Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
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The biggest hits of the year — Top 10 Pop & Country chart toppers
HEADLINES ON September 4, 2019
Full News Archive
- Headline: Felix Starro: A Musical Journey. Impact: If Felix Starro's musical had been a flop, we might have seen a world where psychic surgery was declared a dangerous fad, leading to a spike in actual medical professionals learning how to perform magic tricks. Can you imagine your doctor pulling a rabbit out of a hat instead of a prescription pad?. Fact: Did you know that 'psychic surgery' is like a magic show without the glamour? It’s basically doctors playing surgeon with a side of mysticism..
- Headline: Scooter Surge: San Diego's Ride Challenges. Impact: The scooter craze led to the inevitable invention of the scooter helmet fashion line, which would have made 'scootering chic' a thing—thankfully, we dodged that bullet. But the scooters did inspire a generation of urban explorers who now think every sidewalk is a racetrack.. Fact: Did you know that San Diego once considered banning scooters altogether, but then realized they needed something to distract tourists from their overpriced tacos?.
- Headline: Carrie Lam Withdraws Controversial Extradition Bill. Impact: Carrie Lam’s decision could be seen as the butterfly that flapped its wings to start a political storm, leading to a massive global conversation about democracy and governance. Little did she know, her withdrawal might inspire a future Broadway musical about political protests—'Les Misérables 2: The Extradition Saga.'. Fact: Did you know that some protests in Hong Kong became so big that they could actually be seen from outer space? That’s one way to get on the world’s radar!.
- Headline: A Recession Isn’t Inevitable: The Case for Economic Optimism. Impact: This optimistic take on the economy led to a wave of motivational speakers popping up everywhere, declaring that optimism is the new currency. Ironically, the only thing that really boomed was the self-help book market, with titles like 'How to Think Your Way Out of a Recession.'. Fact: Did you know that economists are like fortune tellers who use spreadsheets instead of crystal balls? Spoiler alert: they often get it wrong, too!.
- Headline: A Breakthrough for A.I. Technology: Passing an 8th-Grade Science Test. Impact: This breakthrough in AI could lead to a future where robots not only help with your homework but also start demanding a diploma. Next thing you know, we’ll have AI teaching in schools and kids will be complaining about their robot teachers being too strict.. Fact: Did you know that AI passing an 8th-grade science test means we are one step closer to an army of robot valedictorians? Good luck getting into college now, kids!.