To all: Here is a sample letter I have sent to our elected representatives in D.C.and Illinois. The time for making a statement is now. If anyone can use this to do the same, you are welcome. Open to comments and/or suggestions. "We are in support of AMTRAK. The events of September 11th showed the United States that we need to have a balanced transportation network, and cannot rely on cars and planes alone. Amtrak must be funded consistently and adequately in order to meet the needs of our nation. Intercity passenger rail is an esstential part of that network and should complement plans for high-speed rail between shorter distances. Our country cannot afford fo end cross-country and intercity rail service, and we should be looking to expand our current network. We are against breaking Amtrak into separate units.
We urge you to vote in support of SUBSTANTIAL LONG TERM and RELIABLE funding for our National Passenger Rail System. Amtrak needs to expand and increase services with additional routes and daily trains to make connections possible causing ridership to grow. All forms of transportation must be subsidized and AMTRAK needs to be subsidized on the same level as our airlines and highways. We thank you for yor time and positive efforts in this matter."