JUNE 5, 1997

Full News Archive

• Headline: Hong Kong Business Leaders Urge US Calm. Impact: The panic in the U.S. over Hong Kong's political climate led to an unprecedented surge in American fortune cookie production. Who knew that worrying about international relations could boost the snack industry?. Fact: In a twist of fate, those fortune cookies now contain vague advice about avoiding panic, which seems to be a recurring theme in U.S.-China relations..
• Headline: Remembering Jonathan M Levin's Legacy. Impact: The mourning of a beloved teacher set off a chain reaction in educational reform that eventually led to a nationwide teacher appreciation day—though it took decades and a lot of lobbying from snack food companies.. Fact: Jonathan Levin's impact was so profound that it inspired a generation of students to actually consider being nice to their teachers. Shocking, I know!.
• Headline: Insurers Say Ring in New Jersey Stole $75 Million. Impact: The exposure of the New Jersey insurance fraud ring led to tighter regulations, but not before inspiring a wave of creative insurance scams. The insurance industry never looked so... creative!. Fact: Fun fact: the term 'insurance fraud' became so common that it was eventually used as a euphemism for really bad karaoke nights in New Jersey..
• Headline: Pact Reached on Flood Aid but Veto Looms. Impact: The promise of flood aid without a government shutdown led to a series of negotiations that eventually culminated in a national debate about funding for disaster relief, which is still going on—thanks, politicians!. Fact: Presidents have been vetoing bills since the dawn of time, which is why many believe it should be an Olympic sport by now..
• Headline: California Advances Ban on Cheap Handguns. Impact: The handgun ban sparked a national dialogue about gun control, leading to the creation of a niche market for 'Saturday night specials'—which ironically became the most popular item at hipster craft fairs.. Fact: The term 'Saturday night special' was coined because, apparently, Fridays were too busy for such shenanigans!.
• Headline: Fishing Talks and Fighting Words. Impact: The fishing dispute between the U.S. and Canada led to a long-standing rivalry that paved the way for annual fishing tournaments—where the only real catch is bragging rights.. Fact: The Pacific salmon are now so well-known that they have their own fan clubs, complete with merchandise and everything. The fish are living the dream!.
• Headline: State Senator Loses His Seat. Impact: Senator Bubba's defeat sent shockwaves through the political landscape, inspiring a new generation of politicians to actually try to connect with their constituents instead of just waving at them from a distance.. Fact: It turns out that losing your seat can lead to a successful career in motivational speaking—just ask any former politician!.
• Headline: Clinton Appoints Holbrooke as His Special Envoy for Cyprus. Impact: Holbrooke's appointment as special envoy for Cyprus created a ripple effect in diplomatic circles, leading to a series of diplomatic dinners where everyone pretended to enjoy the food while subtly pointing fingers.. Fact: Special envoys have become so popular that there are now more of them than there are actual countries to negotiate with—talk about a crowded dinner table!.
• Headline: A Good Day For the Mayor, To Little Avail. Impact: Giuliani's cheerful Albany visit resulted in a temporary boost in optimism, which quickly evaporated once reality set back in. Politicians learned that a smile can only go so far.. Fact: Giuliani's optimism was so contagious that it sparked a new trend in political PR: mandatory smiles during press conferences. Because who doesn't love a good grin with their political agenda?.