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 31, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: The Legend of Diamond Jim Brady. Impact: If Diamond Jim Brady's food exploits were indeed exaggerated, it might have led to a global culinary competition craze, with people attempting to break records for the most ridiculous food challenges. We could have ended up with 'The Great Gummy Bear Jamboree of 1982' — a totally made-up event that never existed... or did it?. Fact: Did you know that eating enormous amounts of food can lead to legendary status? Just ask any competitive eater, who’s basically a rock star, but with a stomach the size of a small car..
- Headline: Memoir Scandal: Trust in Publishing Shaken. Impact: Herman Rosenblat's memoir scandal could have sparked a worldwide movement against memoirs altogether, leading to a dystopian future where people only communicate via emojis and TikTok dances to convey their life stories. Spoiler alert: it didn't end well.. Fact: Did you know that Oprah once recommended this book? Talk about a plot twist! It's like finding out your favorite celebrity chef uses frozen meals—shocking!.
- Headline: Changing Times at the Debutante Ball. Impact: The decline of debutantes could have sent shockwaves through the fashion industry, leading us to a timeline where sweatpants became the new ballgown. Imagine runway shows featuring models strutting in pajamas — the horror!. Fact: Did you know that 'debutante' is French for 'beginner'? Well, if that’s the case, then the recession turned many debutantes into seasoned professionals in economic despair!.
- Headline: Russia Aside, Georgia’s Chief Is Pressed at Home. Impact: Mikheil Saakashvili's struggles could have led to an underground network of political memes that humorously depicted his failures, ultimately making him a beloved figure in internet culture, like a political version of a cat video. You could say he 'pawsitively' changed the landscape of political commentary.. Fact: Did you know that political pressure can lead to major changes? Just ask Saakashvili, who could probably write a memoir called 'How to Handle Stress Like a Georgian.'.
- Headline: In 2009, Economy Will Depend on Unlocking Credit. Impact: The focus on credit availability could have triggered an entire generation of people to become obsessed with their credit scores, leading to a dystopian world where social status is determined by FICO ratings. 'Welcome to the Credit-ocracy!'. Fact: Did you know that credit scores can be improved by paying bills on time? But hey, let's not ruin the fun with practicality — who needs a good credit score when you have charm?.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)