DECEMBER 16, 2009

Full News Archive

• Headline: Second City Turns 50: A Comedic Legacy. Impact: The celebration triggered a worldwide improv craze, leading to the rise of 'improv therapy' where people hilariously process their trauma through spontaneous comedy. Who knew laughing about your existential crisis could be so therapeutic?. Fact: The Second City alumni list reads like a Hollywood Who’s Who. If you can name a comedian, chances are they once stepped foot on that stage, probably tripping over their own punchline..
• Headline: Exploring Achebe's Insights on Darkness. Impact: Achebe's essays inspired a generation of writers and activists, igniting a global movement to reclaim narratives around race and identity. Ironically, this also led to an influx of poorly written 'inspired' novels that no one asked for.. Fact: Achebe famously critiqued Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness,' arguing that it reflected more about European prejudices than African realities. Who knew he was just a literary trendsetter, paving the way for future authors to take on colonial narratives?.
• Headline: The Impact of 'Crazy Heart' on Country Music. Impact: The success of 'Crazy Heart' led to a surge in country music-themed movies, resulting in several artists switching genres mid-career. Imagine a rapper suddenly singing about tractors; it’s like a musical identity crisis!. Fact: Jeff Bridges, who starred in 'Crazy Heart,' actually learned to play the guitar for the role. So yes, he’s not just a pretty face; he can also strum a sad song about lost love, potentially making him the most versatile actor ever..
• Headline: The Accidental Empire of Fast Food. Impact: Danny Meyer’s empire led to a global obsession with gourmet fast food, resulting in hipster burger joints where people pay $20 for a 'locally sourced' burger. Thanks for the heartburn, Danny!. Fact: Shake Shack started as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park. It’s like the American Dream, only with more fries and fewer ethics around portion control..
• Headline: The Wedding? I’m Here for the Cookies. Impact: The cookie craze at weddings spread like wildfire, leading to a future where guests silently judge the bride’s choices based on cookie selection. Wedding planners now offer cookie tasting sessions—because who needs vows when you have baked goods?. Fact: Pittsburgh’s cookie tradition is so strong that some couples have been known to prioritize dessert over actual marriage vows. Talk about commitment issues!.