DECEMBER 8, 2007

Full News Archive

• Headline: Success Without Ads in Publishing. Impact: If Consumer Reports had succumbed to the pressure of ads, we might have been flooded with sponsored articles about the miraculous benefits of kale-infused toothpaste and the latest 'must-have' gadgets that nobody really needs. Instead, they stood strong, paving the way for a future where we can trust reviews without being bombarded by ads for questionable products.. Fact: Consumer Reports was founded in 1936, proving that even back then people were more interested in honest reviews than in ads for snake oil..
• Headline: Schiano Turns Down Michigan Coaching Offer. Impact: By rejecting Michigan's overtures, Schiano inadvertently solidified Rutgers as the underdog, creating a narrative that would eventually inspire a movie starring an underdog coach who turns the program around—because Hollywood loves a comeback story, especially when it involves a lot of yelling and motivational speeches.. Fact: Rutgers was the first college football program in the U.S., so in a way, Schiano was just preserving a legacy of mediocrity..
• Headline: The Roles Blur for the Mayor and the Mogul. Impact: Bloomberg's unique blend of wealth and politics blurred the lines so much that it inspired future politicians to think they too could run for office while managing their business interests. Spoiler alert: it didn't end well for most, leading to a new genre of political scandals.. Fact: Bloomberg once said, 'Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a small country,' which is precisely why we all have to deal with political ads from billionaires now..
• Headline: New Jersey Suburbs Fear a Drop in Special Education Aid. Impact: The fear of a drop in special education aid led to a series of protests and advocacy that eventually changed the funding landscape. Who knew that a bunch of suburbanites worrying about their funding could lead to better support for students across the board?. Fact: New Jersey spends more on education per pupil than any other state. So, if you ever wondered where your tax dollars are going, just remember: they’re busy funding an elaborate game of educational musical chairs..