August 30, 2000
Dear Fourth District Neighbor: 

I am writing to you today for two reasons: to invite
you to a get together on the evening of Tuesday,
September 5th (see invitation enclosed), and to ask
for your support of my candidacy as the next
representative of Minnesota's 4th Congressional
District. 

As a former North St. Paul City Council member and
current state legislator, I have a clear record of
supporting community-based approaches to address
issues that face our families and communities.  This
includes sound land use and zoning policies,
affordable housing, common sense transportation and
transit (integrating pedestrian and bicycle travel),
parks, greenways, and natural places, a healthy
climate for small and local businesses, and solid
public and private schools.

I know that Ayd Mill Road is an issue of interest to
you.  It is an issue that will have significant
impacts throughout the 4th District, I believe that
connecting Ayd Mill Road is a temporary solution to a
much larger metro-wide transportation problem and will
only create many new and unforeseen problems.  As a
member of the St. Paul legislative delegation, I have
opposed the connection of Ayd Mill Road.  As a member
of Congress, I will continue to ask you and your
communities to develop the solutions to this issue and
I will only support the solutions that have the input
and support of all impacted communities.

The DFL Primary election is Tuesday, September 12th. 
I am proud to have earned the party's endorsement to
represent you.  Your vote, and every vote, is critical
in this four-way primary.  The winner of the primary
will represent the DFL in what promises to be a
challenging three-way race in the general election on
November 7, 2000.

For the past 24 years, Bruce Vento has played a
critical role in legislation that benefits and
protects working people, families, minorities, the
economy, and the environment.  The person you elect
does make a difference in Washington, both for you and
your neighbors in the 4th District, and for the entire
country.

I look forward to meeting you and talking with you on
Tuesday, Sept. 5th.  This is not a fundraiser, but
contributions of any kind are always welcome.  Please
contact the campaign office at (651) 603-1505 if you
are unable to attend but would like to discuss any
issue with me or to volunteer, obtain a lawn sign, or
for any other information.

Thank you for your interest and support,
Betty McCollum