Take a deep breath, yes, this is from the Dem Gaz in NWA and written by the champion editorial writer of all things Republican, George Arnold. He says some nice things about our Governor (gasp) and the ledge and has great hopes for things moving through the ledge for NWA. What Arnold forgot to mention is that if anything gets done for NWA, it’ll be because of the Democrats in the Ledge. The 23 Republican’s couldn’t pass jack doodoo for NWA or anyting else if they wanted too, they’d need at least 28 Democrats voting with them to get anything passed. So if NWA gets a bone or two thrown their way in this session, Arnold should thank the Democrats, even though NWA (Benton County) hasn’t sent a Democrat to the Ledge since 1994. George, it’s a nice piece, but you didn’t go far enough, but you still have plenty of time to make ammends.

 Hopeful developments

It’s dangerous to say such a thing, but this session of the Legislature—the much-derided Ledge—has some good things going for it, specifically as far as Northwest Arkansas is concerned. The Ledge could be on the verge of doing right on several important matters. Yes, it’s still early. We’re only 40-some days into the session. There’s plenty of time for things to go haywire. And if past experience is a guide, some things will. But to the casual observer, this session has the feel of one that is proceeding under the guiding hand of somebody who’s been around for a while and knows how things work. Governor Mike Beebe seems to be that somebody. His many years of legislative experience appear to be serving him well. Not only does he seem able to get things done, he also seems to be enjoying his interaction with the legislators in the process.