Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON August 8, 2007
Full News Archive
- Headline: Struggles for Emergency Workers’ Death Benefits. Impact: This change in death benefit policy gave rise to an underground movement of emergency workers forming a union of sorts, where they now demand to be called 'Heart Attack Heroes'. Who knew that a stroke could lead to such a catchy title?. Fact: Did you know that the average heart attack occurs at the most inconvenient times? Like during a family dinner or your favorite TV show? Talk about bad timing!.
- Headline: Morton Bartlett's Artistic Showcase Unveiled. Impact: Morton Bartlett's artistic endeavors inadvertently sparked a new trend in the doll industry, leading to a bizarre future where dolls are made to look like historical figures, including some very questionable choices like Cleopatra and George Washington.. Fact: Did you know that dolls have been around since ancient times? In fact, they were once used as religious idols. So next time you see a doll that looks like a pop star, remember it could be worse!.
- Headline: Lauryn Hill's Surprise Reunion Performance. Impact: Lauryn Hill's tardiness became a cultural cornerstone, inspiring a generation of musicians to embrace 'fashionably late' as a lifestyle, which ultimately led to the rise of the 'late' music awards—where nominees could show up anytime during the event!. Fact: Did you know that showing up late can lead to unexpected fashion statements? Like, 'Did I miss the red carpet, or is this just how I dress for a 10 p.m. concert?'.
- Headline: A Moment of Stray Voltage, and a Life Upended. Impact: This incident caused a surge in public awareness about electrical safety, leading to a future where payphones are replaced with solar-powered charging stations. Ironically, people still find ways to get shocked.. Fact: Did you know that electricity travels at the speed of light? So if you think you’re quick on your feet, just wait until a stray voltage decides to make your day!.
- Headline: Bill Aims to Spur Housing for New York’s Poor. Impact: The bill led to an unexpected housing boom, but not for the poor—developers seized the opportunity to build luxury apartments marketed as 'affordable for hipsters' in the most ironic twist of fate.. Fact: Did you know that New York City has more vacant apartments than homeless people? It's like a real estate version of 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?'—except no one is winning!.
Wall Street Time Machine
AMZN
Amazon
Amazon - If you invested $1,000 in 2007, it would be worth $117,189 today (117.2x return)
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2007, it would be worth $247,275 today (247.3x return)