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 May 8, 2009
Full News Archive
- Headline: Steve Earle's Revelation on Townes Van Zandt. Impact: Steve Earle's confrontation with his idol led to a sudden resurgence in country music nostalgia, prompting a wave of denim jackets and cowboy hats in hipster coffee shops everywhere. Townes Van Zandt's ghost now haunts all open mic nights, leading to a significant increase in sad songs about lost love and trucks.. Fact: Did you know that Steve Earle once claimed he could write a song in the time it takes to brew a pot of coffee? If only he could brew a hit album as quickly!.
- Headline: Tragic Encounter at Wesleyan University. Impact: The tragic collision of lives sparked a nationwide conversation about stalking, leading to a surge in self-defense classes and an awkward increase in people asking for background checks on their dates. Who knew a horror story would inspire an entire generation to check their blind spots?. Fact: Stalking laws have become so convoluted that it's like trying to navigate a maze while blindfolded. Seriously, take a wrong turn and you could end up in a lifetime restraining order!.
- Headline: Schumer Supports Gillibrand’s Senate Campaign. Impact: Senator Gillibrand's potential victory was seen as a beacon of hope for aspiring politicians with questionable haircuts everywhere. This led to a trend of junior senators being propped up by their seniors, creating an age-old cycle of political nepotism that would make even the most seasoned dynasties proud.. Fact: Senators are like fine wine; they only get better with age, or at least that's what they tell themselves while polishing their resumes for future campaigns..
- Headline: GMAC, Among the Weakest, Seems in Line for a Bailout. Impact: GMAC's desperate plea for bailout money sent shockwaves through the financial markets, resulting in an avalanche of memes about banks being 'too big to fail' while your average Joe is 'too small to save.' This has led to a newfound appreciation for the phrase 'buy low, sell high'—if only someone would let us in on the secret.. Fact: Did you know GMAC went from financing cars to needing financing like a teenager needing Mom's credit card? Talk about a glow-up gone wrong!.
- Headline: Findings, but No Final Word. Impact: The stress test report findings triggered panic among banks, resulting in a game of financial chicken that made the stock market resemble a thrilling rollercoaster ride. Investors suddenly developed a penchant for wearing helmets and knee pads when checking their portfolios.. Fact: Stress tests for banks are less about physical fitness and more about emotional breakdowns; it's like asking a bank to do yoga while balancing on a tightrope—stressful and possibly catastrophic!.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2009, it would be worth $220,288 today (220.3x return)