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Record Setting Rally for Education

(posted: May 3rd, 8:30pm) Thousands gathered at the Empire State Plaza today for what is being called a record breaking rally to protest proposed education budget cuts. The three hour rally brought thousands from around the state. They came to stress the value in education spending, and to encourage Governor Pataki to sign the budget that is set before him.

"Welcome to our great capital city. I can tell you, you've set a record today. We have set a record here today." Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings addressed the crowd today - an estimated 40-thousand people, including educators, parents and labor leaders. They all were there to rally in protest of proposed education budget cuts.

Actress Cynthia Nixon, better known as "Miranda" on HBO's, "Sex and the City," lending her notoriety to the cause. The former New York City public school student and parent of a daughter in public school says this rally should make people think.

"I think the fact that this is the largest rally Albany has ever seen speaks for itself. I think everyone was very alarmed by this budget and I think people have really turned out to defy it," says Nixon.

At times, it looked like one big block party, but the focus was clear.

"This is more than a party, this is a coalition to stand for our kids, our children and our future," said Democratic Comptroller Alan Hevesi.

It was also an opportunity to send a message to Governor George Pataki.

The feeling at the rally was that the state legislature did the right thing. They came together to craft a new budget, restoring the majority of the Governor's cuts to education.

"We all know these are tough times, we all know these are challenging times, but in tough times you set your priorities and our priorities are to educate our young people and invest in our future," said Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno. It is a priority they hope the Governor will agree with.

Governor Pataki has said he will veto the legislature's budget plan because it would cause a 13-billion dollar shortfall over the next two years. The Governor has ten days to accept or reject it. Already, there was talk at the rally for the legislature to override the Governor's veto.