It could happen

Or it could not happen.

A lot of news stories depend on the power of one word: could (or its cousin, “may”)

This week in “could:”

Looming “dairy cliff” could double milk prices (La Crosse Tribune).

Ricky Rubio could make Friday return to Timberwolves. (Sporting News). Nope. He didn’t. But the writer covered himself by noting if Rubio didn’t play last night, he could play soon.

Rosemount refinery project could boost area fortunes (Star Tribune)

Smoking could make hangovers worse. (CBS)

Raising Medicare age saves money for taxpayers but could lead to higher premiums for seniors (Morning Call)

‘Near Blizzard Conditions’ Could Come to Parts of Minnesota (Patch)

Fiscal cliff: Minnesota health programs could see $37 million in cuts (PiPress)

Why A ‘Fiscal Cliff’ Failure Could Help The Economy (NPR)

Analysis: Supreme Court gay marriage ruling could set monumental precedent (Telegraph) You think?