Sixth Suffolk race down to the wire for candidates

As the only two candidates running to replace retiring state Rep. Shirley Owens-Hicks, William Celester and Willie Mae Alien are campaigning as much against their respective pasts as they are against each other.

The election is considered crucial for the development of the Sixth District, long known for its disappointing public schools, drugs and crime.

Allen and Celester made another attempt to gain more voters last week as they debated during a forum at the Great Hall in Codman Square sponsored by the Civic Engagement Initiative, a non-partisan voter participation project.

The candidates struck similar notes on the need to improve public education, reduce youth …