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 August 5, 2009
Full News Archive
- Headline: Liquor License Delays Impact Restaurants. Impact: As restaurateurs lamented their liquor license woes, they unknowingly sparked a national trend of 'dry dining'. This led to a rise in kombucha sales, which eventually became the new hip drink at brunch—because who doesn't love a little fermentation with their avocado toast?. Fact: Did you know that in some regions, you can apply for a liquor license faster than you can get a refund from a broken toaster? Cheers to that!.
- Headline: Male Rape Victims in the Congo Crisis. Impact: The plight of male rape victims in Congo became a catalyst for global awareness, leading to the establishment of numerous NGOs. Ironically, the more they tried to heal, the more people realized that sometimes the system needs a serious overhaul—kind of like a bad relationship that just keeps dragging on.. Fact: Did you know that the term 'unhealed' is often used to describe both wounds and societal issues? Clearly, we've got a lot of bandaging to do..
- Headline: Whitacre's Bold Move at G.M. Board Meeting. Impact: Whitacre's determination to defend market share resulted in G.M. developing cars with built-in coffee makers, because if you're going to be stuck in traffic, you might as well brew a cup of Joe while you're at it. A true 'drive-thru' experience!. Fact: Did you know that defending market share is just corporate speak for 'let's keep the shareholders from jumping ship'? Ah, the joys of capitalism!.
- Headline: Medical Papers by Ghostwriters Pushed Therapy. Impact: The revelation of ghostwritten medical papers sent shockwaves through the healthcare industry, leading to increased skepticism towards all medical literature. Eventually, people started consulting their crystal balls for health advice instead of doctors—because who doesn’t trust a shiny rock?. Fact: Did you know that ghostwriting has existed for centuries? Shakespeare might have had a few ghostwriters on speed dial for those sonnets!.
- Headline: Tests Show Driver Was Drunk in Parkway Crash That Killed 8. Impact: The tragic accident on the Taconic State Parkway not only spurred discussions on drunk driving laws but also inadvertently led to a spike in Uber and Lyft popularity. Thanks to this tragedy, now you can get a ride without needing a designated driver... or a license.. Fact: Did you know that in some states, the only thing more dangerous than drunk driving is trying to parallel park without a drink? Just kidding—both are bad!.
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2009, it would be worth $220,288 today (220.3x return)