For my money, there is no better time machine than television commercials and station ID’s. Above is a terrific collection of 1970 KNBC (Los Angeles) ads that evoke the era perfectly and offer some interesting perspectives on issues of the day. A young Tom Brokaw, then a local newscaster, manages to mention Charles Manson and Bob Hope in the same sentence; ridiculous cigarette ads are juxtaposed with some extremely effective anti-smoking ads; there’s an admirable and quite chilling anti-drinking and driving spot and a number of ads for products that you never thought existed (special electric shaving cream for a warm morning shave). This invaluable reel comes courtesy of a YouTube channel called ‘Obsolete Video’ and I’d sure like to know where they find this stuff since it pre-dates home video. Warning: there’s thirty minutes of this material and I suggest dipping into it five to ten minutes at a time through the day (or night if you’re that kind of girl) so as to avoid creeping monotony. Or eat the whole damn thing in one gulp for lunch (if you’re that kind of boy). Enjoy 1970!