FEBRUARY 20, 1997

Full News Archive

• Headline: Theft of Brass Torches in Atlantic City. Impact: The theft of the brass torches inadvertently set off a nationwide trend of stealing historical artifacts, giving rise to a new breed of 'art thieves' who consider themselves avant-garde.. Fact: Those torches were originally intended for a school, but now they’re probably lighting up someone’s living room as a 'unique' conversation starter..
• Headline: Japan Rewards Borrowing, And the Yen Keeps Falling. Impact: Japan's borrowing spree led to a global economic crisis, where countries began to trade in 'emotional support loans' instead of actual currency. Everyone's broke, but hey, at least we have feelings!. Fact: Japan's rock-bottom interest rates are so low, even your high school GPA is looking at them in envy..
• Headline: Surging Carolina Keeps Wake Down. Impact: North Carolina's victory led to a statewide obsession with basketball, resulting in an accidental formation of a cult dedicated to the sacred art of three-point shooting.. Fact: This game was so one-sided, even the scoreboard felt bad for Wake Forest and started showing sympathy points..
• Headline: Ousted Employee Challenges Military's Policy on Homosexuals. Impact: John Hoffman's challenge against the military's policy sparked a nationwide debate that inadvertently led to the invention of the rainbow-colored camouflage uniform. Because nothing says 'stealth' like rainbows.. Fact: Hoffman's story is a reminder that sometimes, being true to yourself is more dangerous than dodging bullets..
• Headline: Player and League Share Growing Pains. Impact: Jennifer Rizzotti's struggles in the American Basketball League inspired a new generation of players to just wing it and hope for the best, leading to the creation of the 'YOLO' basketball play.. Fact: Rizzotti is a two-time NCAA champion, but she still can’t seem to get a decent cup of coffee before games. Priorities, right?.
• Headline: New Breed Takes the Helm in Beijing: Well-Educated Technocrats. Impact: Jiang Zemin's mild-mannered leadership led to a series of overly polite diplomatic exchanges, ultimately resulting in a new global policy: 'Please and Thank You' negotiations.. Fact: This marked the first time a leader quoted Lincoln in a policy speech without the threat of a civil war—progress!.