# Everything Else

Good Jobs Report Boosts US Economy

The overall unemployment rate ticked down last month. But the real good news is the past upward revisions showing the economy added more than 350,000 private sector jobs over the past three months. Other positive economic reports also came out for the U.S. this week.

# Everything Else

Why There's Never Been a Better Time to be Alive: The Rational Optimist

A British scientist and author of the book, The Rational Optimist, makes the case that mankind's progress has been vigorous, widely spread, and not just benefiting the privileged few. Matt Ridley says average citizens are becoming healthier, cleaner, smarter, kinder, happier, and more peaceful. And he has the facts to back it up:

# Everything Else

Mom Who was Criticized for Letting Her Kid Walk Alone, Transforms Town

A few years ago, a mom in a small Mississippi town was chastised by neighbors and the press for teaching her 10-year-old son to walk to soccer practice by himself. A cop picked him up, scolded him about safety, and warned the mother that she could be prosecuted for "child endangerment." It was the turning point that led to the transformation of attitudes and laws in their town.

# Everything Else

Don't Be Afraid to Fail

A list of famous celebrities who failed before they succeeded appeared in the Wall Street Journal some 20 years ago. From their stories comes the moral, 'Don't worry about failure.'

# Everything Else

Blue Whales Put on Rare Show off Southern Calif Coast (Video)

Ten years ago seeing any blue whales in Southern California would have been rare. This year, there already has been more than 500 sightings of the world's largest creature.

# Everything Else

Tuskegee Airmen Join Obamas for White House‎ Screening of New Lucas Film About the Black Aviators

President Barack Obama and the First Lady invited Star Wars Director George Lucas and a few of the cast members from his new film, Red Tails, to the White House Friday for a movie night. But the guests of honor were a few of the original Tuskegee Airmen, the black WW II aviators whose story -- brought to the big screen thanks to Lucas's own money -- is opening in theaters on January 20.

# Everything Else

Movie Effects Crew Designs Mermaid Suit for Double Leg Amputee (Video)

Weta Workshop, the special FX house behind the costumes and props in the Lord of the Rings and Chronicles of Narnia films, have given a double leg amputee the ability to swim.

# Everything Else

7 Steps to Positive Thinking

A positive attitude in whatever you do will make things easier, and even enjoyable. Why not make 2008 the year you achieve your goal and bring that idea to life using these tips?