Vermont gov gives press 1 last dog and pony show

[December 23, 2010]  MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) -- Sometimes derided for his "dog and pony show" press conferences, outgoing Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas used his last one to trot out the real thing.

The Republican governor, who leaves office next months after eight years, appeared at his weekly press conference Wednesday with a miniature horse and a Labrador retriever, in a light-hearted jab at his image. The press corps poked some fun, too, giving him a yellow Wal-Mart greeter T-shirt and a set of scissors to kid him about his penchant for ribbon-cuttings and other ceremonial event.

Douglas will be succeeded by Democrat Peter Shumlin.

[Associated Press; By JOHN CURRAN]

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