Now, analysts say, the tradition of earmarking and serving on a committee that practically defines the term "insider" fits perfectly into one of the most powerful narratives working against incumbent lawmakers this election cycle.
Thomas L. Gossage, who had left Hercules Inc., was living in Atlanta and serving on a few corporate boards.
At the same time, he has been a persistent presence in Washington, arguing for the need to continue federal financing for science and serving on a number of committees to advance scientific research.
The case turns largely on a 1995 Court of Appeals decision that a sound education means one that prepares students to "function productively as civic participants capable of voting and serving on a jury".
They accepted the Pataki administration's contention that, using guidelines established by the state's highest court, a sound education is one that prepares students to "function productively as civic participants capable of voting and serving on a jury".
The P.D.C.'s dozen members, appointed to the job and serving on a volunteer basis, come from the executive staffs of the city's libraries and museums, or are independent artists.
