MARCH 13, 2011

Full News Archive

• Headline: Legal Battles Reshape Shutdown Negotiations. Impact: This courtroom showdown sparked a series of legal dramas that inspired a new reality TV genre: 'Law & Order: Political Circus'. Who knew legal briefs could be so entertaining?. Fact: The phrase 'courtroom drama' was coined because it was way more interesting than actual courtroom outcomes. Who needs a resolution when you have theatrics?.
• Headline: Abuse in New York's Group Homes Exposed. Impact: The ongoing abuse in state-run homes led to a grassroots movement that eventually birthed a new profession: 'Social Media Outrage Manager'. Because nothing says accountability like a trending hashtag.. Fact: The first group home was reportedly established after someone mistook a warehouse for a community center. Spoiler: It didn't end well..
• Headline: Kemba Walker's Historic Big East Championship. Impact: Kemba Walker's legendary performance not only secured UConn's victory but also inspired a generation of kids to believe they could achieve anything—except for getting a decent haircut.. Fact: Kemba Walker's jersey is now a fashion statement among students who want to look like they actually play basketball but are just really good at sitting on the sidelines..
• Headline: Death Toll Estimate in Japan Soars as Relief Efforts Intensify. Impact: The rising death toll in Japan catalyzed international relief efforts, leading to a future where countries realized that natural disasters are great ways to showcase humanitarianism—because nothing says 'we care' like a celebrity telethon.. Fact: Japan has a history of natural disasters, but this one was particularly tragic because it reminded everyone that Mother Nature has a very dark sense of humor..
• Headline: Look Out, Celebrities: Her Aim Is True. Impact: Kathy Griffin's candid take on celebrity culture created a ripple effect that led to increased scrutiny of the lives of the rich and famous, ultimately resulting in reality TV stars becoming more relatable than actual role models.. Fact: Kathy Griffin once said that her career peaked when she realized that being honest was far more lucrative than pretending to like people at Hollywood parties..