The plea deal could mean less prison time for him, and it could also keep a number of high-profile athletes from having to take the stand and answer questions about drug use.

NPR: BALCO Plea Deal May Keep Stars Off Stand

Among those who keep track of slightly less high-profile missing-person cases, the story will be strikingly familiar.

ECONOMIST: The high-tech hunt for a missing adventurer

Be sure to keep an eye on things moving into next year as more high profile cards are revealed.

FORBES: . Announced at Pro Tour Return to Ravnica

They have tried to keep alive hopes of peace between Israelis and Palestinians, to make up for a lack of high-profile American efforts.

BBC: EU sidelined by US