I just _had to try the new White House web mailer. The president recently introduced his Healthier
Us initiative, with the president of Trek in attendance, and Transportation Enhancements (the old
ISTEA) is up for reauthorization. So, I wrote him a letter. I had to use the Mental Health category,
but I think the two issues dovetail nicely.
I'd encourage y'all to write letters to the president yourself. Mine is below. John Burke is the
president of Trek.
Ion Freeman Healthier Us press release:
<http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/07/20030718-6.html> Globe article on Transportation
Enhancements:
<http://www.boston.com/dailyglobe2/200/metro/Cut_could_spell_end_to_rail_trail_projects+.shtml>
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This does not regard mental health. This regards the "healthier us" initiative.
I was pleased to read your press release around your YMCA visit with John Burke to introduce the
Healthier Us initiative. I share your concern regarding the growing obesity of America's youth, and
your intuition that people control their health through their lifestyle choices.
I think that you have a real opportunity here as Transportation Enhancements comes up for
reathorization to ensure that the average American gets 20 minutes of aerobic exercise by making it
possible for that citizen to commute by bicycle.
The federal government can have great influence on the popularity of bicycle commuting, key to the
health of our bodies, our skies and our communities. In addition to your own active image of
self-reliance, it can provide money for non-motorized vehicle infrastructure improvements, and help
states shape the standards for road-building, bicyclists' legal status and driver education.
I am pleased that a president is recognizing the national interest in the strength and health of our
populace, and I encourage you to make a rapid, sustained and material increase in bicycle commuting
a priority for your administration.