I was surprised that the editor of the Hicksville Illustrated printed Dave Staton's letter, attacking Thomas Clark, former Town of Oyster Bay councilman.

The contents of Dave Staton's letter smacks at anti-Catholicism. He refers to Mr. Lizza (now deceased) and his contribution to Saint Ignatius Building Fund. He states that it was a conflict of interest on Mr. Clark's part. It is not unusual for businessmen to contribute to fund raising in the community in which they are doing business.

It is widely known that Mr. Lizza also contributed to Saint Dominic's RC Church and School in Oyster Bay. Charles Wang also has been very generous in his donations to Saint Dominic's.

My suggestion to Dave Staton is that he "Take on" Mr. Wang of Computer Associates, and spend his spare time, to become familiar with the character of a very fine man known to many as "Tom Clark."

Mr. Clark has given his time and service to the Hicksville School Board and the Town of Oyster Bay Board. Mr. Clark, no longer has the power to vote on the town board, Dave it is time to "cease and desist," you cannot "tarnish" the reputation of a man like Tom Clark.

As a Roman Catholic I take exception to your "Catholic bashing." You have not hesitated to use the facilities at Saint Ignatius for basketball, which I and many others have "paid" to maintain.

Mr. Clark is not in need of my defense, his lifestyle, wife, and family¬speak for him.

"Courage without conscience is a wild beast." (Ching Chow)

Mary E. Carton