The Japanese election swept the opposition into power, in a historic victory, ending the long ruling Conservative party in Japan. The conservative party has been in power for most of the post war era. Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso has conceded defeat in the country's election, handing victory to the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ). The centrist DJP says it will shift the focus of government from supporting corporations to helping consumers and workers. Japan is suffering record unemployment and trying to recover from a crippling recession.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Olmert has reportedly been indicted.

Columbia President Alvaro Uribe, 62, has been diagnosed with swine flu, after attending a summit in Bariloche, Argentina, with other Latin American officials. On August 11, Costa Rican President Oscar Arias announced he had swine flu, he was quarantined and has since recovered.

President Karzai of Afghanistan, is said to be increasing his lead over his opponent.

Former first daughter, Jenna Bush, has reportedly joined the Today show, as a special correspondent.

Pat Robertson, 79, has reportedly had surgery to correct an irregular heartbeat. He is expected to make a full recovery according to his doctors.

The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President George W. Bush,
is reportedly going to be released early.

A wildfire near Los Angeles, is heading north, threatening thousands of homes.

Heath Solcum pulled off a surprise victory at the Barclay's PGA tournament. He made a 20 foot par at the 18th hole putting him ahead of Tiger Woods and others who were tied with Tiger, by one shot. This was Solcum's third PGA career victory, he won $1.35 million dollars.

Former Governor Sarah Palin will head off to Asia for the first time in her life, to start her speech giving journey. She has reportedly received thousands of requests for speaking engagements. Six figure fees are reportedly the going rate for her words of wisdom. Amazing.

A complete revamping of strategy is said to be needed in Afghanistan.

White oak crosses mark the graves of Ted and Bobby Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery. The burial was completed on Saturday in the early darkness of the evening, for Senator Kennedy, with his wife Vicki and all of his family members and friends gathered at the grave site, to say farewell. Earlier 500-600 current and former staff members lined the Capitol steps as the funeral procession came by, stopping for Senator Kennedy's wife to greet the crowd and for Representative Patrick Kennedy, his sister Kara and brother Teddy, Jr., to thank the people. An estimated 4,000 people were gathered across the street and sang America the Beautiful, as the procession left to go to the cemetery.

The Discovery space shuttle arrived safely at the International Space Station.

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