I am supporting Mark Sauvigne for Manhasset Park District Commissioner because I feel he can make a difference in Manhasset life.

I first met Mark at St. Mary's High School in the '70s. He always impressed me with his enthusiasm for life and was always "involved" in some aspect of school life. Some 20 years later, I moved into Manhasset and Mark was one of the first people I came in contact with. Again, I was struck by his involvement in many of the community aspects of Manhasset and the level of his commitment to make Manhasset a better community.

Mark has been a resident of Manhasset for 20 plus years. He is a very active member of the Manhasset Athletic Advisory Committee and Manhasset Booster Club at the high school. He was instrumental in the resurgence of the Manhasset Baseball League, which now has over 1300 children playing in spring, summer and fall programs. He has been a volunteer coach for both boys and girls CYO Basketball teams for more than 10 years and a big supporter of St. Mary's High School Sports Programs.

Another aspect about Mark that impresses me is his depth of knowledge about the issues that directly affect our lives here in Manhasset. Mark knows the issues that can best be addressed by the park district. He supports increasing parking spaces for senior citizens. However, he strongly opposes the tiered parking and the proposed minibuses from other towns that will make Plandome Road traffic and our train station a nightmare. These proposed changes will dramatically affect our lives and create a city-like atmosphere in our historic community.

With a keen eye on our children's future, Mark will propose alternatives for additional parkland in Manhasset, including the possibility of condemnation of parts of the Whitney Estate to provide ball fields and parks for the children and a senior citizens center.

Mark Sauvigne understands management and accountability. He will work to make sure the park district is managed properly and that there is accountability in all the park district does. Mark is a relentless fighter and will tirelessly work with the other commissioners to create a better life for the residents of our community.

I urge all of you to join me and please vote for Mark Sauvigne for Manhasset Park District Commissioner on Dec. 11. He is the right choice for Manhasset's tomorrow.

Daniel P. Thomas