It's just a reflection of the Statehouse in a series of nearby windows in Boise, but the symbolism certainly pertains to the current state of politics at the Idaho Legislature. If debate continues to Saturday, 2009 will tie for the longest legislative session in Idaho history.

Majority Caucus Chairman Rep. Ken Roberts talks during a powerpoint presentation Monday at a press conference at the Capitol Annex. "Our business has been completed and there is no reason to continue with this legislative session," said House Speaker Rep. Lawrence Denney.

Jim Hine rides east up Cartwright Road in the Boise Foothills Sunday during a rainstorm. "It was a little sketchy on the downhill," said Hine, who admitted despite the weather it was still a good ride. I've done this ride a few times in the pouring rain. The climbs are not bad, it's the descents that can get cold.

But why is it green? I was driving through downtown Boise Sunday when I happened to glance over at the fountain at the Boise Centre on the Grove. It isn't Photoshop it really is green water. No one in the area could tell me why it was this color. Maybe it's the work of one of those Super Heroes?

Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter leaves Friday's press conference at the Borah Building. The Governor was in a good mood Friday, even poking fun at Statesman's Dan Popkey at one point in the press conference. Otter announced the signing of several education bills and a transportation bill.

Some mistakes last longer than others. You can forgive the small squirrel tracks left in semi-dry cement (upper left). But the misguided footstep of a worker's boot? That's a boo-boo that lasts decades.

The House took the floor this afternoon to power through dozens of bills in hopes of wrapping up their business on Wednesday. During debate on an education funding bill, Rep. Gary Collins (center) talks on the phone while Rep. Paul Shepherd reviews a chart depicting federal stimulus money for education.

I’ve been stranded in the office lately, so it was such a pleasure to get out and — go shopping.
I’ve been working on a Heart of Treasure Valley column about Charlie Sety, a volunteer with Friends in Action, which helps senior citizens. (Watch for her story in Life on May 3.) On Monday, Charlie drove three women to the dollar store (a place to economize on a tight budget).