MAY 10, 2002

Full News Archive

• Headline: Growing Arab Boycott Against American Goods. Impact: As the boycott against American products gained momentum, it inadvertently led to the rise of artisanal hummus and a global obsession with falafel. Who knew that a political statement could turn into a culinary revolution?. Fact: Did you know that the word 'boycott' comes from Charles Boycott, a 19th-century English land agent? His name is now synonymous with refusing to buy something—take that, capitalism!.
• Headline: Bronx GOP Leader's Bribery Case Unfolds. Impact: Velella's not guilty plea sparked a series of 'how not to get caught' seminars among local politicians, turning bribery into a bizarre form of networking. The Bronx became the hotbed of 'Ethics 101'—just not the kind you'd expect.. Fact: Did you know that bribery, like bad fashion, tends to resurface every few decades? It's practically a rite of passage for politicians. Who needs a campaign fund when you can just pay your way to the top?.
• Headline: The Big City; Puzzling Out The Logic In Living Wage. Impact: The debate over living wages inadvertently led to the rise of gigs like 'professional cat petter' and 'extreme couponer,' as people sought increasingly creative ways to make ends meet in a world where workers are more disposable than a cheap plastic fork.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'living wage' is often debated more passionately than the last slice of pizza at a party? Everyone wants it, but no one wants to pay for it!.
• Headline: Companies Trim Health Benefits For Many Retirees as Costs Surge. Impact: As health benefits were slashed for retirees, a new trend of 'senior adventure tours' emerged, where retirees began skydiving and bungee jumping to make the most of their golden years—because who needs health insurance when you can live dangerously?. Fact: Did you know that in the 1980s, retirees were often called 'golden agers'? Now they might just be called 'underfunded adventurers'—quite the upgrade, right?.