When Councilmember Dennis Gallagher resigned in disgrace, it set up a special election for his seat. The district encompasses much of west-central Queens.

Under the rules, the special election is officially nonpartisan, and party affiliations are not listed on the ballot, but the party affiliations of the candidates are well known. Four candidates qualified for the ballot, two Republicans and two Democrats.

The Republicans are: Tom Ognibene, who held the seat in the 90s before being term-limited out; and Anthony Como (the party favorite), a City Board of Elections commissioner and aide to Serphin Maltese. Both have considerable baggage.

The Democrats are: Elizabeth Crowley, who ran in 2001 and is a cousin of Congressmember and Democratic county leader Joseph Crowley; and Charles Ober, president of the Ridgewood Democratic Club and a long-time community activist.

Despite the heavy-handed tactics on the part of the Democratic county machine, Ober not only got on the ballot without a challenge, but has also run a spirited campaign. Because of his history, his community activism, and the decency of his campaign, Ober has secured the NY Times endorsement.

You can make the difference. Turnout is especially important; every single vote could be the one that puts Charles Ober over the top. You can contact his campaign manager; the phone number and e-mail address are available on his website, OberForCouncil.com.