Thursday Buffet: Third Party Candidates, BHS Principal Leaving, Stiletto Heel Sprint

By Dan Testa, 9-04-08

Good morning; on this date in 1886 Apache Chief Geronimo surrendered.

On the Beacon this morning, the conversation is already clearly kicking over my story on whether third-party candidates will affect the outcome of the presidential election in Montana. Bigfork High School Principal Thom Peck will be departing from his position after six years, though more details on the reasons why should be forthcoming this week. Suspicion-based drug testing is in place for Whitefish High School this year. There are only three more Columbia Falls Farmers' markets left this season so get your veggies while you can. And Beacon columnist Dave Skinner praises a Wyoming federal judge for issuing an injunction against the Clinton-era Roadless Rule.

In state news, Montana's cattle have lost federal disease-free status for brucellosis, and mandatory testing must now occur on all cattle heading out of state. Oil drilling on the Bakken formation in western North Dakota is being stunted by a lack of infrastructure to bring the oil to market. The number of Montanans with health insurance increased in 2007. A district judge ruled yesterday that the state shield law which protects reporters in Montana from having to reveal anonymous sources also protects anonymous commentators on Web sites. Republican U.S. Senate candidate Bob Kelleher said he can beat Democratic incumbent Max Baucus. After a messy legal battle, Yellowstone Club owner Edra Blixseth announced the joint management of the private community by an Arizona firm.

And finally, check out these women in Australia sprinting 80 meters in stiletto heels. Looks painful. Have a great day. [End of article]