Time flies when you're having fun . . .

I've been a powerful state legislator for 25 days now, and they've passed at a pretty good clip. Here's what I've been up to.

I said during the campaign that one of my main reasons for running was to try to reform the culture of the Capitol. I've been doing that by talking with my colleagues, sponsoring bills to close loopholes in ethics laws (see the list of my bills below) and trying to focus public attention on the ethical situation in Juneau. You can read my February 2 Compass Piece on ethics that ran in the Anchorage Daily News by clicking here.

I've also been trying to lead by example. I'm not accepting any of the little gifts that come a legislator's way and not eating the free food that abounds here. That has the added advantage of keeping my waistline somewhat in check.

What affect is all this having? Here's a clue.

In addition, I'm trying to save the state some money by moving $1.3 billion in excess revenue from the general fund to the state's savings account and cancel the special election in April, which would save about $1 million (again, see the list below).

On the personal side, the woman who lets me live with her and I have set up housekeeping in a condo across Gastineau Channel from the Capitol. She's working on a sourdough cook book and I'm putting what I hope are the finishing touches on my second mystery novel.

I'm going to try to send you one of these E-News updates every week, so look for the next one sometime next Friday. If you've got a minute, drop me a line and tell me what's up with you and how you think we're doing.

Thanks, and here's the list of my bills so far:

Best Wishes,