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 May 22, 2014
Full News Archive
- Headline: U.S. Proposes Airline Fee Transparency Rule. Impact: This rule could lead to airlines being so transparent about fees that they start charging for things like air itself. Next thing you know, ‘breathing on the plane’ becomes an extra add-on, and we’re all getting charged for that too.. Fact: Did you know that the average traveler spends more on baggage fees than on their actual ticket? Because nothing says 'luxury travel' like paying to have your suitcase join you on vacation..
- Headline: Airbnb to Share Host Data with NY State. Impact: The stripped data could create a black market for anonymous Airbnb hosts, leading to a thriving underground economy of secretive rentals where guests are greeted with 'Welcome to your mystery stay, please don't ask questions.'. Fact: Fun fact: Airbnb hosts are now basically the new ‘invisible man’—you can stay at their place, but you’ll never really know who they are. Creepy, right?.
- Headline: Daughter of I.R.A. Victim Speaks Out. Impact: This lawsuit could lead to a dramatic revival of interest in unsolved crimes, where suddenly everyone is channeling their inner detective and binge-watching true crime documentaries. Welcome to the age of armchair sleuths!. Fact: Did you know that the story of Jean McConville is so infamous that it’s a staple in 'how not to disappear' discussions? Just kidding, but it sure is a heavy chapter in the history of the Troubles..
- Headline: China’s Global Search for Energy. Impact: China’s energy deals may eventually lead to an international energy cocktail, with countries competing to see who can provide the most exotic fuel sources. Soon, we might have a global ‘energy fusion’ party where everyone brings their own oil.. Fact: Fun fact: China’s energy consumption is so high that they could power a small country just with all the lights left on in their apartments. Seriously, someone tell them to turn off the lights!.