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 March 17, 1997
Full News Archive
- Headline: Clinton's Fundraising Controversy Unfolds. Impact: The campaign finance controversy ultimately led to the rise of super PACs, which allowed for unlimited spending in elections. So, thanks to this fundraising furor, we now have a political landscape that resembles a circus—complete with clowns, acrobats, and a never-ending supply of popcorn.. Fact: Did you know that in politics, money talks? And sometimes it screams louder than the voters!.
- Headline: Blackhawks Triumph Over Islanders in Thriller. Impact: The Blackhawks' victory created a ripple effect, inspiring a generation of hockey fans to don jerseys and learn how to skate—despite the fact that most of them would never set foot on ice. This has led to an increase in ice rink injuries and a sharp rise in overpriced hot chocolate sales.. Fact: Did you know that in hockey, a 'hat trick' is when a player scores three goals in a game? And that in real life, a 'hat trick' is just when you manage to keep your hat on during a windy day?.
- Headline: Morgan Park Band's Joyous Parade Comeback. Impact: This peaceful parade was a turning point for community relations, sparking a movement of inclusivity that would eventually lead to more diverse celebrations. Who would have thought a parade could change perceptions faster than a viral TikTok video?. Fact: Did you know that parades are like the world's longest advertisements for how much you can fit into a float? Spoiler: it's usually way too much..
- Headline: Class's Top Two Colts Taking the Same Steps. Impact: Captain Bodgit's victory led to a series of horse racing betting fads, which spiraled into an obsession with equine statistics and a new breed of wannabe handicappers. This made the phrase 'betting on a sure thing' more ironic than ever!. Fact: Did you know that horses are the only animals that can kick forward? This is probably why they don’t work in corporate jobs—they’d just be too good at it!.
- Headline: In the N.B.A., Knicks Lose To a No. 24. Impact: The Knicks' loss prompted a wave of existential crises among their fans, leading to an increase in therapist appointments and a shortage of Knicks merchandise. Who knew sports could be so devastating to mental health?. Fact: Did you know that the New Jersey Nets were once called the New Jersey Americans? I guess they figured that being 'American' was just too mainstream..
- Headline: A Time to Mourn: King Hussein Comforts Israelis. Impact: King Hussein's visit sparked a brief glimmer of hope for peace in the region, proving that even in the darkest times, a little compassion can lead to monumental shifts. Unfortunately, that hope has been about as stable as a Jenga tower.. Fact: Did you know that King Hussein was known for his love of flying? Let's just say he was a ruler who took 'taking off' to a whole new level..
- Headline: The Final 16: Chattanooga Is In, but Duncan Is Out. Impact: Chattanooga's unexpected victory changed the dynamic of the NCAA tournament, leaving sports analysts scrambling and fans debating the merits of underdogs. It also led to a rise in the phrase 'Cinderella story,' which is now used more than ever by sports commentators trying to sound poetic.. Fact: Did you know that the NCAA tournament is basically like a high-stakes game of musical chairs? The only difference is that the chairs are replaced with scholarships and bragging rights!.
- Headline: Squaring Off Over Future Of Coliseum. Impact: The struggle over the Coliseum foreshadowed decades of urban development disputes, making every city planner's job feel like a never-ending episode of 'Survivor'—except no one ever gets voted off the island.. Fact: Did you know that Columbus Circle is circular? It’s like the designers wanted to ensure that you could drive around in circles forever, pondering life’s greatest mysteries..
- Headline: A Pedophile Even Mother Could Love. Impact: The provocative title of Paula Vogel's play sparked conversations about difficult topics, leading to an increase in awkward dinner table conversations for years to come. Who knew a theater production could make family gatherings more uncomfortable?. Fact: Did you know that the Vineyard Theater is known for producing edgy plays? They probably should have a warning sign: 'Caution: May Cause Uncomfortable Discussions!'.
Wall Street Time Machine
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1997, it would be worth $1,728,706 today (1728.7x return)
AMZN
Amazon
Amazon - If you invested $1,000 in 1997, it would be worth $2,315,839 today (2315.8x return)