MARCH 28, 1991

Full News Archive

• Headline: Siemens' Rise Amid German Unity. Impact: Siemens' rise led to Germany's obsession with efficiency, ultimately resulting in the world's most punctual trains. If only they could have patented 'on-time' as a concept.. Fact: Did you know that Germany's obsession with punctuality is so serious that they hold annual competitions for the most punctual train? It's a big deal, just like Siemens' stock!.
• Headline: Cursed Triangle of Love and Hate Festival. Impact: This film's exploration of love and hate influenced countless rom-coms, leading to the modern trope of the 'will they, won't they' couple that drives everyone insane.. Fact: Did you know that the concept of a 'cursed triangle' was later turned into a dating app feature? Because nothing says romance like a love triangle on your phone!.
• Headline: Volunteer Recruitment Campaign Launch. Impact: The push for healthcare volunteers through advertising made hospitals realize they could just use memes to recruit staff in the future. Thank you, internet!. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'pro bono' comes from Latin, meaning 'for the public good'? It's also what your friend says when they ask you to help them move!.
• Headline: THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING -- ADDENDA; Pepsico Using New Sign At College Tournament. Impact: Pepsico's giant video screens led to the eventual takeover of all sports events by advertisers, culminating in the day when the Super Bowl was just one big commercial break.. Fact: Did you know that the first commercial ever aired during the Super Bowl was in 1967? They must have thought, 'Why not ruin family gatherings with ads!'.
• Headline: TALKING DEALS; Michael Jackson's Mystery Contract. Impact: MJ's mysterious contract negotiations inspired an entire generation of artists to pursue equally baffling deals, leading to the rise of the 'secretive pop star' trope.. Fact: Did you know that Michael Jackson once bought the rights to The Beatles' catalog? Talk about a power move; he literally owned the competition!.
• Headline: Rings on Furniture? Pantry Holds a Cure. Impact: The trend of using kitchen remedies to fix furniture led to the eventual rise of DIY home improvement shows, giving birth to the modern 'fix-it' culture that actually ruins homes.. Fact: Did you know that peanut butter has been used for everything from sandwich spread to furniture cleaner? If only it could fix your life, too!.
• Headline: THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING; A Campaign to Save Water Has the Hollywood Touch. Impact: This campaign's dramatic flair marked the beginning of environmental marketing, where doom and gloom alone could sell a reusable water bottle. Spoiler alert: it worked!. Fact: Did you know that Hitchcock never actually directed a water-saving ad? He was too busy making people scared of birds and showers!.
• Headline: THE MEDIA BUSINESS: ADVERTISING -- ADDENDA; People. Impact: The appointment of these new advertising bigwigs foreshadowed a future where creative directors would become celebrities themselves, often overshadowing the products they marketed.. Fact: Did you know that in advertising, the creative director is often considered the 'rock star'? But unlike real rock stars, they can't blame their poor ideas on substance abuse!.