In a free society, regulation without representation is just as wrong as taxation without representation.

     It is a wise person who learns from their own experience, but a wiser person who learns from the experiences of others. So I DO care how they do it “outside”. Can we do it better?

     I have found that I learn most from those who have different opinions than I have. More can be learned from frank and open discussion when everyone is given the same respect that they expect for themselves.

     I refer to myself as an Optimistic Realist using the following definitions.

Optimist: n.

1. One who usually expects a favorable outcome.
2. A believer in philosophical optimism.

Optimistic: adj.

1. Expecting the best in this best of all possible worlds.

Realist: n.

1. One who is inclined to literal truth and pragmatism.
2. A practitioner of artistic or philosophic realism.
3. A philosopher who believes that universals are real and exist independently of anyone thinking of them.

     Another way I describe my philosophy is “A Positive Mental Attitude coupled with common sense and reality”.

     Like Mark Twain, a stranger is just a friend I haven’t met. So let’s introduce ourselves and we’ll be friends.

     I worked in the oil fields of Cook Inlet and Prudhoe Bay for nearly 15 years. One Texan in particular that we worked with, whenever we tried to help him or show him how to do something would say, “Boy, I came up here a know-un, not a learn-un”. Well I’m going into this a learn-un. Believe me, it’s very humbling and exciting at the same time. I will need your help.

I will do everything I can to promote:

1. True equality and respect for all Mat-Su residents. We are all in this together.
2. Safer and better schools, streets, and neighborhoods.
3. Better education for all, including apprenticeships and internships.
4. More responsible and efficient departments and agencies.
5. A brighter future for all.

After all, I consider this an opportunity to be a servant to the people of Mat-Su.