George

Although Kim Tingley has made a strong effort and has certainly mastered the art of framing his message to appeal to local Democrats, I hope that voters in Tuesday's Democratic primary will support one of the two local candidates who are in the race for the 57th House District.

Rich Collins and David Toscano bring extraordinary intellect, talent and dedication to the community to this race. Who could match Rich Collins' record on behalf of the environment, or David Toscano's record of experience in local government? Who in the race could aspire to be more in tune with concerns about growth in our region than Collins or have a richer history of public service than Toscano?

In his mailers, Tingley describes his previous career as a public works engineer as a "decision maker in local government" and "15 years in city and county government." But who could match Toscano's elected service to the City Council and leadership on city and state boards and commissions, or top Collins' Chairmanship of the the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority and successes advancing clean water and hazardous waste legislation?

On the issues, each of the candidates has pledged to support excellence in public and higher education, reproductive rights for women, affordable housing and living wages for working families, and to oppose discrimination against same-sex couples. Each has pledged to be a coalition-builder in the General Assembly and to work with members on both sides of the aisle.

We've gotten to know each of the candidates better during this short but intense election season. Voters should trust proven indicators of a candidate's qualifications -- a record of public service, a broad base of support, a history of service to the community, knowledge of local issues and years of experience in government -- qualities brought to us in abundance by David Toscano and Rich Collins, in casting their vote.

Meredith Richards (electronic mail, June 11, 2005)