Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
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Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON August 19, 2014
Full News Archive
- Headline: Ebola Survivors Face Isolation at Home. Impact: The chill of wariness towards Ebola survivors sparked a global movement to create awareness about mental health stigma. Fast forward, and now we have a social media trend where people share their awkward encounters with neighbors. Who knew a virus could lead to viral memes?. Fact: Did you know that in some cultures, people believe that surviving a deadly disease grants you superpowers? Sadly, nobody told the neighbors..
- Headline: E-Bike Sales Surge in European Markets. Impact: The surge in e-bike sales in Europe led to a secret society of cyclists who believe they are the future of transportation. They may be right, but they also might just be really good at pedaling while wearing spandex.. Fact: Did you know that in 2023, e-bikes were declared the official vehicle of hipsters? Coffee shops across Europe saw a 200% increase in avocado toast orders as a result..
- Headline: Tax Burden Misconception in the U.S.. Impact: The paper on tax burdens revealed loopholes that turned corporate tax avoidance into an Olympic sport. Now, every tax season feels like the corporate equivalent of the Hunger Games—may the odds be ever in your favor!. Fact: Did you know that 'effective tax rate' is just a fancy way of saying 'we found another way to dodge taxes'? It's like a corporate hide-and-seek championship..
- Headline: Obama Is Seen as Frustrating His Own Party. Impact: Obama's frustrations with his party led to the rise of the 'independent voter.' This new species of voter now roams the political landscape, bewildered by party platforms and searching for Wi-Fi to check their Twitter feeds.. Fact: Did you know that political parties are like high school cliques? You can only be 'cool' if you agree with the majority, and God forbid if you show up wearing the wrong colors..
- Headline: Cities Rocked by Past Protests Offer Lessons in What, and What Not, to Do. Impact: The lessons learned from past protests have inspired a new generation of police officers who now engage in community theater—performing plays about the importance of communication. Seriously, they’re working on a riveting adaptation of 'Romeo and Juliet' with a twist on community relations.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'lessons learned' is just a euphemism for 'let’s hope we don’t screw this up again'? Because history has a funny way of repeating itself..