From jmurtari at AKidsRight.org  Mon Jan  4 18:09:56 2010
From: jmurtari at AKidsRight.org (John Murtari)
Date: Mon, 4 Jan 2010 18:09:56 -0500
Subject: Steele in Court/ MI Ballot Initiative/ Your FEEDBACK - goals & methods
Message-ID: <19266.30020.986697.942665@torch.softwareworkshop.com>

Good People & People of Faith,

This message has info on:

1. Andrew Steele Court on Wed, Jan 6th - can you go?
2. Declaration of Family Rights - a starting point.
3. Michigan - Ballot Initiative.
4. AKidsRight.Org - a FaceBook cause/group?  Your help?
5. Your FEEDBACK - Goals & Methods.


1. Andrew Steele Court on Wed, Jan 6th - can you go?
----------------------------------------------------
We've sent several updates on Mr. Andrew Steele, the parent who was
arrested a month ago for writing on some Courthouse walls in the
Boston area.   He has been held in jail this entire time.

http://www.AKidsRight.org/action_boston

An update was sent in from Mandy Varona <mandyvarona at yahoo.com>.  Andrew
has a Court date for Wednesday, Jan 6th, at the Brockton Courthouse,
215 Main St, Brockton, MA.  The time is 9 AM.

Map Link: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=215+Main+St%2C+Brockton%2C+ma

I'm sure he'd appreciate anyone who can be in attendance.  If you do
go, please send me an update on what happened.


2. Declaration of Family Rights - a starting point.
--------------------------------------------------
Many of us lament the 'bickering' which seems to prevent useful action
on Family Law reform.  Perhaps one reason for the confusion is the
lack of a concrete & effective goal.  Something people can read and
say, "If this had been in effect, my family would have avoided
disaster."

It's gratifying to see a steady increase in signatures for our
Declaration of Family Rights,
http://www.ThePetitionSite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights

When you have time, please go there and sign the petition if you
agree.  Any FEEDBACK you have, pro or con, is welcome.

Also, we have over 100 people that have signed up at the National
Parent's Leadership Council web site, http://www.NationalPLC.Org/ --
supporting the same goals.


3. Michigan - Ballot Initiative.
--------------------------------
[ Many states allow voter ballot initiatives.  You get the signatures,
your issue gets put on the ballot during the next election.  Every
state has different rules, but it is certainly something to consider.
Below is some info on the state of Michigan.]

Contact: Darrick Lynn Scott-Farnsworth <darricksf at achildsright.net>
         http://www.AChildsRight.Net/

> Please respond if you:
> 
> 1. Believe that we should put together a ballot proposal signature drive in
> Michigan or your state to change the state family law to protect the
> parent-child relationship in the case of divorce or separation? 
> 
> 2. If so, are you willing to help by recruiting others to gather signatures?
> 
> 3. Are you willing to gather signatures?
> 
> 4. Are you willing to contribute funds towards the cost of this effort? 
> 
> 5. What state and county are you willing to be active in?
 
For more discussion:

http://achildsright.typepad.com/achildsright/2009/12/michigan-parentchild-relationship-protection-ballot-proposal-research.html



4. AKidsRight.Org - a FaceBook cause?  Your help?
-------------------------------------------------
I've gotten some suggestions about creating a FaceBook Cause/Group/Fan
Page for AKidsRight.Org and a strong presumption that we are FIT &
EQUAL parents.  It sounds like a good idea and I would welcome some
help in setting up/managing that type of effort.

If you have been a member of the group for a while and support our
goals and methods, http://www.AKidsRight.Org/approach.htm -- give me a
call in the next few days (315) 944-0999, x-211 or email me at
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org to discuss.



5. Your FEEDBACK - Goals & Methods
----------------------------------
Here are some of your thoughts, and you always get the LAST word
in a dialog.

--- Darrick <darricksf at achildsright.net>

> We are the perfect victim, we don't have a lot of money to defend
> ourselves in court with well paid lawyers. We don't want to get into
> legal trouble with the law because we don't want to lose the time
> that we have with our children that we do have. 

> We tend to fade away once our children are grown or we end up in
> jail or dead from depression and not giving a crap about life...

> Like I wrote before, I think it would be great if on Parent's Day,
> Mother's Day, Father's Day etc that people would individually decide
> to face the consequences of chalking the public sidewalk with
> parental rights messages. I will consider working with some others
> in Michigan to organize another rally at the state capitol building
> by getting a permit to be there.



---  Lucille  <vlucille543 at gmail.com>

> To all May I please point out that there is a big difference in
> writing with chalk on a public sidewalk.  Kids do it all the time
> without having their hands slapped,
 
> But when you write on someones wall, car, fence, etc you are really
> defacing property, and demeaning what you have set out to do.  It is
> not a good way to fight and can work against the whole reason to get
> attention.  It can also come back and bite you on the but. BIG.
 
> Do it properly and you will be rewarded.  Continue this way of
> defacing and a bad name and reputation is brought upon every one.
> Please think About it.

Many people feel as you do and I'm not sure there is a 'right' answer?
This idea of "Family Rights" is sort of a new thing, and maybe we
don't know how to deal with it.  Let me give you another example, and
please send me your response.  It is based on material we have on
Martin Luther King and the fight against segregation,
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/civil_back.htm

Assume the year is 1950, the place, a small town in Alabama, and your
already a "white" passenger sitting in the front of a segregated base.
It's how it has always been, and you feel things are better with the
races separate, but you could go along with sitting together also --
but it's not your issue.

You need to get to your destination at a specific time, if you are
late, you are going to miss a connecting bus for vacation (or be late
for an important legal meeting, etc...).

Suddenly, at the next bus stop, a bunch of Black Freedom Riders get on
your bus and sit in the front.  The Bus driver tries to talk them into
leaving or he has to call the cops.  There are other riders like you,
and it's going to screw everybody up if the bus is stuck there because
of this 'protest'.

You and the other passengers try to plead with the Black protesters to
just get off, they have proved their point, no need to also get your
lives screwed up.

They are very polite, but they refuse to leave.  They will make the
bus sit & wait till the police show up and arrest them.

You and a lot of other people get your day fouled up.  The next day,
you write a "Letter to the Editor", what would you say?

-------- Lucille responds

> Thank you for the reply.  I do not see how this fits together with
> using drastic measures of defacing other peoples, or public property
> to get attention.

> There are other methods that can be used and come out a winner.  to
> those who are so angry that they cannot see or reason straight, this
> may really seem appealing.  That is why gangs write on walls and
> alley fences.  It get negative attention, not the kind that is
> really needed.

> I stand by what I have said.  This is something that we do not even
> encourage our children to do.  It is sending wrong messages to the
> wrong people.



--- Scott Hopkins <shopk7 at yahoo.com>

> I have thought about your question about our goal of shared
> parenting. It has been simmering in my mind.  I have come to the
> conclusion that it is right on.?? Unless there is a conviction by a
> jury dealing directly with the health and safety of the child, equal
> parenting should justly be the only answer.
 
> Unfortunately, we can't even get the idea of shared parenting
> across.?? Congressmen don't care or worse, see the value of the
> custodial/non-custodial setup for the state. The media has a skewed
> vision of masculinity that invites contempt and is very difficult to
> take seriously.

> Sadly, the worst problem are the men themselves. By and large the
> fight has been taken out of the American male. We bluster and we
> groan and we shake our fists, but very few are willing to suffer for
> what is right the way you are. When I talk to men who have gotten
> the shaft in court, they complain, but don't want to do anything
> about it. ?? I can't even get men to write to congressmen.  They are
> mad, but they are timid and fearful ... perhaps of confrontation
> ... perhaps of losing the pittance that they still have left.

> This war will never be won. This system will never be changed until
> men in this country act like men. What is only continues because of
> what we are.

I think your comments are very accurate.  We cry & complain, but when
it comes to doing something.....  I really think that will happen with
time.  When parents begin to realize their basic dignity is being
assaulted.



---  Don Mathis <fourteenpercenter at yahoo.com>
     http://dad4justice.blogspot.com/2008/04/fourteen-percenter.html

[ This was a long dialog.  Don (text below with '>') cares a lot about
reform and I hope the back & forth helps us all think about the issue
and how we define and protect Family Rights? Is a former porn star who
was convicted of tax evasion a FIT & EQUAL parent? Our original
message: http://www.AKidsRight.org/archive/archive2009/0040.html ]

> Janine Lindemulder was ok for Jesse James to??have sex with. And if
> he knew neither were using birth control, he must have figured she
> was good enough to be a mother. So perhaps a tax-evading porn-star
> lover-of-a-drug-user lover is good enough to be a mom.

> But maybe James was wrong. Maybe he had sex with her under the
> conception that she was on the pill.
 
> I do think it was right for James to have custody while Mom was in
> jail. And I do think she has to prove herself fit to regain 50/50
> shared custody. 'Judge Mathis' would order a Social Study.


I wanted to get back with you on your reply. As far as I know, the
government never proved her 'unfit' -- unless we are going to say
anyone who goes to jail for a 'serious' crime needs to be controlled
around their kids?

I thought the Declaration of Family Rights was pretty simple,
http://www.akidsright.org/parental_notification/family-rights-poster.pdf

It is her 'right' to be presumed Fit & Equal, just as it was yours and
mine.  What would you add/subtract to make it fit in with your
reasoning above?  Isn't that the whole problem with the present system
-- you have to prove to the Court that being with your child is
actually good for your child?

I know you have thought hard about this stuff and I think a lot of
people share your perspective.


> She was presumed Fit & Equal before she stepped outside the law. Her
> punishment was prison. After her probation, should she be considered
> fit and equal again?


Not sure if we are talking about the same standard? A lot of people
break the law.  You can see the wording in the Declaration of Family
Rights -
http://www.akidsright.org/parental_notification/family-rights-poster.pdf

I don't think you would see a unanimous jury verdict against her using
those standards?  What standards would you like?


> I can accept the statement, "Good, average, & poor parents are Fit &
> Equal parents."  But I cannot accept a criminal parent as fit and
> equal.

> To clarify, MLK was criminal in the eyes of the law but he was a fit
> parent. But his crime was civil disobedience; his crime hurt no one.

> Brittany Spears is another example. Her mental state renders her
> unfit, in mho.

> Do you think it might not all be about whether Janine Lindemulder is
> fit?  Do you think the judge may be considering the fact that her
> husband is a convicted felon?  I would hope the judge knows what the
> conviction is for. Do you!

The question is, what is the standard?  What is the definition of
Family Rights?  I'm not sure, but from your messages I think you would
say it's a case-by-case decision and the legal system has to make the
call?

> I dislike the idea of the legal system making a call based on
> allegations. But when one is a convicted felon, that is a fact. And,
> yes, I do believe such facts should play a part in the decision.
> Don.



-- 
                                       John Murtari
____________________________________________________________________
Coordinator                            AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org         A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)             http://www.AKidsRight.Org/


From murtarij at yahoo.com  Fri Jan  8 15:44:35 2010
From: murtarij at yahoo.com (John Murtari)
Date: Fri, 8 Jan 2010 12:44:35 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Steele - letter from jail/ Murtari charges dismissed,
	more action Jan 12th.
Message-ID: <380897.43524.qm@web112404.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>



 Good People & People of Faith,

This message has info on:

1. Steele - his letter from jail. Expects release Jan 12th!
2. Murtari - charges dismissed, resuming Jan 12th.
3. Science & Psych Evals - who is the better parent?

[NOTE - please send replies to this message to a monitored
address: jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org ]


1. Andrew Steele - his letter from jail. Expects release Jan 12th!
----------------------------------------------------------------- 
[ I recv'd a letter from Andrew Steele, the Boston area parent who has
been in jail for about a month after writing on a Courthouse wall.
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/action_boston

He did appear in Court on Jan 6th, was able to plead guilty to a
lesser charge and the Judge just wanted him to pay restitution, app
$2000 before being released (no more jail time or probation) -- that
should be next Tuesday, Jan 12th.

If you wish to communicate with Andrew you can send messages through a
friend Ms. Mandy Varona <mandyvarona at yahoo.com>. As soon as we have
his email address we will let you know. Any list FEEDBACK is also
welcome. - John]


-------------------------------    December 31, 2009      
"Dear John,                          

... It strikes me that America has become like parents who don't know
what to do with their troubled children.  This in spite of the fact we
have thousands of years of accumulated knowledge and wisdom from which
to draw in our decision making.  The study of society, the study of
people and conflict, and conflict resolution.

No matter if we read religious or spiritual texts, a book about the
needs of our children, an article in a magazine discussing family
conflict ... we can find this dominant message: family is the most
important building block for a healthy society; and healthy, fair
conflict resolution is paramount to maintaining a healthy family
environment, whether that family be intact or divided through divorce.

I have never read or heard anything that suggests drawing out a
conflict, as in a divorce, is healthy for anyone, least of all the
children.  Yet this happens in our probate courts [The Massachusetts
name for 'family' courts] time and time again.

Our probate courts have become like ancient Roman Coliseums in which
people are all too often thrown to "fight to the death" and it that
isn't exciting enough, why, thrown in a lion or two!

Once in our probate courts the lawyers and the judges allow our
children to be thrown in, to be emotionally mauled and mutilated.  Our
children become collateral damage in what is best called a "divorce
war."

A "divorce war" is any divorce, any dysfunctional divorce, overseen
and allowed to become such by a judge who, by action or inaction,
appears not to understand how to help those "troubled children"
(husbands and wives divorcing) who MUST come to the court seeking
conflict resolution.

Why does a judge, why do so many judges, seem completely unable to
effectively -- and fairly -- bring a troubled marriage to an end?  Why,
frankly, do judges and lawyers botch divorces so severely by allowing
emotional states to turn poisonous, which then breeds vindictiveness
and greed?

As though they intend us, divorcing mothers and fathers, to fight to
the death.  "Throw in the lions!  Throw in the children!"

After two years of "divorce war," during the final hearing, Judge
Sabaitis, who presided over my divorce, seeing tears in my eyes and
hearing me plead to please allow us all to just get on with our lives
-- said, "Divorce is hard on everyone."  And then, as though she had
not heard her own words, Judge Sabaitis took a bit more than thirteen
additional months to deliver a final judgment.

It is as though Judge Sabaitis is a "child god" who has no idea the
pain she was causing us all.  It is as though she is a surgeon ripping
our children's souls from the fabric of their being, and mine; for me
every day is/was like this, for three years and her judgment only
continues the dysfunctional atmosphere.

A judge should be able to draw from the knowledge and wisdom earned
over the past millenniums -- for us all to use -- to know that the
fabric of our children's lives, weaved as they grow and learn (partly
be example from us) are best weaved with the guidance of both a mother
and a father (with variations in family makeup; of course); and that
weaving process should not be allowed an interruption by a court, by a
judge, or by parents who during such difficult times lose their focus
-- that the well being of their children is paramount (something a
wise judge is not meant to temper).

Yet probate judges seems to operate in their own world, and by
their own laws (as though a dictator), in contrast to the wisdom
one can find in the Bible, or in any number of writings on the
subject of healthy children, healthy families, a healthy society.

In our case, Judge Sabaitis seemed to be focused on the money (that
was the reason she gave for denying the children a garden ad litem),
rather than focusing on relationship.  In a society such as we have 
here in America, where money dominates our attention at the cost of
healthy children, healthy families, a healthy society, we should not
be surprised we give birth to a Judge Sabaitis.

And my sons, I, and my ex-wife, the suffer the consequences -- we all
suffer the consequences, all of society.

I wanted to spend less time making money and more time with my sons.
Judge Sabaitis has been given the "dictator-like" power by the State
of Massachusetts to order the designs of my sons' lives at the
opposite polar end of my wishes.  By ordering me to make more money
that I was able, and keeping my sons and I apart.  Wow! One would do
well to begin questioning, if one is not already, what this means
to the freedom America so boasts about.

Walt Whitman wrote this poem "To the States":

    To the States or any one of them, or any city of the
    States, Resist
    much, obey little,
    Once unquestioning obedience, once fully enslaved,
    Once fully enslaved, no nation, state, city of this earth, ever
    afterward resumes its liberty.

I say a judge is a human being, no more, dressed in a black robe and
titled judges all too easily and too often acting like a dictator
playing the part of God.  If people are suffering, and my sons and I
are, the government is failing us, in this case by denying my sons
their right to have me, and my right to have them, to share our lives
with each other, which many would say if a God-given right, and not
for a judge, a human, to deny.

And I say this: If the laws do not change, if we do not solve conflict
from a place of empathy, compassion, love, and now LAW, for our
children's sake, then my sons, four of them, and your sons, all of
them -- in a fate of irony of this society we've created.  All of our
sons may someday stand before Judge Sabaitis, and as grown men be
ordered to make more money than they can, or want to, and worse yet,
they my be kept from having their sons in their lives, their children
in their lives.  My grandchildren, your grandchildren, separated from
fathers!

During which generation will we stop the judges from defining our
lives, and those of our children?

For this I rebel.  For my sons, who someday will be men, I reject the
premise that the government has the right to father my sons.  That the
government has the right to father my grandchildren.  I am my son's
father, not the President, not the House or the Senate, not the
Governor of this State, nor the lawmakers of this State, and
absolutely not Judge Catherine Sabaitis

This will be my one and only protest, the only time I will push at the
limits of the law, but I will never, never, stop fighting for my son's
rights, now as children, and in the future when they are men.  God
willing.

Sincerely,
Mr. Andrew Steele
Plymouth County Correctional Facility
Plymouth, Massachusetts
-----------------------------------------------


2. John Murtari - charges dismissed, resuming Jan 12th.
------------------------------------------------------
During a court appearance on January 6th, my assigned counsel,
Ms. Denise Munson, did an excellent job in advocating for my rights as
a defendant.  She submitted a very effective motion:

http://www.akidsright.org/parental_notification/motion1_affidav.pdf

quoting good case law and asking for dismissal of the four pending
charges based on the idea that "chalk can't damage" and there was no
"intent to damage".  The DAs office concurred with the motion and also
agreed with dismissal.

I was very happy with the result.  I had been ready to resume my
activities next week (Jan 12th) and having this decided first should
make things 'simpler'.

I'll be back at the Courthouse, chalk in hand, on Jan 12th.  Your
support is welcome, for more details see:
http://www.akidsright.org/parental_notification

If you have time, please checkout the "Declaration of Family Rights"
-- the site allows you to sign and also leave a public comment.
http://www.ThePetitionSite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights


3. Science & Psych Evals
------------------------  
As part of what I can only call 'harassment/intimidation' the DA's
office had earlier requested a psychological examination over my
competency to stand trial.  This was completed in early December and
you are welcome to read two reports by both a Psychologist and
Psychiatrist.

http://www.AKidsRight.org/parental_notification/psychologist.pdf
http://www.AKidsRight.org/parental_notification/psychiatrist.pdf

They were both nice people and there were no problems during the
interviews.  I do, however; encourage you to read the final paragraph
in the Psychiatrist's report above.

The new 'modern' trend is to have a psychological custody evaluation
and let 'science' decide what is best for children.  I could just
imagine a similar paragraph in a report to a Family Court Judge and
the Judge ordering 'counseling' because a parent had fond memories and
a good relationship with their parent?  This could be suspect?

I always find it counter-productive when I see 'science' used to
justify family law reform because WE ARE NOT EQUAL when measured by
microscope and caliper.  The Declaration of Independence:

    "We find these truths to be self evident, that all men are created
    equal; they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
    rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of
    Happiness..."
  

Scientific Studies
------------------
I recently saw a scientific 'study' that said in the clear majority
of cases children do better with a "single father" vs. "single
mother" -- regardless of if it's even good science, is that
really suppose to matter?  Are we suppose to start awarding custody
to fathers in preference to mothers? 

I just finished a wonderful Christmas vacation with my son, Domenic
(I'm still coming off the 'high'). I'm a bald-headed-bearded-italian,
if science said that 75% of bald-headed-bearded-italians make bad
parents -- should I be cutoff from Domenic as too big a risk?

This question may sound bizarre, but it is one we ALL have a lot of
trouble with -- because we ALL want to do the right thing. I believe
the answer is 'no' -- and again, it's something we all can relate to
in our present criminal system.

I have spent a fair amount of time in Jail, and in holding cells with
people accused of crimes. Now I can tell you that about 90% of those
people were guilty -- do we dispense with the need for a trial, jury,
and presumption of innocence?

If 9 out of 10 black teenagers we pick up on the streets of New York
are guilty as charged -- do we skip the other protections as a matter
of GOOD PUBLIC POLICY?

No we do not.  Your right to "liberty" is yours -- and the state cannot
take it away as a matter of policy (since it did not give it to you).
Your right to "family" is also yours.

Does it mean we occasionally let murderers go and that they may kill
again -- yes we do and they do!  But we accept that risk and
consequence as part of the protection of our freedoms.


---------

                                          John Murtari
_______________________________________________________
Coordinator                              AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org           A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)               http://www.AKidsRight.Org/


      

From jmurtari at AKidsRight.org  Wed Jan 13 13:29:21 2010
From: jmurtari at AKidsRight.org (John Murtari)
Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:29:21 -0500
Subject: Easy Red Cross donation for Haiti quake relief via cell phone.
Message-ID: <19278.4353.508177.25780@torch.softwareworkshop.com>

Good People & People of Faith,

I normally keep this list just for Family Law reform news, but this is
a needed exception.  I'm sure many of you have seen the tragedy in
Haiti.  What seems to make it even more terrible for me -- is that
these people didn't have a lot anyway and now they have lost not only
the little they had, but some of their family members as well!

While looking at USAToday.Com I found a quick & easy was to donate ten
dollars to the relief effort from your cell phone. I include the link
if you want to verify.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2010-01-12-Haiti_N.htm

GIVE: To help with relief efforts, text "HAITI" to "90999" and $10
will be given automatically to the Red Cross, charged to your cell
phone bill.

I tried it from my cell, Verizon Wireless.  I sent the text message
"haiti" to the 90999 number.  Almost immediately I got a confirmation
message back, it said to text a "Yes" to confirm the donation.  I did
that.  I then got another thank you message.  It also asked if I
wanted to get more cell updates, you can reply with "stop" for no more
messages.

Pretty quick, efficient system.  Please consider contributing.

-- 
                                       John Murtari
____________________________________________________________________
Coordinator                            AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org         A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)             http://www.AKidsRight.Org/

From murtarij at yahoo.com  Mon Jan 18 08:47:57 2010
From: murtarij at yahoo.com (John Murtari)
Date: Mon, 18 Jan 2010 05:47:57 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Martin Luther King Day - BELIEVE in reform and take ACTION!
Message-ID: <558236.49333.qm@web112419.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>



 Good People & People of Faith,

I'm going to try and keep this message short.  I went back to the
Courthouse three days last week and used kids's chalk to write on the
wall (the message "Mr. Oaks - HELP FAMILY RIGHTS").  After writing I
went in and told security, then a silent picket outside the building
for about an hour before going home.
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/parental_notification

Tomorrow, Jan 19th, I'll be going back and writing a LOT.  Let's see
how much they can ignore?  I've included one very "on point" FEEDBACK
message below: You need more people to join you and get involved!


MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY -- I think articles miss the point when they
talk about "peaceful" action, but miss the call for "self-sacrifice."
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/p_martin.htm

    "We are American citizens, and we are determined to acquire or
    citizenship to the fullness of its meaning. We are here because we
    are determined to get the situation corrected. We are here this
    evening to say to those who have mistreated us so long what we are
    tired -- tired of being segregated and humiliated; tired of being
    kicked about by the brutal feet of oppression...

    In our protest there will be no cross burnings. No white person
    will be taken from their home by a hooded Negro mob and brutally
    murdered. There will be no threats and intimidation... our actions
    must be guided by the deepest principles of our Christian
    faith. Love must be our regulating ideal. . . .

    Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, and pray for them
    that use you. If we fail to do this our protest will end up as a
    meaningless drama on the stage of history, and its memory will be
    shrouded with the ugly garments of shame... [When the history
    books are written] there lived a race of people who had the moral
    courage to stand up for their rights. And thereby they injected a
    new meaning into the veins of history and civilization."  --
                          Dr. Martin Luther King


Before you use the word "rights" -- ask yourself this, "Would I go to
a Family Law reform rally if I knew my home might be burned down?"
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/p_gandhi.htm

    "This non-violence will be expressed through Civil Disobedience.
    My ambition is no less than to convert people through
    non-violence, and thus make them see the wrong they have done. I
    do not seek to harm people. I want to serve them even as I want to
    serve my own . . .

    If the people join me as I expect they will, the suffering they
    will undergo will be enough to melt the stoniest hearts."  --
                            Mahatma Gandhi           


"ACT WITH HONESTY IN RESPONSE TO INDIGNITY" -- Do we need to hear more
example of how bad the system is.  The larger question: What are we
going to do about it?

http://mensnewsdaily.com/2010/01/13/act-with-honesty-in-response-to-indignity/

(Note: I'm not an activist for Men's Rights or Women's Rights. This
isn't to say they don't have some valid concerns and goals.  My issue
is the Family Rights of both Mothers and Fathers.)


"WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE" -- There is currently a review of Family Law
underway in California by the "Elkins Family Law Task Force." Here is
something from a group called "Fathers & Families" (sorry Moms!) that
submitted recommendations:

http://www.fathersandfamilies.org/docs/final-elkins-package-20091204.pdf

It's a 24 page document. I encourage you to read what they propose as
a "Co-Parent's Bill of Rights and Responsibilities" -- page 11.  It's
nice to know you can feel good! You're still a "Co-Parent" even if you
do only see your kids a few weekends a month and have no say in what
they are doing...  but we'll let you know!  Your FEEDBACK?


"THE DECLARATION OF FAMILY RIGHTS" -- I believe it is worth signing!
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights



Your FEEDBACK -- strength in numbers!
------------------------------------

--- Brian Johnson <brianleejohnson at accesscomm.ca>

> I continue to receive and read your emails with interest.  I've been
> very active in the post-divorce equal parenting movement, both
> locally and nationally here in Canada, for 12 years now.  I'm the VP
> for Coalition Affairs for The Canadian Equal Parenting Council, the
> President of the Canadian Coalition for Equal Parenting, the
> Coordinator for the Regina Shared Parenting Network, and am a Board
> member of Fathers-4-Justice Canada.
  
> I am very impressed with your obviously deep and tenacious
> commitment to the movement.  In many ways you continue to inspire.
  
> I would like to make a small comment and suggestion on your efforts.
> I have struggled, like so many others in the movement, with efforts
> to motivate others to become more active, with only modest success.
> I note your struggles as well.
  
> I am interested in knowing if you have contacted either The American
> Coalition for Fathers and Children (out of Washington) or Fathers
> and Families (out of Boston)?  Have you discussed with either of
> them the idea of setting up a chapter of their organization where
> you live near New York?  As you know, there is strength in numbers
> on a logarithmic scale.

> Accordingly, I would like to ask if you would consider holding off
> on your next (isolated?) action until you have explored these two
> organizations as allies, or some other organization.  Or, failing
> that approach, perhaps hold off until you have secured the support
> of at least a few other people who would be willing to join you.
> The reasons for my suggestion are the following: 1) in numbers -
> strength; 2) in numbers - safety; 3) in numbers - enhanced
> motivation; 4) in numbers - unity; 5) in numbers - emotional
> support; 6) in numbers - media coverage.  

> The last point is particularly critical as I'm sure your know.
> Without the media to at least report an action, and preferably to
> provide supportive coverage, the action's impact would be almost
> entirely lost as a motivating effort.  With the media's coverage
> and, hopefully, support, the action will be profoundly more
> effective.  Instead of giving the appearance of a single,
> unsupported voice for change, an activity accomplished by a group of
> people (however small, and hopefully growing) would have a huge
> effect on motivating others to act as well.  I believe that all
> activists across the continent should place as their first priority
> some action plan to establish a group-based response to the burdens
> we have been enduring.  Without much greater political presence, our
> movement will continue to languish.  This is why organizations such
> as the two I've mentioned above, or other organizations in the
> movement, are so critical to support, such that the critical mass
> needed, to effect the large P political change we are all striving
> for, will come all that sooner.

> Would you be willing to consider my ideas?

I'm sending my reply to you and also to a few of the groups you
mention and others who are active.  I agree with almost everything you
say above and have had the same thoughts.  What you say about more
effectiveness in numbers is absolutely correct.  I have tried
contacting the groups above, on several occasions, but not seen a lot
of support from leadership.  There is nothing "magic" about what I am
doing and you, or any of the other groups could do similar things -- I
have kept in touch with the F4J Canada group and glad to see they have
a group dedicated to public action. Although a few member of F4J in
the US have tried, it doesn't seem to be catching on here?

This may seem basic, but we still don't agree on Fundamental "Goals"
for reform -- and what "Methods" are suitable to achieve those goals.
How could I expect their support?  The "Declaration of Family Rights"
makes a strong Civil Rights statement,

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights
http://www.akidsright.org/approach.htm
 
That type of Goal calls for Civil Rights "methods" -- and those
peaceful methods call for an element of unavoidable self-sacrifice.
Many groups and individuals have an aversion to breaking any law as a
form of civil disobedience.  Many groups are non-profits and could
find themselves fined by Judges for financial damages if they did so.
I ask people, "What personal sacrifice are you willing to make right
now to try to make the reform you desire a reality?"  I get few
answers.

I can't blame them.  If you have a different goal, these methods may
not be correct.  Many would declare victory if they could just get a
"rebuttable presumption of equality" into law -- but a Judge would
still decide what's best for the kids, after all, every family is so
unique?

Maybe for some it is a matter of achieving a small short term goal,
before going after the big goal of real EQUALITY?  In some ways that
makes sense, but the problem may be -- we need to overcome what has
become a deep-seated social prejudice and acceptance of government
interference in family life.  To do that, we need numbers and votes --
a big "Civil Rights" goal can do more to inspire people to act.  When
you say "Civil Rights", it calls forth a different level of effort.

I believe others are waiting to see if "these ideas about loving
self-sacrifice really work?"  Maybe this "faith" based approach worked
years ago for Indian Independence and stopping Segregation -- but
these are different times.  We are more modern now.  People don't have
that same Faith....

Brian, believe me what I say I have many of the same doubts every time
I find myself in jail -- but I have see some very good things happen
(at a smaller level) and I must try to be true to my Faith in a loving
God.  While I always try to get others, it does not excuse me from
acting alone when confronted with injustice & indignity.

More people may be "more" effective, but one person can still change
things.  I'm never more than one major news story from seeing things
turn around.  Remember the Black "freedom riders" from the 50s.  It
started with one, became a few, and when it got major press coverage
-- it became trendy!

---------

                                          John Murtari
_______________________________________________________
Coordinator                              AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org           A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)               http://www.AKidsRight.Org/


      

From murtarij at yahoo.com  Fri Jan 22 16:55:05 2010
From: murtarij at yahoo.com (John Murtari)
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:55:05 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Chalk Campaign for Family Rights/ It gets pretty scary/ Tweets!
Message-ID: <543231.27849.qm@web112407.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>

Good People & People of Faith,

This message has info on a few items, but most importantly some
thoughts on being scared. I feel that a lot!

1. Chalk Campaign for Family Rights - it's all good!
2. It gets pretty scary - how it feels on the inside.
3. Do you see me - a little background.
4. NonViolent Action on twitter -- tweet, tweet!


1. Chalk Campaign for Family Rights - it's all good!
----------------------------------------------------
Want to see some surprising pictures of a County Courthouse marked up
with one foot lettering "Help Family Rights"? Just check here:
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/family_rights/index.htm#current

Even more amazing -- I do it in the middle of the day, walk in and
tell security when I'm done, and its OKAY!  The building is getting
pretty coated and I even offered to wash it off at the end of each
week -- they haven't asked yet.

The link above includes a photo collage. You're welcome to join me in
distributing it to News media. It should make a fascinating story and
hopefully encourage other parents to take real public action.

The "Declaration of Family Rights" petition signatures are growing
daily, you can even leave a message with your signature.
http://www.ThePetitionSite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights


2. It gets pretty scary - how it feels on the inside.
-----------------------------------------------------
Many of you write and say, "John, it won't work!"  I often have those
same feelings.  At times my gut gets tied up in knots wondering what's
going to happen.  Will I come home tonight or will it be jail?  Can I
pay the bills in a few months?

Before I go to the Courthouse I have to secure my home, turn off the
water, turn down the thermostat, etc..  I might not be back for
weeks/months?  I'm lucky to have a cousin in town who can periodically
check on things while I'm "tied up."

The biggest thing is "not knowing" what will happen. Last month I had
four pending charges for misdemeanor "graffiti" -- each could have
carried a six month jail sentence.  Using chalk, I didn't think I
would get the max, but I was expecting several months of jail time.
They were all dismissed Jan 6th (see link above).

I've some good friends I can talk with and that helps a lot.  I keep a
sense of humor through it all and also humility. I pray for guidance,
leave it in God's hands, and try not to worry about results.

I'm fortunate to be able to sleep like a baby! Speaking of sleeping, I
have to share a video of some local Monks at night prayer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5gXyTSY_xI 

Domenic & I have visited there since he was little and I'd hold him in
my arms as they chanted.  The words became a lullaby for him and
comfort (through the many terrors of Family Law) for me.  Anyone is
welcome to visit there.

My actions are much easier when other parents are with me, even as
spectators.  I welcome your participation and appreciate your
supportive emails and the phone calls/letters on my behalf!  We are
close to making reform happen -- we just need the courage & faith to
act on our beliefs.

Oh, and even though I feel scared at times -- it feels GREAT on the
inside.  The anger & frustration I felt after having my rights abused
and watching my child suffer are mostly gone once I started taking
NonViolent Action.  I don't get mad at "them" anymore now that I am
actually doing something about it.


3. Do you see me - a little background.
---------------------------------------
I hate to quote a line from the movie Avatar, but I hope the following
allows "you to see me" more clearly so that John Murtari is not a
mystery and perhaps we can all join in more common actions.

FAMILY - I'm 53 (feel younger, but look older!).  I don't have any
brothers or sisters.  My parents were Italian immigrants. My Dad
passed away in 1989 (age 97) and my mom in 2006 (age 89).  If you do
some math -- I'm very lucky I'm here!

Got married in 1987 and Domenic was born in 1993.  A bitter divorce
started in 1995 (pretty standard stuff, unlike many of you I was lucky
no abuse allegations were made. If you want to see the Court material,
http://www.akidsright.org/example_appeals.htm).  Custody to her.  Then
she got permission to relocate out West in 1998. The only win I got
was that Dom and I were given Christmas and Sprint break together in
Lyons, and a solid SIX WEEK block every summer.
http://www.AKidsRight.org/shame2.htm#murtari

I was worried about alienation (she hated me). I did everything I
could to stay in contact. He's now 17 and we have a great time
together.  Those great fears have been relieved and I ache when I hear
some of your stories. I know it was a close call for us!

HOME - I live in a rural community (Lyons, NY), and can't drive (child
support arrears -- see http://www.AKidsRight.Org/support_jm.htm).  I'm
lucky to have a home I inherited from my parents. It is literally on
the south side of the tracks, value about $42,000. In pretty good
shape (if you don't mind the shaking when the trains go by)!

EDUCATION - A BS in Astronautical Engineering from the Air Force
Academy (I was lucky to get in!). Most of my career was spent as a
T-37 Jet instructor pilot. An MS in Computer Science from Syracuse
University and enough hours for a Minor in Philosophy from Lemoyne
College.

The military training served me well for NonViolent Action and dealing
with jail time and 'no win' situations. I learned it's never over
until you decide to quit.  There is always hope.  (More at
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/resume_jm.htm)

FAITH - The single most important thing that gets me through all
this. Belief in an Almighty God who loves and cares for me even more
that I do for my own son.  That loving personal sacrifice always has
value, whether it be one person or one million.  Faith is essential
for many participants of effective NonViolent Action:
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/civil_back.htm

WORK/MONEY - For many years (when I could drive) I ran a small
Internet web hosting business (http://www.SoftwareWorkshop.com/).  I
had great people working with me. It allowed me to go to jail and
still have a job to come back to.

When I had Dom for those six week summer vacations; I worked from
home, we had a lot of fun together. 

Last summer (2009) I finally had to close it down.  I had one
co-worker and couldn't even get to the office (license suspension).
There was enough money to pay off most of the business debt.  I knew
that I would be starting this NonViolent Action in October and I
wanted to see it through.

I can't keep a bank account open.  My expenses are low. Right now I
have about $2000 in cash -- and that is it!  I can make it till about
May and then "something" has to happen. I try not to think about that
for now.

MOTIVATION - The strongest thing making it easy for me to risk arrest
is the driver's license suspension.  It is an absolute indignity and I
refuse to be a willing "bag lady" as I walk around town for
groceries. I can't take care of my obligations.

I don't make it the 'issue' in my efforts. This indignity is just a
side effect of our failure to recognize Family Rights, but it helps
provide motivation.
http://mensnewsdaily.com/2010/01/13/act-with-honesty-in-response-to-indignity/


3. NonViolent Action on twitter -- tweet, tweet!
------------------------------------------------
If you want to know the moment the chalk hits the Courthouse,
pictures get posted, or an arrest occurs.  I'll know be making
twitter updates (@akidsright).  To follow go to:
http://twitter.com/akidsright

Tweets will only be about NonViolent Actions by myself or other
parents - not general news or events.

---------

                                          John Murtari
_______________________________________________________
Coordinator                              AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org           A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)               http://www.AKidsRight.Org/


      

From jmurtari at AKidsRight.org  Mon Jan 25 14:44:56 2010
From: jmurtari at AKidsRight.org (John Murtari)
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:44:56 -0500
Subject: Your FEEDBACK -- Action for reform, strength in numbers! 
Message-ID: <19293.62648.257288.115122@torch.softwareworkshop.com>

Good People & People of Faith,

This message has your FEEDBACK on the actions required for reform to
happen. Many parents would be willing to take public action if they
had others with them -- and that makes a lot of sense.

If you are ready to take action if you could only get some other
parents with you -- let me know and it can be broadcast to our list.
I'll be resuming my efforts tomorrow, anyone is welcome!
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/family_rights

RECOMMENDATIONS: If the action involves more than one, please make it
a group of mothers AND fathers.  Focus on a specific politician that
has not been responsive to a presumption of FIT & EQUAL parents.
Family Rights involve not only divorce/separation, but also the
actions of Child "Protective" Services.  Have a clear goal. Consider
the "Declaration of Family Rights"
http://www.ThePetitionSite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights


YOUR FEEDBACK -- some good thoughts on both sides of the issues.
---------------------------------------------------------------

--- Stuart Showalter <stuart at boonecountyfathers.org>

> Kick some a$$ John, with chalk in hand. 


--- William Wagener <producer at onsecondthought.tv>

> Until you get a mob of 100 or so... it won't matter much JOHN, there
> are 100s of 1000s of NCP locked up until after Christmas....

> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QW0JMc8WbRQ&feature=related

> it was intended for YOU as well.  And More OVER, your petition to
> your US Senators and even state Senators and assemblymen is totally
> wasted, sitting in Jail is a waist.

> You can chalk the sidewalk until HELL Freezes over, and you can sit
> in jail and starve... even to death... you fail to comprehend...
> THEY DO NOT CARE....


--- Carl Lanzisera <lanzisera at msn.com> Americans for Legal Reform

[A very motivated group located in the New York City area.]
http://americans4legalreform.com/

> Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 2nd, 7pm, at the
> Plainview Library. Address: 999 Old Country Rd.  Plainview, NY 11803
> tel: 516-938-0077


--- Carl Lanzisera <lanzisera at msn.com> Americans for Legal Reform

[A very motivated group located in the New York City area.]
http://americans4legalreform.com/

> Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 2nd, 7pm, at the
> Plainview Library. Address: 999 Old Country Rd.  Plainview, NY 11803
> tel: 516-938-0077


--- "Chris Fowler" <sflraptor at bellsouth.net>

> Here are some effective thoughts:

> 1. We are ineffective because we are preaching to the choir, here.

> 2. We are ineffective because our message is not getting out and we
> are doing nothing to get it out effectively.

> 3. If we want to get our message out, we need to get on the news,
> but most news services don't care to cover these kinds of events, we
> get the news out by not telling them what the protest is about until
> one of us gets asked by a reporter, but "We" don't tell them; a
> designated spokesman at the protest does.

> Here is an idea, and it is up to all of us that are willing and able
> to make the time (how important is this issue to you) to
> participate.

> We need to hold a protest in front of the courthouse.  We do not
> impede anyone from access to/from the courthouse, we do not verbally
> or physically accost anyone at any time for any reason.

> We do this in the middle of the week, during the day, all day, with
> very specifically worded signs.  I say that we do this within the
> next couple of weeks and get as many people as possible to help on
> the day of the event.

> This plan will make noise, will get attention and can be effective
> if executed properly.  Anyone seriously interested, can contact me
> off list at sflraptor at bellsouth.net

> Either we do this or we stay silent, like the Jews under the Nazis.


--- Ron <rolragg at aol.com>

> My daughter's mother would not let me see my daughter so I wrote on
> the sidewalk in kids chalk I love you and miss you. I was later told
> that it is unlawful and would be arrested if I did it again. You
> can't write on the sidewalk. It's illegal. I was also told even I
> had a permit I could not protest. I think the best is to work
> through the legislative process. The other is to have the laws
> enforced and show how blatantly unfair they are. In the civil rights
> movement the concept was to show people how unlawful and brutal the
> laws were... However writing on the sidewalk may not be the best
> strategy. Non-violent passive resistance and non-compliance with
> family court orders in mass I repeat mass demonstrations would be
> more effective.The father's rights movement is young and growing so
> there is much reason for hope. Best

> I am giving serious consideration to going to Jail for contempt of
> court. I have consulted many people not one recommended jail time. I
> believe what the state and the federal government are doing is
> unconstitutional. The state does not have the right to supersede the
> natural rights of parents. 

You are 100% right about the unconstitutionality of what they are
doing.  Our most fundamental human right to raise & nurture our own
children is being violated.

Before you do anything, take a look at some of what I have done in the
past.  Just go to http://www.AKidsRight.Org/events.htm and start at
the bottom with what happened in 1999.  You don't want to go to jail
for 'contempt' -- you want it to be on your initiative as part of your
protest about what happened to you and your kids.  If you thumb your
noise at the judge or don't pay support and end up jailed -- people
will think you deserved it.

That is why the chalk, or walking into a public building and just
carry a picture of you and your kids is so effective.  Your motivation
is clear; also more likely to get media attention.

> I want to challenge the unconstitutionality of the process. I do
> like the idea of a hunger strike. However I think what I will do is
> try to get an attorney that will work with me along with a media
> campaign. I have kept up with your posts over the years. My greatest
> fear about going to Jail is the risk of getting raped,contracting
> aids or death.

Well, I had never been in jail before and I had a lot of worries.  I
was also former Military so I used to tough environments, but it
really wasn't that bad.  They are just people also and as long as you
have some common sense, it's pretty easy to stay out of trouble.


> The state has created an untenable situation. I don't understand why
> more fathers are not rioting in the streets. I have decided to take
> the path of passive not-violent resistance as why of effectuation
> change. I would like to hear your suggestions about going to
> jail. All of my attorneys have recommended against it. 

Nobody thinks what they do will matter.  I really encourage you to
read and think about the stuff at the site,
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/civil.htm

It really does take Faith in a loving God.  I pray a LOT when I am
in jail. I am NOT trying to convert you.  Some people believe, some
people don't.  If you don't believe, then I wouldn't recommend
anything I am talking about.  Just do the stuff you feel comfortable
with.

> I have not been able to enforce my visitation. When my brother died
> of a massive heart attack my former wife thought I inherited money
> and told me she would not let me see my daughter until she received
> her share. She withheld my visitation for 8 consecutive months. The
> court did nothing. In total she has withheld about two and half
> years of visitation. I have a lot of horror stories to share with
> you. I had a child support warrant for my arrest that was issued
> after my case was closed. I was arrested and beaten by the police in
> front of my daughter until I was unconscious the police had to call
> an ambulance for me. I actually have all this on tape from their
> police car video. I am going to devote a lot of time to preparation
> before I make the decision to go to jail. I have to anticipate the
> courts response.They may not enforce the statute or the law if they
> know there will media attention. I look forward to hearing from
> you. Thanks.

VERY sorry to hear what happened.  It's the worse thing anyone should
have to go through.  Just don't give up hope and keep trying (but
don't fight fire with fire by lying and exaggerating).  Do everything
you can to keep in contact with your daughter.

I DO NOT recommend the hunger strike stuff (noncooperation -- I was
never trying to hurt myself, just wanted them to take care of me).  I
only have done that twice, and it was both situations where "they"
arrested me and threw me in jail. Once was for support, the other
driving.  Once they get you first, it is hard to get media attention.

All the many other times, I just did something simple to
provoke them (God knows it's easy enough to get arrested in this
country!) like I told you about in my first message.  But first I
wrote a letter to politicians asking to change the laws.  That way
I always brought up the politicians name (if they did not respond)
to my letter -- that can be very effective.

... again, you have got have Faith in loving Father who loves you as
much as you love your daughter. That is what go me through it (not
being cunning!).  I was never rude to anyone and was just lucky to get
some coverage.  A lot of times I don't get any.


--- robert williams <dwilliams71 at hvc.rr.com>

> I have been writing to glen beck and other news people about you and
> guess what no reply I guess we don't matter to them great job your
> my hero wish I lived close I would be right there for you.I did call
> Oaks and also wrote him has he done anything to like speak with you
> or anything.

...my sincere thanks for taking the time to call and write.  I did
talk to his local staff and I think it may be having an effect.  I
have talked to him in person in the past.  He is a nice guy -- it just
hasn't happened to him, but I think he will listen.


--- Darrick <darricksf at achildsright.net>

> We are the perfect victim, we don't have a lot of money to defend
> ourselves in court with well paid lawyers. We don't want to get into
> legal trouble with the law because we don't want to lose the time
> that we have with our children that we do have. We tend to fade away
> once our children are grown or we end up in jail or dead from
> depression and not giving a crap about life. How has your actions
> affected your time with your child? Do you think that an ex could
> use your civil disobedience to remove your time with your child? 

> Like I wrote before, I think it would be great if on Parent's Day,
> Mother's Day, Father's Day etc that people would individually decide
> to face the consequences of chalking the public sidewalk with
> parental rights messages. I will consider working with some others
> in Michigan to organize another rally at the state capitol building
> by getting a permit to be there.


--- americaschildren at yahoo.com    http://www.AmericasChildren.info/  

> we need 2 coordinate a way 2 unite.Getting around the hurdle we live
> in different cities.Your passion for your children and
> equal parenting is amazing. My wish is that most parents who rights
> are being violated on any level@ all saw things as clear as u do,
> and a small or B.I.G sacrifice is more than worth it 4 this cause. 4
> goodness sake it's there children.They should be more than willing 2
> group together and demonstrate there disgust. p.s please keep being
> 1 of mine heroes and pay no mind 2 da haters. If they can't offer
> any constructive help ignore them.


--- sam ross <death12sr at yahoo.com>

> I was wondering if maybe we can do this somewhere in DC as
> well...... Of course the info would have to be tight knit as there
> are moles and this would be something that may be seen as a threat
> or necessary to prevent....... I for one am absolutely for doing it
> on the capitol building steps/walls of the steps..... Do you know of
> anyone else trustworthy of being involved in this plan?? Do you
> think that this should/could be done??


I didn't quite understand all your concern about secrecy?  I think you
have noticed just about everything I have ever done has been published
on the web in advance?

This is just about taking a piece of chalk and writing a positive
message?  If you believed your actions alone could be meaningful, you
could walk out the door and do it right now?

Having more people is effective.  If you would like to coordinate
something in the DC area, let me know and I can put the message out
for folks to contact you.

But remember, this is NonViolent Action, take a look at this page,
http://www.AKidsRight.Org/civil.htm -- and let me know you agree?
Then I think we can move forward.




---------

                                          John Murtari
_______________________________________________________
Coordinator                              AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org           A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)               http://www.AKidsRight.Org/

-- 
                                       John Murtari
____________________________________________________________________
Coordinator                            AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org         A Kid's Right to BOTH parents"
(315) 944-0999(x-211)             http://www.AKidsRight.Org/

From murtarij at yahoo.com  Wed Jan 27 06:50:21 2010
From: murtarij at yahoo.com (John Murtari)
Date: Wed, 27 Jan 2010 03:50:21 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Murtari arrested/jailed in 5th "chalk for Family Rights" incident -
	photos
Message-ID: <105819.44026.qm@web112402.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>

Good People & People of Faith,

[ NOTE: please send any message replies to this monitored addr:
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org]

We wanted to send out a brief announcement that John Murtari was
arrested again today (Jan 27th) in Lyons, NY.  Yesterday, John used
kid's chalk to write a large Family Rights messages on the walls at
the County Courthouse (see photos at link below).  He was planning on
continuing his efforts with another message today outside a meeting of
the County Board of Supervisors.

You can read an excellent story on his activities at the Internet news
site Examiner.com:

http://www.examiner.com/x-15873-Family-Rights-Examiner~y2010m1d26-NY-family-rights-activist-continues-to-chalk-on-courthouse
-OR-
http://www.examiner.com/x-15873-Family-Rights-Examiner

We don't have any more details yet, but they will be posted at the web
site once we hear from John. On Jan 6th the four pending charges
against John were dismissed.  For details and pictures of his
activity. http://www.AKidsRight.Org/family_rights/index.htm#current

There is now a photo collage available for the "Chalk Campaign for
Family Rights."  John sent the photo to his Assemblyman and also plans
on distributing it to local media(see link above). ALL PICTURES &
DESCRIPTIONS at the website are free for reuse -- your help is welcome
in getting the word out on efforts for reform.

Please take the time to call the officials below.  Be polite and let
them know your concerns and your support for Family rights.

TO HELP JOHN:
-------------
You can contact Assemblyman Oaks by:

website: http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=128
email: oaksr at assembly.state.ny.us
phone: 315-946-5166
write: Assemblyman Robert Oaks, 10 Leach Road, Lyons, NY 14489

You are also welcome to call/write these officials on his behalf.

* DA Richard Healey , Hall of Justice, Suite 202, Lyons, NY 14489
(Phone: 315-946-5905 / Fax: 315-946-5911)

* Village Justice Nicholas Forgione, 79 William St., Lyons, NY 14489
(Phone: 315-946-4565)

John always appreciates any letters, his jail address:
John Murtari, P.O. Box 477, Lyons, NY 14489


What is worth 5 arrests? - THE DECLARATION OF FAMILY RIGHTS
-----------------------------------------------------------
You can also sign the petition at:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/the-declaration-of-family-rights

--                                                           
                                        John Murtari
_______________________________________________________
Coordinator                            AKidsRight.Org
jmurtari at AKidsRight.Org          Kid's Right to BOTH parents
(315) 944-0999(x-211)            http://www.AKidsRight.Org/