AUGUST 1, 2012

Full News Archive

• Headline: Poker Sites Settle for Millions. Impact: The forfeiture of millions by poker sites led to a surge in underground poker games, resulting in a secret society of poker enthusiasts who now conduct meetings in basements while wearing sunglasses indoors. This eventually leads to the rise of a new lifestyle brand: 'Poker Chic'.. Fact: Did you know that poker was once outlawed in many states? It’s hilarious that it took bank fraud for people to realize that gambling is basically just a fancy way of saying 'I believe in luck more than my bank account'..
• Headline: Cruz Triumphs in Texas Senate Runoff. Impact: Ted Cruz's victory in the Texas runoff triggered a chain reaction of increasingly bizarre political ads, culminating in a future where candidates are required to wear costumes to debates. The next logical step? Presidential candidates will debate in superhero costumes.. Fact: Did you know Ted Cruz once filibustered for nearly 21 hours? Apparently, he’s the only person who can make a 20-minute speech feel like a week-long lecture on the history of staplers..
• Headline: Yen Strength: A Generational Divide. Impact: The strong yen caused a generational divide in Japan, leading to the rise of 'Yen Wars', where retirees and young adults battle it out for the best ramen spots. Spoiler alert: the retirees win every time because they have no curfew.. Fact: Did you know that in Japan, 'yen' literally means 'circle'? So every time the currency's value rises, young people feel like they’re just going around in circles trying to afford anything..
• Headline: Economic Thinkers Try to Solve the Euro Puzzle. Impact: The Euro puzzle led to a group of economists forming a band called 'The Euro-visionaries', who tour Europe giving concerts while explaining fiscal policy. Their hit single 'Inflation Blues' becomes a chart-topping sensation.. Fact: Did you know that economists love puzzles? They find them way more interesting than, say, finding a solution to an actual economic crisis. Who knew solving for x could lead to global fame?.
• Headline: Gore Vidal Dies at 86; Prolific, Elegant, Acerbic Writer. Impact: Gore Vidal's passing caused a ripple effect in the literary world, leading to a dramatic increase in the use of the word 'acerbic' in book reviews. Ironically, this made the term lose its edge, much like Vidal's critics.. Fact: Did you know Gore Vidal was famously quoted saying, 'The United States was founded by the brightest people in the nation—and we haven't seen them since'? Guess who was taking notes during the last presidential election?.