JULY 6, 2003

Full News Archive

• Headline: The Evolution of American Patriotism. Impact: This discussion on patriotism led to the rise of bumper stickers that say 'In Us We Trust' but also resulted in a nationwide shortage of American flags as people tried to outdo each other in displays of 'patriotic' fervor. Spoiler alert: it didn't end well for the flag manufacturers.. Fact: Did you know that at one point, 'patriotism' was just a fancy way of saying 'I really love my country, but I'm also open to criticism'? Yeah, that didn't last long..
• Headline: Modern Office Inspired by 19th-Century Design. Impact: The Soho project, with its post-Civil War style, sparked a trend where architects began to draw inspiration from every historical period possible, leading to the present-day phenomenon of 'medieval chic' coffee shops. Because nothing says 'I need caffeine' like a castle-themed café.. Fact: Fun fact: This architectural trend eventually led to the infamous 'post-postmodern' style, which is just a euphemism for 'we ran out of ideas.'.
• Headline: IRS Targets Big Tax Shelters. Impact: The IRS's crackdown on tax shelters caused accountants to become the new rock stars of the legal world. Their fame led to the creation of a popular reality show, 'Keeping Up with the Tax Returns,' which ironically taught viewers nothing about taxes.. Fact: Did you know that Ernst & Young once tried to branch out into producing tax-related sitcoms? Spoiler: the laughs were all tax-deductible..
• Headline: Russia Discovers Another Pastime. Impact: This newfound interest in baseball among Russian youth prompted a chain reaction, ultimately leading to the country's unexpected dominance in the World Series by 2030, leaving everyone wondering how Vladimir Putin became the MVP.. Fact: Did you know that prior to this, Russia was more known for its chess championships than baseball? Guess they decided to take a swing at something different..
• Headline: Is Less More? Broadway's Naked Truths. Impact: The nudity trend on Broadway eventually led to a national debate on whether or not clothes were actually necessary for storytelling, resulting in a short-lived 'Naked Book Club' that was as awkward as it sounds.. Fact: Did you know that Broadway producers have a secret handbook titled 'How to Strip Your Way to a Tony Award'? Just kidding… or am I?.