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 May 24, 1998
Full News Archive
- Headline: Irish Voters Embrace Peace Accord. Impact: The resounding 'yes' to peace in Ireland created a ripple effect that led to a sudden increase in the use of shamrocks and rainbows as symbols of unity. Meanwhile, leprechauns have been spotted negotiating ceasefires over pots of gold.. Fact: Did you know that the most common Irish saying is 'Don't worry, be happy'? Too bad it wasn't popular during the Troubles!.
- Headline: Loral Donor Defends Satellite Launch Approvals. Impact: This denial by Schwartz opened the floodgates for future top donors to confidently fund campaigns while claiming they're not influencing policy. Cue the rise of 'We swear we didn't ask for anything' as a new political mantra.. Fact: Did you know that money can't buy happiness? But apparently, it can buy a seat at the table—just not the approval to launch satellites….
- Headline: Celebrating Music at the Yearly Commencement. Impact: This recital year conclusion sparked a trend where artists began hosting commencement events that doubled as therapy sessions. Because who doesn't want to relive their musical glory days while contemplating life's existential crises?. Fact: Did you know that many musicians prefer to end their careers with a bang? But apparently, a simple commencement will do..
- Headline: Whit Stillman's Theory of Group Dynamics. Impact: Stillman's theory on group dynamics led to a surprising boom in awkward group outings, where friends would awkwardly discuss their feelings while simultaneously avoiding the inevitable question: 'So, what are we doing with our lives?'. Fact: Did you know that the '80s were actually the last time people believed in the power of disco? Now it's just a nostalgic excuse to wear sequins..
- Headline: Revolutionary Fort Held Hostage to Decay and Apathy. Impact: The decay of Fort Montgomery has led to a resurgence in history buffs visiting dilapidated ruins, sparking a new trend in 'historic decay tourism.' Who knew crumbling forts were the new Instagram hot spots?. Fact: Did you know that neglect can actually be a form of historical preservation? Just ask any crumbling building!.
- Headline: Help Wanted: School Superintendent. Impact: The struggle to recruit superintendents caused a nationwide shortage of educational leaders, leading to the rise of 'Superintendent Swap' events where districts traded their most desperate candidates for a chance at stability. Who needs qualifications?. Fact: Did you know that in some school districts, the title of 'superintendent' is just a fancy way of saying 'glorified babysitter'?.
- Headline: Piazza Swings a Bat and Suddenly It's the 80's. Impact: Piazza's home run redefined the 80s as a decade of baseball triumphs, leading to a resurgence in mullets and polyester pants. We owe our current fashion disaster to one swing of a bat.. Fact: Did you know that the 80s are known for their fashion faux pas? But hey, at least the Mets were winning!.
- Headline: HOT DIGGITY! DOG DIGGITY! -- QUICK BITE/Hot Dog Factory; No Mass Production. Impact: The Hot Dog Factory's refusal to mass-produce led to a gourmet hot dog craze, inspiring hipster food trucks to pop up everywhere. Congratulations, you've now been served a $15 artisanal hot dog with a side of pretentiousness.. Fact: Did you know that hot dogs are one of the few foods with such a questionable origin that they might as well be a mystery meat from outer space?.
- Headline: At a High School, a Cafe Where Seniority Has Its Privileges. Impact: The Senior Class Cafe became a blueprint for high school hierarchies, where seniority turned into an elite status symbol. Soon, students were trading their lunch money for exclusive seating rights.. Fact: Did you know that 'seniority' in high school is just a fancy way of saying 'I survived four years of awkwardness and now I get free coffee'?.
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)