FEBRUARY 14, 2011

Full News Archive

• Headline: Understanding Grief in a Widow's Story. Impact: Joyce Carol Oates' reflection on grief inspired a thousand sad novels and a million awkward conversations about feelings, setting the stage for future generations to awkwardly avoid discussing their emotions.. Fact: Did you know that writing about your feelings is often recommended as a form of therapy? Just don't expect anyone to read it unless you’re a famous author..
• Headline: New Rules for Judicial Campaign Contributions. Impact: By preventing judges from hearing cases involving their campaign contributors, New York inadvertently sparked a new trend of political theater where judges start wearing wigs and capes to emphasize their independence. Because nothing says 'impartiality' like a flamboyant costume.. Fact: Fun fact: The legal system has always been a bit like a game show. Contestants—oops, I mean judges—are often swayed by the highest bidder!.
• Headline: Groupon's Mixed Success in Japan. Impact: Groupon's uneven rise in Japan led to a national crisis: how to deal with an influx of discount-loving citizens who thought 'buy one get one free' could apply to their healthcare. Spoiler: it couldn't.. Fact: Did you know that Groupon was originally just a website for people who love saving money but not their dignity?.
• Headline: In Digital Era, Music Spotters Feed a Machine. Impact: The rise of music spotters created a new job market, leading to the eventual rise of the 'professional playlist curator'—a role that now requires a degree in hipster studies and the ability to nod knowingly while sipping overpriced coffee.. Fact: Did you know that algorithms can now predict your music taste better than your friends? No pressure, though!.
• Headline: Word and Lyric, Giffords Labors to Speak Again. Impact: Gabrielle Giffords' journey to recovery became a symbol of resilience, inspiring countless individuals who faced adversity. Her story rippled through time, making motivational posters with kittens a best-seller.. Fact: Fun fact: Giffords’ determination proves that even in the face of tragedy, the human spirit can shine brighter than any motivational quote you find on social media..