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 July 19, 1997
Full News Archive
- Headline: US Trade Deficit Hits New High. Impact: This trade deficit fiasco unleashed a cascade of economic theories. If only we had invented a time machine to warn ourselves about the joys of buying cheap foreign goods while neglecting to sell our own. Who knew that the butterfly flapping its wings in a factory in China could lead to your overpriced artisanal avocado toast?. Fact: Did you know that trade deficits are like that friend who always borrows money but never pays you back? You keep hoping they’ll turn it around, but they just keep asking for more..
- Headline: Court Overturns Giuliani's Immigrant Policy. Impact: This court ruling opened the floodgates for immigrant rights, which eventually led to a nationwide discussion on immigration policies. Little did Giuliani know that his executive order would inspire future generations to engage in heated debates over brunch, fueled by mimosas and moral outrage.. Fact: Fun fact: When the mayor's order was struck down, it was like handing a toddler a cookie – chaos ensued, but at least everyone felt a bit happier..
- Headline: Bill Bradley's CBS News Debut. Impact: Bill Bradley becoming a commentator was the start of a trend where former athletes think they can analyze politics. This phenomenon led to a future where ex-football players become political pundits, and now we’re all just waiting for that one baseball player to run for president.. Fact: Did you know Bill Bradley once played for the New York Knicks? So if you're wondering why your sports commentator sounds like they’re talking about basketball while discussing healthcare, now you know!.
- Headline: Painkiller Theft Is Charged. Impact: Michelle Lazar's theft incident had the unintended consequence of creating a nationwide paranoia about pharmacists. This led to some very awkward conversations at family gatherings about who really has the best 'pain relief' remedies—hint: it's not Aunt Linda's secret stash of Tylenol.. Fact: Did you know that stealing painkillers is illegal? Shocking, I know! It’s almost like they want you to pay for your drugs instead of just taking them. Crazy world!.
- Headline: Bond Prices Dip Before Greenspan Testifies. Impact: Greenspan’s testimony sent bond prices on a roller coaster ride. This event sparked the ultimate quest for financial stability, leading to countless people Googling 'How to invest without losing my shirt' at 3 AM.. Fact: Did you know that bond prices are like that fickle friend who always changes their mind? One minute they’re up, the next they’re down, and you’re left wondering why you even invited them to the party..
- Headline: Waterfront Money Approved. Impact: The approval of funds for waterfront development led to a surge in overpriced waterfront properties, causing everyone to suddenly become a real estate mogul. If only that money had gone to building a time machine instead, we’d all have a better future.. Fact: Did you know that $10 million could build a couple of really nice parks or just one really fancy coffee shop? Priorities, people!.
- Headline: Smoke, but No Gun. Impact: This Senate inquiry into campaign finance practices was the beginning of a long saga of political scandals, leading to a future where everyone thinks they can run a political campaign from their basement. Thanks for the inspiration, Senate!. Fact: Did you know that smoke without a gun is just a metaphor for political drama? Who needs real issues when you can just throw around accusations like confetti?.
- Headline: Odette and Derek, After the Honeymoon. Impact: This animated movie review set off a chain reaction of animated sequels that led to a world where every fairy tale gets a sequel—even the ones no one asked for. Congratulations, Hollywood, you’ve mastered the art of recycling.. Fact: Did you know that sequels often make less sense than the original? Just like that time you tried to explain your high school relationship to your friends—nobody really got it..
- Headline: Court Sets Back F.C.C. Efforts To Open Local Phone Markets. Impact: The court's decision not only delayed competition in the phone market but also paved the way for an era of endless customer service hold music. This is what happens when you let judges decide on technology—thank you, courts, for our eternal agony.. Fact: Did you know that phone companies are like exes? They promise you the world but leave you on hold for eternity when you need them the most..
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)