STRATTON TAPPED TO ENTER RACE.(CAPITAL REGION)

Byline: MARV CERMAK Staff writer

Schenectady A committee on vacancies has chosen Brian Stratton to replace John Ward as Democratic candidate in the race for the 44th District's state Senate seat.

County Democratic Chairman Christopher Gardner said Monday night that Stratton had not accepted the nomination to run for the seat held for 24 years by state Sen. Hugh Farley, R-Niskayuna.

``The handwriting is on the wall,'' Gardner said, noting that Stratton has scheduled a Wednesday news conference.

However, before the November general election, there apparently will be a Democratic primary between Stratton and Jerry Evans of Duanesburg. …