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 December 30, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: U.S. Invests in GMAC for Reorganization. Impact: When the Treasury decided to invest in GMAC, they accidentally set off a chain reaction that led to the invention of the 'bailout dance'—a new form of interpretive dance where executives twirl around their bonuses while the public looks on in disbelief.. Fact: Did you know that GMAC was once a major player in the auto industry? Now it's just a reminder that sometimes financial help is just a fancy way of saying 'we're all in this together, except you, the taxpayer.'.
- Headline: India's Surging Role in Global Clergy Supply. Impact: As India kept its priests, it inadvertently sparked a global trend of spiritual tourism, leading to the rise of the 'soul-searching vacation'—because nothing says enlightenment like a beach resort.. Fact: It’s funny to think that priests may be the next big export. Forget cars; the new trade war is over who gets the best spiritual guidance!.
- Headline: Divorce Challenges Amid Housing Crisis. Impact: The housing crisis not only made breakups harder but also led to a new reality show: 'Who Gets the House?'—complete with judges and way too many awkward moments.. Fact: Did you know that in some regions, couples are now more likely to fight over the last slice of pizza than the family home? Priorities, right?.
- Headline: Black Workers Hurt by Detroit’s Ills. Impact: The struggles of black workers in Detroit became a catalyst for future labor movements, eventually leading to a series of 'Detroit Resilience' workshops—where people learn to bounce back from adversity, preferably with a side of Motown.. Fact: Historically, the auto industry was a beacon of hope for many African-Americans. Now it's more like a mix of nostalgia and 'What happened to my job?'.
- Headline: Hamas Credo Led It to End Cease-Fire. Impact: Hamas’s decision to end the cease-fire led to a series of discussions around peace that could fill a library—if only anyone would read them instead of arguing in circles.. Fact: It's ironic how a cease-fire can be ended over a disagreement. Imagine if that worked in relationships: 'We were fine until you wanted to watch a rom-com instead of an action movie!'.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)