JUNE 19, 2002

Full News Archive

• Headline: Establishment of Homeland Security Department. Impact: This bill led to the creation of a bureaucratic labyrinth that turned lost paperwork into a national pastime. If only someone had thought to check behind the couch cushions for loose change instead of creating a whole new department.. Fact: Did you know that if all the paperwork generated by the Homeland Security Department were stacked, it might reach the moon? At least that's what the people who like to exaggerate say..
• Headline: Senate Bill Targets Audit Industry Practices. Impact: The audit regulations ended up creating a whole new industry of consultants who specialize in interpreting the complexities of how to avoid breaking the law while still breaking the law. It’s like playing chess with the IRS.. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more complex than audit regulations is the reasoning behind why people still choose to do their taxes themselves..
• Headline: Local Voices Demand Inclusion in Memorial Plans. Impact: The push for greater community involvement in the memorial planning process eventually turned into a reality TV show where neighbors compete to design the best tribute. Who knew grief could be so marketable?. Fact: Did you know that memorials can be a great way for communities to unite? Or, if you prefer, a fantastic excuse for all the local drama to unfold in public..
• Headline: Jury Member Wants to Tell All, But Publishers Aren't Lining Up. Impact: The juror's desire to spill the beans resulted in a whole new genre of 'tell-all' literature that nobody asked for, and somehow made jury duty sound more enticing than a trip to the DMV.. Fact: Fun fact: Jurors have a lot of time on their hands, which is why 'Juror Diaries' became a short-lived but fascinating genre. Spoiler alert: They’re mostly just about snacks..