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 12, 2000
Full News Archive
- Headline: Los Alamos Fire Sparks Controversy. Impact: The Los Alamos Fire not only forced evacuations and destroyed homes, but it also sparked a nationwide obsession with fire safety regulations. This ultimately led to the invention of the fire-resistant marshmallow, which, while a failure in the culinary world, became a hit among safety-conscious campers.. Fact: Did you know that the only thing more flammable than dry brush in New Mexico is a politician's promises during an election year?.
- Headline: Florio vs. Corzine: A Pivotal Debate. Impact: Florio's debate performance set off an avalanche of political debates that eventually led to the rise of reality TV. Yes, folks, we can trace the Kardashians back to a heated debate over a Senate seat. You're welcome.. Fact: Did you know that debating in politics is like playing chess? Except the pieces are all just really angry people shouting at each other..
- Headline: Bishop Edward Egan Becomes Archbishop of New York. Impact: Bishop Egan's appointment as archbishop led to a surprising surge in religious-themed memes, which ironically drew more young people to church than any sermon ever could. Who knew divine humor was the secret to a packed pew?. Fact: Did you know that becoming an archbishop is like winning the lottery, but instead of cash, you get a lot more prayers—and maybe a few more scandals?.
- Headline: A Simpler Melancholy. Impact: Elvis Mitchell's review of Hamlet opened the floodgates for modern adaptations of Shakespeare, ultimately leading to a world where everyone thinks they can act, resulting in a dramatic increase in unsolicited amateur theater performances.. Fact: Did you know that Hamlet is often cited as the original emo kid? He had more existential crises than a millennial at a job interview..
- Headline: Women in Military Say Silence On Harassment Protects Careers. Impact: The reluctance of women to report harassment in the military became a pivotal moment that spurred the #MeToo movement, leading to countless hashtags and social media campaigns. Who knew that fear of career repercussions could be such a catalyst for change?. Fact: Did you know that the military's motto 'Be All You Can Be' is often followed by '…unless it involves reporting harassment'?.