the side..
• Headline: CURB WORK DRAWS CRITICISM. Impact: The curb installation plan sparked a movement to preserve rural aesthetics. This led to a bizarre trend of residents forming 'Curb Preservation Societies' and hosting annual potlucks where they debated the merits of gravel vs. asphalt.. Fact: Nothing screams 'we care about our neighborhood' quite like an impassioned debate about curbs. Next up: a committee on the ethical implications of mailboxes..
• Headline: LYME DISEASE IS UP AMONG CHILDREN. Impact: The rise in Lyme disease cases among children prompted a nationwide outcry for better tick prevention, resulting in the creation of a new superhero: Captain Bug Spray, who fights pests with the power of citronella.. Fact: Lyme disease can make you feel pretty awful. But hey, at least you have a medical excuse for skipping that family reunion in a tick-infested area!.
• Headline: NEW JERSEYANS. Impact: The musical and artistic collaboration at the Rosen house led to a new trend of multi-disciplinary homes, where residents became so engrossed in artistic expression that they forgot how to cook and started serving abstract art instead of dinner.. Fact: Having three harps and a harpsichord means the Rosen household is basically a walking Renaissance festival. Just wait until someone brings out the lute!.