Gah, that song by Weird Al "Phony Calls" makes me feel old; part of the lyrics is "Please stick to the seven-digit numbers you're used to." I remember when that was a valid statement... you young 'uns probably don't even remember when a phone number was fewer than ten digits.

Of course, programming speed dial just makes you lazy and able to dial more quickly... we use to have to make a phone call by turning a wheel just above the numbers: it was called a "rotary dial." (It's true.) Well, I could feel older if I knew what it was like to have to get ahold of an operator to talk to someone nearby.

And that ends today's history lesson. Tomorrow: The Art of Economics, Details and History of the Penny and Why You Should Care That No One Cares.

©1984-2006 Toaraga EAM