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HEADLINES ON July 17, 2020
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- Headline: Xingcheng: The Bikini Hub Awaits Beachgoers. Impact: The pandemic forced the swimwear capital to pivot from bikinis to... I don't know, inflatable pools? This led to a global shortage of beachwear, which caused an unexpected spike in the popularity of backyard sunbathing. Now everyone thinks they're a beachgoer while lounging on their patios.. Fact: Did you know that the bikini was invented in 1946? And here we thought it was just a clever way to get out of wearing pants!.
- Headline: 5 Ways the Coronavirus Has Changed Suburban Real Estate. Impact: The mass exodus from NYC to the suburbs created a suburban renaissance. Property prices soared, and suddenly, everyone became a lawn-care expert. In a twist of fate, the suburbs turned into the hipster haven, and before you knew it, artisanal lawnmowers were all the rage.. Fact: Ever heard of 'white-flight'? Well, now we have 'white-picket-fence flight.' Who knew real estate could be this dramatic?.
- Headline: For Owners of Century-Old Businesses, Shutting Down Brings a Special Pain. Impact: The closure of century-old businesses marked the end of an era and sparked a revival of nostalgia. Suddenly, everyone wanted to buy a quirky vintage item to remind them of better times, leading to a boom in thrift stores and eBay sales—because nothing says 'I miss the past' like a used lava lamp.. Fact: Interestingly, many businesses that survive through a century often have some deeply-rooted family secrets—like the BBQ sauce recipe that’s been locked in a vault since World War II!.