Headlines @ Closin’ Time — 2/8/06

A drawing released by the Zhongda Zhang/ Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology in Beijing shows an artist’s conception of Guanlong wucaii, the earliest known tyrannosaur. (AP Photo/HO/Zhongda Zhang-IVPP)

* Wal-Mart to open some 1,500 new stores: On top of nearly 3,200 world’s largest retailer already operates /Associated Press —But will the uber-corporation be able to open ones in Hayden and Moscow. Inquiring minds want to know.

* Newspaper intimidated by drug-running thugs: Editor: Reporters will steer clear of critical stories after attack on newsroom /Laredo Morning Times, Texas — Not one of journalism’s finer moments.

* Scandal shakes up small Arkansas town: Mayor, top cop arrested, police chief’s wife allegedly bedded prisoners /Associated Press — Arkansas? Hmm. Isn’t that where a former president of ours if from? Whatever happened to him and his missus?

* Wife sues miner’s brother, tabloid over hospital photo: National Enquirer paid $800 for picture showing Randy McCloy on life support /CNN — All the brother got was $800? He should be sued — for stupidity.

* 86 evangelical leaders fight ‘global warming’: Claim ‘millions of people could die in this century because of climate change’ /New York Times — Rick Warren should stick to teaching people how to lead a purpose-driven life and let the scientists battle over global warming.