County commissioners are expected to finalize this week a plan for an expansion of the Hennepin County morgue through a merger with Dakota and Scott counties. If the merger proceeds, Hennepin County medical examiners will start providing services for Dakota and Scott counties Jan. 1 at its downtown Minneapolis morgue -- which will be remodeled to handle its expanded staff and caseload.

The wireless provider had announced a fee for customers paying service bills online via a debit or credit card. The FCC threatened to investigate and the company reneged the "convenience fee" due to customer feedback.

A mobile service van from the Disabled American Veterans is offering free help during its upcoming tour. The mobile office staff can answer questions on everything from filing claims to addressing problems with medical care.

Local movie critics are unanimous in their praise of "Flight," the Denzel Washington dramatic thriller that begins with a spectacular plane crash sequence and then ascends into a riveting drama about addiction. Also reviewed is the dramedy "The Sessions," starring Alexandria native John Hawkes, and the Disney computer-animated comedy "Wreck-It Ralph."

Al Leighton, owner of radio stations in St. Cloud, Detroit Lakes and Grand Forks, N.D., passed away Thursday morning, the St. Cloud Times reports. Leighton began his career in broadcasting more than 50 years ago in Brainerd, after serving in World War II. He is a past president of the Minnesota Broadcasters Association and a member of the Minnesota Museum of Broadcast Hall of Fame. Leighton was 86.