Bloglander

Empty chair, full applause —The civil rights activist Liu Xiaobo, imprisoned by the Chinese government as a subversive, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in spirit, represented by an empty chair, a large portrait, and sustained cheers and applause. (BBC)

Full chairs, fuller imaginations — In a more local noble act, the Spokane Library trustees responded to the pleas of children from some of the city's poorer neighborhoods and crafted a budget that will keep the East Side Library from closing. At least for now. (SR)

Police name officers in shooting — Spokane Police released the names of two officers who fatally shot a man last weekend, after responding to a call at the Special K, a north-side tavern. One of the officers had recently saved a suicidal man in a daring rescue on the Maple Street Bridge. (KXLY)

Megaloads under the tree? — After wrapping up a two-day hearing about issuing permits for gigantic oil refinery gear to be trucked over Lolo Pass, a decision is expected by Christmas. (SR)

The prince and the protest — Ooops, Friday Morning Headlines demands to know which Einstein thought it was a good idea to route the royal motorcade, with Prince Charles and Camilla headed for a night on the town, right through a mob of rowdy protesters? Heads will roll! (BBC)