It Was 20 Years Ago Today Podcasts

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Episode #167 -- The World Wide Web 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.hypertext announcing the existence of the World Wide Web Some Internet usage statistics from the Huffington Post and the UK Office for National Statistics An early version of that very first web page (from the World Wide Web Consortium) The image is ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #166 -- NC-17 Movie Rating 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 of that proposal, and offer a history of the MPAA's rating system for movies as well as two other ratings systems -- for video games and TV shows -- which have been instituted in the last twenty years. For a look ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #165 -- German Reunification 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, and reflect on how Germany -- and the world -- has changed since then.   Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #165 -- German Reunification 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, and reflect on how Germany -- and the world -- has changed since then.   Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #164 -- "Shot Heard 'Round the World" 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 shot heard 'round the world," and it changed the way Americans looked at soccer.Click here for a YouTube clip which shows the ESPN SportsCenter coverage of the match, including Caligiuri's goal. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #164 -- "Shot Heard 'Round the World" 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 shot heard 'round the world," and it changed the way Americans looked at soccer.Click here for a YouTube clip which shows the ESPN SportsCenter coverage of the match, including Caligiuri's goal. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #163 -- "Out of Order" 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 some of the big changes that happened to San Francisco and Oakland's transportation infrastructure as a result of the Loma Prieta earthquake. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #163 -- "Out of Order" 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 some of the big changes that happened to San Francisco and Oakland's transportation infrastructure as a result of the Loma Prieta earthquake. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #162 -- Loma Prieta Earthquake 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 minutes later that taught me a very important lesson -- being in the midst of history as it's happening isn't always an adventure.The SFGate website, online home of the San Francisco Chronicle, has a special section devoted to those fifteen seconds ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #162 -- Loma Prieta Earthquake 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 minutes later that taught me a very important lesson -- being in the midst of history as it's happening isn't always an adventure.The SFGate website, online home of the San Francisco Chronicle, has a special section devoted to those fifteen seconds ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #161 -- Scott O'Dell 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, by extension, helped inspire this podcast. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #161 -- Scott O'Dell 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, by extension, helped inspire this podcast. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #160 -- "One baby's scream" 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 have easily been written today.Mike Levine went on to become the executive editor of the Times Herald-Record before dying far too young in January 2007.  His family and colleagues established a journalism education scholarship in his name, and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #160 -- "One baby's scream" 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 have easily been written today.Mike Levine went on to become the executive editor of the Times Herald-Record before dying far too young in January 2007.  His family and colleagues established a journalism education scholarship in his name, and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #159 -- Batman 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 to "The Killing Joke."One of the earliest episodes of this show was about this same Batman movie, commemorating the date when the first draft script was written.  Fellow Bat-fanatics who haven't been following this show since day ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #159 -- Batman 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 to "The Killing Joke."One of the earliest episodes of this show was about this same Batman movie, commemorating the date when the first draft script was written.  Fellow Bat-fanatics who haven't been following this show since day ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #158 -- Star Trek V 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 don't remember seeing the poster design depicted here back in the day, but I couldn't resist showing it now, because my answer to the question it poses would most likely be, "To keep the audience from getting up and walking out."I als ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #158 -- Star Trek V 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 don't remember seeing the poster design depicted here back in the day, but I couldn't resist showing it now, because my answer to the question it poses would most likely be, "To keep the audience from getting up and walking out."I als ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #157 -- Tienanmen Square Crackdown 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 prevent its people from even knowing about what really happened in Tienanmen Square twenty years ago. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #157 -- Tienanmen Square Crackdown 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 prevent its people from even knowing about what really happened in Tienanmen Square twenty years ago. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #156 -- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade 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 Jones" series, why I think it worked so well, and why the fourth film, "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls," which we'd waited almost twenty years to see, just didn't work. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #156 -- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade 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 Jones" series, why I think it worked so well, and why the fourth film, "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls," which we'd waited almost twenty years to see, just didn't work. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #155 -- Gilda Radner 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 less-than-stellar vocal quality of this episode.  I'm a bit under the weather, but I didn't want to miss out on this event.  To recall another of Gilda's famous phrases, it's always something, isn't it? Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #155 -- Gilda Radner 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 less-than-stellar vocal quality of this episode.  I'm a bit under the weather, but I didn't want to miss out on this event.  To recall another of Gilda's famous phrases, it's always something, isn't it? Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #154 -- New York Subways 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 changed the image of the subways (and the city itself) for people like me who knew about "The Big Apple" from nothing but TV shows. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #154 -- New York Subways 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 changed the image of the subways (and the city itself) for people like me who knew about "The Big Apple" from nothing but TV shows. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #153 -- Sergio Leone 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #153 -- Sergio Leone 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #152 -- Hillsborough Disaster 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, and about the part we all have to play in keeping the memory alive -- even people like me who didn't learn about the disaster until many years after it happened.The picture at the left is of the memorial to the victims of the Hillsborough disaste ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #152 -- Hillsborough Disaster 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, and about the part we all have to play in keeping the memory alive -- even people like me who didn't learn about the disaster until many years after it happened.The picture at the left is of the memorial to the victims of the Hillsborough disaste ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #151 -- Sugar Ray Robinson 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #151 -- Sugar Ray Robinson 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #150 -- Polish Round Table Agreement 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 of the events yet to come in 1989, which together spelled the end of the Iron Curtain in Europe.This is the 150th episode of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today."  It's a little hard for me to believe that there have been 150 shows over t ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #150 -- Polish Round Table Agreement 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 of the events yet to come in 1989, which together spelled the end of the Iron Curtain in Europe.This is the 150th episode of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today."  It's a little hard for me to believe that there have been 150 shows over t ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #149 -- The Satanic Verses 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 didn't understand about that controversy -- from twenty years ago to this day. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #149 -- The Satanic Verses 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 didn't understand about that controversy -- from twenty years ago to this day. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #148 -- Soviet Union Elections 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 changes in the world, where for many of us, the Soviet Union has never even existed.I've also included a promo for the Forgotten Classics podcast, a show where you can find out more about famous books of an even older vintage than I might talk a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #148 -- Soviet Union Elections 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 changes in the world, where for many of us, the Soviet Union has never even existed.I've also included a promo for the Forgotten Classics podcast, a show where you can find out more about famous books of an even older vintage than I might talk a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #147 -- Balancing Eggs on the Equinox 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 the equinox -- which is a folktale -- as well as the idea of urban legends in general.This episode was inspired in large part by a well known article on the Bad Astronomy website.  My favorite reference site for rumors and urban legends is ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #147 -- Balancing Eggs on the Equinox 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 the equinox -- which is a folktale -- as well as the idea of urban legends in general.This episode was inspired in large part by a well known article on the Bad Astronomy website.  My favorite reference site for rumors and urban legends is ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #146 -- Ashley Bond-Peters 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 changed the ways we relate to one another, in communities and memorials online. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #146 -- Ashley Bond-Peters 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 changed the ways we relate to one another, in communities and memorials online. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #145 -- Pay Per View TV 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 technology that really hasn't changed much in twenty years. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #145 -- Pay Per View TV 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 technology that really hasn't changed much in twenty years. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #144 -- Berne Convention 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 share a story about how Joe and I got caught up in the complexities of copyright, about a decade ago. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #144 -- Berne Convention 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 share a story about how Joe and I got caught up in the complexities of copyright, about a decade ago. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #143 -- Emperor Showa Funeral 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 led for over sixty years.  Japan was a dominant force in the world during the 1980s, for more reasons than one. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #143 -- Emperor Showa Funeral 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 led for over sixty years.  Japan was a dominant force in the world during the 1980s, for more reasons than one. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #142 -- Washington's Farewell Address 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 Senate, both present and past, and my own fascination with those traditions. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #142 -- Washington's Farewell Address 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 Senate, both present and past, and my own fascination with those traditions. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #141 -- Total Lunar Eclipse 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 the right is of the last total lunar eclipse that was visible in North America, which took place just over a year ago.  I found it on Maryland Weather, a fascinating blog about all sorts of weather and sky phenomena, written by Baltimore Su ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #141 -- Total Lunar Eclipse 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 the right is of the last total lunar eclipse that was visible in North America, which took place just over a year ago.  I found it on Maryland Weather, a fascinating blog about all sorts of weather and sky phenomena, written by Baltimore Su ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #140 -- Soviets Leave Afghanistan 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 which has been in conflict and turmoil for three decades or more.The historical analysis offered here is strictly my own opinion, based on the sort of material any average American of my age would have access to: newspapers, TV documentaries, a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #140 -- Soviets Leave Afghanistan 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 which has been in conflict and turmoil for three decades or more.The historical analysis offered here is strictly my own opinion, based on the sort of material any average American of my age would have access to: newspapers, TV documentaries, a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #139 -- Barbara Clementine Harris 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 Episcopal Church also. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #139 -- Barbara Clementine Harris 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 Episcopal Church also. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #138 -- Osamu Tezuka 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. The official Osamu Tezuka website can be found here.  At the time of posting, the English language portion of the site is listed as still under construction -- for an excellent English language companion, check out Tezuka In English. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #138 -- Osamu Tezuka 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. The official Osamu Tezuka website can be found here.  At the time of posting, the English language portion of the site is listed as still under construction -- for an excellent English language companion, check out Tezuka In English. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #137 -- The Cat Came Back 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 talk about this, one of my favorite cartoons, and about my fondness for animation going back to childhood.It is frequently possible to see "The Cat Came Back" via YouTube; I suggest going to the site and searching the title. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #137 -- The Cat Came Back 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 talk about this, one of my favorite cartoons, and about my fondness for animation going back to childhood.It is frequently possible to see "The Cat Came Back" via YouTube; I suggest going to the site and searching the title. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #136 -- Pan Am 103 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 twenty years later.The podcast will be taking a short hiatus to recharge and get a jump on preparing new episodes.  When I return on February 2, I'll be talking about one of the best cartoons ever made. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #136 -- Pan Am 103 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 twenty years later.The podcast will be taking a short hiatus to recharge and get a jump on preparing new episodes.  When I return on February 2, I'll be talking about one of the best cartoons ever made. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #135 -- Spitak Earthquake 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 earthquake, and my thoughts about the prospect of being in a natural disaster myself.People from nations all over the world stepped in to help rebuild after the Spitak earthquake.  The picture here is a statue that the people of Armenia gave ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #135 -- Spitak Earthquake 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 earthquake, and my thoughts about the prospect of being in a natural disaster myself.People from nations all over the world stepped in to help rebuild after the Spitak earthquake.  The picture here is a statue that the people of Armenia gave ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #134 -- The Steel Cloud 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 the future and how they stack up to reality. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #134 -- The Steel Cloud 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 the future and how they stack up to reality. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #133 -- Computer Security Day 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 computer malware such as viruses, which were beginning to become a serious problem in 1988.The image at the right was the first Computer Security Day poster, created for the second CSD in 1989.  It, and all the CSD posters from the past 20 years, ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #133 -- Computer Security Day 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 computer malware such as viruses, which were beginning to become a serious problem in 1988.The image at the right was the first Computer Security Day poster, created for the second CSD in 1989.  It, and all the CSD posters from the past 20 years, ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #132 -- Mystery Science Theater 3000 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 the background of the show, as well as how it resonated for me from the moment I first saw it on the Comedy Channel a few years later.If you are curious, a number of the KTMA episodes of MST3K are available on YouTube -- a search on "MST3K K ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #132 -- Mystery Science Theater 3000 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 the background of the show, as well as how it resonated for me from the moment I first saw it on the Comedy Channel a few years later.If you are curious, a number of the KTMA episodes of MST3K are available on YouTube -- a search on "MST3K K ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #131 -- Michaela Garecht 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 be 29 now.  I speak about Michaela's disappearance, my memories of the case (I lived in the Bay Area, about forty miles from Hayward, in 1988), and about Michaela's mother, who has never forgotten her missing daughter.The MySpace page devote ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #131 -- Michaela Garecht 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 be 29 now.  I speak about Michaela's disappearance, my memories of the case (I lived in the Bay Area, about forty miles from Hayward, in 1988), and about Michaela's mother, who has never forgotten her missing daughter.The MySpace page devote ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #130 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 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 those provisions -- regarding pre-employment drug testing -- almost got me into big trouble. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #130 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 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 those provisions -- regarding pre-employment drug testing -- almost got me into big trouble. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #129 -- Dorothea Puente 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 one community in particular.I'd like to specially thank my husband, Joe Medina, for his insights into how the case of Dorothea Puente resonated in the Hispanic community and his own family.The TruTV (formerly CourtTV) Crime Library is an excelle ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #129 -- Dorothea Puente 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 one community in particular.I'd like to specially thank my husband, Joe Medina, for his insights into how the case of Dorothea Puente resonated in the Hispanic community and his own family.The TruTV (formerly CourtTV) Crime Library is an excelle ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #128 -- The Queen of the Damned 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 finish it.  I talk about why I was looking forward to the third book in the Chronicles of the Vampires, and why I put it down after less than fifty pages. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #128 -- The Queen of the Damned 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 finish it.  I talk about why I was looking forward to the third book in the Chronicles of the Vampires, and why I put it down after less than fifty pages. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #127 -- Election Day 1988 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 about my history as a voter, and the connections between the 1988 election and the 2008 election. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #127 -- Election Day 1988 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 about my history as a voter, and the connections between the 1988 election and the 2008 election. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #126 -- Indian Gaming Regulatory Act 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.  I talk a little about the Act, its impact, and share some of my own perspectives about gambling. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #126 -- Indian Gaming Regulatory Act 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.  I talk a little about the Act, its impact, and share some of my own perspectives about gambling. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #125 -- First National Coming Out Day 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 belief in the eqality of LGBT folks was first put to the test, just a little over twenty years ago.The image at the right is a "Safe Space" logo, used in corporate environments to demonstrate a commitment to tolerance and equality for ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #125 -- First National Coming Out Day 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 belief in the eqality of LGBT folks was first put to the test, just a little over twenty years ago.The image at the right is a "Safe Space" logo, used in corporate environments to demonstrate a commitment to tolerance and equality for ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #124 -- WNBC Signs Off 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 -- particularly AM radio -- when I was growing up. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #124 -- WNBC Signs Off 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 -- particularly AM radio -- when I was growing up. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #123 -- Pinochet Concedes Defeat 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 plebiscite took place.  I share my thoughts about what happened in Chile 20 years ago, as well as my own efforts in the cause of human rights. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #123 -- Pinochet Concedes Defeat 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 plebiscite took place.  I share my thoughts about what happened in Chile 20 years ago, as well as my own efforts in the cause of human rights. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #122 -- Bentsen/Quayle Debate 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 opinions of it.In addition to his famous put-down, Bentsen also coined another political term, "astroturfing," to describe what appears to be a grass-roots activism effort that really isn't.An extra special thanks to Joe Medina, who g ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #122 -- Bentsen/Quayle Debate 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 opinions of it.In addition to his famous put-down, Bentsen also coined another political term, "astroturfing," to describe what appears to be a grass-roots activism effort that really isn't.An extra special thanks to Joe Medina, who g ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #121 -- STS-26 Returns to Earth 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 before, and share my love for and memories of the space program.This show also marks the second anniversary of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today."  I want to thank everyone who has made this show possible, especially Joe Medina, who has a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #121 -- STS-26 Returns to Earth 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 before, and share my love for and memories of the space program.This show also marks the second anniversary of "It Was 20 Years Ago Today."  I want to thank everyone who has made this show possible, especially Joe Medina, who has a ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #120 -- Charles Addams 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 the Addams Family commercial for M&Ms Dark Chocolate, you can find it on the M&Ms website.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #120 -- Charles Addams 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 the Addams Family commercial for M&Ms Dark Chocolate, you can find it on the M&Ms website.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #119 -- Japanese Canadian Redress 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 1988, its United States counterpart, which had been signed into law just six weeks earlier.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #119 -- Japanese Canadian Redress 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 1988, its United States counterpart, which had been signed into law just six weeks earlier.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #118 -- A Fish Called Wanda 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 the difference between the box office charts then and now.  For both the number one and two movies to have been in release for two months is something just about impossible today.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #118 -- A Fish Called Wanda 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 the difference between the box office charts then and now.  For both the number one and two movies to have been in release for two months is something just about impossible today.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #117 -- Hurricane Gilbert 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 about the people who live and work in the paths of tropical cyclones.As this podcast goes out, Hurricane Ike is wreaking havoc on the coast of Texas and Louisiana.  If you can spare a few dollars to help the many thousands of people gravely ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #117 -- Hurricane Gilbert 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 about the people who live and work in the paths of tropical cyclones.As this podcast goes out, Hurricane Ike is wreaking havoc on the coast of Texas and Louisiana.  If you can spare a few dollars to help the many thousands of people gravely ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #116 -- Aline Chat Service 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 still going strong, IRC.  I also discuss how the revolution in online communications has affected the world of science fiction fandom.If you happen to be a Doctor Who fan and would be interested in seeing that last fanzine, I have it availa ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #116 -- Aline Chat Service 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 still going strong, IRC.  I also discuss how the revolution in online communications has affected the world of science fiction fandom.If you happen to be a Doctor Who fan and would be interested in seeing that last fanzine, I have it availa ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #115 -- Channel Tunnel 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.  I also talk about why I find large engineering and construction projects like the Chunnel so fascinating.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #115 -- Channel Tunnel 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.  I also talk about why I find large engineering and construction projects like the Chunnel so fascinating.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #114 -- Ramstein Air Show Disaster 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 history, took place, and about the emotional reaction I had to it.Witnesses and survivors of the Ramstein airshow disaster can be found in a number of places on the Internet -- a principal one is at the site www.flugtag88.com.  The translati ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #114 -- Ramstein Air Show Disaster 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 history, took place, and about the emotional reaction I had to it.Witnesses and survivors of the Ramstein airshow disaster can be found in a number of places on the Internet -- a principal one is at the site www.flugtag88.com.  The translati ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #113 -- Wayne Gretzky trade 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, Gretzky's career, and how his being traded to the Los Angeles Kings influenced the development of the National Hockey League in the years after.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #113 -- Wayne Gretzky trade 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, Gretzky's career, and how his being traded to the Los Angeles Kings influenced the development of the National Hockey League in the years after.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #112 -- Cesar Chavez Ends Fast 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 plight of farm workers and the ongoing controversy over immigration.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #112 -- Cesar Chavez Ends Fast 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 plight of farm workers and the ongoing controversy over immigration.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #111 -- Iran-Iraq War Ends 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 ended.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #111 -- Iran-Iraq War Ends 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 ended.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #110 -- Minoxidil Approved by FDA 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 baldness -- an issue which is every bit as important to those who have to deal with it today as it was twenty years ago.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #110 -- Minoxidil Approved by FDA 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 baldness -- an issue which is every bit as important to those who have to deal with it today as it was twenty years ago.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #109 -- Rhyme Pays 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 also offer some thoughts on the nature of soul, art, and pop culture.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #109 -- Rhyme Pays 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 also offer some thoughts on the nature of soul, art, and pop culture.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #108 -- Robert Bork 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 catchphrases that fly around whenever there's a Supreme Court nomination on the table.This is the first of a number of "backlog" episodes which I'll be posting along with current date ones.  Our theme music is composed and performed by ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #108 -- Robert Bork 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 catchphrases that fly around whenever there's a Supreme Court nomination on the table.This is the first of a number of "backlog" episodes which I'll be posting along with current date ones.  Our theme music is composed and performed by ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #107 -- James Frey's First DUI 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 to be a memoir but turned out to have little to do with reality.  I take a look at the story of 'A Million Little Pieces,' and also compare the sort of memoirs which were on the bestseller list twenty years ago and today.The full version o ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #107 -- James Frey's First DUI 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 to be a memoir but turned out to have little to do with reality.  I take a look at the story of 'A Million Little Pieces,' and also compare the sort of memoirs which were on the bestseller list twenty years ago and today.The full version o ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #106 -- Poe's Tamerlane 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 become a rare book collector, as much as I would like to!The image of the 'Tamerlane' cover pictured here, as well as much of the information about the 1988 sale, comes from the website of the Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore.  Our theme ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #106 -- Poe's Tamerlane 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 become a rare book collector, as much as I would like to!The image of the 'Tamerlane' cover pictured here, as well as much of the information about the 1988 sale, comes from the website of the Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore.  Our theme ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #105 -- Robert A. Heinlein 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 read more of his work, and why I now intend to change that.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #105 -- Robert A. Heinlein 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 read more of his work, and why I now intend to change that.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #104 -- Winning Colors 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 filly to win the Derby this year -- but sadly, did not leave the track alive.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #104 -- Winning Colors 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 filly to win the Derby this year -- but sadly, did not leave the track alive.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #103 -- Superfoods 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' which have come and gone over the years. Wolfberries, or goji berries, are one of the latest superfoods, pictured here.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #103 -- Superfoods 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' which have come and gone over the years. Wolfberries, or goji berries, are one of the latest superfoods, pictured here.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #102 -- E Stamps 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-fading art of letter writing, along with an invitation to become a pen pal!I found a website that chronicles the history of first class postage rates from the nineteenth century to the present day, by Andrew K Dart very helpful in researching th ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #102 -- E Stamps 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-fading art of letter writing, along with an invitation to become a pen pal!I found a website that chronicles the history of first class postage rates from the nineteenth century to the present day, by Andrew K Dart very helpful in researching th ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #101 -- Halabja Gas Attack 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 political purposes.The picture at the right is from March 16, 2006, when a group of angry Halabja citizens destroyed a museum memorializing the event.  They too believe the tragedy of their city is being used to score political points.Our theme mu ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #101 -- Halabja Gas Attack 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 political purposes.The picture at the right is from March 16, 2006, when a group of angry Halabja citizens destroyed a museum memorializing the event.  They too believe the tragedy of their city is being used to score political points.Our theme mu ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #100 -- 386 Chip 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 twenty years ago today chronicled the difficulties users were having in taking advantage of the full power and capabilities of the Intel386 microprocessor.Today's episode music is from 'Newtecky,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is compose ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #100 -- 386 Chip 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 twenty years ago today chronicled the difficulties users were having in taking advantage of the full power and capabilities of the Intel386 microprocessor.Today's episode music is from 'Newtecky,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is compose ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #99 -- Drinking Age 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 with alcohol.After the show, there is a promo for Yog Radio, the Cthulhu gaming podcast from the fine folks at Yog-sothoth.com.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #99 -- Drinking Age 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 with alcohol.After the show, there is a promo for Yog Radio, the Cthulhu gaming podcast from the fine folks at Yog-sothoth.com.Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #98 -- Minis Aren't Back After All 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 composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #98 -- Minis Aren't Back After All 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 composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #97 -- George HW Bush 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 present run for the White House.Just a reminder: I wrote and recorded this show late in 2007.  The situation with the election has developed since then, in ways many of us never expected.  A good reminder that history in the making is dy ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #97 -- George HW Bush 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 present run for the White House.Just a reminder: I wrote and recorded this show late in 2007.  The situation with the election has developed since then, in ways many of us never expected.  A good reminder that history in the making is dy ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #96 -- South Africa & Northern Ireland 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 note of how different the situation is in both those places today.Today's episode music is from 'Voyage,' by Victor Stellar.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #96 -- South Africa & Northern Ireland 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 note of how different the situation is in both those places today.Today's episode music is from 'Voyage,' by Victor Stellar.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #95 -- Calgary Olympics 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 episode music is from 'Duel Key Dreamer,' by Father Rock. Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose.After the show is a promo for Decoder Ring Theatre, one of my favorite audio drama podcasts.  Go check 'em out. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #95 -- Calgary Olympics 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 episode music is from 'Duel Key Dreamer,' by Father Rock. Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose.After the show is a promo for Decoder Ring Theatre, one of my favorite audio drama podcasts.  Go check 'em out. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #94 -- Hustler Magazine v. Jerry Falwell 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 caricature, and offer a few thoughts on why caricature, parody and satire are so important.Today's episode music is from 'Weapons of Mass SIDduction,' by DJ Topshelf.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #94 -- Hustler Magazine v. Jerry Falwell 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 caricature, and offer a few thoughts on why caricature, parody and satire are so important.Today's episode music is from 'Weapons of Mass SIDduction,' by DJ Topshelf.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #93 -- Marcel Proust 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 about the benefits of allowing copyright to expire.Today's episode music is from 'Sunlit Harbour,' by Torchomatic.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose.Today's show marks the beginning of a new push to make 'It Was 20 Years ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #93 -- Marcel Proust 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 about the benefits of allowing copyright to expire.Today's episode music is from 'Sunlit Harbour,' by Torchomatic.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose.Today's show marks the beginning of a new push to make 'It Was 20 Years ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #92 -- Greg Oden 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,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #92 -- Greg Oden 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,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #91 -- Hellraiser 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 'The Warlock,' by Scott Shannon.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #91 -- Hellraiser 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 'The Warlock,' by Scott Shannon.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #90 -- Montreal Protocol 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 the challenges of another, even more far reaching, environmental problem that we face today.Today's episode music is 'Overpopulation,' by Flopsy Music.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #90 -- Montreal Protocol 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 the challenges of another, even more far reaching, environmental problem that we face today.Today's episode music is 'Overpopulation,' by Flopsy Music.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #89 -- Tifton City Hall 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 of the Myon, as well as my own fascination with old buildings.McMenamins has an extensive set of websites, which include pictures of many of their historic properties.  Well worth a look -- and a visit, if you're in the neighborhood!Today's ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #89 -- Tifton City Hall 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 of the Myon, as well as my own fascination with old buildings.McMenamins has an extensive set of websites, which include pictures of many of their historic properties.  Well worth a look -- and a visit, if you're in the neighborhood!Today's ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #88 -- Richard Raymond Valley 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 person.If you can't remember, or never saw, the video for 'Saved By Zero,' you can see it here, on YouTube. Today's episode music is from 'October,' by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Our theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #88 -- Richard Raymond Valley 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 person.If you can't remember, or never saw, the video for 'Saved By Zero,' you can see it here, on YouTube. Today's episode music is from 'October,' by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Our theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #87 -- Richard Marquand 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's changed over the past twenty years, and what I think about the Special Editions and prequel movies.Today's episode music is from 'Duel Key Dreamer,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #86 -- Richard Marquand 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's changed over the past twenty years, and what I think about the Special Editions and prequel movies.Today's episode music is from 'Duel Key Dreamer,' by Father Rock.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #86 -- PSA Flight 1771 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 and how it happened, along with a discussion of the origins of a phrase which didn't yet exist in 1987 but is now commonly used to describe such incidents.Today's episode music is 'Terraform,' by Aged Machine.  Our theme music is composed and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #86 -- PSA Flight 1771 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 and how it happened, along with a discussion of the origins of a phrase which didn't yet exist in 1987 but is now commonly used to describe such incidents.Today's episode music is 'Terraform,' by Aged Machine.  Our theme music is composed and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #85 -- Perestroika 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 little about the effects of the reforms Gorbachev described in the book.Today's episode music is from 'Inspiration,' by Victor Stellar.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #85 -- Perestroika 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 little about the effects of the reforms Gorbachev described in the book.Today's episode music is from 'Inspiration,' by Victor Stellar.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #84 -- The Great Potato Caper 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 the reaction from all quarters over the years.An article written about six weeks after The Great Potato Caper, one of my principal sources for this podcast, can be found here.  You can see an image of (reportedly) the actual potato used here ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #84 -- The Great Potato Caper 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 the reaction from all quarters over the years.An article written about six weeks after The Great Potato Caper, one of my principal sources for this podcast, can be found here.  You can see an image of (reportedly) the actual potato used here ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #83 -- Rudolf Hess 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 death; and how my interest in history began with a little book called 'The Rise and Fall of Adolf Hitler.'Today's episode music is from 'House of the Dead,' by Scott Shannon.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #83 -- Rudolf Hess 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 death; and how my interest in history began with a little book called 'The Rise and Fall of Adolf Hitler.'Today's episode music is from 'House of the Dead,' by Scott Shannon.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #82 -- Fairness Doctrine 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 why it was killed, and my perceptions of the effect this has had on both broadcasting and public life in the United States.Today's episode music is from "Fallen Angel," by DJ Topshelf.  Our theme music is composed and performed by ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #82 -- Fairness Doctrine 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 why it was killed, and my perceptions of the effect this has had on both broadcasting and public life in the United States.Today's episode music is from "Fallen Angel," by DJ Topshelf.  Our theme music is composed and performed by ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #81 -- The Living Daylights 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.It turns out that the James Bond 007 role-playing game actually ceased publication in 1987, when the publisher lost the license from the James Bond copyright holders.  The Wikipedia entry linked here has some interesting fac ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #81 -- The Living Daylights 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.It turns out that the James Bond 007 role-playing game actually ceased publication in 1987, when the publisher lost the license from the James Bond copyright holders.  The Wikipedia entry linked here has some interesting facts about the game ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #80 -- Edwards v. Aguillard 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 beings should be taught in schools.  I take a look at the Edwards case, the influence of religious conservatives on American political life, and creationism versus evolution.Today's music is from "Reasontanker," by Father Rock.  ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #80 -- Edwards v. Aguillard 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 beings should be taught in schools.  I take a look at the Edwards case, the influence of religious conservatives on American political life, and creationism versus evolution.Today's music is from "Reasontanker," by Father Rock.  ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #79 -- William S. Sessions 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 thanks to Art at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade in Portland, who took a look at some of their vintage machines and confirmed the message is still there.After the show there is a promo for one of my favorite podcasts, Yog Radio.Today's episode music ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #79 -- William S. Sessions 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 thanks to Art at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade in Portland, who took a look at some of their vintage machines and confirmed the message is still there.After the show there is a promo for one of my favorite podcasts, Yog Radio.Today's episode music ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #78 -- El Salvador Assassination 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.  I talk about the situation in Central America 20 years ago and how the United States Government decided which side it would support in each of the conflicts.Today's episode music is from "Muertos," by Gringo Motel.  Our theme musi ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #78 -- El Salvador Assassination 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.  I talk about the situation in Central America 20 years ago and how the United States Government decided which side it would support in each of the conflicts.Today's episode music is from "Muertos," by Gringo Motel.  Our theme musi ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #77 -- Stock Market Crash 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.  I share my memories of that "Black Monday," and discuss the probable causes of the big crash.Today's episode music is from "Ambulance Ride for the Soon to Be Deceased," by Devin Anderson.  Our theme music is composed and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #77 -- Stock Market Crash 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.  I share my memories of that "Black Monday," and discuss the probable causes of the big crash.Today's episode music is from "Ambulance Ride for the Soon to Be Deceased," by Devin Anderson.  Our theme music is composed and ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #76 -- "Tear Down This Wall!" 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 speech, and share my thoughts about Reagan as "the great communicator" and the times in which the speech was made.You can find complete audio, video, and text transcripts of Reagan's Brandenburg Gate address at the American Rhetoric websit ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #76 -- "Tear Down This Wall!" 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 speech, and share my thoughts about Reagan as "the great communicator" and the times in which the speech was made.You can find complete audio, video, and text transcripts of Reagan's Brandenburg Gate address at the American Rhetoric websit ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #75 -- The Untouchables 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 new podcast, "Dial P for Pulp."  If you're a fan of the pulp fiction genre, go check it out!Today's episode music is "Open Ended," by Jeff Shields.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #75 -- The Untouchables 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 new podcast, "Dial P for Pulp."  If you're a fan of the pulp fiction genre, go check it out!Today's episode music is "Open Ended," by Jeff Shields.  Our theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #74 -- Sir Peter Medawar/Anniversary Show 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 quote which says a lot about the purpose of this podcast.  I also discuss, on the occasion of this show's first anniversary, my hopes for the show.For those of you interested in the idea of how your perspective on the world is shaped by your ag ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #74 -- Sir Peter Medawar/Anniversary Show 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 quote which says a lot about the purpose of this podcast.  I also discuss, on the occasion of this show's first anniversary, my hopes for the show.For those of you interested in the idea of how your perspective on the world is shaped by your ag ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Promo #2 -- "Did You Know?" for 1987 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 one for 1988/2008. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Promo #2 -- "Did You Know?" for 1987 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 one for 1988/2008. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Show Promo #1 -- Every Day Has a Multitude of Stories 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Show Promo #1 -- Every Day Has a Multitude of Stories 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #73 -- Konishiki 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 athlete, and why it is that I enjoy sumo.Episode music is from "Sunrise," by Torchomatic.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #73 -- Konishiki 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 athlete, and why it is that I enjoy sumo.Episode music is from "Sunrise," by Torchomatic.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #72 -- John Huston 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 courses.Today's episode music is "Entranced," by  Blake Emrys.  I found it -- like all the music used on the podcast -- at PodSafe Audio.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.At the end of the show, there's a prom ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #72 -- John Huston 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 courses.Today's episode music is "Entranced," by  Blake Emrys.  I found it -- like all the music used on the podcast -- at PodSafe Audio.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.At the end of the show, there's a prom ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #71 -- Golden Gate Bridge 50th Anniversary 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 crowd than had been planned on!  The picture at the right, taken by John O'Hara of the San Francisco Chronicle has become the iconic image of that day.  I talk about the 50th anniversary event, as well as my own fascination with the br ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #71 -- Golden Gate Bridge 50th Anniversary 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 crowd than had been planned on!  The picture at the right, taken by John O'Hara of the San Francisco Chronicle has become the iconic image of that day.  I talk about the 50th anniversary event, as well as my own fascination with the br ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #70 -- William Casey 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 Order.Today's episode music is from "The Edge of Illusion," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #70 -- William Casey 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 Order.Today's episode music is from "The Edge of Illusion," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #69 -- Dow Jones Industrial Average 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 were a number of interesting and important events that happened in the summer of 1987 that I don't want to leave out!For our first new show back, I take a look at the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which reached a record high twenty years ago today ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #69 -- Dow Jones Industrial Average 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 were a number of interesting and important events that happened in the summer of 1987 that I don't want to leave out!For our first new show back, I take a look at the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which reached a record high twenty years ago today ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #68 -- Danielle Steel 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 novel, which as it happens was also almost exactly twenty years ago.Today's episode music is from "Romantic II," by Victor Stellar.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #68 -- Danielle Steel 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 novel, which as it happens was also almost exactly twenty years ago.Today's episode music is from "Romantic II," by Victor Stellar.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #67 -- Saragosa Tornado 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 disasters.Today's episode music is from "Muertos," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #67 -- Saragosa Tornado 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 disasters.Today's episode music is from "Muertos," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #66 -- Coventry City Wins FA Cup 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 teams all have websites too:  Portland Timbers, Fulham, and Cardiff City.Today's episode music is from "Purple Flipflops," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #66 -- Coventry City Wins FA Cup 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 teams all have websites too:  Portland Timbers, Fulham, and Cardiff City.Today's episode music is from "Purple Flipflops," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #65 -- Square One TV 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 entertaining as well.Among other fan sites on the Internet, one of the biggest is Square One TV.org.  There's a Livejournal community for Square One TV, also.Today's episode music is from "6 Is Lucky," by Hayfield.  Theme music c ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #65 -- Square One TV 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 entertaining as well.Among other fan sites on the Internet, one of the biggest is Square One TV.org.  There's a Livejournal community for Square One TV, also.Today's episode music is from "6 Is Lucky," by Hayfield.  Theme music c ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #64 -- C-SPAN 2 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 reasons I like watching them, and a few interesting statistics about the channels and their viewers.Today's episode music is from "The Edge of Illusion," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #64 -- C-SPAN 2 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 reasons I like watching them, and a few interesting statistics about the channels and their viewers.Today's episode music is from "The Edge of Illusion," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #63 -- 27th Amendment 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 the strange turns of history around it before (and since) it became law.Today's episode music is "Terraform," by Aged Machine.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #63 -- 27th Amendment 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 the strange turns of history around it before (and since) it became law.Today's episode music is "Terraform," by Aged Machine.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #62 -- Hill Street Blues 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 episode music is "Open Ended," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.After several months of painfully long hours on the day job coupled with minor illnesses that sapped my energy -- and my voice! -- this ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #62 -- Hill Street Blues 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 episode music is "Open Ended," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.After several months of painfully long hours on the day job coupled with minor illnesses that sapped my energy -- and my voice! -- this ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #61 -- Candy Maldonado 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 website was a big help in preparing this episode.  Anything you might want to know about baseball history or statistics can very likely be found there.Today's episode music was "The Wood Between the Worlds," by Commander Yo.  The ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #61 -- Candy Maldonado 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 website was a big help in preparing this episode.  Anything you might want to know about baseball history or statistics can very likely be found there.Today's episode music was "The Wood Between the Worlds," by Commander Yo.  The ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #60 -- California Condors 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 twenty years, and my own history of trying to help endangered animals.The picture at the right is of AC9 himself, who was released back into the wild in 2002.  It was taken in 2005 by nature photographer Dave Wyman, and is used with his perm ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #60 -- California Condors 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 twenty years, and my own history of trying to help endangered animals.The picture at the right is of AC9 himself, who was released back into the wild in 2002.  It was taken in 2005 by nature photographer Dave Wyman, and is used with his perm ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #59 -- Arch Oboler 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 -- and talk about the differences in audiences -- and producers -- between the "golden age of radio" and today.The picture of Arch Oboler to the right was painted by portrait artist Michael Bennett, and is used here with his permission.T ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #59 -- Arch Oboler 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 -- and talk about the differences in audiences -- and producers -- between the "golden age of radio" and today.The picture of Arch Oboler to the right was painted by portrait artist Michael Bennett, and is used here with his permission.T ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #58 -- Sin Tax 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 this webpage.Today's episode music is "Butt Quake," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #58 -- Sin Tax 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 this webpage.Today's episode music is "Butt Quake," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #57 -- The Bold & The Beautiful 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 of which was my introduction to a famous British soap, twenty years ago.Today's episode music is from "Oh Manyo," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #57 -- The Bold & The Beautiful 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 of which was my introduction to a famous British soap, twenty years ago.Today's episode music is from "Oh Manyo," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #56 -- Jim Bakker 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 the left) in some ways epitomized the culture of excess that permeated the 1980s.  I also share some personal thoughts about TV preachers.Today's episode music is from "Celestial Voices," by Commander Yo.  Theme music is compos ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #56 -- Jim Bakker 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 the left) in some ways epitomized the culture of excess that permeated the 1980s.  I also share some personal thoughts about TV preachers.Today's episode music is from "Celestial Voices," by Commander Yo.  Theme music is compos ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #55 -- John D. MacDonald 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 was best known for a series of mystery-thrillers featuring beach bum/detective Travis McGee.  I talk about MacDonald and his career, as well as offer a confession about when I really started reading the Travis McGee books.Today's episode mus ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #55 -- John D. MacDonald 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 was best known for a series of mystery-thrillers featuring beach bum/detective Travis McGee.  I talk about MacDonald and his career, as well as offer a confession about when I really started reading the Travis McGee books.Today's episode mus ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #54 -- Friday the 13th 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 talk about why I really don't like slasher flicks.Today's episode music is from "Weapons of Mass SIDuction," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #54 -- Friday the 13th 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 talk about why I really don't like slasher flicks.Today's episode music is from "Weapons of Mass SIDuction," by DJ Topshelf.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #53 -- Les Miserables 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 thoughts on musicals, show tunes, and a somewhat strange fan of a particular musical.Today's episode music is "Overpopulation," by Flopsy Music.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #53 -- Les Miserables 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 thoughts on musicals, show tunes, and a somewhat strange fan of a particular musical.Today's episode music is "Overpopulation," by Flopsy Music.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #52 -- Macintosh II 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 the way technology has gotten progressively more powerful, yet less expensive.Today's music is "Press YES To Start Demo," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.There's also a promo for Yog-Sothoth.co ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #52 -- Macintosh II 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 the way technology has gotten progressively more powerful, yet less expensive.Today's music is "Press YES To Start Demo," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.There's also a promo for Yog-Sothoth.co ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #51 -- Airline Mergers 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 industry in the nine years since deregulation.  I talk about the merger and the state of the airline industry during this time.Episode music:  "See You In Seattle," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.Theme music composed and perform ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #51 -- Airline Mergers 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 industry in the nine years since deregulation.  I talk about the merger and the state of the airline industry during this time.Episode music:  "See You In Seattle," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.Theme music composed and perform ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #50 -- Tower Commission Report 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, the Tower Commission submitted a report on its investigations into the scandal.  It would be the first of many, which shared a common trait of often being difficult for the average person to follow.George Santayana (1863-1952) was the person ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #50 -- Tower Commission Report 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, the Tower Commission submitted a report on its investigations into the scandal.  It would be the first of many, which shared a common trait of often being difficult for the average person to follow.George Santayana (1863-1952 ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #49 -- The Lord of Sipan 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 tomb, of an ancient warrior priest called the Lord of Sipan, is still being explored and its artifacts (such as the ornament pictured to the right) recovered to this day.I also talk a little about how I developed an interest in archaeology and th ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #49 -- The Lord of Sipan 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 tomb, of an ancient warrior priest called the Lord of Sipan, is still being explored and its artifacts (such as the ornament pictured to the right) recovered to this day.I also talk a little about how I developed an interest in archaeology and th ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #48 -- Supernova 1987A 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 find astronomy a particularly fascinating science.The picture is an image of the gas cloud from Supernova 1987A, taken with the Hubble Space Telescope.Today's episode music is "InnaFabledCity," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #48 -- Supernova 1987A 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 find astronomy a particularly fascinating science.The picture is an image of the gas cloud from Supernova 1987A, taken with the Hubble Space Telescope.Today's episode music is "InnaFabledCity," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #47 -- Cat Day 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 years ago.  I can no longer remember her name, but I have one picture of her, and I've posted it here.Today's episode music is "Bella," by Patrick Gorman.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #47 -- Cat Day 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 years ago.  I can no longer remember her name, but I have one picture of her, and I've posted it here.Today's episode music is "Bella," by Patrick Gorman.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #46 -- Early Dot Coms 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 before, a number of companies registered "dot com" domain names.  There were less than 100 "dot coms" in those days, and no Internet as we know it today.  I talk a little bit about how different it was to get wired ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #46 -- Early Dot Coms 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 before, a number of companies registered "dot com" domain names.  There were less than 100 "dot coms" in those days, and no Internet as we know it today.  I talk a little bit about how different it was to get wired ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #45 -- Superconducting Supercollider 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 Hadron Collider, a new super-sized atom smasher which will be opening for business later this year.  The NPR program Science Friday did a segment on the LHC last week.If you're curious about the Grammar Girl podcast (one of the most popular on t ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #45 -- Superconducting Supercollider 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 Hadron Collider, a new super-sized atom smasher which will be opening for business later this year.  The NPR program Science Friday did a segment on the LHC last week.If you're curious about the Grammar Girl podcast (one of the most popular on t ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #44 -- Budd Dwyer and Bill Stewart 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 resonates to this day.Today's episode music is "Stranded," by David Henderson.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #44 -- Budd Dwyer and Bill Stewart 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 resonates to this day.Today's episode music is "Stranded," by David Henderson.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #43 -- Chase, Maryland Rail Wreck 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 other side of the country could have me holding my breath five years later.Today's episode music is from "Sumday," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #43 -- Chase, Maryland Rail Wreck 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 other side of the country could have me holding my breath five years later.Today's episode music is from "Sumday," by Jeff Shields.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #42 -- Voyager and Andrei Sakharov 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 after seven years of internal exile.Today's episode music is "Splat the Rat," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #42 -- Voyager and Andrei Sakharov 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 after seven years of internal exile.Today's episode music is "Splat the Rat," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #41 -- Pit Bull Ban 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 music is from "The Warlock," by Scott Shannon.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #41 -- Pit Bull Ban 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 music is from "The Warlock," by Scott Shannon.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #40 -- My 20th Birthday 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 twenty years, really.Ironically, this is also my 40th podcast!  I didn't plan it this way, really.Today's episode music is from "Celestial Voices," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #40 -- My 20th Birthday 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 twenty years, really.Ironically, this is also my 40th podcast!  I didn't plan it this way, really.Today's episode music is from "Celestial Voices," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #39 -- Wole Soyinka/South Africa 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 situation in South Africa.  Those efforts included a famous protest song organized by Steven Van Zandt, "Sun City."Podcast theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #39 -- Wole Soyinka/South Africa 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 situation in South Africa.  Those efforts included a famous protest song organized by Steven Van Zandt, "Sun City."Podcast theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #38 -- Putnam Math Contest 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, and my relationship to math over the years.Today's episode music is from "Confusion," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #38 -- Putnam Math Contest 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, and my relationship to math over the years.Today's episode music is from "Confusion," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #37 -- Holiday Cookie Contest (Repost!) 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.This podcast is guaranteed to be non-fattening!Episode music is from "Overnighter," by Jeremiah Fleming.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.Edit December 5, 2006:  I've reposted this episode with the correct audio ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #37 -- Holiday Cookie Contest (Repost!) 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.This podcast is guaranteed to be non-fattening!Episode music is from "Overnighter," by Jeremiah Fleming.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.Edit December 5, 2006:  I've reposted this episode with the correct audio ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #36 -- John Gotti 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 episode music is "The Wood Between the Worlds," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #36 -- John Gotti 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 episode music is "The Wood Between the Worlds," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #35 -- Shenmue 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 GameSpyEpisode music is from the Shenmue game.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #35 -- Shenmue 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 GameSpyEpisode music is from the Shenmue game.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #34 -- William S. Burroughs 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 episode music is "El Coradobes," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #34 -- William S. Burroughs 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 episode music is "El Coradobes," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #33 -- "Black Friday" 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, and Christmas shopping.Today's episode music is "See You In Seattle," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #33 -- "Black Friday" 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, and Christmas shopping.Today's episode music is "See You In Seattle," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #32 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: the Scapegoats 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 the next day.Today's music is from "Warlock," by Scott Shannon.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #32 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: the Scapegoats 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 the next day.Today's music is from "Warlock," by Scott Shannon.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #31 -- Doctor Demento & Weird Al 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 before 1986, and I share some history about these two luminaries of the comedy music world.Today's theme music is "Press YES to Start Demo," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #31 -- Doctor Demento & Weird Al 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 before 1986, and I share some history about these two luminaries of the comedy music world.Today's theme music is "Press YES to Start Demo," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #30 -- Tyson Defeats Berbick 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 Fleming.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #30 -- Tyson Defeats Berbick 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 Fleming.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #29 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: Shredding 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 Productions for his help in getting the sound effects and editing done for this episode.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #29 -- Iran-Contra Scandal: Shredding 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 Productions for his help in getting the sound effects and editing done for this episode.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #28 -- Nuclear Missile Silo Demolition 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," by Patrick Gorman.  Theme music composed and conducted by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #28 -- Nuclear Missile Silo Demolition 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," by Patrick Gorman.  Theme music composed and conducted by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #27 -- UFO Incident 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 explained?Today's episode music is "Confusion," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #27 -- UFO Incident 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 explained?Today's episode music is "Confusion," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #26 -- End of the Corner Video Store 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 facing the end of the line themselves.Today's episode music is "Butt Quake," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #26 -- End of the Corner Video Store 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 facing the end of the line themselves.Today's episode music is "Butt Quake," by Commander Yo.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #25 -- SNL, and Behind the Scenes 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," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #25 -- SNL, and Behind the Scenes 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," by the Scottish Guitar Quartet.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #24 -- Boesky Day 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 involved in both sides of the Boesky case (PDF document) particularly helpful in preparing this podcast.This episode's music is "Overnighter," by Jeremiah Fleming.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.  Theme music composed and perform ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #24 -- Boesky Day 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 involved in both sides of the Boesky case (PDF document) particularly helpful in preparing this podcast.This episode's music is "Overnighter," by Jeremiah Fleming.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.  Theme music composed and perform ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #23 -- Reagan's Speech: "No Arms for Hostages" 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 a great deal -- in the days to come, as the Iran/Contra scandal began to unfold.Today's episode music is "Green Forst," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #23 -- Reagan's Speech: "No Arms for Hostages" 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 a great deal -- in the days to come, as the Iran/Contra scandal began to unfold.Today's episode music is "Green Forst," by Aaron Derington.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #22 -- Michael Jackson's "Bad" 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 has become.Music for this episode is "Over Under," by Father Rock.  Theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #22 -- Michael Jackson's "Bad" 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 has become.Music for this episode is "Over Under," by Father Rock.  Theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #21 -- Roger C. Carmel 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 restaurant chain.  But his most famous role was that of Harry Mudd in the original Star Trek.  The fall of 1986 was a pivotal time in the history of Star Trek.  The fourth film was due out soon and the series "Star Trek: the Next Gene ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #21 -- Roger C. Carmel 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 restaurant chain.  But his most famous role was that of Harry Mudd in the original Star Trek.  The fall of 1986 was a pivotal time in the history of Star Trek.  The fourth film was due out soon and the series "Star Trek: the Next Gene ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #20 -- V.M. Molotov 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 bit of trivia about the explosive that bears his name. Today's episode music is "Zombie," by Devin Anderson.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #20 -- V.M. Molotov 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 bit of trivia about the explosive that bears his name. Today's episode music is "Zombie," by Devin Ander ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #19 -- General Election 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 initiative), and the recall of state Chief Justice Rose Bird (pictured at the right). Rose Bird died in 1999.Today's episode music is "Tell Me T," by Father Rock.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #19 -- General Election 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 initiative), and the recall of state Chief Justice Rose Bird (pictured at the right). Rose Bird died in 1999.Today's episode music is "Tell Me T," by Father Rock.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #18 -- Dias de los Muertos and Paul Frees 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," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.(I am still a little behind the curve, but at least it's still November 2nd local time, if only just.  If all goes well I'll be back on schedule for the November 4 podc ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #18 -- Dias de los Muertos and Paul Frees 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," by Gringo Motel.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose.(I am still a little behind the curve, but at least it's still November 2nd local time, if only just.  If all goes well I'll be back on schedule for the November 4 podc ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #17 -- Harry Houdini [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 take a look at the history of the Houdini seances, as well as some of the continuing developments of the Houdini legend.Today's episode music is "8 Track SupaStar," by KCentric.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.com.  Theme music c ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #17 -- Harry Houdini [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 take a look at the history of the Houdini seances, as well as some of the continuing developments of the Houdini legend.Today's episode music is "8 Track SupaStar," by KCentric.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.com.  Theme music c ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #16 -- My First Novel 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #16 -- My First Novel 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #15 -- Shuttle Challenger Disaster 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 report.  I also share some of my recollections of the disaster.This episode's music is "Melodisturbed Remix," by J. Marie Anderson.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #15 -- Shuttle Challenger Disaster 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 report.  I also share some of my recollections of the disaster.This episode's music is "Melodisturbed Remix," by J. Marie Anderson.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #14 -- Ian Marter 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," by KCentric.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #14 -- Ian Marter 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," by KCentric.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #13 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 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," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and conducted by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #13 -- Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 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," by Father Rock.  Theme music composed and conducted by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #12 -- Tobacco Education 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 and Health, and my own experiences with smokers among my friends and family.I also wanted to share a good web page of tips on how to quit, from MSNBC news anchor Keith Olbermann and his viewers.  The Tobacco Timeline by Gene Borio was very u ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #12 -- Tobacco Education 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 and Health, and my own experiences with smokers among my friends and family.I also wanted to share a good web page of tips on how to quit, from MSNBC news anchor Keith Olbermann and his viewers.  The Tobacco Timeline by Gene Borio was very u ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #11 -- The Titanic Maritime Memorial Act 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 it as a memorial to those who died when she went down in 1912, had been going on since the wreck was found, and continue to this day.Today's music is from "House of the Dead," by Scott Shannon.  I found it at PodSafe Audio.  ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #11 -- The Titanic Maritime Memorial Act 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 it as a memorial to those who died when she went down in 1912, had been going on since the wreck was found, and continue to this day.Today's music is from "House of the Dead," by Scott Shannon.  I found it at PodSafe Audio.  ... Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #10 -- Batman 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #10 -- Batman 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. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #9 -- Steve Kinser 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 music is "Reasontanker," by Father Rock.  Theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #9 -- Steve Kinser 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 music is "Reasontanker," by Father Rock.  Theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #8 -- Patricia Barczak 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.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #8 -- Patricia Barczak 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.  Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #7 -- The Reykjavik Summit 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 weapons, an issue that's very much on everyone's mind today, 20 years later.Today's music is "Tracy's Lament," by Seraphic Panoply.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #7 -- The Reykjavik Summit 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 weapons, an issue that's very much on everyone's mind today, 20 years later.Today's music is "Tracy's Lament," by Seraphic Panoply.  I found it at PodsafeAudio.  Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #6 -- Lottie Price's Diary 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 performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #6 -- Lottie Price's Diary 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 performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #5 -- Fox Network 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 found it at PodSafeAudio.Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #5 -- Fox Network 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 found it at PodSafeAudio.Theme music composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #4 -- Newspapers 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.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #4 -- Newspapers 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.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #3 -- Eugene Hasenfus 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 Anderson.  I found it at PodSafe Audio.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #3 -- Eugene Hasenfus 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 Anderson.  I found it at PodSafe Audio.Theme music is composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #2 -- The Trial of a Time Lord 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," as well as the lengths I went to in those days to see even a little of my favorite TV show. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #2 -- The Trial of a Time Lord 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," as well as the lengths I went to in those days to see even a little of my favorite TV show. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #1 -- AIDS in the Early Days 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 aegis.com very useful in preparing this episode.The episode music is "Ambulance Ride for the Soon to Be Deceased," by Devin Anderson.  The theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache | Episode #1 -- AIDS in the Early Days 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 aegis.com very useful in preparing this episode.The episode music is "Ambulance Ride for the Soon to Be Deceased," by Devin Anderson.  The theme music was composed and performed by Marc Rose. Listen | Listen in your iPhone | Download | View full cache |