November 1, 2002

TOCCI MISSED 1300 VOTES

I'm pretty sure that if I didn't show up for work on enough occasions, I'd soon be out of a job. So I was stunned to learn that over the past dozen years, Ron Tocci has neglected to show up for more than 1300 votes in the New
York Assembly.

1300 missed votes. A dismal average of over 100 missed votes per year.
Some of them literally on matters of life and death. Not bothering to show up
for that many votes sends a message I read loud and clear-- that he doesn't
care nearly enough about a whole spectrum of issues that matter deeply to his constituents.

How can he not care whether women can get coverage for diagnostic testing for ovarian cancer, or about lowering the age at which they can get coverage for annual mammograms? How can he not care about keeping air-guns off the grounds of our kids' schools? Or notifying victims of violent crimes about the release or escape of their convicted attackers? Or about protecting access to clinics? Or doing more to stop hate crimes? Or posting signs warning about PCB exposure? Or increasing protection for victims of domestic violence? Or about dialing up penalties for possession of "cop killer bullets"?

These are just a small fraction of the issues that, 1300 times, Ron Tocci didn't care enough about to show up and vote on. Something to think about on November 5th, when it's our turn to vote.

Giff Crosby
New Rochelle, NY

October 31, 2002

TOCCI & BRAMSON OWE VOTERS APOLOGY

Whoever wins the grimy Assembly contest should be ashamed of himself. The loser, too. I’m glad that my mailbox will no longer be clogged with the ugly campaign literature from Mssrs. Tocci and Bramson. Theirs was the dirtiest, sickest local campaign I’ve ever seen, and I've been following local politics since 1978. The seat was not worth lowering the level of political discourse in our community the way it did. Mr. Bramson and Mr. Tocci each spent weeks trying to convince us that the other was a scoundrel. On this at least I’m inclined to agree with them both. They owe each other – and us – an apology.

Robert Viagas
Mamaroneck, NY

October 30, 2002

TOCCI SHOULD STAND FOR SOMETHING

Will the real Ron Tocci please stand up? Tocci says he's a Democrat, but when he lost his own party's primary two-to-one he decided to run as a Republican. So now he’s the Republican nominee.

But Tocci still says that he’ll rejoin the Democratic caucus in Albany if he’s reelected, and he refuses to say whom he supports for Governor, Comptroller, Attorney General and all the other important races this year.

Shame on Tocci for saying or doing anything to get re-elected. And shame on us if we buy his political hucksterism.

I consider myself politically independent - I vote for the person, not the party. But it’s important for candidates to stand for SOMETHING other than self-preservation.

Maybe Tocci just wants to keep collecting a paycheck, keep raising special interest campaign contributions, keep raking in the tens in thousands in perks that he’s also been efficient at claiming.

That may be good for Tocci, but it’s a lousy deal for his constituents. Eighteen years of ineffective, unprincipled representation is long enough.

Nanci Slater
Larchmont, NY

October 28, 2002

TOCCI WRONG ON ALCOHOL TESTING

A recent State Assembly debate on WVOX radio left me astounded by Ron Tocci's ignorance on the subject of drunk driving.

When the conversation turned to reducing the blood alcohol limit, a position supported by Mothers Against Drunk Driving and virtually every other group that advocates for safe streets, the Assemblyman said that taking such a step wouldn't make a difference. Then he went on to question the value of blood alcohol testing as a whole.

Tocci said that people should be tested before they get a license, then subject to a reflex measure of the kind used in the military, which doesn't measure blood alcohol levels. What on earth is the Assemblyman talking about? Has he ever had a conversation with drunk driving activists? Does he understand that reducing the blood alcohol limit would save hundreds of lives every year?

It is frightening to think that our representative is so dangerously out of touch with an issue that affects countless families. I hope that the voters will take notice.

Margaret Chadwick
New Rochelle, NY

October 27, 2002

BRAMSON A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER

Voters in the 91st Assembly District must ask themselves important questions on election day: Are you happy about paying higher taxes because Ron Tocci can't bring us our fair share from Albany? Are you happy with an Assembly representative who misses important votes time after time? Are you happy with Ron Tocci's record of listening to the NRA and the tobacco companies instead of his constituents? Are you happy with a representative who puts his own needs above ours?

We deserve better. Eighteen years of Ron Tocci is enough! Noam Bramson represents a change for the better for Westchester. Not only does he listen
to his constituents but he will bring energy and enthusiasm to serving those constituents.

Noam’s passion and energy is immediately apparent to anyone who works with him. He cares deeply about our schools, families, and community. He will work to improve health care and protect the environment. Noam Bramson will fight for our fair share from Albany, which will help keep property taxes in check and important services intact.

On November 5th, we have a chance to replace one of the worst representatives in New York with one of the best. I urge my neighbors to vote for Noam Bramson.

Martin and Eileen Kantor
Mamaroneck, NY

October 23, 2002

REPUBLICAN FOR BRAMSON

Noam Bramson is my councilman and hopefully he will be my assemblyman with the upcoming election. As I read letters to the editor, I find many distortions of the facts and outright false statements about Noam. I am a middle class, stay at home mom, and also a Republican, who backs Noam. I have lived in the Halcyon Park section of New Rochelle for just over five years and have been the Vice President of the neighborhood association for almost 2 years. I feel very lucky to have Noam as my councilman.

Noam is hard working and dedicated. He is a man who makes informed decisions. He takes the time to research issues and stands behind his convictions. oam comes to all of our neighborhood association meetings and takes interest in our community problems and helps us resolve them the best way he can.

Don't take my word for it, check into Noam's record, check with his constituents. Ron Tocci currently represents me and I can tell you when I have turned to him, he has let me down. Last year I reached out to Ron Tocci on 2 occasions, first about getting more money for New Rochelle's police and firemen and the second time was about a very serious issue regarding children. Each time I received a form letter and received absolutely no help.

I need Noam as my assemblyman! We need Noam in the 91st district!

Theresa Hager
Vice President
Halcyon Park Association
New Rochelle, NY

October 23, 2002

TOCCI TRUANT ON SCHOOL VOTES

When it comes to our school budget votes, Ron Tocci has been a truant. A public official should not miss 6 straight school budget votes. The quality of education for our children and the majority of our property tax bills are dependent upon these budgets.

Mr. Tocci didn’t even arrange to vote by absentee ballot. His excuses – that he would have voted “if it meant something” and that “I would do it if I thought it were necessary and proper” – are also troubling. What is more important, necessary and proper than leadership on education and taxes?

Public officials have an obligation to set an example of participation in important decisions that effect our community. This responsibility is even greater when education and taxes are involved.

The people of the Sound Shore can set an example for Mr. Tocci about his poor voting record by showing up at the polls to vote for Noam Bramson on November 5th.

Joel Negrin
Mamaroneck, NY

October 21, 2002

PRO-CHOICE: TOCCI DOESN'T GET IT

Ron Tocci is at it again! In the WVOX radio debate with Bramson on October 4th, Tocci called Senator Charles Schumer, Congresswoman Nita Lowey, Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, and basically the entire Westchester delegation to Albany extremists for their position on choice.

Apparently, Tocci believes that the law should require a 13 year old victim of incest to get her parents’ permission before being allowed to terminate her pregnancy.

Tocci just doesn’t get it! We all believe parental involvement is extremely important. Families ought to be whole and involved in critical decisions that impact their children and each other. However, the question here is whether the government is going to compel such a relationship, even in circumstances where there may be a dysfunctional family in which a healthy relationship does not exist between parent and child. Family relations cannot be legislated. Gratefully, both U.S. Senators, our Congressional representatives, three of Westchester’s State Senators, all other Westchester Assembly delegates, our County Executive and Noam Bramson understand this issue.

Tocci is the only member of the Westchester Assembly delegation who has voted for restrictions on a woman’s right to choose. That is why the pro-choice community must turn out in force on November 5th to vote for Noam Bramson. Noam gets it! Tocci doesn’t!

Catherine Lederer-Plaskett
Chair of the Board, Westchester Coalition for Legal Abortion

October 16, 2002

TOCCI SUPPORTS WOMEN'S HEALTH

Our Assemblyman, Ron Tocci, has worked hard on health care reform and is a strong supporter of the women's health care law. This law requires insurers to pay for important tests like mammograms, cervical cancer screenings and tests to detect osteoporosis. It also expands insurance coverage of prescriptions to treat diseases that affect women.

This law might sound like a no-brainer to women, but unlike Assemblyman Tocci, other legislators did not support this bill. For too many years, government officials underestimated the importance of women's health concerns, and the insurance industry declined to provide adequate coverage for the screenings and tests that women need. Ron Tocci understands the unique concerns that women have and he made sure the insurance companies cover the necessary tests and treatments that improve women's health and save women's lives.

Assemblyman Tocci has been my legislator in Albany for 18 years. He cares about people, and he is the kind of legislator I want looking out for my health and that of my friends and family.

Kathryn Clarke
Mamaroneck, NY

October 3, 2002

CORRECTION: SPITZER IS ENDORSING BRAMSON

Your section on politics contains an assertion by Mr.Tocci that he has been endorsed by Attorney-General Elliott Spitzer. That is not so. In fact, Mr. Spitzer was the host of a gathering of Bramson supporters in White Plains on Oct.1 at which the Attorney General publicly and enthusiastically endorsed Mr.Bramson's candidacy.

Harold Adel
Larchmont, NY

September 4, 2002

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS ALWAYS NON-PARTISAN

To the Editor:

In response to your recent article on the Tocci/Bramson campaign, we would like to clarify the League of Women Voters' position on partisanship. The LWV is a non-partisan organization and League Presidents never endorse candidates. The women cited in the article are former League presidents acting as individuals, not as representatives of the League.
For over 80 years the League of Women Voters has given candidates and the electorate the opportunity to engage in meaningful exchanges of ideas in an open and unbiased atmosphere. We will continue that mission this election season and those to follow.

Anne Herman, President, LWV Larchmont
Gayle Golumb, President, LWV New Rochelle
Erin Malloy, President, LWV
Mamaroneck Westchester

September 4, 2002

TWO NYC DISABLED VETS FOR TOCCI

Although we don't live In the 91st Assembly district, we are supporting Ron Tooci.. We disabled veteran vendors in New York City lost our livelihood when powerful business associations pressured the state legislature to remove a 100-year-old law that granted us the right to work the streets of New York as peddlers. Mr. Tocci took up our cause, and after a tough eight-year fight, his efforts were instrumental in reinstating the law which put 500 of us disabled veterans back to work. This law gives any and all disabled vets in the state of New York the opportunity to support self and family.

Mr. Tocci's opponent might someday make an adequate legislator, but Mr. Tocci has a proven track record, and we don't believe it would be prudent to change horses in mid-stream, especially now when much more is at stake than just local issues. Mr Tocci's fine record of serving the New York State veteran over the years as Chairman of the Veterans' Committee in the Assembly is of crucial importance. Now with foreign terrorists operating on our shores, we need Ron Tocci, a fellow veteran, safeguarding our interests in Albany. For it is the men and women of our armed forces who put themselves in harm's way to assure the safety and well being of our citizens. And it was George Washington who said, "The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve shall be directly proportional as to how they percieve the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation."

James Kushner, USMC 1967-9
Beazer Pitiger, USMC 1967-9
New York City

September 2, 2002

TOCCI'S CAMPAIGN MISLEADS VOTERS ABOUT BRAMSON'S IKEA RECORD, CITIZENS CHARGE

Dear friends,

As you probably know, there is a closely contested race for the State Assembly unfolding here on the Sound Shore between incumbent Assemblyman Ron Tocci and challenger Noam Bramson. In Larchmont and Mamaroneck, Mr. Tocci seems to be running largely on the IKEA issue, calling himself an opponent of the project and branding Mr. Bramson "pro-IKEA."

As citizens who were very active in the movement to block IKEA, we are disturbed by Mr. Tocci's misleading campaign tactics. So we're asking you to take a moment to review the events as they occurred so that you can make the best possible judgment about the candidates.

1) Almost ten years ago, Ron Tocci saddled New Rochelle with a property tax cap - the only one of its kind in Westchester - that forces excessive reliance on sales tax and therefore on commercial development. What's more, he has been ineffective in procuring state aid for New Rochelle (which still receives only a fraction of the state aid that flows to comparable communities).

2) As a direct result of Mr. Tocci's actions and inaction, New Rochelle was forced to consider alternate sources of revenue, one of which was IKEA. While Mr. Bramson was part of the bipartisan New Rochelle City Council that voted unanimously to take IKEA's application under consideration, it was with the proviso that a full-scale environmental review of the project go forward. Mr. Bramson explained to residents that he would fully analyze the plans and understand the store's potential impact before taking a stand of any kind. His commitment to being fair and open-minded is now being twisted into a "pro-IKEA" stance.

3) Immediately upon the release of IKEA's Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Mr. Bramson began to express concerns about the traffic likely to be generated by the project and about its inconsistency with other regional
planning goals. He voiced these concerns repeatedly in neighborhood association meetings and in conversations with residents. In fact, he was so vocal about his problems with the project that IKEA's proponents in New
Rochelle were angry at him for not supporting the proposed megastore.

4) The terms of New Rochelle's Memorandum of Understanding with IKEA prevented City Council Members from publicly stating their positions on the project until the environmental review process was completed. Had Mr. Bramson stated flatly that he was "against IKEA," the City of New Rochelle would have been exposed to substantial damages. Since Council Member Michael Boyle was elected after the IKEA Memorandum was signed and was not bound by its terms, he (and only he) could freely state his opposition to the proposed store. IKEA pulled the plug on the project before the other five council members were legally permitted to state their positions.

Those of us who followed this issue closely understood without a doubt that Mr. Bramson would have opposed IKEA had the matter come to a final vote.

Mr. Tocci, who had no jurisdiction over this matter and who waited until public sentiment was overwhelmingly against IKEA before stating his views, is now attempting to distort the truth in an effort to undermine support for Mr. Bramson. Ironically, Mr. Tocci does have jurisdiction over matters that led to the city considering an IKEA in the first place. If Mr. Tocci remains in office, the need for New Rochelle to find additional revenue will not go away. This condition has obvious regional implications.

Finally, consider the list of endorsements from elected officials and leaders in your community who were intimately involved in the IKEA battle, and who chose to endorse Noam Bramson over Ron Tocci:

Larchmont Mayors Miriam Curnin and Cheryl Lewy; Mamaroneck Town Council Members Judy Myers, Ernie Odierna, Nancy Seligson and Phyllis Wittner; Mamaroneck Mayor Debbie Chapin. Mr. Bramson has also been endorsed by the Democratic Party chairs of the Town of Mamaroneck, Village of Larchmont and Village of Mamaroneck.

These are people who are well aware of the facts. Mr. Tocci is clearly hoping you are not aware of the facts. With so much at stake, we ask that whatever judgment you make about the candidates, please be sure it is informed by the truth.

Of course, there are many other issues in the race for State Assembly besides IKEA. You can learn about a number of them at Noam Bramson - For New York (www.NoamBramson.org). We hope you'll review Mr. Bramson's positions on such
key issues as education, the environment, health care and gun safety. Examine his record for yourself.

While you're at it, give him a call. Send him an e-mail. Or drop him a line. Somehow, in all the years we've known him, Mr. Bramson has never failed to respond to any question, problem or request.

Please forward this e-mail to other residents in your area. With the IKEA controversy well behind us, it's time for the Sound Shore communities to come together. What better way to unite than over a candidate who will bring principles and new energy to the State capitol?

Signed,

Victoria Alcott, Mari Allen, Valerie Allen, Sue and Mark Bokert, Lynn and David Breindel, Kathy and Andy Brenner, Ana Pushkin Chevlin, Nicole and Giff Crosby, Kevin Crowe, Amy Csenge, Bonnie DeVito, Helen Dondy, Elaine Everhart, Elyse and Peter Fields, Harley Frank, Barbara Francella, Jane Hoffman, Jody
Hurwitz, Kate Jarrett, Elyse and Andrew Karlin, Betsy Kravitz, Susan and James King, Tom and Liz Livaccari, Liza and Michael Mason, Lisa and Al McKinney, Ann Mee, Susan Michel, Pam and Brad Nodiff, Jack Rapp, Marie Schiraldi-Cattau, Heather and Mark Segal, Elese Silverman, Diane Strully,
Vonnie Sullivan

August 23, 2002

FORMER LEAGUE LEADERS ON BOTH SIDES OF BRAMSON-TOCCI RACE

On the controversy regarding two former League of Women Voter presidents supporting Bramson, I wish to point out that former League presidents have endorsed Mr. Tocci, including Assemblywoman Amy Paulin and State Senator Suzi Oppenheimer. All these former League presidents have had superb preparation for an active role in civic and political activities on many levels.

The biggest problem with candidates identifying supporters as former League presidents is that it makes the League the issue and distracts from the issue at hand.

Incidentally, both Mr. Tocci and Mr. Bramson are members of the League of Women Voters of New Rochelle.

Ina Aronow
New Rochelle, NY

November 1, 2002

TOCCI FOR PUBLIC SAFETY

The debate between Tocci and Bramson defined their differences. Bramson's remarks whether a statement, answer or rebuttal were well rehearsed and pre-planned. This just showed his inexperience. While Tocci was comfortable answering questions off the cuff, proving he has greater knowledge of issues facing the 91st Assembly district. Afterall, he has served our district for 18 years.

Bramson considers himself pro-labor yet he voted to layoff firefighters, civil servants and leave 20 police officer positons vacant rather then fill them. Not to mention Bramson voted to close a New Rochelle fire house for good. As a police officer myself I could never vote for any politician regardless of affiliation who does not consider public safety (police, fire, sanitation) a number one priority.

Assemblyman Tocci has a very defined 18 year career while Bramson has only failed as a Councilman. Bramson has tried to use Tocci as a scapegoat in defense of his failed leadership in New Rochelle. Can you imagine the damage Bramson would cause to our district as an assemblyman?

Please join me in voting for the Assemblyman who puts public safety, the safety of our communities above all else. Please join me in voting for Assemblyman Tocci on November 5.

Eric Andreoli
Mamaroneck, NY

October 29, 2002

TOCCI MAILER CHILDISH

I was surprised that one of Ron Tocci's political mailings used the initials of Noam Bramson's first name to make up a phrase that indicated no one should vote for Mr. Bramson. Proper campaign literature should explain a candidate's views and make me want to consider voting for that person. When you resort to childish jokes, like making fun of someone's name, then the only place for your communication is the wastepaper basket.

Maureen T. MacElroy
Larchmont, NY

October 28, 2002

BRAMSON: WONDERFUL FOR SOUND SHORE

It's been a long time since I have been truly excited about a candidate, but Noam Bramson is that candidate, and has renewed my faith in politics. I am not alone: Noam's constituents, the people who know him best, don't just like him, they love him.

Time and time again, Noam has rolled up his sleeves to do something good for our community, whether helping build the playground at Huguenot Park, stenciling storm drains to help improve Long Island Sound, or working to fix up trails at our local parks. He rings doorbells to hear our concerns, returns every phone call and answers every letter personally, and brings thoughtfulness and honesty to the most difficult debates.

I have known Noam for many years, and at a time when so many people are cynical about politics, Noam reminds us what public service can and should be. He's engaged, he cares, he works tirelessly, and he makes a difference.

It is refreshing to see someone with such talent and dedication willing to take on the tough challenges in Albany. Having seen Noam in action and having spoken to many others who are similarly impressed, I know that Noam Bramson will be wonderful for the Sound Shore.

William D. Torchiana
Mamaroneck, NY

October 24, 2002

TOCCI NOT IN THE MAINSTREAM

Ron Tocci recently called members of our state and congressional delegation, including Chuck Schumer, Nita Lowey, and Suzi Oppenheimer "extremists" for their views on reproductive rights. But when you look at the record, it's clear that Tocci is the extremist.

In fact, Tocci's views are consistently outside the mainstream on issue after issue. Tocci voted repeatedly against common-sense gun safety laws, even a ban on assault weapons, while taking $1,500 in campaign contributions from the National Rifle Association. Tocci is the only Westchester Assemblyman who advocates government restrictions on a woman's right to choose, with no exception for a mother's health. Tocci votes against laws to reduce smoking and tobacco usage, then collects contributions and personal gifts from cigarette companies.

Most shocking of all, Tocci votes against protecting New Yorkers from discrimination in housing, employment, and education. Tocci even voted to allow hospitals to discriminate against patients on the basis of race, religion, and payment method! Tocci was one of only three Assembly members - in all of New York State - to take such a radical view.

Ron Tocci simply does not share the mainstream values of Westchester County.

After 18 long years, it is time to elect a representative who does.

Barbara Newman
Larchmont

October 2, 2002

BRAMSON RECORD NOT GOOD ON IKEA

Bramson claims he was an opponent of IKEA but in reality Bramson was quoted saying he supports the IKEA plan.

Bramson changed his public view on the IKEA plan after the enviromental review was completed. In meantime Bramson had City Park home and business owners in a state of uncertainty. Would they be forced to move? That was a question Noam was unwilling to answer.

Noam has pitted border communties against each other through support of the IKEA plan. These are the same communities he hopes to represent in the State Assembly.

This not a man of integrity and not the person I want to see representing the Sound Shore area in the Assembly.

Eric Andreoli
Mamaroneck, NY

September 4, 2002

TOCCI IS NOT PRO-CHOICE

Ron Tocci is not pro-choice. It is no surprise Tocci has refused to debate his Democratic primary opponent Noam Bramson. In a debate Tocci would have to defend his anti-choice votes. Further, he's the only Westchester Assembly member regardless of party who refused to sign on to sponsor the Unintended Pregnancy Prevention Act which would make emergency contraception available without prescription. Tocci introduced bill A6768 which would allow wrongful death actions on behalf of a fetus in utero, in effect defining an embryo as a person from fertilization to birth. Most recently, Tocci intentionally aimed to deceive voters by using misleading, unauthorized quotes by leading pro-choice advocates in mailings. Justify those actions in a debate!

WCLA wrote Tocci months ago specifically warning him against using past correspondence out of context. Last week Tocci did just that. WCLA has NOT endorsed Tocci since 1994. Why? His record. He has gone out of his way to place qualifiers on a woman's right to choose. Tocci describes himself as pro-choice because he knows the majority of the electorate is pro-choice. However, he reneged on his commitment to reproductive rights, hoping the public would listen to what he says rather than watch what he does. Ron Tocci is not pro-choice. That's why New York State Pro-Life News said Tocci deserved "accolades, because the Democratic Party in the North East makes it very uncomfortable for its members to stand up for life."

Simply stated: If you're pro-choice vote for Noam Bramson. If you're anti-choice, vote Tocci.

Catherine Lederer-Plaskett
Chair, Westchester Coalition for Legal Abortion

BRAMSON SUPPORTERS WRONG TO ASK FOR TOCCI WITHDRAWAL

July 5, 2002

The Gazette's latest report that a number of Democrats in Larchmont and its environs have asked Ron Tocci to withdraw as candidate for assemblyman is very sad. (see article from July 3, 2000 ): These Bramson supporters are using the convenient excuse that Mr. Tocci has the Republican nomination.

What would they have done if Ben Gilman had taken the Democratic nomination for Congressman? The Democratic party leadership certainly pursued Mr. Gilman until he declined their offers into his intended retirement.

It is a fact of political life that candidates seek to have as many lines to run on as possible. Look at little Larchmont. With fewer than 2,000 (voters) actually taking the time to cast a ballot we have at least four lines - two from each party. This conduct been especially advocated by many of those calling for Mr. Tocci to withdraw. Where is their purity?

To remove a sitting Assemblyman is a very serious business. Mr. Tocci has been an elected Democrat, his votes in the Assembly have followed the Democratic party's sentiments.

What is the reason for withdrawing support? Is it for someone who is part of the New Rochelle government that tried to bring IKEA to our border. Oh sure, he did opportunistically withdraw his support of that venture when the writing on the wall was obvious for all to see. That doesn't sound like leadership to me.

And, where is Mr. Bramson record or even vocal support for Veterans and property tax payers? He appears to be an opportunistic politician acting as a front man for the New Rochelle claque that has opposed Ron Tocci from the beginning of his political career and is still ongoing.

Tom Stuart
Larchmont

July 5, 2002

In his letter of July 5th, Tom Stuart suggests that there is nothing unusual about Ron Tocci remaining in the Democratic primary for the Assembly after accepting the Republican nomination. In fact, Tocci's maneuver is entirely without precedent.

In essence, what his action does is to close down the general election and to deny voters any choice at all in November. This is fundamentally different from changing parties as Ben Gilman considered doing.

To my way of thinking, Mr. Tocci's new alliance with the Republican party only validates the case made by the Bramson campaign. Mr. Tocci's conservative voting record on everything from gun control to hate crimes to civil rights puts him far to the right of most Westchester residents. Why else would the Republican and Conservative parties be so eager to embrace him?

If many Democrats in New Rochelle are upset with Mr. Tocci maybe it's because the Assemblyman has completely failed to secure for the city a fair share of state aid and because he insists upon an utterly misguided property tax cap.

Removing an Assemblyman is indeed "very serious business", but no one is entitled to a seat in the legislature because he's been there awhile. Public trust needs to be earned. Mr. Tocci's record and actions have run consistently against the values and interest of our community. It is past time we made a change in the Assembly and I am pleased that Democrats finally have made an excellent choice in Noam Bramson.

Mary Ann Mumma
Larchmont