When he introduced his private anti-smoking bill in the legislature last March, rookie MLA Dave Rodney, the only Canadian to climb Everest twice, seemed about to summit his first political mountain. Bill 201, which would ban smoking in all Alberta workplaces, including bars and casinos, is one of only two private-members' bills introduced since the election. It sped through its first and second reading. But then some of Rodney's fellow conservatives, including Premier Ralph Klein, let go of the rope, forcing amendments to the bill that would allow smoking in bars, restaurants and bingo halls where minors aren't permitted. The amendments also allow municipalities to override the legislation; meaning you can puff in one town, but must butt out in another. Rodney's bill touched off rounds of fiery debate in the media and the legislature. The Conservatives found liberals and unions making base camp with their own man. It shouldn't surprise that Rodney, elected MLA for Calgary-Lougheed just last November, created a storm so soon in his political career. Politics can, at times, says Rodney, be as physically draining as mountain climbing. But the 40-year-old adventurer, tour-guide, filmmaker, writer and professional keynote speaker has excelled at overcoming obstacles. As chairman of the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC), he's determined to use his influence to decrease drug and alcohol use by Albertans. - WG