OK, I officially have no problem with this Seattle Times assignment. None, whatsoever - even when they mispell my name in the byline. Nada.

First off, they sent me to cover a really fascinating Senate hearing this morning on the controversy surrounding the remains of "Kennewick Man" ...but more on that later. Hopefully.

But here's the real deal: I'm just getting back into the office, and I get this email from Alicia, who co-wrote and reported that latest series on Enron I've been posting.

Yesterday, our culminating article on the surprising success of Sen. Maria Cantwell and lobbyist Al Aldrich to protect ratepayers from being gouged by Enron ran on B-1, above the fold.

So first, read our (extended) lead...so the email makes sense:

"Al Aldrich came to the nation's capital on the redeye from Seattle last Wednesday with one change of clothes and a return ticket for the next day.

"The chief lobbyist for the Snohomish County Public Utility District (PUD) hoped he would take home something more than his dirty socks — namely, a federal energy bill that could be worth $125 million to Snohomish County ratepayers.

"After five days of protracted political battles, one all-night congressional session and several sock rinses, Aldrich got his prize."


Now, here's Alicia's email, forwarded from Al Aldrich:

"Alicia,

I was out of the office at various meetings in Marysville, SeaTac and Seattle all day yesterday. I just got to my office this morning and found a medium size box on my desk (like the kind they use to haul mail around at the Post Office). It is full of miscellaneous socks and notes from both co-workers and also from customers, at least some of whom were apparently in the building for some other reason, e.g. pay their bill, yesterday.

Our Mail Room said they are actually getting socks and notes
sent in for me as a result of your story, some signed "grateful ratepayer" and similar things. They are delivering them along with the twice a day mail deliveries to our department.

Thanks,

Al Aldrich
Government Affairs Director
Snohomish PUD"

One of the coolest things to happen this year. Brought a much-needed smile to my face. Seattle Times: no complaints.

(hopefully no jinx, either...)