Mark ParkinsonMark ParkinsonBy Barb Shelly, Kansas City Star editorial page columnist

Kathleen Sebelius had her strengths as governor, but her speeches were snooze-inducing.

Her replacement, Mark Parkinson, looks like he's going to be different.

The newly sworn-in governor just gave a warm, rousing talk to the Kansas Legislature in which he spoke of the challenges at hand and his vision for Kansas in 2030.

Parkinson's best line was when he was discussing Texas's legal challenge to the federal government's selection of a site in Manhattan, Kan., as the future home of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF).

"Not only will we mess with Texas. We will crush your frivolous attempts to take it away," Parkinson said.

His vision for Kansas in 2030 included thriving agricultural and aircraft industries taking advantage of new overseas markets, development of an "animal health corridor," a burgeoning wind energy industry and increased prestige for the state's universities.

While many worry about population decline, Parkinson predicted an increase, headed by Latino and Asian households.

"Unlike state that shun these populations, we will recognize them as a great opportunity," Parkinson said.

Kind of bold. Good for him.

Parkinson, a Democrat, repeated his call for everybody to put aside partisan difference to solve the state's budget crisis.

Now the test is about to begin. Mike O'Neil, the Republican House speaker, has said he would oppose any attempt to postpone tax cuts that the Legislature approved for businesses in recent years.

That kind of stand won't get the budget crisis solved. We'll see if Parkinson is as good at forging compromises as he is at giving speeches.