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September
15, 2003
The specific event which “closed the deal” in my decision to seek this office was the cut
in federal funding which removed about 300,000 children from the rolls of after-school programs. This event exemplifies the
large differences in attitudes and positions, which exist between the party in control of the U S Legislature and myself.
Those in power seem to feel that these programs, as well as quality health care, should only be available to those
children fortunate enough to be born into upper income families, not every child in America.
As I was growing up, I participated in many
of the activities now included in after-school programs and feel they helped me greatly. I received strong
impressions about patriotism and citizenship from participation in Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Explorer Programs in my community.
Membership in 4-H and the Future Farmers of America taught the value of hard work and an appreciation for the earth
on which we live. Little League Baseball and Junior High Athletics instilled a respect for others
and demonstrated the concept of teamwork. All of the activities taught responsibility and leadership.
After school programs are winners in at least four ways. First,
they provide a safe and positive environment for the child during the afternoon hours when a child is most likely to be unsupervised
by a working parent. These activities introduce students to activities, which expand horizons.
A typical student’s school day allows little time to explore outside basic classroom assignments.
Tutoring is always available if needed and requested. And finally, adult leaders here are good role
models. Mentors are more influential in this setting than anywhere else in life.
Any way they are measured, after school programs
return much more to our society than they cost.
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