The timing just worked out that way – Gov. Butch Otter will be announcing new state budget cuts today at an 11 a.m. press conference, and then at 5:30, the governor and first lady will host a ceremonial tree lighting with singing, cookies, Starbucks coffee, hot cider, and free books for kids, all “in the spirit of the season.” Otter invites the public, “Come join us to enjoy some music and the warmth of fellowship and goodwill.” The public tree-lighting will be at the corner of Capitol Boulevard and Bannock Street in downtown Boise, and will include performances by the 25th Army Band, Meridian’s Cecil D. Andrus Elementary School Honor Choir, First Lady Lori Otter reading “The Night Before Christmas in Idaho,” and a sing-along of “Oh Christmas Tree.”

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