OCTOBER 6, 2002

Full News Archive

• Headline: Billionaires Compete in America's Cup 2023. Impact: The America's Cup became the playground of billionaires, which led to the rich getting richer and the rest of us just getting resentful. This trend has only continued, resulting in more yacht parties than actual parties for the common folk. Thanks a lot, Patrizio and Paul!. Fact: Fun fact: The only thing more inflated than the egos of these billionaires is the price of the yachts they're racing. You could buy a small island for the cost of one of their sailboats!.
• Headline: Exploring the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500. Impact: The launch of luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLK500 set off a chain reaction where everyone suddenly felt the need to impress their neighbors. Now, everyone thinks they need a luxury vehicle just to go grocery shopping, leading to a strange phenomenon known as 'driveway envy'.. Fact: Did you know that for the price of a 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500, you could have bought an actual house in some parts of the country? Priorities, right?.
• Headline: Antidotes to Sprawl Taking Many Forms. Impact: The rise of 'smart growth' has led to the gentrification of neighborhoods, where hipsters now sip artisanal coffee in what used to be the local diner. Who knew that creating walkable communities would also create walkable price tags? Thanks, 'smart growth'!. Fact: Fun fact: Smart growth doesn't just mean higher-density living; it also means that your favorite local dive bar is now a fancy avocado toast café. Cheers to progress!.
• Headline: In China, Catholic Churches Flourish, but Under Controls. Impact: The flourishing of Catholic churches in China under government control has created a unique blend of faith and politics, leading to a situation where worshipers have to look over their shoulders while praying. This has certainly paved the way for some divine comedy in the realm of religious freedoms.. Fact: Did you know that during the Cultural Revolution, religious symbols were often used as target practice? Talk about a holy war—just not the good kind..