Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Few other regions of the state, even the country, can count themselves as lucky as we are to live in such a beautiful and vibrant community as ours. That’s not to say we’re without our own challenges, however. Despite those challenges, one thing is certain: We are all committed to providing a better future by working hard today.

Transportation is one area in particular that affects our region in so many ways and it’s one that I’m passionate about. As the chair of the House Transportation Committee, I’ve worked hard to address transportation issues across the state, from “mega projects” such as the 520 bridge to local road repairs. We’re also taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation—the state’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. We can reduce transportation’s impact by investing in new vehicle technology and by encouraging public transportation, transit-oriented development and telecommuting.

During the 2009-10 biennium I’ll be returning to the Health Care & Wellness Committee where we’ll address our state’s physical and mental health services and find out how our system can be improved. As a nurse, I understand the importance of making health care more accessible and have first-hand experience with many health care issues. Healthy people make for strong communities and bright futures.

I’m very excited about the incredible team of legislators that will be serving you in Olympia over the next biennium. All of us are focused on achieving what’s best for our region and are committed to working together to reach those goals.

With your help, we can achieve these things and more. Check back here regularly to find out the latest news from Olympia. I also encourage you to sign up for my E-Memo (see the icon in the upper-right hand side of this page), an easy way to stay in touch.