Positive News for Nov. 18th- Nov. 24th

OBAMA FLEXIBLE, SHOWS EMPORER

U.S. President Barack Obama silenced fitness critics around the world last week after publically folding at the waist and bending forward while on a visit with Japan’s Emperor Akihito. While the President isn’t shy about his propensity to exercise privately, his recent public display of flexibility squelched any rumors that his presidency could be cut short by a poor range of motion or inability to touch his toes. The physical gesture is expected to do more than influence America’s image throughout the world as it proves the most popular person on the planet is indeed fit enough to lead the world’s most powerful nation. [click here for silver lining: “Conservatives Slam Obama for Bow in Japan”]

UC RAISES ADMISSION STANDARDS

Admission into California’s public Universities may become more exclusive to potential students thanks to new state regulations which could limit enrollment to students capable of giving back to the struggling state. As California’s government continues to face an economic downturn, the state’s new admission standards would educate a selection of traditionally opulent students who show the greatest potential for generating the assistance state law makers need most. Although these new regulations would make it harder for common students to earn a higher education in the state of California, the favorable class sizes and coveted student body would help UC schools to better compete with smaller private institutions. [click here for silver lining: “Massive Tuition Hikes Passed”]

PUMPKIN SHORTAGE TO HAVE NO REAL EFFECT

Unseasonable precipitation throughout the Midwest will have little effect on the 2009 holiday season as everything is expected to carry-on as normal in the United States. Agricultural specialists throughout the country believe the heavy rains drenching the country’s pumpkin producing states will actually save time during the holiday season, keeping Americans from preparing holiday dishes that typically go uneaten. The pumpkin shortage could also have divine implications as it forces generous Americans to purchase and donate edible canned goods that could actually be enjoyed by the nation’s less fortunate. [click here for silver lining: “Pumpkin Shortage Could Mean Empty Shelves After Thanksgiving”]

Positive News for Nov. 11th- Nov. 17th

MIKE TYSON RECORDS 45TH KO

In his first recognized fight since retiring in 2005, former heavy weight champion of the world Mike Tyson returned to the boxing community spotlight after recording his 45th knock out during an unpublicized bout at LAX airport. A large group of onlookers bore witness to sports history as the 43-year old former champion showed glimmers of his past dominance, sending his unnamed challenger to the floor a mere seconds into the first round. The KO was officially recognized by authorities at the scene who promptly escorted Tyson to a recap/Q & A session in more intimate quarters. [click here for silver lining: “Boxer Mike Tyson Detained in LAX”]

USPS 2-DAY WEEKEND CONSIDERED

The U.S. Postal service may operate more effectively in the near future as the government considers the possibility of offering employees an additional day off on Saturdays. The additional day off per week could remedy the injustice forcing postal employees to work Saturdays, further distancing their moral from that of employees of other parcel delivery services who could have to work any day of the week including Sunday. Although the “No Saturday” mail delivery status hasn’t yet been ordered by the Post Master General, USPS employees can surely expect a wave of similar morale changers to follow like additional days off, early retirements, and unexpected leaves of absence. [click here for silver lining: “Post Office Reports Loss, May Cut Saturday Service”]

PREJEAN EXCELS AMID CAREER CHANGE

Job loss wasn’t enough to keep former Miss California, Carrie Prejean from success as the 22-year old continues to amass significant financial gains without the notoriety of a pageant sash. Prejean’s resilience to adversity has only made her stronger as she’s learned to draw on her past body of work to remain a valid public figure, turning her life experience and opinions into a career as a conservative advocate. More importantly, Prejean is in a position to do more than defend decency as her innovative plan to maintain an income based on her popularity could serve as an example for a whole new generation of American workers. [click here for silver lining: “Sex Tape Beauty Queen Almost Walks Off Show”]

Positive News for Nov. 4th- Nov. 10th

NW’S LAMBERT GROWS WOMENS SOCCER FAN BASE

The popularity of NCAA women’s soccer has grown dramatically over the last week due to the unbelievable efforts by University of New Mexico defender Emily Lambert during a tournament match Vs BYU. Thanks to an unconventional style typically unseen in the women’s game, the New Mexico junior was able to make the traditionally overlooked NCAA sport thrilling for spectators around the world as highlights illustrating Lambert’s skills found their way across the web. Although Lambert’s efforts fell short in New Mexico’s 0-1 loss, the university’s athletic department believes she’ll never play a better college match. [click here for silver lining:   “New Mexico Player Banned, Apologizes”]

STROLLER RECALL HIGHLIGHTS TREND SPOTTING

Children’s stroller manufacturer Maclaren showcased market awareness last week after recalling nearly 1 million strollers responsible for enforcing old trends on children who ride in them. The recalled strollers are responsible for altering the number of a child’s appendages giving him/or her the physical characteristics of the once heavily popular pirate craze, which has recently fallen out of style in favor of vampires. Although the recall will put Maclaren in an unfavorable financial position, it allows the manufacturer to showcase more of the amazing trend forecasting that predicted America’s pirate trend as early as 1999. [click here for silver lining: “Maclaren to Recall 1 Million Strollers”]

TENSIONS NORMALIZE BETWEEN N. AND S. KOREA

The unusual relationship between North and South Korea has finally come to a close following a recent meeting between the two countries on the West Sea. The event marks the first sea-based exchange of ideals in 7 years between the Korean neighbors, which will open the door for further interactions in the future. Luckily, the return to the status quo comes just weeks before U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to the south, allowing him a proper opportunity to undergo a true Korean experience. [click here for silver lining: “North, South Korea Clash at Sea”]

Positive News For October 28th -November 3rd

PA WOMAN INNOVATIVE DESPITE ECONOMY

A 43 year-old Philadelphia woman seeking highly coveted World Series tickets showed the world the American spirit of innovation is still alive and well in the United States despite the slow economy. Die hard Phillies fan, Susan Finkelstein’s strategy to broker a cashless business transaction carried enough potential for success that even members of the local government were willing to monitor its outcome. Finkelstein’s steadfast commitment to succeed despite personal adversity is another endearing symbol of America’s return to glory. [click here for silver lining: “Woman Accused of Selling Body for WS Tix”]

HILLARY CLINTON COMMANDS ROBOT ARMY

A recent trip to Pakistan by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton confirmed local suspicions that she is in command of a US robot army operating in the region. The affirmation came during a news conference in the troubled region as Clinton was held responsible for all unmanned drone tactics aimed against insurgents along Pakistan’s border. While Clinton never admitted to being the robot army’s leader, after answering the public’s questions on the absent robots’ behalf, her position as commander was strongly assumed. [click here for silver lining: “Clinton Takes Heat For Drone Attacks” ]

AMERICAN MUSLIM EMBRACES WOMEN’S RIGHTS

Muslim immigrant, Rabia Sarwar began her journey through the American dream last week after independently acting on her rights as a woman. Without asking for a man’s permission, the resident of New York chose to disagree with her husband and illustrate her sentiments for the rest of the world to see without the fear of condemnation from her peers. As a result of Sarwar’s foray into the women’s liberation movement, Sarwar may be given the opportunity to learn more about her rights from a diverse and well-versed population of women. [click here for silver lining: “Muslim Wife Slashed Husband’s Neck Over Booze, Pork, and Miniskirts”]

Positive News for October 21st- 27th

NORTHWEST PROVIDES FREE FLIGHT TO WISCONSIN

Northwest Airlines gave back to its customers last week providing passengers aboard Airbus Flight 188 with an unannounced free flight from Minneapolis, MN to neighboring Wisconsin. Although the free flight couldn’t have come during a more financially unstable time for the airline industry, Northwest’s risky promotion will most certainly affect the number of travelers choosing Northwest in the future. While the FFA cannot predict more unannounced free flight promotions in the future, they are rather certain similar occurrences will be repeated throughout the industry. [click here for silver lining:  “Flight Overshoots Airport By 150 Miles” ]

STOCK MARKET RETURNS TO NORMAL

The stock market’s wild ride has finally drawn to a close as stocks rebound following new economic forecasts for the remainder of the quarter. Predictions on the railroad industry’s ability to move goods was the major contributor to the market’s return prompting the Dow Jones Industrial Average to make an unexpected 125 point shift. While uncertainty still remains a constant within the stock market, financial strategists are confident the economy’s return to stasis will retain its current heading. [click here for silver lining: “Wall Street Slides On Railroad, Oil Woes”]

AGASSI CLEARED IN ’97 MARRIAGE TO

BROOKE SHIELDS

A new autobiography on the life of tennis legend Andre Agassi has cleared the former pro of any wrong doing in his ill-fated decision to wed Brooke Shields in 1997. The news comes as a relief to tennis fans as Agassi’s union with the model/’actress’ has long been the only blemish on an otherwise stellar career. More importantly skepticism about Agassi’s judgment can finally be dismissed at it is clear the then tennis pro’s actions were led by what the devil told him to do. [click here for silver lining: “Agassi Says He Used Meth in ‘97”]

Positive News for Oct. 14th- 20th

AMERICA BRIEFLY OBSESSED WITH BALLOONING

A spirited display of leisure hot-air transportation momentarily reinvigorated the nation’s fascination for ballooning, waking an obsession dormant in this country since the late 19th century. The event captivated Americans from all walks of life guided by more than 6 hours of live media coverage and post-flight reports into the following day. While the ballooning craze was over almost as soon as it began, its meager longevity was certainly expected given the waning interest before and after the flight from children closest to the action. [click here for silver lining: “Authorities: Balloon Boy Incident was a Hoax”]

BANK OF AMERICA RELATES TO COSTUMERS

America’s largest bank, Bank of America, has shed its all-powerful corporate image for an approach recognizing the concerns of its customers. As the status of American banking continues to pit powerful banks against people concerned for their financial stability, Bank of America has prepared itself to understand the pain, confusion, and fear associated with trusting a financial system to keep your best interests at heart. Although it is unknown how long Bank of America plans to proceed with their new costumer relation-relations, Americans can expect the strategy to continue as long as Bank of America maintains its previous business practices. [click here for silver lining: “Bank of America: $2.2 Billion Loss”]

ST. LOUIS RAMS EVADE CATASTROPHE

The St. Louis Rams earned a decisive win for their franchise last week escaping the title of professional football’s greatest embarrassment. Despite a 0-5 record the Rams were able to pull an upset on an overwhelming opponent to salvage any remaining shreds of dignity the team hoped to maintain throughout the remainder of the season. It is clear the Rams still have a lot of work ahead of them if they hope to muster a legitimate playoff run but no matter the team’s final record, last week’s success in escaping sure disaster more than constitutes a winning season. [click here for silver lining: “Limbaugh Dropped From Rams Bid”]

Positive News for Oct. 7th- Oct. 3th

CUBS MAKE HEADLINES IN POSTSEASON

A lack-luster season wasn’t enough to keep the Chicago Cubs out of the national spotlight as the ball club’s tough to handle reputation has made the Cubs one of the most talked about teams of the postseason. As the League Championship Series gets underway, the Cubs are in a position to do what only the ’93 Baltimore Orioles and the ’69 Seattle Pilots have done in making a resounding statement to club owners throughout Major League Baseball. Despite the outcome of the Cubs’ splash-making postseason, the events are just another exciting chapter in a life of a team feared throughout the league as a nightmare to deal with [click here for silver lining: “Chicago Cubs File For Bankruptcy”]

JON AND KATE GOSSELIN GETTING BACK TOGETHER

After months of separation, custody talks and messy divorce speculation, reality TV stars Jon and Kate Gosselin are getting back together. The Jon and Kate plus 8 stars both cite one-another/concern for their family’s assets as the cause of the reunion going as far as to both attain the assistance of professionals to ensure their feelings are properly addressed. While the future is unclear as the reality stars enter the next stage of life amongst each other, character references from friends like celebrity father Michael Lohan will continue to bring legitimacy into the situation. [click here for silver lining: “Gosselins Head To Arbitration Over Money”]

HARRY CONNICK JR. STILL ALIVE

Multi-talented star of film, stage and screen Harry Connick Jr. is still alive according to an Australian variety show claiming Connick Jr. appeared as himself on the program. Connick Jr. had a string of hit songs and film roles throughout the ‘90s, but a turn to the Broadway stage left the public curious to his where-a-bouts and eventual life status. Connick Jr’s appearance on Australian TV along with encouraging posts on the star’s public blog have ensured fans that he is not only still alive, but also that he has no plans to change his life status in the foreseeable future. [click here for silver lining: “’Jackson Jive’ Skit Shocks Connick” ]

Positive News for Sept. 30th - Oct. 6th

ROMAN POLANSKI UNDERGOES METHOD DIRECTING

A gripping story confronting the challenges of human desire within the European correctional system may be on the way from Roman Polanski following the Academy Award winning director’s method research in a Swiss prison. Since September 26th, 2009 Polanski has been utilizing first-person living experience or a method research style to gain a better understanding of life inside a European prison in order to bring a similar truth and realism to the big screen. Polanski is expected to continue his latest research for at least several months adding to the 42 days of correctional life study he amassed while researching American youth in 1978. [click here for silver lining “Swiss Fight Polanski Appeal Against Arrest”]

US CELEBRATES 8-YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH AFGHANISTAN

Several thousand US soldiers are expected to visit Afghanistan to help mark the 8-year anniversary of America’s increased interest in the country. Emotions are running high throughout several branches of the US armed services as soldiers anxiously await the president’s decision on just how many more troops will mark the occasion within the Middle Eastern country itself. Although the military never anticipated an 8-year relationship when it began, US troops will willingly continue to celebrate its involvement until their numbers and presence are no longer needed. [click here for silver lining: “8 Years In, Obama Weighs Afghanistan Options”]

LETTERMAN REACHES CELEBRITY STATUS

Late night talk show host David Letterman has successfully made the transition from TV personality to full-blown celebrity following recent developments regarding his professional and personal life. After 32 years in show business, Letterman’s personal efforts have put him on equal footing and in some cases eclipsed the achievements of his MTV, reality and cable TV contemporaries in the international celebrity spotlight. Furthermore, Letterman’s seasoned abilities could just be the legitimacy CBS needs in order to attract the younger demographic put off by strong characters, plot, and drama. [click here for silver lining: “Letterman Makes In-Studio Apology To Wife, Staffers”]

Positive News for Sept. 23rd- Sept. 29th

WATERFRONT REAL ESTATE ACCESSIBLE IN THE PHILIPPIANS

The gap between rich and poor has grown smaller in the Philippians as a new opportunity has emerged for people of all social classes to own water-front property. This organic, state-wide waterfront movement has unified Filipinos as many people now find themselves on the same economic footing as their fellow neighbors and countrymen irregardless of their previous economic standing. Government officials throughout the area are so overwhelmed by the state of economic and cultural change they have requested the assistance of other countries throughout the world to aid the public in dealing with the rapid and unexpected transition to a classless society. [click here for silver lining: “Lives Claimed By Philippines Flooding”]

AL QAEDA MEMBERS PREPARED FOR U.S. PRISON SYSTEM

The success rate of suicide attacks against the U.S. may subside in the future as a new Al Qaeda tactic prepares suicide bombers for a lifestyle in the U.S. prison system should their bomb fail to detonate. Rather than encourage potential terrorists to implement this new tactic, the procedure for success may deter suicide bombers not wishing to compromise their conservative ideals as new inmates in an all-male prison. Although the U.S. government remains the cornerstone of the west’s war on terror, stereo-types of our prison system may have also answered the call. [click here for silver lining: “Al Qaeda Bombers Store Materials Inside Body Cavity”]

PALIN MEMOIR OFFERS HELP TO WOMEN EVERYWHERE

Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has finished a 400-page memoir on her life which is expected to empower women and men alike in desperate need of a flat, heavy stepping stone in their daily lives. Titled “Going Rogue: An American Life”, the book will help Palin fans and foes alike to stand up and reach higher for goals that were previously out of grasp. Palin’s story of an Alaskan frontierswoman who rose to almost holding the 2nd highest position in the world might just be the boost lower Americans need to help them rise up a little higher. [click here for silver lining: “Palin Memoir Due Out Nov. 17”]

Positive News for Sept. 16th- Sept. 22th

2-YEAR DROUGHT OVER IN THE SOUTH EAST

A drought once described as ‘epic’ has finally come to an end in regions of the American South East after storm clouds moved into the area last week. After waiting for rain for close to 2 years in many parts of the region, people suddenly received more rain than they ever could have dreamed of leaving communities to decide how the water should be distributed. While the rains were most sought after by farmers throughout the South East area, the precipitative good fortune has managed to have a profound affect on everyone in the entire region. [click here for silver lining: “South East Storms Kill At Least 6”]

AMERICA/ALLIES SAFER, MISSILE DEFENSE UNNECESSARY

A Bush-era missile defense system is no longer necessary to protect America and her interests in Europe from enemy attacks as the state of America’s safety has improved throughout the world. American president Barack Obama marked the US’s safety status by moving to remove the outdated missile shield as it was intended only to be useful during a time in the past when hostilities toward America ran high. Relations between the US and countries like Iran, Russia, and possibly factions in Afghanistan could warm up as the US will no longer stand to intimidate countries from interacting openly throughout the region. [click here for silver lining: “US Replaces Bush Plan For Europe Missile Shield”]

CONSERVATIVE STATES BOAST MORE ‘LITTLE’ MIRACLES

In a new study by the Drexel University College of Medicine, an area can almost predict to be blessed with more ‘small’ miracles if it’s people embrace strong conservative religious beliefs in their early lives. The study found a formidable correlation between conservative believes and the frequency in which one of life’s greatest mysteries presents itself amongst shocked and often surprised members of the community. While the traditional belief that miracles tend to only occur in areas embracing liberal view points where they could serve as an example of the benefits of a conservative lifestyle, this study suggests it is the passionate members of the conservative community who are most likely to have their lives forever. [click here for silver lining: “Teen Birth Rates Higher In Highly Religious States”]

Positive News for Sept. 9th- Sept. 15th

YALE STUDENT MAY PROVIDE GRISHAM NOVEL PLOT

A 24-year old female graduate student could be the inspiration for a new John Grisham novel pending the involvement of her prestigious Ivy League university. The ease of Annie Le’s inter-student relationships within university buildings may provide Grisham fans with the legal thrills they crave as the reasons for Le’s lifestyle change continue to surface. The story itself, focusing primarily on the responsibilities a university must undertake for the overall well-being of its students could be aided further by adopting Grisham’s 2-word title pattern: the student. [click here for silver lining: "Yale Student’s Slaying An Inside Job?”]

KANYE WEST PIONEERS AWARD SHOW OPEN FORUM 

The standard structure of the MTV Video Music Awards has changed from a scripted award show to an improvised celebrity open forum thanks to the unceasing innovation of hip-hop’s Kanye West. During an evening that could have been remembered as just the music industry’s night honoring Michael Jackson, West challenged the rules again this time by sharing his opinion on an award’s outcome while its winner was attempting to accept it. Although the VMA’s producers, musicians, and fans were caught off-guard by West’s eye for innovation, the open forum may one day inject legitimacy into the VMAs by offering an opportunity to discuss the artistic principles behind a good video rather than the artist’s popularity.  [click here for silver lining: “West Disrupts Swift’s Speech; Tribute To MJ”]

MAN ATTEMPTS TO SPEED UP LEGAL SYSTEM

A Michigan man must wait for another opportunity to aid the state’s legal system after his attempt for a swift end to the justice process fell short of the mark.  Harlan Drake remained in correctional custody for less than 72 hours before seizing the chance to leap-frog due process in favor of a more traumatic, yet stream-lined method of justice. Drake’s attempt to skirt the legal process comes at an appropriate time as Michigan’s strain on financial means could expect to welcome any/all cuts in judicial spending. [click here for silver lining: “Suspect in Mich. Murders Attempts Suicide”]

Positive News for Sept. 2nd- Sept. 8th

GREAT WHITES IN NEW ENGLAND BRING ‘JAWS’ NEW AUTHENTICITY

 The 1975 fictional summer blockbuster ‘JAWS’ has enjoyed a deep breath of legitimacy after five great white sharks were sighted in New England for the first time in recorded history. The sharks bring a new layer of depth to the film allowing viewers, residents, and anyone who has ever visited the area the opportunity to feel like a part of the film as its events could or could have happened to them. Pending the sharks’ behavior in the New England area future releases may be aided by the pre-movie title screen update “Based On Real Events.”  [click here for silver lining: “Beaches Remain Closed As 5 Great Whites Spotted”]

OKLAHOMA DOCTORS MEET HEISMAN TROPHY WINNER

 Several Oklahoma medical professionals received the opportunity of a lifetime after hosting a surprise visit from 2008 Heisman Trophy Winner Sam Bradford. Bradford, the highly touted University of Oklahoma quarterback shocked medical personnel as he gave up his own personal time over the extended labor day holiday weekend to make his appearance at the local medical facility. Bradford went on to further surprise the hospital staff after promising further visits for the next 2-4 weeks. [click here for silver lining: “OU’s Bradford Has Sprained Shoulder]

CATE BLANCHETT BRINGS REALISM TO STAGE

Taking a page from her illustrious film career, actress Cate Blanchett brought an unfamiliar sense of realism to the Sydney stage during a contemporary performance of A Street Car Named Desire. Although the piece is regarded by some to be Williams’ most prolific work capturing the raw sentimentality of the era, Blanchett opted to push the envelope further offering the audience a performance that would blur the line between acting and living. While some critics say Blanchett’s performance pushed too hard taking audience members completely out of the world of the play, the show’s producers are confident the news of Blanchett’s performance is only going to benefit her and the show in the long run. [click here for silver lining: “Cate Blanchett Hurt On Stage”]

Positive News for August 26th- September 1st

LA WILDFIRE PROMPTS TANGIBLE CONVERSATIONS

A devastating wildfire roaring through the mountains just 15 miles north of downtown Los Angeles has provided residents a legitimate outlet for discussion not related to the entertainment industry. The fire’s obvious affect on air quality and looming mushroom cloud visible from anywhere in the city have ignited a social blaze of their own as residents discuss the real implications of the massive fire that is actually occurring just outside of several densely populated suburban areas of Los Angeles. As the wildfire continues to build despite massive containment efforts, its scale and affect on Los Angeles residents will more than likely wane in favor of fall’s television season unless it’s social dominance can be replaced by an earthquake. [click here for silver lining: “Angry Fire Roars Across 100,000 CA Acres”]

KENNEDY FULFILLS FAMILY LEGACY

The storied order of the Kennedy family has been restored with Edward “Ted” Kennedy’s departure from the political arena last week. Following the pattern 1st established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 and later by Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, Ted Kennedy abruptly retired from political office to spend more time with his family. Although Kennedy was slow to complete the legacy started by his oldest brother almost 4 decades earlier, the belief his retirement was premature remains. [click here for silver lining: “Edward Kennedy Is Dead At 77”]

‘SUFFERING’ DEFINITION UPGRADED

The definition of the term ‘suffering’ has been improved to be synonymous with “inconvenient” after it was used to describe the hours Google users couldn’t access their email accounts. The term once meaning “to endure death, pain or distress” can now be used to take on a lighter connotation in compliance with its popular usage in non-serious situations. News affiliates around the world will need to learn of the word’s new positive definition before inadvertently describing living conditions in third world countries as “not convenient especially in giving trouble or annoyance.” [click here for silver lining: “Gmail Users Suffer Through Outage”]

Positive News for August 19th- August 25th

ROOKIE CIA INTERROGATORS GET RESULTS

Despite an accelerated training program and overwhelming pressure from the post 9/11 White House, the 2001 class of terror interrogators met and surpassed their expectations on the way to securing intelligence. After only a two-week training period the newly certified CIA spies quickly proved themselves as capable interrogators by not only utilizing the standard interrogation procedures clearly outlined in their training, but by also showing the foresight to adjust their techniques to maximize results. The rookies’ ability to constantly invent/evolve techniques while maintaining the CIA’s definition of humanity at that time is just another clear victory in the war on terror. [click here for silver lining: “CIA Threatened To Kill Suspect’s Children”]

MORE METH LABS SHUTTING DOWN

According to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control, the number of meth labs in the United States is expected to come down considerably over the next several years. Crack downs from law enforcement agencies across the country and federal laws restricting the sales of certain meth ingredients are pushing meth dealers out of the traditional market and causing lab closures in states with the worst meth problems. With continued innovation in the fields of science and technology, law enforcement agents believe mass production meth labs will finally become a thing of the past. [click here for silver lining: “New Meth Formula Avoids Anti-Drug Laws”]

CASH-STRAPPED JACKSON STILL GOT ANYTHING

An affidavit released Monday regarding Michael Jackson’s death suggests the late King of Pop could posses anything he wanted despite growing rumors of his financial troubles. Access to personal physicians and any/all forms of prescription strength medical supplies discovered in Jackson’s rented Beverly Hills home illustrate how little the lavish lifestyle of the late pop star was at risk of coming to an end. Although Jackson possessed the financial means to acquire anything he desired, the affidavit states Jackson had to resort to “repeated demands/requests” of those closest to him for the personal provisions he wanted most. [click here for silver lining: “Jackson Begged For Drugs, Affidavit Shows”]

Positive News for August 12th- August 18th

EXCITEMENT BUILDS FOR AFGHAN ELECTION

An upcoming presidential election has emotions running high throughout Afghanistan as people anxiously consider how voting could change their lives. In the capitol city of Kabul, passionate political activists have been campaigning throughout the streets in hopes of appealing to the sensibilities of all potential voters before Thursday’s election. Despite the Afghan government and NATO’s efforts to make the election a symbol of the common normalcy that is to come, it is sure to be a day voters will never forget. [click here for silver lining: "Attacks Rock Kabul Ahead Of Vote"]

FAVRE PLOTS RETURN TO GREEN BAY

Green bay Packers fans could have another opportunity to see their iconic quarterback Brett Favre take Lambeau field this fall following Favre’s announcement he’ll return to professional football. After Favre’s recent retirement from the New York Jets football organization last season, most Packers fans thought they’d never see their beloved franchise quarterback in Green bay again. However, if Favre works hard, remains healthy, and proves he still has what it takes to be a playmaker, Favre could find himself, once again, at the center of Green bay’s attention. [click here for silver lining: "Favre Signs With Vikings"]

3 SEE THE WORLD FROM STRANGER’S PERSPECTIVE

Three east coast men took on the personas of countless strangers recently in an attempt to gain better insight into the world of others. The men’s bold quest to understand the human experience caught the attention of authorities throughout the region who could not believe the scope and tenacity implemented to undertake such an expansive operation. The men’s exploits into the lives of others will be properly documented by the authorities and all parties involved serving as an example for anyone hoping to take on a similar endeavor. [click here for silver lining: "3 Indicted In Largest US Identity Theft Scheme"]

Positive News for August 5th- August 11th

PERCEPTION OF “NIGHTMARE” CHANGING IN THE U.S.

Passengers aboard a stranded Continental airlines flight are a testament to the continual improvement of American life after one passenger referred to the ordeal as a “nightmare.” The comment speaks volumes about the state of the American people’s disposition after such a term has historically been reserved for the utmost terror a helpless sleeping soul could endure. If the worst possible scenario an American’s subconscious can create is a 6-hour, seated stint aboard an airplane, it could be concluded that life in the United States has changed for the better. [click here for silver lining: “Nightmare” As 47 Stuck On Tarmac 6 Hours ]

DISNEY STAR APPEALS TO ALL AGES

The undisputed star power of Hannah Montana actress Miley Cyrus was further confirmed last week following more unsolicited attention from the adult male demographic. The attention, personified in this case by 53-year-old Appling, GA resident Mark McLeod, enforces Cyrus’s ability to captivate adult fans outside of the program’s intended children’s audience. Cyrus’s proven marketability along with the prospect of a long and successful career could continue to keep studio executives and fans like McLeod coming back again and again. [click here for silver lining: “Accused Miley Cyrus Stalker Charged In Ga.”]

CAMERON DOUGLAS ESTABLISHES LIFE OUTSIDE FATHER’S SHADOW

Cameron Douglas, son of acclaimed film star Michael Douglas, has successfully broken free on his own despite the notoriety of his famous acting father. Just as Michael Douglas established himself from his famous father Kirk Douglas, Cameron is carrying on the tradition of Douglas headline makers with his much publicized entrance into the world of business. Though it appears that Cameron was his own driving force carrying his efforts into the spotlight, speculation continues to grow regarding Michael’s roll as a supporter. [click here for silver lining: “Michael Douglas’s Son Could Get Life In Prison”]

Positive News for July 29th- Aug. 4th

PRESIDENT BECOMING MORE ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE

According to new White House information by an independent study, President Barack Obama of the United States is becoming more accessible to the American people. The study, based on personal testimonies provided by those closest to the president, suggests Mr. Obama and Vice President Biden have given citizens of the United States a better opportunity to encounter the country’s leadership on an unencumbered personal level foreign to previous administrations. This unprecedented access to the most powerful man in the world could certainly offer politically minded Americans the chance to share their personal opinions with the president. [click here for silver lining: “Secret Service Cuts Endangering Obama?”]

AMERICAN KIDS GETTING LESS D’S

Children in the U.S. have begun receiving fewer D’s according to research conducted by a top American education and research facility. In a culture familiar with an A-F grading scale, the news of fewer D’s comes as a surprise to children’s professionals accustomed to the current state of youth affairs rampant in the United States. The report’s greatest surprise comes with the news that activities such as watching TV, playing video games, and using computers, activities initially regarded as counter-productive to the reduction of D’s, might actually be the greatest combatant against acquiring the almost failing 4th letter of the alphabet. If the current trend were to continue it is possible both C’s and B’s could also become a thing of the past. [click here for silver lining: “Alarm Bells Over Vitamin D Levels in Kids”]

STRAPPED PACIFIC NORTHWESTERNERS ENJOY TROPICS AT HOME

Americans in the Pacific Northwest received financial assistance last week as unseasonably warm temperatures relieved them from the financial burden of vacationing. Triple-digit temperatures engulfed most of Washington and Oregon allowing people to experience the same tropical climate they might feel in an exotic vacation locale without ever having to leave the confines of their homes. Although tropical temperatures are fairly new to the Pacific Northwest, the continuation of current global trends could make the area an eventual exotic getaway. [click here for silver lining: “Northwest Dries Out in Record Triple-Digit Heat”]