The state Capitol was beginning to bustle with lawmakers Monday as the state's 147 legislators prepared to convene the 61st Legislature that begins at noon today.

Today's highlight comes when Gov. John Hoeven delivers his State of the State address to a joint session in the House chambers at 1 p.m. Watch a live Webcast of the speech at www.governor.nd.gov.

Chief Justice Gerald VandeWalle will address lawmakers in the House chamber at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday for his state of the judiciary speech.

Spirit Lake Sioux Chairwoman Myra Pearson will address lawmakers in the House chamber at 1:15 p.m. Thursday regarding state and tribal relations.

Throughout the Capitol, committee rooms have been vacuumed, the brass that covers doors and handrails polished and all the Christmas decorations dismantled except one remaining Christmas tree still standing across from the Brynhild Haugland room.

- Brian Duggan