NOVEMBER 11, 1997

Full News Archive

• Headline: The Budget Deficit Clock of NYC. Impact: The clock's incessant ticking caused a national existential crisis about money management, leading to the rise of amateur accountants across the country. Who knew a clock could inspire so many to become certified public accountants?. Fact: Fun fact: The clock was so stressful that some people claim it was responsible for the first-ever 'budget anxiety' support group. They met every Tuesday at 4:30 PM — right next to the clock..
• Headline: Hilton Sticks to Its ITT Offer. Impact: Hilton's refusal to raise their offer led to a chain reaction in corporate mergers, creating a new trend where companies just 'hold their ground' like stubborn mules. If only those mules knew how to negotiate!. Fact: The phrase 'sticking to your guns' was actually inspired by this event. Too bad Hilton didn't have better guns—or offers..
• Headline: Tijuana Drug Arrest Tests U.S.-Mexican Cooperation. Impact: The arrest sparked a series of international ‘catch me if you can’ drug smuggler movies, turning real-life crime into box office gold. Who knew crime could be so cinematic?. Fact: Did you know that after this event, Tijuana became the go-to set for all things drug-related in Hollywood? Thanks, Arturo, for your contribution to film!.
• Headline: Georgia-Pacific Gets Stock Plan Approval. Impact: Georgia-Pacific's new stock plan sparked a timber revolution; suddenly everyone wanted to be part of the 'tree-hugging investment club.' Who knew that stock could grow on trees?. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more complicated than timber investments is trying to explain to your grandma why you’re investing in trees instead of a house..
• Headline: Sports of The Times; On Day After, Jets Really Move Fast. Impact: The Jets' quick recovery from the referee dispute inspired teams across all sports to adopt a new mantra: 'Forget the refs; let's just blame the weather!'. Fact: Fun fact: The Jets actually hired a meteorologist to ensure that any future losses could be attributed to 'unfavorable atmospheric conditions.'.
• Headline: Iraqi Assails U.S. at the U.N. And Says Albright Is a Liar. Impact: Aziz's fiery speech at the U.N. sparked an age of dramatic diplomatic confrontations, leading to the rise of reality TV stars posing as foreign diplomats. Because nothing says 'serious negotiations' quite like a televised spat.. Fact: Did you know that in a parallel universe, Tariq Aziz became a famous talk show host, where he invited world leaders to face-off in a game of 'Truth or Lie'?.