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Episode #168 -- Bill Clinton Declares Updated: 2011-10-03 06:15:46 Description: Monday, October 3, 2011. Twenty years ago today, Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas announced he was running for President. This was only a few months before the primaries and caucuses began -- impossibly late, by comparison today. I...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #167 -- The World Wide Web Updated: 2011-08-06 20:13:00 Description: Saturday, August 6, 2011. Twenty years ago today, the very first Web site went online. Hard to believe, maybe, but true! Here are a few links to some of the things I talked about in the episode. Tim Berners-Lee's posting to alt.hype...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #166 -- NC-17 Movie Rating Updated: 2010-11-23 07:03:15 Description: For November 22, 2010. Twenty years ago today, the city of Kissimmee, Florida put a new proposed ordinance to a vote. If passed, theaters could not sell tickets for movies with the new NC-17 rating to minors. I talk about the fate o...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #165 -- German Reunification Updated: 2010-10-03 21:06:00 Description: Sunday, October 3, 2010. Twenty years ago today, the nations of East Germany and West Germany, separated for 45 years, reunited as one nation. I take a look at this event, which was the biggest step toward the end of the Cold War to that time, ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #164 -- "Shot Heard 'Round the World" Updated: 2009-11-19 05:55:00 Description: Thursday, November 19, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the US national soccer team qualified for the World Cup tournament, for the first time in forty years. Paul Caligiuri's goal, which won the match for Team USA, quickly became known as "the sho...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #163 -- "Out of Order" Updated: 2009-10-18 09:00:00 Description: Sunday, October 18, 2009. Anyone in the San Francisco Bay Area who owned a Far Side page-a-day calendar would have found the cartoon for twenty years ago today prescient -- and downright creepy. I describe that cartoon, and talk about som...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #162 -- Loma Prieta Earthquake Updated: 2009-10-18 00:04:00 Description: Saturday, October 17, 2009. 5:04 pm. Twenty years ago today, the Loma Prieta earthquake struck northern California, changing lives and landscapes forever. I share my memory of the moment the quake struck, and what happened a few min...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #161 -- Scott O'Dell Updated: 2009-10-16 03:50:00 Description: Thursday, October 15, 2009. Twenty years ago today, author Scott O'Dell died at the age of 91. I talk about O'Dell, his most famous book, and how his writing (and that of my other favorite books as a kid) influenced my reading interests -- and,...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #160 -- "One baby's scream" Updated: 2009-10-11 22:41:00 Description: Sunday, October 11, 2009. "It Was 20 Years Ago Today" returns with a recollection of the story that Times Herald-Record columnist Mike Levine published twenty years ago today. The story, and the problem it illuminates, could hav...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #159 -- Batman Updated: 2009-06-23 06:36:00 Description: Tuesday, June 23, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the movie Batman was released, bringing the famous comic book hero to a whole new generation of fans. I talk about the movie and my own experiences and impressions of Batman, from the Superfriends...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #158 -- Star Trek V Updated: 2009-06-09 05:28:00 Description: Tuesday, June 9, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the movie Star Trek V: the Final Frontier was released. I share a few facts about the fifth of the Trek movies, and relate my experience of watching it for the first (and almost last) time. I...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #157 -- Tienanmen Square Crackdown Updated: 2009-06-04 06:27:00 Description: Thursday, June 4, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the Chinese government moved to crack down on pro-democracy demonstrators in Beijing's Tienanmen Square. I talk about the crackdown on that day, and the efforts of the Chinese government to preven...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #156 -- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Updated: 2009-05-26 05:17:00 Description: Tuesday, May 26, 2009. "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" was released twenty years ago today. (Technically, it was released on the Wednesday before, May 24 -- my mistake!) I talk about the third film in the "Indiana Jone...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #155 -- Gilda Radner Updated: 2009-05-20 06:06:00 Description: Wednesday, May 20, 2009. Gilda Radner died twenty years ago today. I share a few memories of the actress and comedienne, who was one of the original (and still the best, to my mind) Not Ready For Prime Time Players.I apologize for the les...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #154 -- New York Subways Updated: 2009-05-12 07:13:00 Description: Tuesday, May 12, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the last graffiti-covered subway car on the New York City system was retired from service. I talk about the efforts to clean up graffiti on the NYC subways in the late 1980s, and how that cha...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #153 -- Sergio Leone Updated: 2009-05-01 05:41:00 Description: Thursday, April 30, 2009. Twenty years ago today, film director Sergio Leone died at the age of 60. I talk about the achievements of the man who defined the "spaghetti Western," and how I first came to see his movies....more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #152 -- Hillsborough Disaster Updated: 2009-04-15 07:04:00 Description: Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Twenty years ago today, 96 people lost their lives in a human crush at Hillsborough, a football (soccer) stadium in Sheffield, England. I talk a little about the worst disaster in the history of English sport, a...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #151 -- Sugar Ray Robinson Updated: 2009-04-13 06:14:00 Description: Sunday, April 12, 2009. Sugar Ray Robinson, considered by many to be the greatest boxer of all time, died twenty years ago today. I talk a little about this remarkable fighter, as well as sharing my own thoughts about being a boxing fan....more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #150 -- Polish Round Table Agreement Updated: 2009-04-07 04:52:00 Description: Monday, April 6, 2009. Twenty years ago, the Polish Round Table Agreement was signed, setting the stage for the end of Communist government in the nation of Poland. I give a brief description of the agreement, as well as a glimpse of some...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #149 -- The Satanic Verses Updated: 2009-04-04 06:27:00 Description: Saturday, April 4, 2009. Twenty years ago today, Salman Rushdie's novel The Satanic Verses was in the top spot on the New York Times fiction bestseller list. I take a look at the controversy surrounding the book, and talk about all the things I...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #148 -- Soviet Union Elections Updated: 2009-03-26 06:36:00 Description: Thursday, March 26, 2009. Twenty years ago today, citizens of the Soviet Union went to the polls in the first multi-party elections in that nation in over seventy years. I take a look at that election, some of its results, and ponder the ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #147 -- Balancing Eggs on the Equinox Updated: 2009-03-19 06:31:00 Description: Thursday, March 19, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the New York Times printed an article about the practice of balancing eggs on their ends on the occasion of the spring equinox. I look at the idea that you can only balance an egg on its end on ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #146 -- Ashley Bond-Peters Updated: 2009-03-09 04:36:00 Description: Sunday, March 8, 2009. Twenty years ago today, Ashley Michelle Bond-Peters was born. I never knew Ashley -- I learned about her from a website created by her mother as a memorial. I talk about Ashley and about the way the Internet has cha...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #145 -- Pay Per View TV Updated: 2009-03-07 07:07:00 Description: Friday, March 6, 2009. The issue of Time magazine dated twenty years ago today featured an article about the exapansion of Pay Per View television. I talk about that article and about PPV-TV, then and today. Remarkably, it's one tec...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #144 -- Berne Convention Updated: 2009-03-02 05:31:00 Description: Sunday, March 1, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the provisions of the Berne Convention came into effect in the United States. I talk about the Berne Convention, copyright law (from the point of view of an interested layperson, not a lawyer) and ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #143 -- Emperor Showa Funeral Updated: 2009-02-27 05:36:00 Description: For Tuesday, February 24, 2009. (Apologies for the delay in posting!) Twenty years ago today, the state funeral for Emperor Showa was held. I talk about the man who was known as Hirohito during his lifetime, and about the nation he had le...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #142 -- Washington's Farewell Address Updated: 2009-02-23 06:51:00 Description: Sunday, February 22, 2009. Twenty years ago today, Senator Mark Warner read George Washington's Farewell Address on the floor of the Senate, in keeping with a Senate tradition going back to the 19th century. I talk about the traditions of the S...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #141 -- Total Lunar Eclipse Updated: 2009-02-20 05:30:00 Description: Friday, February 20, 2009. Twenty years ago today, a total lunar eclipse visible through much of North America occurred. I share some memories of eclipses and other celestial phenomena I've been fortunate enough to witness.The picture at ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #140 -- Soviets Leave Afghanistan Updated: 2009-02-16 05:47:00 Description: Sunday, February 15, 2009. Twenty years ago today, the last Soviet troops left Afghanistan. It was the end of the occupation, but not of the war. I look at the fighting in Afghanistan, and consider the effects of the Cold War on a country...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #139 -- Barbara Clementine Harris Updated: 2009-02-11 08:00:00 Description: Wednesday, February 11, 2009. Twenty years ago today, Barbara Harris became the first woman to be ordained bishop in the Episcopal Church. I talk about the Rt. Rev. Harris, and my own perspectives on Christianity -- I belong to the Episco...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #138 -- Osamu Tezuka Updated: 2009-02-10 23:45:00 Description: For Monday, February 9, 2009. Twenty years ago today, Dr. Osamu Tezuka died at the age of 60. I talk about the man who is known as one of the greatest comic artists of all time, and about my connections to Japanese comics and animation. T...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #137 -- The Cat Came Back Updated: 2009-02-02 08:37:00 Description: Monday, February 2, 2009. "It Was 20 Years Ago Today" returns with new episodes, beginning with the final day of the third Los Angeles International Animation Festival, at which "The Cat Came Back" won two awards. I ta...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #136 -- Pan Am 103 Updated: 2008-12-21 20:59:00 Description: Sunday, December 21, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Pan Am Flight 103 was blown up over Lockerbie, Scotland. I discuss the story of the most deadly terrorist attack against Americans prior to September 11, 2001, a story that is far from over twe...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #135 -- Spitak Earthquake Updated: 2008-12-07 20:06:00 Description: Sunday, December 7, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a major earthquake struck the city of Spitak, in what was then Soviet Armenia. At least 25,000 people were killed in this disaster. I look at why so many people were killed in this e...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #134 -- The Steel Cloud Updated: 2008-12-05 16:26:00 Description: Friday, December 5, 2008. Twenty years ago today, plans for a unique monument called the Steel Cloud were unveiled in Los Angeles. I tell a little of the story of this oddity in steel and glass that was never built, and muse about visions of th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #133 -- Computer Security Day Updated: 2008-11-30 20:52:00 Description: Sunday, November 30, 2008. Twenty years ago today was the first Computer Security Day, an event held annually to raise awareness of computer security issues. I talk about the observation of Computer Security Day, and about the problem of comput...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #132 -- Mystery Science Theater 3000 Updated: 2008-11-24 07:53:00 Description: Monday, November 24, 2008. One of my favorite TV shows ever, Mystery Science Theater 3000, made its debut on this day twenty years ago. It first ran on a small independent station, KTMA, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I share a little about t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #131 -- Michaela Garecht Updated: 2008-11-19 06:00:00 Description: Wednesday, November 19, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Michaela Garecht was abducted near her home in Hayward, California. She has not been seen since. The picture at the right is an age progression of Michaela to about age 24; she would b...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #130 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 Updated: 2008-11-18 06:59:00 Description: Tuesday, November 18, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. I talk about a few of the provisions of this big drug and crime bill, as well as tell the story of how one of th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #129 -- Dorothea Puente Updated: 2008-11-16 18:23:00 Description: Sunday, November 16, 2008. Twenty years ago today, serial murderer Dorothea Puente was arrested in Los Angeles. I talk about the case of this woman, who killed people in her care for their money, and how she gained enduring hatred, among ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #128 -- The Queen of the Damned Updated: 2008-11-13 16:54:00 Description: Thursday, November 13, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the number one book on the New York Times fiction best seller list was Anne Rice's The Queen of the Damned. I had been looking forward to reading this book a lot, but when I did, I couldn't f...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #127 -- Election Day 1988 Updated: 2008-11-08 19:52:00 Description: Saturday, November 8, 2008. Twenty years ago today, George H.W. Bush was elected the 41st president of the United States. I share some facts about that election. 1988 was the first election in which I was able to vote; I share some stories abou...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #126 -- Indian Gaming Regulatory Act Updated: 2008-10-17 16:56:00 Description: Friday, October 17, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act was signed into law. This law provided the framework for Native American tribes to run casinos on tribal land, and thus transformed the American landscape. ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #125 -- First National Coming Out Day Updated: 2008-10-11 18:37:00 Description: Saturday, October 11, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the first National Coming Out Day was observed. I talk about this holiday which promotes awareness of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights and equality. I also talk about how my...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #124 -- WNBC Signs Off Updated: 2008-10-07 07:24:00 Description: Tuesday, October 7, 2008. Twenty years ago today, station WNBC in New York signed off for the last time. I talk about the station which was a pioneer in the world of broadcasting, as well as my own memories of listening to the radio -- particul...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #123 -- Pinochet Concedes Defeat Updated: 2008-10-06 07:24:00 Description: Monday, October 6, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the president of Chile, Augusto Pinochet, went on television to concede defeat in a plebiscite which was intended to confirm him in power. The picture here was taken about a month before the pleb...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #122 -- Bentsen/Quayle Debate Updated: 2008-10-05 21:42:00 Description: Sunday, October 5, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Senators Lloyd Bentsen and Dan Quayle met for their vice-presidential debate. Out of that debate came one of the finest political zingers of all time. I recall that moment, and my own...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #121 -- STS-26 Returns to Earth Updated: 2008-10-03 05:39:00 Description: Friday, October 3, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the space shuttle Discovery landed, marking the successful conclusion of mission STS-26. I talk about that mission, which marked the return to flight after the loss of shuttle Columbia over two years b...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #120 -- Charles Addams Updated: 2008-09-29 04:45:00 Description: Monday, September 29, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Charles Addams died at the age of 76. I take a look at the life and career of the celebrated cartoonist of the creepy and the influence he had on my life.If by some chance you have not seen th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #119 -- Japanese Canadian Redress Updated: 2008-09-22 05:40:00 Description: Monday, September 22, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the Canadian Government announced an act of redress toward Japanese Canadians who had been interned during World War II. I talk about the Canadian act, as well as the Civil Liberties Act of 19...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #118 -- A Fish Called Wanda Updated: 2008-09-18 07:38:00 Description: Thursday, September 18, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the number one movie at the USA box office was "A Fish Called Wanda." I talk about why this is one of my favorite movies of all time, as well as offering a few observations about t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #117 -- Hurricane Gilbert Updated: 2008-09-13 05:11:00 Description: Saturday, September 13, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Hurricane Gilbert became the most intense hurricane ever measured in the western hemisphere. I talk about Gilbert, its intensity, path, and effects. I also add some thoughts of my own ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #116 -- Aline Chat Service Updated: 2008-09-07 19:54:00 Description: Sunday, September 7, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the New York Times featured an article about a new computer chat service called Aline. I talk about that long-gone service and also about another computer chat protocol invented twenty years ago and ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #115 -- Channel Tunnel Updated: 2008-08-29 05:01:00 Description: For December 15, 2007. Twenty years ago on this day, digging began on the tunnel beneath the English Channel. I describe a little about the Channel Tunnel (also known as Eurotunnel or the Chunnel), a concept drawing of which is seen here. ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #114 -- Ramstein Air Show Disaster Updated: 2008-08-28 19:46:00 Description: Thursday, August 28, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a mid-air collision during an airshow at Ramstein Air Base in West Germany killed three pilots and 67 people on the ground. I talk about how this event, possibly the worst airshow disaster in h...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #113 -- Wayne Gretzky trade Updated: 2008-08-22 07:06:00 Description: Friday, August 22, 2008. The feature article in Sports Illustrated twenty years ago today (the cover of the magazine is pictured here) was all about a history-making trade of a history-making player, Wayne Gretzky. I talk about the trade, Gretz...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #112 -- Cesar Chavez Ends Fast Updated: 2008-08-21 04:47:00 Description: Thursday, August 21, 2008. Twenty years ago today, farm labor leader Cesar Chavez ended a water-only fast after 36 days. I take a look at Chavez, his fast, and his legacy, as well as several issues that were part of his life's work -- the...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #111 -- Iran-Iraq War Ends Updated: 2008-08-20 07:18:00 Description: Wednesday, August 20, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a cease-fire began which ended the Iran-Iraq War. I take a look at some of the effects of a war that lasted nearly eight years, but is still having a direct effect on us, twenty years after it...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #110 -- Minoxidil Approved by FDA Updated: 2008-08-18 05:01:00 Description: Monday, August 18, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the drug minoxidil was approved by the FDA as a treatment for male pattern baldness. It is still sold today, most often under the brand name Rogaine. I talk about minoxidil and male pattern...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #109 -- Rhyme Pays Updated: 2008-07-12 23:56:00 Description: For November 11, 2007. It was twenty years ago that the major label debut of rap artist Ice-T, 'Rhyme Pays,' was released. There's no explicit lyrics in this podcast, but I do talk about the record and its influence on the genre. I ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #108 -- Robert Bork Updated: 2008-06-09 16:01:00 Description: For October 23, 2007. Twenty years ago on this day, the nomination of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court was rejected by the U.S. Senate. I talk about the Bork nomination, how I listened to the hearings, and offer my interpretation of some of the catch...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #107 -- James Frey's First DUI Updated: 2008-06-09 02:30:00 Description: Sunday, June 8, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a young man named James Frey was arrested for drunk driving. This would have been an event of little import except for the fact that Frey wrote about it fifteen years later, in a book that purported...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #106 -- Poe's Tamerlane Updated: 2008-06-07 22:49:00 Description: Saturday, June 7, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a copy of Edgar Allan Poe's 'Tamerlane and Other Poems' sold at auction for $198,000. I talk about the book and the circumstances of its sale, my own fondness for books, and why I probably won't b...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #105 -- Robert A. Heinlein Updated: 2008-05-08 04:52:00 Description: Thursday, May 8, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Robert A. Heinlein died at the age of eighty. I share my thoughts on the work of the man who even today is considered the dean of science fiction. I also offer my excuses for why I haven't re...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #104 -- Winning Colors Updated: 2008-05-07 03:42:00 Description: Wednesday, May 7, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Winning Colors became the third filly to win the Kentucky Derby, and the last filly to date. I talk a little bit about her, as well as the story of Eight Belles, who very nearly became the next fi...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #103 -- Superfoods Updated: 2008-04-04 05:40:00 Description: Friday, April 4, 2008. Twenty years ago this week, the magazine Science News reported on ellagic acid, a substance found in berries and nuts, and how it might help prevent cancer. I talk about the article, and about the wide variety of 'superfoods' w...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #102 -- E Stamps Updated: 2008-04-03 04:41:00 Description: Thursday, April 3, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the postage rate for a first class letter in the United States went from 22 to 25 cents. The special stamp used at the time of that increase is pictured at the right. I talk about letters and the fast-...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #101 -- Halabja Gas Attack Updated: 2008-03-17 02:42:00 Description: Sunday, March 16, 2008. Twenty years ago today, a poison gas attack was launched over the town of Halabja, in northern Iraq. I take a look at the conflicting versions of events on that dreadful day, and how the truth has been twisted to serve politic...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #100 -- 386 Chip Updated: 2008-03-15 17:38:00 Description: Saturday, March 15, 2008. For the 100th episode of 'It Was 20 Years Ago Today,' I take a look at one of the areas where our lives have changed most dramatically over the past twenty years -- computer technology. An article in Software Magazine dated ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #99 -- Drinking Age Updated: 2008-03-11 06:35:00 Description: Tuesday, March 11, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the state of Wyoming became the last of the 50 United States to raise the legal drinking age to 21. I talk about the Wyoming law, drinking age laws in general, and some of my own personal experiences w...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #98 -- Minis Aren't Back After All Updated: 2008-03-09 17:30:00 Description: Sunday, March 9, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the New York Times ran a front-page story about a new trend in women's fashion that fizzled. I talk about that story, and about my own experiences with clothes and fashion.Our theme music is compos...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #97 -- George HW Bush Updated: 2008-03-08 07:05:00 Description: Written and recorded for October 13, 2007. Twenty years ago today, George HW Bush (pictured at the right with Margaret Thatcher) declared his candidacy for President of the United States. I look back at that election, and compare it with the pr...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #96 -- South Africa & Northern Ireland Updated: 2008-03-07 06:59:00 Description: March 7, 2008. The issue of Time Magazine dated 20 years ago today (the cover can be seen at the right) carried stories on increasing tensions in two strife-torn areas of the world: South Africa and Northern Ireland. I look at those stories, and take...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #95 -- Calgary Olympics Updated: 2008-02-28 06:18:00 Description: February 28, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the Winter Olympics in Calgary (you can see the logo here) came to an end. I talk about the Games, and recall one of the most memorable stories to come out of those sixteen days in Calgary.Today's epis...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #94 -- Hustler Magazine v. Jerry Falwell Updated: 2008-02-24 22:21:00 Description: February 24, 2008. Twenty years ago today, the Supreme Court handed down its decision in the case of Hustler Magazine v. Jerry Falwell. I talk about the case which strengthened the First Amendment's protections in matters of parody and caricatu...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #93 -- Marcel Proust Updated: 2008-02-21 06:41:00 Description: For October 6, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the works of Marcel Proust entered the public domain in most of the world. I talk about the effect this has had on the literary community in the intervening twenty years, and offer a few thoughts abo...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #92 -- Greg Oden Updated: 2008-01-22 05:02:00 Description: January 22, 2008. Twenty years ago today, Greg Oden was born. I talk about the Portland Trailblazers top draft pick, and my own experiences with basketball, as a player but not (so much) as a fan.Today's episode music is from 'Splat the Rat,' b...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #91 -- Hellraiser Updated: 2008-01-17 06:00:00 Description: For September 18, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the film 'Hellraiser' was released in the United States. I talk about the movie that practically reinvented the horror film genre and has only become more popular since.Today's episode music is from 'Th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #90 -- Montreal Protocol Updated: 2008-01-07 06:56:00 Description: For September 16, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the Montreal Protocol was opened for signature. This is the treaty that banned CFCs, the gases that damage the ozone layer. I explain the treaty, in brief, and compare the success of this treaty with th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #89 -- Tifton City Hall Updated: 2007-12-20 08:34:00 Description: For September 13, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the Tifton City Hall and Myon Complex was dedicated in the town of Tifton, Georgia. It wasn't a new building, but a renovation and restoration of a famous old one. I talk about the re-development ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #88 -- Richard Raymond Valley Updated: 2007-12-19 07:07:00 Description: For September 7, 2007. This episode is a highly personal one for me, marking 20 years since the death of my grandfather, Richard Raymond Valley. I share several memories of my grampa, and I hope I can convey to you what made him such a special ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #87 -- Richard Marquand Updated: 2007-12-14 06:11:00 Description: For September 4, 2007. Twenty years ago today, film director Richard Marquand died at the age of 49. He will probably best be remembered as the director of 'Return of the Jedi' in 1983. I talk about the state of 'Star Wars,' how it'...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #86 -- PSA Flight 1771 Updated: 2007-12-07 08:39:00 Description: Friday, December 7, 2007. Twenty years ago today, PSA Flight 1771 crashed, killing everyone aboard, in what was not an accident but one of the worst incidents of workplace homicide in American history. I share some details of the crash an...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #85 -- Perestroika Updated: 2007-11-24 02:06:00 Description: November 23, 2007. Twenty years ago today, 'Perestroika: New Thinking for Our Country and the World' was reviewed in the New York Times. I talk about several reviews of Mikhail Gorbachev's book, as well as my own impressions of it, and a ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #84 -- The Great Potato Caper Updated: 2007-11-22 04:57:00 Description: For August 29, 2007. Twenty years ago today, minor-league baseball catcher Dave Bresnahan lost his job in the fallout of a stunt ever after known as 'The Great Potato Caper.' I describe one of the funniest plays in baseball history, and t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #83 -- Rudolf Hess Updated: 2007-11-20 07:20:00 Description: For August 17, 2007. Twenty years ago today, Rudolf Hess, the last surviving member of Adolf Hitler's inner circle and sole inmate of Spandau Prison for twenty years, died at the age of 93. I talk a little about Hess' life, times and deat...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #82 -- Fairness Doctrine Updated: 2007-11-16 06:55:00 Description: For August 5, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the FCC enacted new regulations which spelled the end of the Fairness Doctrine as it had existed for almost 40 years. I discuss the reasoning behind the Fairness Doctrine, the reasoning behind w...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #81 -- The Living Daylights Updated: 2007-11-14 06:18:00 Description: For July 31, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the film 'The Living Daylights' was released in the United States. I talk about the state of the James Bond film series in 1987, as well as my own fondness for Ian Fleming's iconic secret agent.I...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #80 -- Edwards v. Aguillard Updated: 2007-11-12 05:35:00 Description: For June 19, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the Supreme Court handed down a decision in the case Edwards v. Aguillard. This case is one of many court cases in the contentious issue of what explanation for the origins of life and human bein...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #79 -- William S. Sessions Updated: 2007-11-02 05:07:00 Description: Friday, November 2, 2007. Twenty years ago today, William S. Sessions was sworn in as the new director of the FBI. I talk a little about his career, and about one of his most widespread legacies: 'Winners Don't Use Drugs.'Special th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #78 -- El Salvador Assassination Updated: 2007-10-26 05:05:00 Description: October 26, 2007. Twenty years ago today, Herbert Ernesto Anaya Sanabria (pictured at the right) was gunned down in the streets of El Salvador, most likely by right-wing death squads supporting the government in that country's civil war. ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #77 -- Stock Market Crash Updated: 2007-10-19 05:04:00 Description: October 19, 2007. Twenty years ago today, stock markets around the world suffered big losses. One of the biggest was in the United States, where the Dow Jones Industrial Average suffered its largest one-day point loss to that date. ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #76 -- "Tear Down This Wall!" Updated: 2007-10-17 06:58:00 Description: For June 12, 2007. Twenty years ago today, President Ronald Reagan made what might have been the most famous speech of his presidency, and what has become one of the most famous speeches of its decade. I include a brief clip from the spee...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #75 -- The Untouchables Updated: 2007-10-11 01:00:00 Description: For June 3, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the movie "The Untouchables" was released in the United States. I talk a little about the movie, and about its significance in my personal history.After the show there is a promo for a n...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #74 -- Sir Peter Medawar/Anniversary Show Updated: 2007-10-10 05:13:00 Description: For October 5, 2007. Twenty years ago this week, Nobel laureate Sir Peter B. Medawar died at the age of 73. I share a few facts about this man, who contributed a great deal to our understanding of the human immune system, including a quot...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Promo #2 -- "Did You Know?" for 1987 Updated: 2007-09-10 02:20:00 Description: This is the second of two promo clips I created for the show. Feel free to download, copy, share and spread the word! This promo references events that happened during 1987, so can be used for the rest of this year. I'll make a new ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Show Promo #1 -- Every Day Has a Multitude of Stories Updated: 2007-09-10 02:15:00 Description: This is the first of two promo clips I created for the show. Please feel free to download, copy, share them around, and spread the word! This is the more "generic" of my two promos and should be good indefinitely....more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #73 -- Konishiki Updated: 2007-08-31 21:02:00 Description: For May 27, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the sumo wrestler Konishiki was promoted to ozeki, becoming the first non-Japanese to reach the second-highest rank in professional sumo. I talk about the life and career of this groundbreaking at...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #72 -- John Huston Updated: 2007-08-28 06:08:00 Description: Tuesday, August 28, 2007.Twenty years ago today, actor and director John Huston died at the age of 81. I talk about my first experiences with Huston's work -- both as actor and director -- and how I became a movie buff through two college cours...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #71 -- Golden Gate Bridge 50th Anniversary Updated: 2007-08-27 18:25:00 Description: For May 24, 2007. Twenty years ago today marked the 50th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge. An event that day when the bridge was closed to cars and open for pedestrians drew nearly three quarters of a million people -- a much bigger ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #70 -- William Casey Updated: 2007-08-26 16:00:00 Description: For May 6, 2007. Twenty years ago today, former CIA director William Casey died. I take a look at his life, with a particular focus on several of the conspiracies which he was reportedly a part of -- from Iran/Contra to the New World Orde...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #69 -- Dow Jones Industrial Average Updated: 2007-08-26 03:27:00 Description: Saturday, August 25, 2007. After an extended summer break, we're back with new episodes. Over the next several weeks, episodes reflecting the current date will be interspersed with ones written for May through early August. There we...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #68 -- Danielle Steel Updated: 2007-06-14 05:37:00 Description: Originally written and recorded for April 22, 2007. Twenty years ago, one of the biggest selling authors was romance novelist Danielle Steel. I offer a min-biography of Ms Steel, and share my own experience of trying to write a romance no...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #67 -- Saragosa Tornado Updated: 2007-05-22 05:36:00 Description: Tuesday, May 22, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the tiny community of Saragosa was destroyed by a tornado. I talk about that tornado, a little about tornadoes in general, and my own -- thankfully very limited -- experience of natural disas...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #66 -- Coventry City Wins FA Cup Updated: 2007-05-16 06:02:00 Description: Wednesday, May 16, 2007. Twenty years ago today, Coventry City won the FA Cup in a 3-2 extra time match against Tottenham Hotspur. I talk a little about that special day, and the story of how I became a soccer fan.My favorite football tea...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #65 -- Square One TV Updated: 2007-05-15 07:00:00 Description: Originally written and recorded for January 26, 2007. Twenty years ago, "Square One TV" made its debut on PBS. This show was intended to help grade school kids learn math, but many adults -- myself included -- found it very ente...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #64 -- C-SPAN 2 Updated: 2007-05-14 07:00:00 Description: Originally written and recorded for January 5, 2007. Twenty years ago, C-SPAN 2 began broadcasting coverage of the United States Senate and other events on a 24/7 basis. I take a look at some of the history of the C-SPAN channels, the rea...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #63 -- 27th Amendment Updated: 2007-05-13 07:00:00 Description: Sunday, May 13, 2007. Twenty years ago today, Connecticut ratified a measure that would become the 27th Amendment to the Constitution. I recount the fascinating history of this law, which was originally proposed over 200 years ago, and th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #62 -- Hill Street Blues Updated: 2007-05-12 07:08:00 Description: Saturday, May 12, 2007. The final episode of "Hill Street Blues" went out over the NBC network twenty years ago today. I talk about what made the show so groundbreaking, and some of my special memories of watching it.Today's epi...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #61 -- Candy Maldonado Updated: 2007-05-04 06:28:00 Description: Friday, May 4, 2007. Twenty years ago, Candy Maldonado of the San Francisco Giants achieved one of baseball's rarest feats -- hitting for the cycle. I talk about the 1987 Giants and my own thoughts about baseball.The Baseball Almanac webs...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #60 -- California Condors Updated: 2007-04-21 05:51:00 Description: For April 19, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the last wild California condor -- designated AC9 -- was captured and placed in a captive breeding program. I talk about the condors, the captive breeding program and its results over the past t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #59 -- Arch Oboler Updated: 2007-04-02 07:00:00 Description: This episode was written and produced for March 19, 2007. Twenty years ago from that day, radio storytelling great Arch Oboler died. I talk about Oboler and his work -- including a pair of clips from his most famous program, Lights Out --...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #58 -- Sin Tax Updated: 2007-04-01 06:00:00 Description: Sunday, April 1, 2007. Twenty years ago today, a town in Illinois instituted a new system of "sin taxes." I explain how the system worked and how it's changed over the years.Today's episode was inspired by one of the stories on ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #57 -- The Bold & The Beautiful Updated: 2007-03-23 06:25:00 Description: Friday, March 23, 2007. Twenty years ago today, "The Bold and the Beautiful" premiered on CBS. It's a soap opera that's still on the air today. I talk about soaps in the 1980s and my brief excursions as a soap watcher, one...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #56 -- Jim Bakker Updated: 2007-03-22 07:19:00 Description: Thursday, March 22, 2007. Twenty years ago this week, TV preacher Jim Bakker left his PTL ministry in disgrace amid allegations of both sexual and financial misconduct. I talk about how Bakker and his then wife, Tammy Faye (pictured at th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #55 -- John D. MacDonald Updated: 2007-03-16 06:31:00 Description: Another "lost episode," this one written and recorded for December 28, 2006. Twenty years ago, author John D. MacDonald (pictured at the right) died. He wrote hundreds of novels and short stories in just about every genre, but w...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #54 -- Friday the 13th Updated: 2007-03-14 06:23:00 Description: Tuesday, March 13, 2007. Twenty years ago today was a Friday the 13th; it was also the heyday of the movie series bearing that title. I share some information about the history of Friday the 13th in folklore and superstition, and then tal...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #53 -- Les Miserables Updated: 2007-03-13 06:04:00 Description: Monday, March 12, 2007. Twenty years ago today, "Les Miserables" opened on Broadway. I talk about the history of the production and how it has become a staple of the musical theater scene, and follow that up with some assorted t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #52 -- Macintosh II Updated: 2007-03-03 05:23:00 Description: Friday, March 2, 2007. Twenty years ago today, Apple Computer introduced their newest computer, the Mac II. I talk about that particular machine, compare the relative expense of top-of-the-line home computers then and now, and muse about ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #51 -- Airline Mergers Updated: 2007-03-02 07:54:00 Description: Thursday, March 1. 2007. [Almost caught up now!]Twenty years ago today, Western Airlines and Delta Airlines announced they would merge, effective in a month. It was the latest example of change that had become the norm for the airline ind...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #50 -- Tower Commission Report Updated: 2007-02-28 06:37:00 Description: Monday, February 26, 2007. [Still playing catch-up, just a little.]For the 50th (!!) episode of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today," we return to a subject we've visited before, and will again -- the Iran-Contra scandal. On this day, th...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #49 -- The Lord of Sipan Updated: 2007-02-27 07:28:00 Description: Sunday, February 25, 2007. [Yes, we're running a couple days late, but I thought these episodes were worth posting anyway.]Twenty years ago today, police in Peru got an archaeologist out of bed to protect a tomb from grave robbers. That t...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #48 -- Supernova 1987A Updated: 2007-02-23 08:01:00 Description: Friday, February 23, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the light from a supernova in the Greater Magellanic Cloud galaxy reached the Earth, after a journey of 168,000 years. I talk about that celestial phenomenon, and a little about why I fin...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #47 -- Cat Day Updated: 2007-02-22 07:36:00 Description: Thursday, January 22, 2007. Twenty years ago today was the first Cat Day celebration in Japan. I take a look at the origins of that day, days set aside to honor cats in other countries, and then tell the story of the cat I owned twenty ye...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #46 -- Early Dot Coms Updated: 2007-02-13 07:47:00 Description: You haven't stepped into a time warp --this is the first of an occasional series of "lost episodes" of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today." This episode was written and recorded for December 11, 2006. On that day twenty years ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #45 -- Superconducting Supercollider Updated: 2007-01-31 07:34:00 Description: Tuesday, January 30, 2007. Twenty years ago today, the President authorized the construction of the Superconducting Supercollider, the biggest atom smasher that -- as it turned out -- never was.Near the end of the show I mention the Large Hadro...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #44 -- Budd Dwyer and Bill Stewart Updated: 2007-01-23 06:47:00 Description: Monday, January 22, 2007. Twenty years ago today, politician Budd Dwyer committed suicide on camera. I talk about that event, and how a similar one -- the death on camera of journalist Bill Stewart in 1979 -- had an impact on me which res...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #43 -- Chase, Maryland Rail Wreck Updated: 2007-01-04 09:01:00 Description: Thursday, January 4, 2007. For the first podcast of the new year, I look back at a terrible train wreck that took place twenty years ago today. I tell a little of the story of the Chase wreck, and explain how a deadly accident on the othe...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #42 -- Voyager and Andrei Sakharov Updated: 2006-12-24 07:33:00 Description: Saturday, December 23, 2006. There were two great homecomings twenty years ago today. The experimental aircraft Voyager completed a non-stop, non-refueled flight around the world; and Andrei Sakharov was allowed to return home to Moscow a...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #41 -- Pit Bull Ban Updated: 2006-12-22 09:27:00 Description: Friday, December 22, 2006. Twenty years ago today, an ordinance took effect in Platte City, Missouri, banning pit bull dogs. I take a look at that ordinance, and the efforts to pass ones like it elsewhere in the country.Today's episode mu...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #40 -- My 20th Birthday Updated: 2006-12-09 07:24:00 Description: Saturday, December 9, 2006. Twenty years ago today, I turned twenty years old. I talk about the age I was then, the age I am now, and the attitudes of the younger generations toward the older ones. Some things haven't changed in twe...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #39 -- Wole Soyinka/South Africa Updated: 2006-12-08 07:18:00 Description: Friday, December 8, 2006. Twenty years ago today, Nobel Prize winner Wole Soyinka gave his Nobel lecture, a call to action against the apartheid regime in South Africa. I discuss Soyinka, his speech, as well as the efforts to change the s...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #38 -- Putnam Math Contest Updated: 2006-12-06 07:46:00 Description: Wednesday, December 6, 2006. Twenty years ago today, the annual William Lowell Putnam mathematics competition was held. See the questions for the 1986 competition. (Link is to a PDF.) I tell a little bit about the competition,...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #37 -- Holiday Cookie Contest (Repost!) Updated: 2006-12-04 14:30:00 Description: Monday, December 4, 2006. The Chicago Tribune announced the winners of its first annual Holiday Cookie Contest twenty years ago today. I share the names of the winning recipes, and talk a little about my memories of cooking and baking.Thi...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #36 -- John Gotti Updated: 2006-12-04 02:48:00 Description: Sunday, December 3, 2006. A key witness in the RICO trial of mob boss John Gotti began his testimony twenty years ago today. I look at Gotti's history and how he went from being the Teflon Don in 1986 to the Velcro Don in 1992.Today's epi...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #35 -- Shenmue Updated: 2006-11-30 06:40:00 Description: Wednesday, November 29, 2006. The story of the video game Shenmue opens twenty years ago today. I look at that game, and the state of video console gaming in the time Shenmue is set.Official site -- Shenmue.comShenmue Dojo on GameSpyEpiso...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #34 -- William S. Burroughs Updated: 2006-11-28 11:55:00 Description: Tuesday, November 28, 2006. Twenty years ago today is the date of "Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1986" by William S. Burroughs. The video clip of Burroughs reading the poem, directed by Gus Van Sant, can be found here.Today's e...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #33 -- "Black Friday" Updated: 2006-11-28 06:49:00 Description: Monday, November 27, 2006. Twenty years ago today was Thanksgiving Day, and an article in the St. Petersburg Times was the first to characterize the next day as "Black Friday." I take a look at that name, whether it really fits,...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #32 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: the Scapegoats Updated: 2006-11-25 05:55:00 Description: Friday, November 24, 2006. A meeting at the White House twenty years ago today set the tone for how the Reagan Administration would handle the scandal. I look at some of the details of that meeting and the press conference that took place...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #31 -- Doctor Demento & Weird Al Updated: 2006-11-23 21:29:00 Description: Thursday, November 23, 2006 -- Happy Thanksgiving! The new single from Weird Al Yankovic's album Polka Party made its debut on the Doctor Demento Show twenty years ago today. I've been a fan of both Weird Al and Doctor Demento since befor...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #30 -- Tyson Defeats Berbick Updated: 2006-11-22 05:48:00 Description: November 22, 2006. Twenty years ago tody, Mike Tyson beat Trevor Berbick to become the youngest heavyweight boxing champ ever. I talk about Tyson, and his rise and fall.Today's episode music is "Taking You There," by Jeremiah Fl...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #29 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: Shredding Updated: 2006-11-21 10:36:00 Description: Twenty years ago today, there were a lot of documents being shredded in the offices of the NSA. I take a look at who was doing the shredding, and why ... and exactly what I think of the whole idea.Extra special thanks to Joe Medina of Ollin Pro...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #28 -- Nuclear Missile Silo Demolition Updated: 2006-11-20 03:08:00 Description: Sunday, November 19, 2006. Twenty years ago today, a missile silo complex in Arkansas was demolished. I look at how this was done and about the last big chill before the Cold War came to an end.Today's episode music is "Bella," ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #27 -- UFO Incident Updated: 2006-11-18 21:53:00 Description: November 18, 2006. Twenty years ago today, a Japanese airline pilot spotted a UFO, in an incident that gained a great deal of public attention -- some six weeks after it actually happened. Is this sighting a mystery, or something easily e...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #26 -- End of the Corner Video Store Updated: 2006-11-18 06:27:00 Description: The issue of Time Magazine dated twenty years ago today featured an article looking at what turned out to be the beginning of the end of the small, independent video rental store. I look at how that came to pass, and how the big chains might be...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #25 -- SNL, and Behind the Scenes Updated: 2006-11-16 04:14:00 Description: Some conflicting information about today's event led me to make this podcast a bit of a behind the scenes show, about the research that goes into making an episode of "It Was Twenty Years Ago Today."Today's episode music is "October,&q...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #24 -- Boesky Day Updated: 2006-11-15 05:15:00 Description: Twenty years ago today would forever after be known as "Boesky Day" on Wall Street, when financier Ivan Boesky's spectacular career came to an even more spectacular end.I found this account of a oral history discussion between the lawyers i...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #23 -- Reagan's Speech: "No Arms for Hostages" Updated: 2006-11-13 15:52:00 Description: Twenty years ago today, President Reagan spoke to the nation from the Oval Office, and denied that he sold weapons to Iran in exchange for the freedom of Americans held hostage in Lebanon. It was a story that he would elaborate on -- and change...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #22 -- Michael Jackson's "Bad" Updated: 2006-11-13 01:27:00 Description: The music video for the title track of Michael Jackson's album "Bad" was being shot in New York City twenty years ago today. I look at Michael Jackson, how he dominated the popular music scene back then, and wonder a bit about what he...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #21 -- Roger C. Carmel Updated: 2006-11-11 23:52:00 Description: Character actor Roger C. Carmel died twenty years ago today. His career included roles as wide as the Batman tv series, Smokey the Bear, and "Senor Naugles" in a very popular series of commercials for the now-defunct Naugles restauran...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #20 -- V.M. Molotov Updated: 2006-11-08 10:02:00 Description: Twenty years ago today, Vyacheslav Mikhaylevich Molotov (pictured at right) died at the age of 96. I take a look at the life of a man who at the time of his death, was the last surviving major participant in the 1917 Russian Revolution. I also have a...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #19 -- General Election Updated: 2006-11-04 20:45:00 Description: The mid-term election of 1986 took place on this day. I take a look at some of the results, particularly California Propositions 64 (dealing with the way AIDS was treated under public health law) and 65 (called in the day "the toxics initi...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #18 -- Dias de los Muertos and Paul Frees Updated: 2006-11-03 07:45:00 Description: Today is the second day of the Dias de los Muertos festival. I offer a brief introduction to this Mexican holiday, as well as pay tribute to voice actor Paul Frees, who died on this day 20 years ago.Today's episode music is "Muertos,"...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #17 -- Harry Houdini Updated: 2006-11-02 06:10:00 Description: [Apologies for the delay in getting this episode posted -- I'm running a bit behind the curve this week.]October 31, 1986 was the 60th anniversary of the passing of arguably the greatest magician and escape artist of all time, Harry Houdini. I ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #16 -- My First Novel Updated: 2006-10-30 08:00:00 Description: I share the story of my first novel, and the fate which it met somewhere around this day, twenty years ago.Today's episode music is "Oh Manyo," by Father Rock. Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose....more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #15 -- Shuttle Challenger Disaster Updated: 2006-10-29 07:32:00 Description: The House Science Committee published the report of their investigations into the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster on this day, 20 years ago. I take a look at the committee's report, as compared with the better-remembered Rogers Commission rep...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #14 -- Ian Marter Updated: 2006-10-28 06:27:00 Description: Doctor Who actor and writer Ian Marter died on this day, 20 years ago. I look at his contributions to the series. In addition, I discuss some of the ways I've expressed my fondness for the show.This episode's music includes "Woo Who,...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #13 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 Updated: 2006-10-27 07:18:00 Description: The Anti-Drug Abuse Act (ADAA) of 1986 was signed into law twenty years ago today. It was one of the most sweeping changes to the drug laws in decades, and many of its provisions are still affecting us today.Today's music is "Splat the Rat...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #12 -- Tobacco Education Updated: 2006-10-24 08:15:00 Description: The US Government took several actions twenty years ago today pertaining to regulating tobacco and researching how best to educate young people about the dangers of smoking. I take a look at these, the 19th Surgeon General's Report on Smoking a...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #11 -- The Titanic Maritime Memorial Act Updated: 2006-10-21 18:33:00 Description: The RMS Titanic Maritime Memorial Act (link is to a pdf document), an attempt to regulate salvage of the wreck of the Titanic, was signed into law twenty years ago today. The debate over whether to salvage artifacts from the wreck, or to leave ...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #10 -- Batman Updated: 2006-10-20 07:07:00 Description: The first draft script of Batman (the first Tim Burton movie) was written twenty years ago today. I share some thoughts about the movie, and the comics that inspired it....more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #9 -- Steve Kinser Updated: 2006-10-18 07:18:00 Description: Steve Kinser, "King of the Outlaws," won a race 20 years ago today. It was one of many in a career that continues to this day. I take a look at Kinser and of my own enjoyment of motor sports through the years.Today's episode mus...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #8 -- Patricia Barczak Updated: 2006-10-17 06:42:00 Description: A young woman lost her life to the infamous Green River killer 20 years ago today. I take a look at that case, and my own interest in true crime.Today's music is "Over Under," by Father Rock. I found it at PodSafe Audio. T...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #7 -- The Reykjavik Summit Updated: 2006-10-12 06:23:00 Description: A slightly longer podcast than usual today, as the event I look at actually happened over October 11 and 12, 1986 -- the summit meeting between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev held in Reykjavik, Iceland. Those talks centered on nuclear weap...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #6 -- Lottie Price's Diary Updated: 2006-10-10 07:15:00 Description: A discussion of what makes history, and a remarkable historical document which concluded on this day 20 years ago today.Lottie Price's diary can be found here.Today's music is "Duel Key Dreamer," by Father Rock.Theme music composed and perf...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #5 -- Fox Network Updated: 2006-10-09 06:19:00 Description: The "fourth network," Fox, began broadcasting 20 years ago today. I take a look at how it succeeded where others before had failed, as well as some of its most famous shows.Today's music is "Newtecky" by Father Rock. I...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #4 -- Newspapers Updated: 2006-10-07 08:05:00 Description: The Independent began publishing 20 years ago today. I take a look at that event, and my experience at about the same time as a reporter for the Del Norte Triplicate.Today's music was from "The Birth of Language" by Harley Glotzer.The...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #3 -- Eugene Hasenfus Updated: 2006-10-05 06:51:00 Description: Today I look back to the incident which opened up the Iran/Contra scandal, and the man who inadvertently started it all. I also share a few thoughts on saturation news coverage.Today's music is "Melodisturbed Remix," by J. Marie Ander...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #2 -- The Trial of a Time Lord Updated: 2006-10-04 07:03:00 Description: The fifth episode of "The Trial of a Time Lord" (or the first episode of "Mindwarp," depending on your point of view) aired for the first time 20 years ago today. We look at a few facts about that episode of "Doctor Who...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD Episode #1 -- AIDS in the Early Days Updated: 2006-10-03 07:10:00 Description: Welcome to the premier episode of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today." Today we look back to October 3, 1986, when the Journal of the American Medical Association carried three different articles dealing with AIDS.I found the AIDS Timeline at...more... LISTEN NOW | VIEW CACHE | DOWNLOAD |
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