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 August 17, 2021
Full News Archive
- Headline: Asmik Grigorian's Daring Opera Journey. Impact: Asmik Grigorian's daring performances inspired a new trend in opera where singers began incorporating interpretive dance. This led to the rise of the 'Opera Ballet' genre, which resulted in a massive shortage of leotards in the 2040s.. Fact: Did you know that singing the phone book is not an official Olympic sport? Yet, it probably should be if we want more people to care about the Dewey Decimal System..
- Headline: End of an Era for Monte dei Paschi. Impact: The potential downfall of Monte dei Paschi di Siena set off a chain reaction where every bank in Europe suddenly felt the need to 'stress test' their coffee machines instead of their finances, leading to a caffeine-fueled economic crisis.. Fact: Founded in 1472, Monte dei Paschi di Siena is older than most of your favorite historical figures. If only they had invested in Bitcoin instead of bonds!.
- Headline: Fatal Tesla Autopilot Accident Analysis. Impact: This tragic accident caused a global rethink of autonomous vehicles, leading to the bizarre trend of people trying to teach their old cars to drive themselves, resulting in a rise of 'Car Whisperers' in the 2030s.. Fact: Did you know that Tesla's autopilot is basically like letting your overly confident friend take the wheel? Spoiler alert: it usually ends in chaos..
- Headline: Retail Sales Fell in July, Highlighting a Rocky Economic Recovery. Impact: The decline in retail sales sparked a nationwide obsession with DIY projects, leading to the creation of an entire generation of 'influencers' who swore they could make anything from scratch, resulting in more glue gun accidents than ever recorded.. Fact: Retail sales fell by 1.1 percent, which is about the same percentage of people who actually read the terms and conditions before clicking 'Accept'..
- Headline: When Kmart Moved Out, Churches and Flea Markets Moved In. Impact: With Kmart's departure, churches and flea markets blossomed, leading to a bizarre cultural shift where Sunday sermons began including flea market finds as sermon illustrations, drastically altering the way sermons were delivered.. Fact: Kmart's decision to move out opened the door for churches to turn into thrift stores. Who knew the Holy Spirit could also be a clearance sale?.