FEBRUARY 17, 2004

Full News Archive

• Headline: David Paymer Steps Into the Spotlight. Impact: Had David Paymer not gotten his moment in the spotlight, Hollywood might have been deprived of its next great crime boss stereotype. Imagine a world where we only had the likes of generic tough guys and no quirky sidekicks to keep us entertained. The butterfly flaps its wings, and suddenly all crime dramas are just a little less interesting.. Fact: David Paymer was once a highly sought-after character actor. Now, he's just one step away from being the next big crime boss – talk about a career pivot!.
• Headline: 'Plague of Artists' Protests in Williamsburg. Impact: This protest against gentrification was just the tip of the iceberg. If Brooklyn's Hasidim hadn't rallied, we might have seen a world where artisanal pickle shops were replaced by more luxury condos. Thanks to them, we now have a vibrant mix of hipsters and tradition, leading to the world's first 'hipster synagogue' – complete with baristas serving lattes on the holy days.. Fact: Gentrification in Williamsburg has led to some truly bizarre local businesses. If you haven’t tried a gluten-free bagel made with organic, free-range flour, you haven’t truly lived… or have you?.
• Headline: NY State Security Agency's Controversial Start. Impact: The establishment of the Office of Public Security was like throwing a tiny pebble into a vast ocean of bureaucracy. If it hadn’t been formed, perhaps New York would have had a much less convoluted security system. Or, you know, just continued to wing it like they always have.. Fact: The Office of Public Security has been criticized for its lack of achievements. It’s like joining a gym and not losing a single pound – the effort is there, but the results? Not so much..