NEWSPAPER OP-ED

By Representative Ivan M. Ivan

January 30, 1997

In order to provide better access to the state legislature, the House and Senate Majorities have established a web site on the internet to provide timely information from the capitol. The main purpose of the site is to disseminate information about legislative news and events to the public. Current press releases, legislation text, e-mail access and information included in bill packets, such as sponsor statements, sectional analyses and other facts, can also be found.

My home page can be accessed at www.akrepublicans.org/Ivan.htm. Posted on my home page is biographical information, legislation I have sponsored and co-sponsored, back up material on the bills I have introduced that will help explain the intent of the legislation, press releases, op-ed pieces that I have submitted to our local newspapers and how to access my office and staff by phone or e-mail. This service is being provided as another link to ensure the public is kept informed on my legislative activities during the session and that of my colleagues as well. For those of you connected to the internet, I hope you will find this service useful. I encourage your comments on this service or the session and the issues facing us.

There are also other means to access the legislature. For cable subscribers, Gavel to Gavel covers House and Senate floor sessions, various committee meetings, press conferences, discussions about the important issues before the legislature and other events as they occur. Every two weeks, KYUK and KDLG have given me the opportunity to discuss the issues and legislation before the legislature. These radio shows also give constituents a chance to pose questions to myself and any guests that may be on the air with me. The KYUK show is on Tuesdays at 2PM every other week and the KDLG show is on Mondays at 10AM every other week. The Legislative Information Offices in Bethel and Dillingham are another source of information. Information officers Anna May Sorenson in Dillingham and Nelson Davies in Bethel are excellent resources and have the latest information on legislation and committee schedules for your use. The state's teleconference system is conducted through these offices and give constituents a chance to testify on legislation being heard by that particular committee. I encourage you to participate in teleconferences on those issues which have an impact on you or our district. You may also send public opinion messages to legislators through the LIO.

Of course, my office is always available to answer questions or provide information. My toll free number is 1-800-323-4942. All these services are at your disposal. I encourage you to use them.

Quyana.