That is a lesson that more than a few politicians in New York have learned over the years, most notably former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro.

Even her rivals concede that former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro has been leading in all the polls.

Some people, like former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro, said they had no plans to go to the dinner.

And to paraphrase former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro, it was Bella Abzug who broke down that door.

Mr. Abrams claimed victory after defeating former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro by 11,000 votes, or 1 percentage point, in unofficial returns.

In contrast, he flattered former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro, his preferred opponent.

And former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro, who entered the Senate race last week, has begun fund-raising.

The 24-year-old son of former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro of New York was sentenced two weeks ago, but the sentence was stayed pending appeal.

The Comptroller received 20 votes to 6 for former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro and 2 for Attorney General Bob Abrams.

Former Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro addressed the 17th annual commencement ceremony of the College of Staten Island yesterday.