During the winter of 1997 (prior to our village elections this past spring 1998) the then retiring Mayor Tom Muldoon, the soon-to-be elected current Mayor Joe Connelly, and the members of our Integrity Party Team had the vision and the courage to attempt to mold a village government that was politically inclusive, but more importantly, diverse in talent. Myself and Trustee Ray Masaitis, through their trust and convictions, were asked to run as members of the Integrity Party for village trustees. Our joint backgrounds in business, banking and government, they felt, would be an asset to our village government. Happily, you, the voter, agreed and Ray and I now serve as your village trustees.

When Joe Connelly was elected mayor during these same elections, it left an appointed one-year position of trustee open. At that time Joe, once again, reached out to a specifically qualified person¬and appointed Ray Cross as your interim trustee.

Somewhat like the medical practice, local government, in my opinion, is better served by those who possess specific talents in specific areas. Trustee Ray Cross has many talents, but those specific ones have served our village well this past year.

Involved in many aspects of our village government, he has, however, taken a leadership position in matters of our village pool and recreation complex. Working closely with Deputy Mayor Ehrbar, he has exhaustively worked to ensure that the pool complex further enhances the beauty and value of our village. You should be aware that his responsibilities as an employee for the Town of North Hempstead in a similar capacity in recreation, affords our village years of knowledgeable experience. During this past summer there wasn't a day (or night, for that matter) that he was not totally immersed in matters of the pool.

Of course, it's not just one thing that makes for a good trustee. His healthful approach to life, the love of his wonderful wife Winnie and his family, his many friends and supporters, his involvement in our Historic Committee, the many meetings he participates in, and his foresight for the future of the village as a 32-year resident, all make me deservedly ask that you support, vote for, and return to office Trustee Ray Cross on Election Day this March 16.

Rocco Iannarelli

Trustee

Incorporated Village of Williston Park