Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON January 21, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: Rascal Flatts at Madison Square Garden. Impact: The power ballad boom in suburban kitchens led to an unexpected explosion of cookie-baking and family karaoke nights, ultimately resulting in a nationwide obesity crisis that was ironically blamed on 'too much love in the kitchen.'. Fact: Rascal Flatts' music is scientifically proven to increase the likelihood of dad dancing by 72%. You're welcome..
- Headline: Economic Uncertainty Hits New York City. Impact: The fear of an economic downturn made New Yorkers more resourceful, leading to the invention of the 'New York-style dumpster dive.' This trend would spark a reality show that ultimately led to the resurgence of thrift stores across America.. Fact: In New York, 'bracing' for an economic downturn is just another way to say, 'Time to stock up on ramen and binge-watch Netflix.'.
- Headline: Veteran Blogger Shares Iraq War Experiences. Impact: This blogger's accounts of war humanized soldiers, leading to a wave of support that eventually prompted the government to consider a 'Bring Your Soldier Home' campaign, which was ultimately just a clever marketing ploy for a new reality show.. Fact: The most common phrase soldiers hear in Iraq? 'Can you take a selfie with my mom?'.
- Headline: The Video Game May Be Free, but to Be a Winner Can Cost Money. Impact: By allowing players to pay for extras in a supposedly 'free' game, this decision paved the way for the microtransaction explosion, leading to a generation of gamers skilled at spending money instead of actually playing games.. Fact: The term 'free-to-play' was originally coined by a marketing intern who later regretted their life choices after seeing players spend their entire savings on virtual hats..
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)