Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
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The biggest hits of the year — Top 10 Pop & Country chart toppers
HEADLINES ON December 9, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: Leno's Move to Prime Time on NBC. Impact: Leno's move to prime time sparked a new wave of late-night shows. The ensuing competition led to Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, and a hundred other guys with the last name 'Jimmy' to emerge, forever changing the landscape of comedy and making it impossible for anyone to hold a serious conversation after 11 PM.. Fact: Did you know that Leno's chin has its own zip code? It comes in handy when he needs to deliver a punchline from a distance..
- Headline: Tribune Company Bankruptcy Filing. Impact: The bankruptcy of the Tribune Company sent shockwaves through the media industry, leading to a cautionary tale about financial mismanagement that is now a staple in journalism schools. Future executives learned to avoid trying to turn a media empire into a 'fun' investment, like a pet rock.. Fact: Fun fact: Sam Zell once described his investment strategy as 'buy high, sell low'. Truly a visionary!.
- Headline: Understanding Scans and Misdiagnosis. Impact: This revelation about scans misdiagnosing patients set off a medical revolution, prompting hundreds of doctors to reconsider their approach. Meanwhile, the medical industry found new ways to charge for 'consultations' that ultimately lead to no definitive answer—because who doesn’t love paying for ambiguity?. Fact: Did you know that in some cases, the only real diagnosis you need is 'just stop googling your symptoms'?.
- Headline: The Hidden Travels of The Bomb. Impact: Oppenheimer's foreboding words ignited a global debate about nuclear arms that continues today. His sentiments have echoed through time, shaping international relations and leading to treaties that are often ignored, much like your New Year's resolutions.. Fact: Did you know that Oppenheimer quoted the Bhagavad Gita after the bomb was dropped? Apparently, 'Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds' was his way of saying 'Oops.'.
- Headline: Workers Pay for Debacle at Tribune. Impact: The fallout from Zell's decisions led to widespread labor discontent, resulting in a wave of union activities and employee activism. This ultimately paved the way for workplace rights discussions that are still relevant today—because nothing says 'fun' like fighting for basic rights in the workplace.. Fact: Did you know that mortgaging your employees' futures is not actually a recognized business strategy? Who knew?.
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Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)