Tony Nunziato for NY State Assembly

On the local scene…well kiddies, this is it. The homestretch of the local elections that we NEED TO BE VERY CONCERNED ABOUT! As we have reminded you over the past few weeks, with the country going to hell quickly, we need to shore up on the home front the best we can. So now more than ever we think you’d better take a look around and see who’s looking to tend to your backyard. We need solid representation, with the ability to figure out that funding should be spread out across districts, not concentrated on culling favors and votes – yes I suppose we’re saying “spread the wealth.”

So when you head out on Tuesday to pull those little levers, take care not to just follow the party line straight down. Move your head a little to the left and a little to the right – that’s it – now up and down. See, you do have choices to make. And no matter what they are, they are going to impact your life in a very direct fashion, so pay attention. Just in case you need a little help, we’ve provided you with a guide to our picks. We’ll see you back here next week to tally.

Here we go: In the 30th Assembly District, 12-year Democratic incumbent Marge Markey will see a challenge from Republican/Conservative/Independent Anthony Nunziato. Here’s your chance, people – a golden opportunity to give yourselves a break from the ineffective, stale un-leadership of Markey. Nunziato may be a “new kid on the political block” but he lives and works right there with you. Years of civic activism have positioned this level-headed guy to give you the grassroots, issue-oriented leadership your community has been lacking. Nunziato is accountable and accessible and in the political arena, these two qualities are a hard find. Never mind giving him a break – give yourselves one and send Marge packing.

From the "Politics Unusual" column by Anthe N. Syde, Forum West, October 30, 2008