JULY 15, 1998

Full News Archive

• Headline: Safety Review of Silicone Implants Released. Impact: The absence of credible evidence for silicone implants led to a surge in breast augmentations, which in turn spawned the reality TV genre. Yes, thank you silicone for giving us 'Real Housewives' and all the drama that comes with it.. Fact: Did you know that in the world of implants, the most dangerous thing is actually a poorly timed selfie?.
• Headline: Imposter Lawyer Caught in Legal Farce. Impact: Thanks to Mr. Kurtz, a whole generation of aspiring fake lawyers realized they could just skip law school altogether. This led to a rise in legal advice from influencers, resulting in a social media phenomenon called 'LawTube'.. Fact: Did you know that in legal circles, the phrase 'fake it till you make it' is more of a lifestyle than a strategy?.
• Headline: Three-Alarm Chase for a High School Crush. Impact: This old flame pursuit sparked a trend in obsessive high school reunions, leading to countless awkward conversations and the invention of social media stalking, forever changing how we measure success.. Fact: Did you know that hiring a private eye to stalk your ex is just one step away from being cast in your own reality show?.
• Headline: The Boathouse: In Harmony With the Park. Impact: The Boathouse review not only made the restaurant famous but also ignited a movement of food bloggers who think they can critique Michelin-starred meals after a single avocado toast. Thanks, Ruth!. Fact: Did you know that 'food critic' is just another term for someone who gets paid to eat and complain?.
• Headline: Bucking Trend, Debt in Albany Keeps Growing. Impact: Albany's borrowing spree became a cautionary tale for future governors, inspiring a political slogan: 'Debt today, disaster tomorrow'. Who knew financial irresponsibility could be so catchy?. Fact: Did you know that New York State's debt is so large it has its own zip code?.
• Headline: Close Call on Campaign Finance. Impact: The House's decision to fend off campaign finance amendments led to a system where money talks louder than voters, giving birth to super PACs and the phrase 'money can't buy happiness, but it can buy a politician'.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing bipartisan in politics is the disdain for the average citizen's input?.
• Headline: Police Accord Would Drop '48-Hour Rule'. Impact: Dropping the '48-hour rule' meant police could interrogate suspects faster, paving the way for crime dramas where the killer is caught before the first commercial break. Thanks for ruining suspense, guys!. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more unlikely than a police officer waiting 48 hours to ask questions is finding an honest politician?.
• Headline: Pettitte And Yanks Maintain Their Edge. Impact: The Yankees' win over the Indians solidified their reputation as the team that never lets a good rivalry go to waste, leading to the eventual creation of 'Yankees Suck' merchandise which still thrives today.. Fact: Did you know that the Yankees have won so many championships that they could open a museum dedicated to their own successes?.
• Headline: Southern Bombing Fugitive Is Seen in North Carolina. Impact: Rudolph's evasion from authorities inspired a new wave of survivalist shows, leading to a reality TV craze where contestants try to live off the land while evading fictional authorities. It’s basically a modern-day 'Survivor'.. Fact: Did you know that if you run from the law long enough, you might just end up on a show that pays you for it?.
• Headline: C.I.A., Breaking Promises, Puts Off Release of Cold War Files. Impact: The CIA's reluctance to release files ensured that conspiracy theorists had a buffet of secrets to dine on, leading to countless documentaries, podcasts, and a generation of people who think they can read between the lines of government reports.. Fact: Did you know that the CIA might be the biggest source of unsolicited conspiracy theories since the invention of the internet?.