OLYMPIA -- The Legislature is scheduled to wrap up a week from today, although some legislators are saying they wouldn't bet the rent or the budget on that happening. Tax and spending proposals still have to be reconciled, and many people mention "25 and 50".

It's not a second grade arithmetic question, it's the bare minimum of votes any plan has to get in the Senate and House, respectively, to pass. It doesn't seem that any plan yet will pass that test.

In the meantime, Olympic athletes from Washington will be honored with a resolution during the day and a reception in the evening at the governor's mansion.

Evergreen State College students are taking part in a nationwide protest against cuts to higher education programs and are planning to travel from the campus to the Capitol this afternoon as part of their demonstration. One report is they plan to bring a coffin to carry up the steps. Extra state troopers will be on  hand to make sure, in the words of on state official "all are kept civil."

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