Gov. Jim Douglas and his New York counterpart, George Pataki haven't exactly seen eye to eye on International Paper's plans to test tire burning at its Ticoderoga, N.Y., plant. With Douglas' support, Vermont has gone to court to fight that test.

There are signs, though, that Douglas' and Pataki's friendship is not irreparably harmed by the difference. Pataki, who's not running for re-election but is sniffing out a presidential run, has sent some of his spare campaign money Douglas' way, to the tune of $5,600, according to an Associated Press article out today.

Will the thank you note mention anything about burning bridges?

- Terri Hallenbeck