MAY 22, 1999

Full News Archive

• Headline: T.W.A. Faces Possible Strike Dilemma. Impact: This potential strike was like a butterfly flapping its wings and causing a hurricane of airline troubles, leading to the rise of budget airlines and the infamous 'cattle class' seating that we all love to hate.. Fact: Fun fact: The 'cooling off' period for strikes is just a fancy way for companies to think of more creative excuses for delays. Who knew?.
• Headline: Senator's Vote Shift After School Shootings. Impact: Senator Cleland's vote changed the course of gun control legislation, which eventually led to an ongoing debate that everyone has strong opinions about, yet no one seems to solve. Good job, America!. Fact: This pivotal moment in history is often overshadowed by the fact that Cleland’s change of heart came after a series of tragic events. Perhaps we should consider doing something proactive instead of reactive?.
• Headline: CRISIS IN THE BALKANS: Washington Memo; Clinton's Aims: Win the War, Keep the U.S. Voters Content. Impact: Clinton's balancing act in the Balkans created a template for future presidents to juggle military action with public opinion, leading to a long-lasting trend of political gymnastics that makes the Olympics look like child’s play.. Fact: Did you know that Clinton's 'pragmatic' approach was just code for 'I hope my approval ratings don’t tank'? Because nothing says 'leader' like checking your poll numbers..
• Headline: Vacation Spots in New York Suddenly Appeal to Clintons. Impact: The Clintons' vacation plans led to a resurgence in tourism in New York, which eventually morphed into hipster hotspots sprouting up in places no one could pronounce. Thanks, Bill and Hillary!. Fact: Fun fact: The Hamptons became a thing after this, but who really goes there for relaxation? It’s just a contest of who can spend more on tiny houses!.
• Headline: CLINTON IS PUSHING FOR 50,000 TROOPS AT KOSOVO BORDER. Impact: The push for 50,000 troops at the Kosovo border set a precedent for future military interventions, leading to a beautiful mess that keeps the defense contractors happy and the public scratching their heads.. Fact: Did you know that sending troops to conflict zones is like sending your friend to pick up pizza? It always ends up being more complicated than you think!.
• Headline: Miramax Unit in Book Deal With Historian. Impact: Schama’s book deal with Miramax led to a renaissance of historical documentaries, but also to the rise of historians who suddenly think they’re the next Spielberg. Spoiler: they’re not.. Fact: Fun fact: This book deal proves that even historians can become rich and famous, if only they can convince enough people that dry facts are actually 'cinematic.'.
• Headline: Olivetti Prevails in Hostile Bid For Far Bigger Telecom Italia. Impact: Olivetti's hostile takeover was the start of corporate drama that would inspire countless movies and soap operas, proving that business can be just as messy as a family reunion.. Fact: Did you know that this takeover was so big it made corporate lawyers consider wearing capes? Because nothing says superhero like saving companies from themselves..
• Headline: Dan Sanders, 69, a Teacher and a Labor Leader. Impact: Dan Sanders’ passing marked a significant loss for the teacher labor movement, which led to a generation of educators who now have to deal with the consequences of lower wages and less respect. Thanks, society!. Fact: Fun fact: Sanders was a true pioneer in advocating for teachers, which ironically led to a rise in teacher memes online. Because who doesn’t love a good 'I’m underpaid' joke?.
• Headline: Halt in Pay For Legislators Ruled Invalid. Impact: The court ruling against withholding pay for legislators paved the way for them to continue receiving their salaries while doing absolutely nothing. It’s like a free pass to the longest coffee break ever.. Fact: Did you know that this ruling just confirmed what we all suspected: politicians can’t be motivated by the threat of not getting paid. Shocking!.