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Minister Ronald Smith Has Passed - Parental Rights Legend

A tragedy.  A shock.  Extremely sad news for all who knew this special man.  Minister Ron Smith was one of the best friends I have ever known.  Minister Ronald Smith passed away on Friday September 5, 2008 from a heart attack.  I am still very shook up from this news and will let our readers know more as soon as I get it.  He was such an incredible man and just recently brought the 2008 Million Man March to Michigan.  Minister Ronald Smith was also the founder of the National Fatherhood Summit and was one of the co-founders of the Family Preservation Festival.  Minister Ronald Smith was co-author of the book Cheated.  Minister Ronald Smith was the CEO of Children Need Both Parents, Inc.   Most of all Minister Ronald Smith was an amazing father and husband!

Minister Ronald Smith was actively involved with Michigan House Bill 4564 (shared parenting) and Michigan House Joint Resolution NN (2008) (Parental Rights)

My thoughts are with Ron and his family right now.

Below is a very well known video of Minister Ronald Smith. Incredible speech which I had the pleasure of filming and watching live in Iowa.

God Bless Ron - We ALL love you!  "My brother from another mother"

Robert Pedersen

(Readers can comment in memory/honor of Minister Ronald Smith at the bottom of this page)

From the Family of Minister Ronald Smith

Your Brother in Christ Minister Ronald Smith called Home to be with Yahweh

It is with a heavy heart, and deep sympathy, that I announce to you today that Minister Ronald Smith was called home to be with the Lord. Minister Smith passed away from an apparent heart attack on September 5, 2008.

We are currently making arrangements and would ask you to stand by for further communications with regards to a memorial.

Children Need Both Parents mourns the loss of it's founder and CEO. We praise God that Minister Smith finished all that God charged him with, and is re-united in Heaven with his son Richmond. We vow to press on with the vision God gave him. Everyone here appreciates your love and support through this most difficult of times.

May God continue to shine upon you.

Minister Ronald Smith believed in a proper accounting of God's resources. In our efforts to honor his memory, and honor his principles of stewardship, we humbly request that donations be sent in lieu of flowers. This will enable us to more effectively continue the work God began in him.

Official Announcement from Ronald Smith’s wife, Sherry Shabazz Smith:

Please be advised that there will be two services for Ronald Smith.

Many of you know that Ronald Smith passed away on Friday September 5, 2008.  Thank you for your kind thoughts, considerations  and prayers at this time.

The first service is coordinated by Ron’s sister and mother.  Ronald will be laid to rest in Chicago.  The wake and funeral specifics are listed below.

Minister Ronald. Elijah Smith
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Woodlawn Union Baptist Church
6359 S. Eberhart
Chicago, IL 60637
10:00 -11:00 visitation
11:00 - 12:00 funeral

The second service is a Celebration Of Ronald Smith And His Life. 

This celebration is coordinated by Sherry and will be held on Wednesday September 17, 2008  at 6:00 pm at the:   

Abundant Life Ministries
1725 Division SE
Grand Rapids
Michigan
616-301-2325.

Sherry asks that NO cut flowers be sent.  Live plants are welcome. Most importantly Sherry has asked that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Children Need Both Parents, Inc.  Ronald did not have medical insurance nor did he have any life insurance.  Again,  Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Parents-It's Back To School Time!!

Students (and parents, too), welcome back to school!

Some kids are yelling "yes".  Others are crying "no!!".  Parents are relieved, with a "finally".

I have some words of wisdom for all of you parents, especially for the non-custodial ones amongst us.

Please, please, please, make sure that all the paperwork for all of your children is properly filled out, and returned directly to the school office as soon as possible.  The contact information, with the correct phone numbers, complete with emergency numbers, is essential.  Also of great importance is WHO can pickup your children from school, and if your child will be picked up, or will ride a bus home.   Release forms, allowing your child to travel in-district to events, plays, field trips, and the like are also included in the packages this time of year.

For all of you non-custodial parents, double-check the following, PLEASE!!:

1.  That the PROPER contact information is on the form for your child(ren), including that for BOTH you and the custodial parent, if you share joint legal custody, including name, relationship, home number, and work number.

2.  That only the PROPER people to pick up your child(ren) from school are on the "approved" list.

3.  Please check to make sure that BOTH of you sign and date the release forms, including any "medical release" or "medication at school" forms. 

4.  Double-check EVERYTHING-every single form, if they have been filled out by the custodial parent, just to be absolutely sure.

Why double check everything?

From a voice of experience-when my first born daughter was enrolled for kindergarten four years ago, our public school district did NOT even know she had a father.  My ex- had DELIBERATELY left off ANY and ALL contact information for me, and we share joint legal custody.  It took over two months of conversations with the school administrators, and several PROMISES as to what was going to happen if they did not rectify the situation IMMEDIATELY.  Also, never make any threats whatsoever.  Make true, sincere, promises of what actions you WILL take to correct the "oversights" if they happen, AND THEY WILL.  School administrators tend to listen when they see a determined, honest, and sincere parent in front of them.  When my youngest daughter was enrolled in school two years ago there were no such problems.

Also, make sure that you are properly informed of picture days, so you can order your own, and not rely on the other parent.  Make sure you are on the school's mailing list, for monthly newsletters and the like.  Make absolutely certain that you are notified of ALL parent-teacher conference dates, and set an appointment for them!  I had to "inconvenience" them the first year, insisting that I also meet with my daughter's teacher.  They very quickly got used to this involved father, and I now have a good relationship with the school principle and the teachers.

If you possibly can, VOLUNTEER at your child's school.  Many options are available for this, and few fathers take advantage of them.  Most PTO's and other school organizations are largely made up of women-and the kids are missing out on the "male perspective" on things.  Besides, volunteering to read to a class, perhaps put on a special presentation based upon your career or employment, or go as a chaperone on a field trip is NOT gender-exclusive.  And, yes, they have special forms for this too, to make sure that only respectfull, well-meaning, and SAFE individuals can get anywhere near YOUR children.

Regardless of the relationship with your ex-spouse, this is your child(ren)'s education.  Put aside the differences, and work together, to provide your child a productive, happy, safe, and educational school year experience!

By the way, non-custodial parent, you SHARE your child(ren) pick-up responsibilities with the other parent, RIGHT?  If not, pick that as an essential goal, work for it, and make it happen! 

Do NOT make the mistake of expecting the courts or your local FOC office to enforce "joint legal custody" guidelines.  They won't.  My advice-deal directly with the school first, if you encounter any problems.  Show them you are sincere, and mean business.  Earn their respect, if you can.

After all, children deserve the right to the love, care, guidance, EDUCATION, and nurturing of BOTH fit, willing, and able parents.  Denying a child any of this is child abuse!

A Father Of Two.

Lary Holland at the DC Festival 2008 - Excellent Video!

Excellent video with Lary Holland from the DC Festival 2008.  I just love this video!  Lary Holland is not only smart by has a sense of humor that I have always enjoyed.  Special congrats to Lary Holland and all who helped organize and attended this event.  For more information on the video and event visit Family Court Reports

The Equal Parenting Bike Trek Cyclists Take On Goliath

Those of us who grew up in the 60’s and 70’s remember Jim McKay’s famous lead in to ABC’s Wide World of Sports- “The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat,” as we watched the skier crashing over the top of the ramp landing awkwardly and surely breaking his leg. Less known, but of no less courage, Bill Knoellner had his own moment of agony this past week.

Bill is one of four men traveling by bike 768 miles from Lansing, MI to Washington DC. While the skier likely went to the hospital and was certainly out of the competition, Bill, undaunted, made his mandatory visit to the emergency room, but was back on the road before day’s end! What seeming insanity provoked this man to such levels of achievement? Children! Children? Yes, children!
Bill, along with Brian Downs, Rob MacKenzie and Bill Foster endured 768 miles of dangerous and mountainous terrain by bike to draw attention to one of the greatest travesties known to modern mankind. The tragedy is the state run divorce industry, also known as child kidnapping.

Children, at an alarming rate, nearly 100%, are “legally kidnapped” from one of their parents. This is due to the states’ pecuniary interest in Title IV-D Block Grant Funds. Children sold at auction for the Family Divorce Court’s filthy lucre, while the states kidnap these children, they then place the defrocked parent, which is usually dad, into involuntary servitude!

Dads across America have aligned to take on the states in a toe-to-toe battle, too daunting a task to evenly compare to the Biblical narrative of David v. Goliath. David, at least, had a weapon, albeit, a slingshot. Dads have not the legal training, have no money and are often times found fighting from a jail cell. Undaunted, they continue to flail away at the enemy- The State Courts!

As we descend on Washington DC August 15 and 16, be sure to thank Bill and the others for their heroism and do support our efforts to re-claim our children, who are our greatest love, for which we know no limits of bravery!

Big Daddy

Visit Cycling4Children.com for more updates on the Equal Parenting Bike Trek.

2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek Main Page

Detroit News Blogger Covers Civil Rights Event DC Festival 2008 and EP Bike Trek

Detroit News Fatherhood Blogger Robert Pedersen wrote an excellent update on the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek and the upcoming DC Festival 2008.

Make sure you read the article and COMMENT in support of the DC Festival 2008 and Equal Parenting.

View Robert's other articles written for Detroit News.

Please be sure to attend the DC Festival 2008.

Visit Cycling4Children.com for more updates on the Equal Parenting Bike Trek.

2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek Main Page

DaddyBlogger Gives Glenn Sacks Serious Props

DaddyBlogger gives Glenn Sacks serious props for covering the DC Festival 2008!  Glenn Sacks just wrote an article on the DC Festival 2008.  Please be sure to thank him for his coverage of this very important upcoming event.

Please be sure to attend the DC Festival 2008.

Visit Cycling4Children.com for more updates on the Equal Parenting Bike Trek.

2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek Main Page

AUGUST IS CHILD SUPPORT AWARENESS MONTH

**From a NEW author writing for DaddyBlogger.com!!**  "A Father of Two"  Be sure to tell us what you think and comment below - requires NO account.  

August has been proclaimed as "Child Support Awareness Month" in Michigan and throughout the United  States.

Michigan's Family Law Court System would have you continue to support the outdated, biased, and stereotyped notion that a divorced, non-custodial parent (about 85% of the time the father), is good for nothing other than paying child support dollars into the system.

This is done to maximise the federal incentive dollars awarded to the states under Title IV-D of the Social Security System, which rewards every state for forcibly removing a fit, willing, and able parent from the life of his or her children.

"Supporting" your child does not come down to a divorced parent having a large part of their paycheck taken into this system to justify financial rewards.

Reasons to Support Shared Parenting

As a father of two, the following is my take on what "child support" really is, from A to Z.  I hope you take the following to heart.  These are just some of what I do, as a divorced, non-custodial father, to "support" my children.

A.  Show AFFECTION for your children.  Give them an ALLOWANCE for doing their chores.

B. Give them a proper BREAKFAST to start the day with.  Make BATH time a fun, and clean experience.

C. CHALLENGE your children to rise to new heights.  Increase their CONFIDENCE.

D.  Appropriately and timely DISCIPLINE  your children.

E.  Set the proper EXAMPLE for them to learn by.  Take them on ERRANDS with you.

F.  Have FUN with your children.

G.  GIGGLE and laugh with your kids.  "GOOD JOB"-Praise them for good effort.

H.  HUG your youngsters.  Provide them a proper and safe HOME.

I.  Embrace their INDEPENDENCE as they grow, but always be ready to wrap them in your arms.

J.  JOKE with your children.  Enjoy the lighter side of things.

K.  KIDS will be KIDS.  Let them be the wonderful youngsters they are.

L.  LOVE your children.  Tell them "I love you", often, and mean it!!  Give them a nutritious LUNCH.

M.  Teach them the proper MANNERS-to be courteous and respectful.

N.  Learn how to say "NO" when necessary.  Take them to enjoy the NEON signs of a fair or circus.

O.  Take the unique OPPORTUNITY to shape the lives of your youngsters.

P.  PROTECT them from harm.  PROPERLY PARENT them.

Q.  Give them a good QUALITY of life.

R.  The "THREE R'S"-Reading, writing, arithmatic.  Help them with and supervise their homework.

S.  SUPPER, together, every night, as a family.

T.  Give them your TIME.  TEACH them right from wrong.

U.  UNDER the covers-safely tucked into bed every night.

V.  Take them with you when you VOTE.  Take your children on VACATION with you.

W.  WATCH television with your kids.  Don't use it as a baby sitter.

X.  Take them for X-RAYS, if they, heaven forbid, fall out of their favorite tree.

Y.  Teach them how to use a YO-YO. Simple things are often the most rewarding.

Z.  Take your children on a fun day trip to a ZOO.  Fun for the whole family!!

Of course, there are hundreds of ways to truly "support your children".  The system just wants to garnish the non-custodial parent's paycheck.

Help us say NO to Michigan's Family Law Court System.  Denying a child the love, care, guidance, and nurturing of a fit, willing, and able parent is child abuse!

As A Father Of Two, I am the new guy on the block here.  I will enjoy posting to you all from time to time.

A FATHER OF TWO.

MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CANDIDATE RIDES BICYCLE FROM LANSING TO DC IN SUPPORT OF FAMILY COURT REFORM

Press Release
August 6th 2008

For Immediate Release
Contact:
Minister Ronald Smith
616-301-2325
or
Robert Pedersen
269-420-4688

Grand Rapids, Michigan August 6, 2008  - Brian Downs, a Kent County attorney and candidate for Judge in the Kent County 17th Circuit Court in the November election is riding his bicycle 758 miles from the Capitol in Lansing to the nation's Capitol in Washington DC.  Downs along with 3 other riders are signaling a message that Family Courts throughout the nation are not family friendly.  The Equal Parenting Bike Trek has been organized to bring attention to what he believes should be reform in the nations court system.

Brian Downs, who has been a family advocate for the past 7 years, believes that it is the duty of our nation to protect the parent child relationship and repair this relationship when necessary so that children maintain a loving relationship with their entire biological family.  Downs believes that the nation's family court system does more splitting up of families than protecting and maintaining this most important and primary relationship.

Minister Ronald Smith, CEO of Children Need Both Parents, Inc, a non-profit group located in both Chicago and Grand Rapids stated, "Our family court judges pay little attention to the damage being done to our children removing one or both biological parents from a child's life without making a concerted effort that no stone is left unturned to repair and maintain this God Given relationship."

Downs is scheduled to leave Lansing at 2:00pm EST August 7th and scheduled to arrive at the Family Preservation Festival in DC on August 15-16.

###
For Interviews Contact:

Minister Ronald Smith                     
Tel:  616-301-2325
Cell: 616-874-8662
Email:   [email protected]
or
Robert Pedersen
Tel:  269-420-4688

DC Festival 2008 Continues Under the Leadership of Lary Holland and Numerous Organizations

We are proud of the efforts of Lary Holland and numerous other organizations sending a message to the ACFC that this event will continue!  We applaud this courageous effort to make sure that the voices of those concerned over the right to parent and excessive government intrusion will not go unheard.

If you are an individual or organization we ask that you send a letter of support to Lary Holland and the DC Festival 2008 Team at [email protected].  A growing number of organizations have already signed on in support of this important effort!  Make your support known now by sending your letter of support. 

Press Release

When and Where?

Why should you support this effort, attend it and encourage others to attend as well?

Attend the August 7th Departure of the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek

2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek

Senior Citizens Organization for Parental Equality (SCOPE)

When it comes to the divorce of two parents that have children people think of the two parents and the children in the middle of the divorce.

In order for the state and the court system to make money through Title IV-D federal incentives, one of the fit and willing parents must be forced into the role of the non-custodial parent.  Sadly, children go from seeing this parent on a daily basis and then suddenly the typical 4-6 days a month.  Children have the fundamental right to be loved, guided, nurtured and educated equally by both fit and willing parents after a divorce.  To deny this is child abuse.

The pain of this child abuse also affects the parents of the non-custodial parent.  Grandparents are then forced to see less of their grandchildren.  This is abusive not only to the children but to the grandparents as well.  Grandparents, from both sides of the family tree, play an important role in the development of their grandchildren.  How do grandparents in this situation deal with all of this pain?  The pain of seeing their child become a non-custodial parent and being forced away from their child by no choice of their own or the child's.  Grandparents must also endure the pain of seeing less of their own grandchildren.

Grandparent are increasingly becoming involved in the Shared Parenting movement and are joining in the fight against child abuse that is sponsored by a bitter spouse and the court system. 

I encourage all grandparents to visit SCOPE - Senior Citizens Organization for Parental Equality and become involved in what is in the best interest of their grandchildren.  Another organization that I can personally recommend is Three Sides to Every Story, Inc.  Grandparents!  There is a place for you to make a difference.

New Prototypes Being Tested for the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek :)

Information on the upcoming 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek

2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek - 758 Miles - Lansing Michigan to Washington, D.C.

The 2007 Equal Parenting Bike Trek was a smashing success!  Review the complete media coverage of last year's event.  Pictures from the 2007 Equal Parenting Bike Trek.

The 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek is already shaping up to be bigger and better than ever before! 

Media inquiries please contact Robert Pedersen 269-420-4688 or Angela Pedersen 269-420-3203

Do not miss this incredible event which is already gaining traditional media and blogger coverage! 

A grueling 758 mile cycling trek to raise awareness of a child's fundamental right to be loved, guided, educated and nurtured equally by both fit and willing parents.

Five Michigan fathers will pedal their bicycles 758 miles from Lansing, MI to Washington, D.C.

Robb MacKenzie - Upper Penninsula of Michigan - EPBT Founder - 2007 cyclist

Robert Pedersen - West Michigan - 2007 Runner-Up Winner in Best Life Magazine's National Hero Dad Contest - 2007 cyclist

Brian Downs, Esq. - Grand Rapids MI - Running for Judge in Kent County MI in 2008

Derek Bailey, MSW - Traverse City MI - American Indian.  Founder of Dance4Equality

Mike Saxton - Lansing MI

Equal Parenting Bike Trek Chase Vehicle Crew

Also present at the August 7 2008 departure of the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek:

1) Dance4Equality, an American Indian shared parenting organization, will be present performing their Pow Wows, dance, drums and songs!

2) See the MASSIVE CRISPE bus up close and meet the crew!

Event:  2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek

When:  Departure - August 7 2008 Noon 12PM-2PM

Where:  Lansing Michigan Capitol Area Lawn

Please show your support and attend this amazing event being held at the Lansing Capitol in Michigan.  ALL ARE WELCOME!  A large crowd will help energize our cyclists!  We already have confirmation of media coverage (TV, Newspaper & Radio) for the departure!

We Need Your Support and Help Now! 

Ways you can show your support for this event:

1)  Please donate for this amazing event - no amount is too small or too large.  It is very expensive to pull off such a large event over 758 miles with 5 cyclists and chase crew.  Donating early will allow us to advertise this event, hand out brochures along the route, gas expense for the chase vehicle, a bed to sleep in at night for the cyclists, etc.

2)  Blog about this event and link to this page.  Blog on MySpace and more!  Post on Facebook! 

3) Social Bookmark this page on StumbleUpon, Digg!, Del.icio.us, Reddit and more.  Digg! and Del.icio.us can be used via the links directly below this page.

4) Email this page to everyone you know and tell them about this wonderful cause for children.

National Fatherless Day Rally - June 13 2008 Fathers4Justice

National Fatherless Day Rally - Nationwide Events on June 13 2008

Leadership Provided by Fathers4Justice and Families4Justice

Email/Blog/Print the following National Fatherless Day Rally Flyer

Download national_fatherless_day_rally_flyer.pdf

Be sure to order a few high quality flags for your state's event!

Excellent example of Fathers4Justice in action along with

the Equal Parenting Bike Trek Crew and CRISPE

National Fatherless Day Rally Fathers4Justice F4J F4JUSA Families4Justice A Child's RightChildren Need Both Parents, Inc United Civil Rights Councils of America ACFC Donald Tenn Fathers4Justice US child custodyFathers Fatherhood Dad Men divorce family court If you found this post to be interesting or helpful please bookmark using one of the services below.

Wal-Mart thief: 'Child Support Made Me Do It'

Excellent find by Lary Holland.

Wal-Mart thief:  'Child Support Made Me Do It'

While we certainly do NOT agree with theft in any way there are major issues with the child support system in all states throughout America. 

Welfare For the Affluent

The Multiple Scandals of Child Support

Corruption

Social Security, Welfare, and Child Support Enforcement

How federal welfare funding drives judicial discretion in child-custody determinations and domestic relations matters

Stop Welfare for the Affluent

The Secret Alimony Hidden in Child Support

Too many mistakes are made with child support accounts.   

The Robert Parker case out of Genessee County Michigan is a perfect example in the State of Michigan!

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Equal Parenting Bike Trek Departure, CRISPE and Dance4Equality - August 7th 2008 12Noon-2PM Lansing MI Capitol Lawn

The must attend shared parenting event of the year! 

August 7th 2008 12 Noon - 2PM Lansing Michigan Capitol area lawn.

Equal Parenting Bike Trek Departure - Cheer our cyclists as they start their 758 mile journey pedaling on bicycles!  Robb MacKenzie, Robert Pedersen, Mike Saxton, Derek Bailey, MSW and Brian Downs, Esq. (running as judge in Nov 08 election)

Dance4Equality - Watch this American Indian shared parenting organization perform their pow wows, dance, sing, drum and more!

CRISPE - See the massive CRISPE bus up close and meet their crew!

This will be a huge event and will certainly receive large media coverage!  Be sure to attend this exciting event.

equal parenting bike trek dance4equality CRISPE CRISPE bus Lansing Lansing Michigan cycling cycling4children Robert Pedersen Robb MacKenzie Michigan House Bill 4564 Michigan House Joint Resolution NN (2008) Brian Downs Mike Saxton Derek Bailey DaddyBlogger bike trek fatherhood

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Robert Pedersen on KSCO AM 1080 with Steve Ashley of the Divorced Fathers Radio Network

Robert Pedersen will be on KSCO 1080AM, covering central California, to discuss the Equal Parenting Bike Trek and the 2008 Family Preservation Festival. 03/14/08 5PM EST

The interview is today on the Divorced Fathers Radio Netowrk with Steve Ashley on Talk Back Radio KSCO 1080AM at 5PM EST/2PM PacificTime.  If you do not live in California you can listen live via your computer!

Derek Bailey, MSW and Robert Pedersen on the "Children Need Both Parents" Talkshow

YESTERDAY'S SHOW!  Dance4Equality's Derek Bailey MSW, Tonia Bailey and Robert Pedersen on the ultra-popular Children Need Both Parents Talkshow with Ronald Smith and Robin Denison.  You can download all prior shows including this one on the shows homepage.

Family Court Misery in Michigan - Tony Taylor - Get Out of Michigan Before It Is Too Late

EXCELLENT BREAKDOWN OF MICHIGAN'S FAMILY COURTS BY TONY TAYLOR. THIS IS A MUST LISTEN/VIEW FOLKS! 

Derek Bailey, MSW and Robert Pedersen on Minister Ronald Smith's Popular Talkshow

Be sure to tune in on 03/13/08 Thursday at 9PM EST!

Derek Bailey, MSW - founder of the American Indian shared parenting organization DANCE4EQUALITY.

and

Robert Pedersen - Co-Founder of A Child's Right and one of the 2007 Equal Parenting Bike Trek Cyclists

BOTH will be on Minister Ronald Smith's ultra-popular Talk Show "Children Need Both Parents".  Tune in for this special show to find out how Robert Pedersen and Derek Bailey, MSW are forming an incredible coalition in Michigan.  The link below will take you to the homepage for this show where you can acquire the phone number to call in and more.

CRISPE and Dance4Equality will both be present at the departure for the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek on August 7th 2008 12 Noon-2PM at the Lansing Michigan Capitol.  Ask off of work now for this special shared parenting event.

 

Michigan House Bill 4564 and Michigan House Joint Resolution NN in the Kalamazoo Gazette

Yet another LTE printed by A Child's Right.  Darrick Scott-Farnsworth in the Kalamzazoo Gazette.

Support Equal Parenting Measures in Legislature

It is time for Michigan to recognize and for citizens to demand there be a fundamental right to parent your children within the state's constitution and family law. To this end, I implore everyone to actively support both the ``parental rights'' resolution and House Bill 4564, the ``equal parenting bill.''

Children are a part of the family and they have the right to the love of both of their parents and their extended family, too. Allowing the state, without due process of law through the courts and government child welfare bureaucracies, to interrupt the child-parent relationship has destroyed many childhoods and caused untold damage to our society.

Parents should have the right to decide how their children are educated and medicated as long as there is no clear evidence that these choices will seriously harm their children. Demonstrating to children that the family is important by making sure that both parents and the entire family are respected will give children the courage to have a family of their own.

In divorce cases, the state is allowed, through the supposed best interest of the child criteria, to pressure most fathers to relinquish custody to the mother or be denied custody in court because they want to create winners and losers instead of promoting joint custody.

HB 4564 and Resolution NN will help ensure that children will have the stability and love of both of their fit, willing and able parents.

Darrick Scott-Farnsworth

Executive Director, A Child's Right

PDF File of LTE: Download DSFKZOO.pdf

Shared Parenting Facts and Fiction

Kalamazoo Gazette Kalamazoo A Child's Right Darrick Scott-Farnsworth Michigan House Bill 4564 Michigan House Joint Resolution NN (2008)

The Daily Telegram on Michigan House Bill 4564 and Michigan House Joint Resolution NN (2008)

Yet another excellent editorial by The Daily Telegram!  This time on Michigan House Bill 4564 and Michigan House Joint Resolution NN (2008) - if only other newspapers in Michigan had the same journalistic integrity and courage to report on the facts and not push liberal agenda.

Sunday MARCH 2, 2008

LOCAL EDITORIAL

‘Fatherhood month’ deserves state action

At issue: February being declared Responsible Fatherhood Awareness Month in Michigan.

Our view: Key bills need passage to help more children benefit from having fit non-custodial parents more involved in their lives.

February is “Responsible Fatherhood Awareness Month in Michigan,” declared by Gov. Jennifer Granholm to raise public awareness that involved fathers are important in raising children. Research shows that fathers parent in ways that tend to provide somewhat different — but complementary and equally important — benefits from parenting provided by mothers.

Unfortunately, society has moved away from the two-parent model for raising children. The U.S. Census Bureau found that between 1970 and 1990, the proportion of children living only with their mother doubled from 11 percent to 20 percent. Wednesday, the Census Bureau issued its new report that showed the latter rate has increased to 23 percent. More than one-quarter of American children live with only one parent and, in 88 percent of those cases, the Census Bureau found the mother has custody.

Divorce is a major cause of the trend. In most cases in Michigan, children of divorced parents typically are only given four to six days per month with their non-custodial parent. This arrangement remains the standard in any case in which either parent refuses joint parenting.

Two proposals are before Michigan lawmakers that would help ease that problem. One is Michigan’s Equal Parenting bill, HB 4564, which would establish that more equal parenting would become the normal expectation in contested divorces involving parents who both are fit adults. Judges still would have the authority to assign primary custody, however the burden of proof for denying one parent more equal time with their children would be shifted to a presumption of fitness rather than today’s general presumption of single-parenting.

Another proposal is House Joint Resolution NN, the Parental Rights Resolution, a proposed constitutional amendment to establish that “parents and legal guardians have a natural and fundamental right to direct the care, education, and upbringing of their children. No government action shall burden, abridge, or hinder this natural, fundamental right unless it is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling governmental interest.

The Equal Parenting bill has languished in the House Judiciary Committee since Oct. 10 after six months of sitting in the Families and Children’s Services Committee without a hearing. A similar bill received mostly favorable testimony last year, but died when Rep. Dudley Spade, D-Tipton, declined to vote “yes” or “no” on it in committee.

Spade has signed the Parental Rights Resolution as a co-sponsor, although Rep. Mike Simpson, D-Liberty Twp., has not.

It is time to move these pieces of legislation forward for consideration by the full House. This month’s declaration pays recognition to fatherhood. It is important now that lawmakers also create a more equal state environment in which more children will benefit from responsible fatherhood.

Shared Parenting Facts and Fiction by Dr. Linda Nielsen Professor of Women Studies and ACFC President

An excellent resource for all to read.  "Shared Parenting Facts and Fiction" by Dr. Linda Nielsen Professor of Women Studies and ACFC President.

Well researched and the layout is excellent.  Download or print your copy now via the link above.  Hand this out wherever you can.

Fiction: 
Most children are satisfied with the amount
of time they spend (or spent) with their fathers
after their parents divorce.

Fact: 
The vast majority of children say they want –
or wanted - more time with their fathers after
their parents stopped living together. Kids
want more shared parenting. 1-16 (See references in pdf file above.)

Fiction:
Shared parenting is less important than good
mothering because fathers know so much
less about raising kids than moms do.

Fact:

Fathers contribute as much as mothers to
children’s well-being, even if their ways of
parenting are different. 12, 17, 29-31

Fiction:

Children dislike shared parenting if they actually
have to live part time in both parents’
homes, moving back & forth.

Fact:

Kids who live part time with each parent after
divorce prefer this to living only with one
parent.2, 10, 40, 41

The Case for Shared Parenting and Joint Physical Custody - It's About The Kids!

Children have a fundamental right to be loved, guided, nurtured and educated equally by both fit and willing parents - to deny this is child abuse.

We will be updating a comprehensive list in support of shared parenting on a regular basis.  If you have additional research that is not in our comprehensive list please email us at [email protected] and we will promptly add it.

Those who deny children of this God given right are child abusers!  In fact, Dr. Marc J. Ackerman who is considered to be THE national expert on child custody now recommends joint physical custody unless if a child's life is directly threatened by a parent.

View our comprehensive list in support of shared parenting

Remember folks we have the moral high ground here so never stop fighting for what is in the best interests of your children.

A Child's Right Meeting Covered by Lary Holland and Get off The Bench

Excellent video taken by Lary Holland and Get Off The Bench from the most recent A Child's Right Meeting.  More to come I must assume!  We will keep you posted.  Thank you Lary!

Minister Ronald Smith on the 2007 Family Preservation Festival

Minister Ronald Smith on the 2007 Family Preservation Festival

Family Preservation Festival Family Preservation Rally Family Ronald Smith Minister Ronald Smith dcrally

Cheated: (The story of a father who would not give up his children) A DOCUMENTED ACCOUNT OF PARENTAL ALIENATION SYNDROME (PAS)

Angela and Robert Pedersen on the Ultra Popular Talk Show "Children Need Both Parents"

Angela and Robert Pedersen on the Ultra Popular Talk Show "Children Need Both Parents".  "Children Need Both Parents" is hosted by Ronald Smith and Robin Denison.  The turnout by those who listened to this talkshow live was quite high so we were obviously thrilled by the support.

You can download a recording of the entire show at the "Children Need Both Parents" talkshow homepage - download the episode listed under the date 02/21/08.  If you do not want to download a recording you can also listen to the show using the same link above.  Another option - You can also listen to it via the hipcast player below. 

Make sure you listen to the various folks that called towards the end of the show.  They truly provide a unique and interesting perspective in this show.  Yes, the one making all the noise is our son Anthony Caius Pedersen - already he is trying to give his two cents to the discussion!

One of the great things about a talkshoe talkshow is that listeners can also chat and post comments during the interview.  Here are some comments listed below:

[9:36:40 PM] <Crispe> CRISPE will be there for the bikers

[9:46:09 PM] <Crispe> Bring it on Robert

[10:03:49 PM] <Guest 11> Hello Robert and Angela.. I just got home.. !!

[10:06:10 PM] <mountain19> God bless you guys and gals. real citizens all of you.

[10:06:30 PM] <Guest 11> Tell Robert Marcie from Michigan is here to support..

[10:23:55 PM] <Guest 11> Robert is a great dad!! And his wife Angela is the bomb.. What Great Parents...

[10:35:39 PM] <ctyofangels/ survivors> thank you robert and angela

[10:36:03 PM] <MikeSaxton> Rob & Angela ROCK! See you all Sunday. Ron, I want an autographed book!

<BetterhalfofSplit> Great Show guys! fight the fight and keep the faith

[10:46:06 PM] <Guest 16> Tell Angela to give the little one a hug for me.. He soooo cute.. talk to ya soon..

Robert and Angela Pedersen Tonight 9PM EST on the ultra popular talkshow "Children Need Both Parents"

You have been invited by Ronald Smith to join a live Community Call. ChildrenNeedBothParents (Join in)  Host: ChildrenNeedBothParents - [email protected] Episode: Angela Pedersen and Runner up Hero Dad Robert Pedersen Michigan's Shared Parenting Dynamic Duo and brand new Mommy and Daddy. Angela is the quite giant who works diligently with Robert the Bike Trekker. You've heard Robert and seen Angela...NOW IS THE TIME TO TALK TO THIS EXTRAORDINARY COUPLE!!!!! You can't miss this!!!!!! Call ID: 53118 Scheduled Time: Date: Thu, February 21, 2008 Time: 09:00 PM EST How to participate: Call in: Dial: (724) 444-7444 Enter: 53118 # (Call ID) Enter: 1 # or your PIN Join from your computer: Click here to join the call or just listen along  (Optional) Become a TalkShoe member  Listen to the Recording: If you missed this event or want to hear previous recorded episodes click here.

Dance4Equality, an American Indian equal parenting organization, will be present at the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek departure!

It is with great honor and excitement that we share this fantastic news with our readers!  Dance4Equality, under the leadership of Derek Bailey, MSW, will be present at the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek departure.  Mr. Bailey is a tribal leader for the Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Make no mistake about it!  This years Equal Parenting Bike Trek will be a massive event and having Dance4Equality present on August 7th 2008 at the Lansing Capitol Lawn for the cyclists' departure creates an additional level of excitement surrounding this event.

There will certainly be a media frenzy at the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek departure as Dance4Equality performs their pow wows of dance and drumming while dressed in American Indian wear.  An example can be seen below:

A Child's Right is very proud to affiliate with Dance4Equality

Robert Pedersen interviewed on the popular radio show "The Message" with Richar Farr

Robert Pedersen will be on the radio show "The Message" with Richar Farr! February 15th 2008

THIS FRIDAY!    9:15PM EST 6:15 PST

You can hear this live on your radio in Las Vegas, Nevada and parts of California. 

If you live elsewhere you can listen LIVE on KRights Radio

Robert will reveal a secret detail of the 2008 Equal Parenting Bike Trek departure from Lansing, MI!  August 7th 2008 12 Noon - departure of the 758 mile Equal Parenting Bike Trek from the Lansing Capitol.  The media and supporters will fill the Lansing Capitol Lawn simply to see what Robert will reveal on this Friday's interview.

Stay tuned because we are hoping to have the call-in phone numbers for this exciting radio interview.  Show your support and be sure to tune in and listen to "The Message" with Richar Farr.

How was the media coverage for the 2007 Equal Parenting Bike Trek?

Daddy Hunger - The Award Winning Documentary

Daddy Hunger - The Award Winning Documentary

Ray Upchurch, filmmaker of "Daddy Hunger", states “I never want to see another child fatherless and with a DADDY HUNGER challenging their ability to be happy and function with positive self-esteem and confidence. Look at the growing prison population, school systems, and communities.  Generations and generations of fatherless children are suffering. The cycle has got to stop!”

Let us not forget another source which makes children fatherless in America - Federal Incentives Make Children Fatherless

Family Courts Want YOUR Children

Family Courts in Michigan and throughout America salivate at the thought of bringing another family and their children under the control of the family court system.  Each state and county government makes big money on Title IV-D welfare management.

Learn More Now

The Multiple Scandals of Child Support

“Welfare for the Affluent”

“Federal Incentives Make Children Fatherless”

“How federal welfare funding drives judicial discretion in child-custody determinations and domestic relations matters”

“Not the Era of the Deadbeat Dad but the Era of the Hero Father”

CHILD SUPPORT AND THE MARRIAGE QUESTION

The Alimony Hidden in Child Support

Dr. Stephen Walker - 2007 Family Preservation Festival

Dr. Stephen Walker speaking at the 2007 Family Preservatin Festival. Please be sure to attend the 2008 Family Preservation Festival being held on August 15-17 2008.