By Mark Scott
Albany, NY – Parent groups say they are angry that Governor Pataki won't release funding for after-school programs. The funding is included in the Legislature's member items -- also known as "pork" -- that Pataki has argued is unconstitutional.
The programs provide care during the hours of 3:00 to 6:00pm for school children whose parents are working. They offer computer classes, help with homework and recreational activities.
But the funding dispute is putting 160 after-school programs across New York at risk. At a news conference in Albany Thursday, Jerry Mielo, who administers after school programs in the Albany school district, said some of them could be forced to close.
"Kids are being hurt. Families are being hurt. They're not going to be able to have those services," Mielo said. "What do single parents do. Let their kids walk the street? I think any politician would agree that we shouldn't let our kids walk the street.
"So maybe we should stop being political and think in terms of what's good for kids."
Spokesmen for Pataki and State Assembly Democrats blame each other for the funding dispute.