Good morning and happy National Traffic Directors Day.
The top regional and state news story this morning details the Canadian government’s about-face on its policy of seeking the extradition of its citizens who are one death row – the development makes it highly unlikely convicted murderer Ronald A. Smith will avoid execution in Montana. And, if I may, I would like to point out that the Beacon broke this story by linking to a Canadian news story early Thursday (ahem). Republican candidate for governor, Billings state Sen. Roy Brown made an introductory tour of the state yesterday, swinging through Kalispell to greet supporters and lay out some policy ideas. Katrin Frye writes about the visit to Glacier High by the father of one of the victims of the Columbine shootings. Mark Riffey has excellent photos of the young musicians performing in the Columbia Falls High School band. And Myers Reece previews the state football championship tournament.
In state news, Sen. John Cobb, R-Augusta, has filed a lawsuit against the state, saying the Schweitzer administration illegally administered additional tax rebates. Another showdown between the U.S. Senate and President Bush is brewing in Washington over an expansion of children’s health insurance. And while a bill passed the House imposing royalties on hard-rock mining, the legislation appears unlikely to clear the Senate.
It feels like a good weekend to see a movie, especially with two big ones coming out: Bee Movie and American Gangster. Both are getting largely positive reviews and that sounds like a good way to spend a cold fall evening. Have a great weekend.