FEBRUARY 21, 1991

Full News Archive

• Headline: Strangers on the Phone Share Only-Yesterdays. Impact: The cries for help from strangers on answering machines eventually led to the rise of social media, where people now shout their dilemmas to the void instead of their voicemail. Thanks, technology, for making us even more connected yet isolated!. Fact: Did you know that people once relied on answering machines to communicate? Imagine leaving a message for someone instead of just texting them 37 times until they respond!.
• Headline: Refinishing the Resilient Elm Wood. Impact: The struggle to identify wood types led to a renaissance of DIY furniture projects, causing an entire generation to believe they were 'crafty' when in reality, they just had a lot of time on their hands and a YouTube account.. Fact: Fun fact: Elm trees are tough to work with, much like your uncle during family gatherings. Both are hard to refine and prone to splinters!.
• Headline: Psychological Support for Urban Kids After Trauma. Impact: The tragic events in Winnetka kicked off a nationwide movement for improved psychological services in schools, which ultimately led to the creation of countless mental health initiatives—because nothing screams 'we care' like a pamphlet.. Fact: It’s fascinating how a horrifying event could change school policies for the better, yet we still can’t figure out how to get kids to clean up after themselves in the lunchroom..
• Headline: Decor for Resting Your Weary Feet. Impact: The rise of the ottoman as a home decor staple paved the way for future generations to believe that stacking random furniture is an acceptable form of interior design. Thanks to this trend, living rooms everywhere are now a graveyard of unused footrests.. Fact: Did you know that ottomans were once just footstools? Now they’re glorified cushions that double as a place to put your snack while you binge-watch reality TV!.