September 1, 2002

Dear Vera Katz,

I hope you will read my letter. I am very concerned about what is happening in Portland and what is being put on the TV news, and in the Oregonian. I attended the Critical Mass bicycle ride (my first one) on Friday Aug. 30. What I saw, and what was reported were two different things. I am afraid of the sensationalism that is rampant in the news.

I am afraid of the police getting a bad name, and being seen as the bad guys instead of our protectors.

I am afraid of my Grand daughter's future. I am afraid for her when I hear they can only watch the news on TV (and no other programs) at her college. I am concerned that she is afraid to walk across the street to Safeway to buy laundry detergent. I see fear that is unwarranted, and I see the reason being the sensational way news is portrayed.

I wonder now if it is done on purpose to keep us fearful.

I wonder now, because for the first time I was there. The following is the letter I sent the Oregonian. I hope you will take the time to read it. If they print it, they will edit it, so here it is in its entirety.

I hope you can help with this problem.

Sincerely,
Connie McAyeal
ohyesbent@hotmail.com