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 April 6, 1998
Full News Archive
- Headline: Juror Dismissed in Racially Charged Trial. Impact: This dismissal triggered a series of events leading to more jurors being dismissed nationwide, causing a chain reaction where courts began hiring therapists for jurors. Now, jurors come with emotional support animals instead of just being sworn in.. Fact: Did you know that jurors are often just as confused about their roles as the rest of us are about life decisions? Welcome to the club!.
- Headline: Alcee Hastings: A Resilient Political Trailblazer. Impact: This event was the spark that ignited countless memes about political power dynamics. Fast forward a few decades, and memes are now a recognized form of political commentary, changing how elections are fought (but not necessarily won!).. Fact: Fun fact: Alcee Hastings was a federal judge until he was removed for bribery. Talk about a plot twist worthy of a daytime soap opera!.
- Headline: Austin Kelley, 67, Advertising Executive. Impact: Kelley's passing marked the end of an era in advertising, leading to a rise in digital marketing and influencers. Thanks, Austin, for paving the way for people to sell products via TikTok dances.. Fact: Did you know that advertising executives are basically modern-day wizards? They conjure up illusions of happiness and necessity with just a catchy jingle or two..
- Headline: John Sweeterman Dies at 91; A Washington Post Publisher. Impact: Sweeterman's death marked a significant shift in American journalism, paving the way for a new generation of publishers who would later complain about the 'good old days' of print media while tweeting their opinions.. Fact: John Sweeterman was instrumental in shaping journalistic integrity. Too bad that integrity seems to be on vacation in Bermuda these days!.
- Headline: ABC Is in Talks With Former L.A. Times Editor About News Job. Impact: This negotiation set off a bidding war among media outlets, leading to a world where journalists are treated like celebrities, complete with fan clubs and merchandise. Don’t forget your ‘I heart journalists’ t-shirts!. Fact: Did you know that becoming a news editor is like winning the lottery? Except instead of money, you get endless emails and a caffeine addiction..
- Headline: Political Briefing; Early and Often Is 2000 Strategy. Impact: This early campaign strategy led to the modern phenomenon of 'political fatigue,' where voters are bombarded with ads so early that by election day, they just want to vote for whoever promises to stop the madness.. Fact: Fun fact: Iowa and New Hampshire are like the overzealous parents of the political world, pushing their candidates into the spotlight long before they're ready to face the music..
- Headline: Political Briefing; Giving to Both Sides Is Seen as a Safe Bet. Impact: This 'both sides' strategy paved the way for politicians to master the art of saying nothing while collecting millions. Now, they can simultaneously please everyone and no one at the same time!. Fact: Did you know that campaign contributions are basically the political equivalent of bribing someone to let you win at Monopoly? It’s all about who can pay to play!.
- Headline: ISRAEL AT 50: Many Voices, Not All in Unison, in the Spirited Israel of the 1990's; THE SECULAR JEWS: Beauty Is Truth. That Is All the Stylish Need to Know.. Impact: This cultural exploration led to a strange phenomenon where secular Jews became the trendsetters of the 90s, influencing everything from fashion to coffee shop decor. Thanks for the stylish existential crises!. Fact: Did you know that in Israel, being secular doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time? It's like the ultimate paradox—party hard, question everything!.
- Headline: CLINTON TO IMPOSE A BAN ON 58 TYPES OF IMPORTED GUNS. Impact: This ban initiated a flurry of debates about gun control that would echo for decades, birthing countless grassroots organizations and more than a few heated family dinners.. Fact: Did you know that gun control discussions often lead to more fireworks than the Fourth of July? Just remember, it's all about the right to bear arms... and bear arguments..
Wall Street Time Machine
AAPL
Apple
Apple - If you invested $1,000 in 1998, it would be worth $2,234,025 today (2234.0x return)
AMZN
Amazon
Amazon - If you invested $1,000 in 1998, it would be worth $914,661 today (914.7x return)