JANUARY 19, 2002

Full News Archive

• Headline: Power Dynamics of Auditing Firms in Washington. Impact: The brave attempts to regulate the accounting industry led to a new wave of lobbying, which eventually created the bizarre phenomenon of politicians being more afraid of accountants than actual criminals. We're still waiting for the accountants' superhero movie!. Fact: Fun fact: The phrase 'conflict of interest' was invented during a particularly wild poker game in the Senate. True story!.
• Headline: Lead Poisoning Crisis in Herculaneum. Impact: The lead-tainted town's struggle for clean living and basic health rights set in motion a national conversation about environmental justice, which eventually led to countless memes about the absurdity of needing to fight for clean water. Thank you, Herculaneum!. Fact: Did you know that lead poisoning can cause a variety of health issues? It's almost like it was designed to ruin childhoods!.
• Headline: Founders Say the Idea For Talk Was Sound. Impact: The demise of Talk magazine is a prime example of how not even Disney magic can save a sinking ship. The ripple effect? Countless future magazine executives learned to cherish their bank accounts and avoid anything resembling a good idea.. Fact: Did you know that Talk magazine was so short-lived, it might as well have been a tweet? #GoneTooSoon.
• Headline: DESPITE WARNING, ENRON CHIEF URGED BUYING OF SHARES. Impact: Kenneth Lay's insistence on buying Enron shares despite warnings set off a chain reaction that led to one of the largest corporate scandals in history. This event taught everyone that trusting your boss's advice on investments is like asking a cat for advice on swimming.. Fact: Fun fact: Enron's downfall was so epic that it inspired an entire generation of business students to think twice about their ethics classes. Talk about a lesson!.