We are now one week away! Confirmations and attendance continue to come in for this long awaited event promoting the rights of parents, fathers and family members abused in America’s domestic relations courts. The messages anticipated on vehicles and lobby material are varied, however, the central theme continues to be a joint protest against abusive laws and court processes which alienate children from one or both parents for money generating purposes.

              Rally/Festival: L. Wilson, head of “We the People Family Preservation, Inc.” has asked me this week to take over their “Official D.C. Rallyfest” scheduled for the same weekend. However, as of today, without support staff, funding and permit officially in hand, I am unable to accept the offer given its tremendous responsibility. Our organizations, Parenting Rights Institute and National League of Fathers, Inc, have not committed to a weekend festival, and we are spread too thin on the eve of our own event to distract from our focus. It remains a public statement and lobbying initiative.

             Lobbying Initiative: The good news is that we are expanding our Washington event to encompass three days of lobby activity culminating in the vehicle display on Friday which concludes at the Senate Park west lawn at 2 pm. On Wednesday and Thursday, April 18-19, we have developed a growing calendar of appointments with congressional staffers, public interest groups and administrative officials. We need people to assist us with the delivery of lobby packets to every member of the Senate and House of Representatives. Here is our tentative itinerary for you to consider:

           Lodging: Hotel Harrington has been used for past rally events because it is close to Senate Park and Congress (only a few blocks away). Located at the corner of 11^th and E Streets NW (436 11^th Street NW), it is also very economical. We have already secured a number of rooms at $135 per night (parking included) this week and there are still vacancies. However, hotels across the capital are filling up for Wednesday and Thursday nights. Rates go up accordingly, so make your reservations as soon as possible if you haven’t already. Hotel phone is (800) 424-8532 and (202) 628-8140.

             Meeting Place: Old Ebbitt Grill, located at 675 15^th Street NW, has been selected as the regular meeting spot for meals and planning sessions for all three days. Once again we have used this location successfully for past events, and it is walking distance from Hotel Harrington. The website advertises it as a popular meeting spot for political insiders, journalists and celebrities. It was a favorite of Presidents Grant, Cleveland, Harding and Roosevelt. Everyone can meet at 7 on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and again Friday morning at 9 am.

            Education Panel/ Discussion:  This event is designed to exchange information for lobby purposes. It is set for Thursday evening between 6 and 9 pm at the Hotel Harrington, however, it may be relocated to the Rayburn Congressional Office Building depending on interest and participation. E-mail us at leonkoziol@parentingrightsinstitute.com if you would like to attend or make a presentation. A report will be submitted to members of Congress which incorporates the substance of this exchange. Please remember that we are volunteers drawing upon our own resources to make this possible. We are not a government or publicly funded enterprise. Any help you can provide, such as meetings with your own representative, advertising and delivery assistance would certainly be welcomed. Stay tuned for more info as we draw closer .

Dr. Leon R. Koziol
Parenting Rights Institute
1518 Genesee Street
Utica, NY 13502
(315) 796-4000