Slydecki sounds off on campaign issues

Being Frank, by Frank Ameduri

Jocko Slydecki is a potential candidate for every open seat, and we neglected to invite him to or recent candidate forum. We allowed Slydecki to answer a few forum questions here. The candidates are running for Mat-Su Borough Assembly and school board.

Q: Since the theory of evolution is taught in our schools, should the theory of Creatino also be taught?

A: Are you a heathen or a zealot? If you must know the truth, I believe in God. I also believe in evolution -- I dont' think the two are mutually exclusive. I don't really care what you believe in; it's none of my business. When I was in public school, they didn't teach Creation. We didn't pray in class. Now people say, "They're trying to to keep God out of public schools." I've got news for you. "They" are the U.S. Constitution, and it also allows you to bear arms, speak your mind, and a few other nice things. Stop worrying, people. You can't keep God out of school any more than you can keep sweet off honey. If religious parents are doing their jobs at home, God goes wherever their kids go. Stop asking the schools to do your job. Teach your kids what you believe in, and let other people do the same. Teach them to not be spoiled brats. Teach them to be confident and to think for themselves. The problem these days isn't that God can't get into school. The problem is that parents want public education to solve all of society's ills.

Q: What would you do to control growth? How do you feel about planning?

A: Growth is here; learn to love it. Planning is the key, and if you're opposed to intensive planning, you're no friend to the Mat-Su. Here's a little pepper-spray blast of truth for you. There are people in every commuinity who are more concerned with personal wealth than with the public good. If those people make all the important decisions, chain stores and franchised businesses will smile all the way to the bank, and your veiw of the mountains will be obscured by glowing corporate symbols. If you elect people who care about the community first, you'll still get growth; it'll just come slower, and you'll get it your way. Giant chain stores and such don't want to come here to do you a favor. They will come here because there are enough of you to make them richer. Fair enough. If it's our money they're after, let's give it to them on our terms. Free advice: If some politician tells you the Acme SuperMart of Neato Stuff is your best friend, close the door and check your pockets.

Q: The borough is seeking a 1 percent sales tax. How would you solve the fiscal challenges here?

A: The bird of economic bliss sings two songs: "Hey, Good Lookin' Business, Whatcha Got Cookin,'" and "Give me a T for Taxes." You can't just attract any business here, though. The new hospital will provide high-paying jobs, aand as long as manyh of those jobs are filled with local people, it's a win for everyone. Businesses that provide low-paying jobs and few employee benefits do nothing to change our status as a bedroom community. Attract businesses that keep professionals working in the Valley, and then provide training opportunities so more Valley people can pursue those jobs. Industry is fine, but only if it doesn't suck money and professionals out of our community. And don't be afraid of taxes. Why not implement a graduated sales tax so big-ticket, luxury items are taxed at a higher rate than lower-cost items? And don't tax food or medicine at all. That's not so regressive, is it? If you can afford the luxuries of life, you ought to give something back to your community.

Frank Ameduri can forward messages to Jocko Slydecki.