1.   And earlier this month, hearings began on the controversial V-chip ratings system, also advocated by the FCC chairman, Reed Hundt.

2.   Anxious to avoid any appearance of overconfidence, the Democrats, like the Republicans, were quick to point out that the hearings had just begun.

3.   As her hearing has begun to decline, Chalom said that she has begun to learn sign language.

4.   As the hearings begin Wednesday, he will give an indication what the substance of his approach will be.

5.   As the hearing began, Kennedy joined his junior colleague, US Senator John F. Kerry, in introducing Egan to the subcommittee on European Affairs.

6.   Ashcroft was greeted before the hearing began with hugs by several of his former colleagues.

7.   Bailey said Gorton and other GOP panel members have good reason to want Foster to leave the fray before televised hearings begin.

8.   Before the hearing began, Beth Wells, a Resource Center lawyer, stood in the courtroom gallery and implored the judge to grant a continuance.

9.   Before the hearing began, people stood in a line that wrapped around City Hall, waiting to enter the building to testify.

10.   Before the hearing began, the judge and the lawyers met in the hallway working out last-minute details.