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 March 17, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: Starbucks and the Mainstream Music Debate. Impact: Starbucks’ pivot to mainstream tunes paved the way for an explosion of terrible coffee shop playlists, resulting in a global shortage of good music in cafes. Sorry, indie artists!. Fact: Funny enough, the only thing more bitter than over-roasted coffee is an indie musician's reaction to Starbucks' playlists..
- Headline: Civil Unions Under Legal Scrutiny. Impact: The push for civil unions triggered a domino effect that led to debates over marriage equality worldwide, ultimately shaping LGBTQ+ rights for decades to come. A historic struggle for love!. Fact: Did you know that in some countries, people still need to fight for basic human rights? Let's hope they catch up with the rest of us soon..
- Headline: Alitalia Takes Offer for Buyout. Impact: Alitalia’s buyout represented a pivotal moment in airline history, setting a precedent for future 'too big to fail' bailouts, paving the way for the creation of airlines that only exist in the 'frequent flyer' fantasy.. Fact: Fun fact: Alitalia's financial woes have been a running joke since the dawn of time. Okay, maybe just since the 2000s, but who's counting?.
- Headline: Paterson Is Calling the Shots on Swearing-In. Impact: Paterson's swearing-in was so meticulously planned that it opened the floodgates for future politicians to treat their own ceremonies like Broadway productions. Bravo!. Fact: Did you know that many politicians now hire choreographers for their swearing-in ceremonies? Because why not add some jazz hands to democracy?.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)