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, 1989
Full News Archive
- Headline: The Rise of Catalogue Shopping. Impact: The rise of catalog shopping led to the eventual birth of online shopping, which in turn caused millions to have existential crises while browsing at 2 AM in their pajamas. Thanks, New Jersey!. Fact: Did you know that catalog shopping was basically the precursor to online shopping? So, in a way, your impulse buys at 3 AM are just a modern-day catalog order gone rogue..
- Headline: Young Shooter Overcomes Nervousness. Impact: Roger Shapiro's insights on skeet shooting not only helped countless aspiring marksmen but also led to the creation of 'Skeet Anxiety' support groups worldwide. Who knew shooting clay pigeons could be so emotional?. Fact: Fun fact: If you combine Roger's percentages, you get a total of 100%—which is exactly how much the world loves to overanalyze everything, including shooting clay..
- Headline: MUSIC; What It Takes To Join a Chorus. Impact: The quest for the perfect chorus led to an explosion of amateur singing groups, giving rise to karaoke bars everywhere. Thank you, choral auditions, for the gift of 'American Idol' wannabes!. Fact: Did you know that joining a chorus is statistically proven to make you a better shower singer? It's science... or just a really good excuse for your off-key warbling..
- Headline: A Russian Fantasy, Hewed of Wood. Impact: Ivan Bilibin's admiration for folk arts sparked a revival of interest in traditional crafts, ultimately leading to the hipster movement where everything old became new again. Thanks, Ivan, for the artisanal pickle craze!. Fact: Did you know that Bilibin's work is so influential that it probably inspired the entire 'handmade' movement? Artisan everything, including your morning coffee!.
- Headline: 110-Year-Old Store Keeps to Its Old Ways. Impact: This 110-year-old store's refusal to change set off a wave of nostalgia that made vintage shopping trendy. Now, every millennial thinks they're an expert on 'retro' because they bought a 90s t-shirt.. Fact: Fun fact: This store is older than many of the hipster brands that now capitalize on its vintage aesthetic. Talk about irony!.
- Headline: GARDENING; Renewed Interest in Insecticidal Soaps. Impact: The newfound interest in insecticidal soaps led to a surge in organic gardening practices, resulting in the rise of the 'backyard farmer'—a breed of people who probably own more plants than friends.. Fact: Did you know that insecticidal soaps are basically the environmentalist's version of a superhero cape? Saving the planet one aphid at a time!.
- Headline: DANCE; Choreography on an Island. Impact: Carolyn Dorfman's unique dance style on Martha's Vineyard inspired countless dance schools to embrace individuality, leading to more interpretive dance performances that left audiences wondering, 'What did I just watch?'. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more expressive than Carolyn's leotards is the look on people's faces when they try to interpret modern dance. It’s a real talent!.
- Headline: DINING OUT; Charming Atmosphere in Bay Head. Impact: The charming atmosphere of the Grenville Hotel lured in so many visitors that it sparked a hotel-building frenzy, resulting in the 'over-tourism' crisis we now face. Thank you, Grenville!. Fact: Did you know the Grenville Hotel's wicker-filled veranda has probably hosted more awkward family reunions than any other spot in Bay Head? Wicker is truly the unsung hero of hospitality!.
- Headline: A Lesson Refused and a Lesson Learned. Impact: Maggie McCool's refusal to dissect that frog may have pushed schools to rethink their biology curriculums, possibly leading to a future where students learn more empathy than anatomy. A win for frogs everywhere!. Fact: Did you know that refusing to dissect a frog is a bold move that could earn you the title of 'Animal Rights Activist' in the eyes of your peers? Who knew biology could be so political?.
Wall Street Time Machine
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1989, it would be worth $971,793 today (971.8x return)
MSFT
Microsoft
Microsoft - If you invested $1,000 in 1989, it would be worth $2,127,569 today (2127.6x return)