31.   Generally, the ensembles were well rehearsed, and each session began with a polished, stageworthy performance.

32.   In any event, a change in attitudes in this fiercely law-and-order state was evident from the moment the legislative session began in January.

33.   In these early days since the session began, the proceedings have been short and largely ceremonial.

34.   Investors, who have been nervous about the market for months, had many reasons to sell equities before the trading session even began.

35.   Lawmakers will begin work on tobacco legislation as soon as the congressional session begins late this month, but the prospect for enactment of legislation is uncertain.

36.   Meanwhile, the third straight day of budget talks at the White House produced no substantial progress despite optimistic overtures from the top players as the session began.

37.   Organizers obliged and the afternoon session began with a lilting chant by an Afghan holy man well known throughout the Islamic world for his song-like prayers.

38.   Pennsylvania lawmakers are expected to address the issue of local property tax reform when the new legislative session begins in January.

39.   Republicans said the session began with a grim polling presentation from David Winston, a Republican consultant.

40.   Regular legislative sessions traditionally begin with a lot of fanfare in Texas, partly because they are held only every other year.