APRIL 13, 2005

Full News Archive

• Headline: Push for Pope John Paul II's Canonization. Impact: The push to declare Pope John Paul II a saint led to an explosion of saint-making aspirations, causing a sudden uptick in people seeking divine intervention for everything from parking spots to Wi-Fi connections. Heaven now has a longer waiting list than a trendy brunch spot.. Fact: Did you know that the Vatican's saint-making process involves more paperwork than adopting a cat? It's almost as if they don’t want just anyone waltzing into heaven!.
• Headline: At 11th Hour, Albany Moves to Redo Budget. Impact: Albany's last-minute budget decision led to a tradition of procrastination in government that would inspire future legislators to adopt 'Budget Surprise Day,' where they just throw darts at a board to determine state spending. Who says politics can’t be fun?. Fact: Did you know that New York's first on-time budget in 21 years was celebrated with a parade? It was like the Fourth of July, but instead of fireworks, they had confetti made of crumbled spending plans!.