DECEMBER 15, 2008

Full News Archive

• Headline: Detroit Automakers Cut Costs Amid Declining Sales. Impact: The Big Three going from 'big cuts' to 'lots of small ones' led to the creation of a new genre of motivational posters: 'Sometimes Less is More' – except when you're an automaker, in which case it’s just a slow descent into oblivion.. Fact: If you thought the only thing Detroit could cut was its workforce, think again! They also cut the number of cars people actually wanted to buy..
• Headline: Fannie Mae Supports Renters Amid Foreclosures. Impact: Fannie Mae's decision to let renters stay in foreclosures sparked a nationwide trend of landlords adopting the motto: 'You're not just renters; you're surviving a game of financial musical chairs!'. Fact: This was around the time when the phrase 'It's not you, it's the economy' became a common breakup line for renters..
• Headline: The Blagojevich Scandal Uncovers Corruption. Impact: Rod Blagojevich's antics not only revived investigative journalism but also inspired a new reality TV show concept: 'Governors Gone Wild!' – proof that scandal sells, even if it’s just a political circus.. Fact: Blagojevich once tried to sell a Senate seat. Can you imagine if he had successfully negotiated a trade for a lifetime supply of hair gel instead?.
• Headline: A Palm Beach Enclave, Stunned by an Inside Job. Impact: The fallout from Madoff's Ponzi scheme not only shook Palm Beach but also led to the invention of the 'Trust No One' bumper sticker, which became the unofficial motto of the wealthy elite.. Fact: This scandal was so shocking that even the golf carts in Palm Beach started charging higher fees for emotional support..