Candidate says his party affiliation is key to effectiveness

Spectrum, by Mark Neuman

As I write this article, I cannot help but feel a tremendous amount of pride. Here is a family man who has been married to the most wonderful woman in the world for 21 years, with two teen-age children -- a 15-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter.

I am blessed in that I sit in a home, which we built as a family after we lost everything in the Big Lake wildfire. Twenty-two years ago we cleared our land and built our home out of pocket. If we couldn't afford it, we did without. I have worked as a farmer, carpenter, equipment operator and mechanic. Now, I own and operate a custom woodworking business, I build fine furniture.

Now I find myself as a contender in the race for House District 15. My start came this spring, after listening to the governor's State of the State address. I was upset about the idea of spending the permanent fund to further fund state overspending, and the complete loss of the longevity bonus program.

I decided to apply to be a delegate to the Conference of Alaskans. Darned if I didn't get selected. I was the only delegate without a pedigree behind their name. The media grabbed hold of me and labeled me "the average guy," and I was proud of that. I fought hard to maintain the permanent fund as is, and we succeeded.

Last June 1, because I was not particularly satisfied with our current representation, I decided to enter the Republican primary and defeated Beverly Masek in August. I would like at this time to thank her for her years of public service.

I joined the Republican party so I would be able to have some authority when I get to Juneau. By being in the majority caucus, the folks of District 15 would have strong representation, with the ability to hold key committee chairmanships and positions. I would also be able to address such issues as closed-door meetings. If you can't get in the door, you can't vote to open those doors.

Here is my stand on the issues:

Long-range budget -- I believe oil prices will remain high for quite some time, due to a variety of conditions -- growth in China, which will continue to demand a large market of natural resources; unrest in Nigeria, Venezuela and the Middle East; political problems with Yukos in Russia; a lack of adequate production facilities in the U.S. and devastation by hurricanes to oil platforms in the gulf of Mexico.

Alaska is looking strong in its resource development goals: a huge step forward with the recent advance of the gas pipeline, Pebble and Fort Knox gold mines and other precious metal production. Locally, we have the Knik Arm crossing, advancements at Port MacKenzie, timber, gravel extraction and great tourism opportunities.

We do need to protect private-property rights. Development does not belong in our front yards.

I will fight to protect our Second Amendment gun rights and equal access to our fish and game. I proudly claim to be the only NRA-endorsed candidate in this race.

Access to your government lands for recreational experiences must be preserved and advanced.

As a small business owner, I understand the burden government can put on us. Every piece of new paperwork can cost jobs. Affordable health insurance will be a priority and I'll work with the local and federal officials to help find solutions.

We need to find ways to fully fund our K-12 schools

As a youngster I was taught to respect my elders, I will also do my best to provide as much as I can to help our seniors.

I will work hard for open and accessible government. I will also be an active participant in your local community council, chamber and social events. My personal response to your inquiries will be paramount.

I am proud to have received support from a broad range of citizens, business leaders and service organizations. They don't qualify as special interest groups, just real people with real concerns. They range from Alaska nurse and physician associations, to union and nonunion groups. I am particularly proud of support by members of the NRA and other outdoor organizations. These are folks from all around the table.

My commitment as a representative to you is to listen to every side of an issue and make honest and fair decisions.

Having a good working relationship with the fellow legislators and business leaders will be instrumental in moving forward for the people of District 15. I am the candidate who will be able to work with the majority caucus and am in the best position to receive committee positions helpful to residents of this district.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 892-7906 or send e-mail to neuman04@hotmail.com.

I will make you proud of your state representative!

Please vote for me, Mark Neuman, on Nov. 2, for state House District 15.

Thank you for your support.

Mark Neuman is a candidate for House District 15.