Idaho Gov. Butch Otter worked some budget magic to trim the state's looming shortfall for the coming year down to manageable size and avoid calling for any tax increases, in the budget he unveiled to state lawmakers Monday. They were skeptical, however, because Otter's plan relies on modest economic growth in the remainder of this year and into next year - and lawmakers aren't convinced it'll happen.

"I hope that he's right," said House Speaker Lawerence Denney. "I would love it if we can make it work with what he's given us." Rep. Maxine Bell, R-Jerome, co-chair of the Legislature's joint budget committee, said "We are not out of this year yet. ... One robin does not a spring make." She said, "I'm not even cautiously optimistic." You can read my full story here at spokesman.com.