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Crusade Travel Diary and Schedule
Cross Country Crusade for Equal Parenting
August 18th, 2008 - POST ELECTION!
Vancouver BC - St. John's NFLD
Please watch for updates!
Welcome to our Travel Diary
For more pictures and updates, please visit our official action site:
As we travel this country spreading the importance of equal parenting for children we would like to bring you updates and heartwarming stories of those we meet and greet along the way.
We would like to thank our many drivers, volunteers and sponsors who have come together to partipate in this monumentous occasion!
If you see the F4J Barney mobile and the 'Everyday Superheros' along the route, please give them your thanks and support.
Download our schedule HERE (Updated 08/23/08)
Tales from the Road
Crusade Launch
August 17, 2008, Moody Park, New Westminster BC
F4J Fathers 4 Justice Canada Everyday Superheroes gathered at Moody Park in New Westminster BC at 3:30 PM for the official launch of the Cross Country Crusade for Equal Parenting and to gather support for Private Member Motion 483.
We were very proud to be able to officially unveil the new bilingual Canadian Equal Parenting Council ( CEPC ) banner.
Much thanks is due to Don Williams for this generous donation.
Our Sponsor from Flag Outlet was our honorary ribbon cutter, with assistance from the Hulk.
Although the event was light on media, it was heavy on KIDS! A great reminder for us all why we even need Everyday Superheroes to promote equal parenting.
We would like to thank all those who participated for their dedication and commitment to this noble cause. All in all a successful beginning to what will prove to be a memorable trek across Canada.
Departure Day
August 19, 2008
Robin QC and the Burnaby Batman depart from Vancouver at 10AM after stocking (filling LOL) the F4J Barney Mobile with LOTS of promotional goodies for the families and friends they would meet along the way. 20,000 postcards are destined for Stephen Harper in support of equal parenting Private Member Motion M483.
After driving through Kelowna BC, they Dynamic Duo were able to meet up with another 'Everyday Superhero', Mr. Allan Mills, in Vernon BC.
Mr. Mills, now aka Vernon Spiderman, has spent every Friday for the past 8 years in front of the Vernon Courthouse with his "Honk for Dads" sign. To date Mr. Mills has received over 100,000 honks in a town with a population of 3500.
We honor Mr. Mills for his personal contribution and support.
Robin QC, Burnaby Batman, and newly dubbed Spiderman gathered in front of the Vernon courthouse for a few costumes photos with our lovely banner, much to the dismay of the resident Sheriff. Many honks later, the heroes gathered at Squires Pub for a late lunch before they continued their journey.
We would like to honor Squires Pub and acknowledge their great service and for feeding our Everyday Superheros. A fine establishment indeed!
Calgary AB
August 20, 2008
Our weary travelers arrived in Calgary at 2AM!
They were very graciously accommodated by fellow supporter and friend, Earl Silverman and his new MASH 4077 project house for dads.
There they meet up with another 'secret agent' weary traveler on his way home.
Burnaby Batman was able to spend some very precious time, in the wee hours of the morning, with his eldest daughter who goes to school in the Calgary area and has been an incredible support to her father, including being present for one of his major non violent direct actions. Your dad really loves you kid!
Later in the day the Everyday Superheroes and the F4J Barney Mobile visited the Calgary Provincial building where they had a photo op and distributed promo items.
A late lunch and off to meet another dear Everyday Superhero, Louie Agoncillo.
We honor Louie for his generous contribution and support for our Cross Country Crusade and equal parenting.
Edmonton, AB
August 21, 2008
The Dynamic Duo arrive in Edmonton AB at 9:00PM on Aug 20.
They have been graciously met and accommodated by one of our sponsoring organizations ECMAS, the Equitable Child Maintenance and Access Society.
Burnaby Batman and Robin QC were thankful for accommodations from Melanie Greenfield.
The Duo combined with ECMAS members at Sir Winston Churchill Square at 11:30AM and collectively handed out many postcards, bracelets and literature to the public and were very well received! The group was able to raise further awareness of equal parenting and encourage support for Private Member Motion M483
CBC and the local Metro paper were on hand to capture the event.
The Edmonton visit was a complete success.
Many thanks to all ECMAS members who made our Everyday Superheroes feel completely welcome and at home. Special thanks are due to Edmonton supporters who contributed to our Crusade: Jerry B, FC, Randy K, Vivian R, Chris J, Jim M, & Mark W
We would like to honor Jerry Lamarche for sponsoring a leg of our trek. THANKS!
Saskatoon SK
August 22, 2008
Interesting FACT: F4J Fathers 4 Justice has supported the environment through pariticipation in the Think Green program. We recognize the need for responsible parenting and stewardship.
After departing Edmonton the weary travelers made their way to Saskatoon where they were met by a friendly guide and an incredible lady, Carole Fredrickson, Mother of Saskatoon Dad Rick Fredrickson who fought valiantly to be a dad but was denied the opportunity in his short life. Fathers 4 Justice honors Rick and his family for their contributions to equal parenting.
Today was a great day. Stationed at the entrance to the WAM festival our Everyday superheroes and friendly neighbourhood supporter Mark Wongstedt spent several hours handing our promotional materials. Mark you were invaluable.
They were visited by the Honorable Maurice Vellacott who was able to join them for a CTV news interview and interact with some of the children who gathered.
We would again like to extend our sincere thanks to MP Maurice Vellacott for his M483.
On the road again. The Dynamic Duo is on their way to Regina for their stop tomorrow at Wascana Park. Map to be attached.
Regina SK
Saturday, August 23
Greetings, F4J Canada Superheroes Robin QC , Spiderman , and Burnaby Batman along with Scott S, attended Wascana park in Regina at 11:00 AM for the dragon boat races.
The crusade team set up shop in the parking lot with many nice displays and actively engaged the general public, providing helpful information as well as giving out many post cards, bracelets, and tattoos.
The Superheroes then wandered over to the children's play area were they were met with much excitement by the local children and parents.
At 2:00 PM our everyday heroes departed bidding all a fare farewell.
The F4J Barney Mobile is about to be handed over to a new driver for its next long leg through Winnipeg, Ontario and Quebec beginning Wednesday August 27th.
Interesting facts: The F4J Barney was renovated for a year and a half to get ready for this trip.
Interesting facts: Crusade Kilometres travelled to date: 2,051
Winnipeg MB
Friday, August 29
Our weary traveller arrived in Winnipeg late in the evening on the 28th after stopping for a great picture in Brandon.
Our Barney mobile had a couple of special co-pilots and supporters of equal parenting on its Winnipeg tour.
Barney visited the Manitoba Legislature...
and the site of the new Canadian Museum of Human Rights!
After having brunch with our special helpers, our dedicated driver ( Batman ) arrived late in the evening in Thunder Bay where he picked up Superman!
Thunder Bay ON
Saturday, August 30
Superman took over the Barney mobile in Thunder Bay ON on Saturday, August 30.
Our two pilots joined forces and paid special tribute to one of our inspirations for this trip, Mr. Terry Fox, another Canadian Everyday Superhero.
We pay honour and tribute to Terry Fox as his campaign of hope continues.
Interesting Fact: Our F4J Barney Mobile is the same van that was recently restored in honour of Terry Fox. His spirit certainly lives on.
After having their pictures taken by many tourtists, Superman and Batman parted ways as Superman carries on our Crusade for equal parenting through beautiful northern Ontario.
Sault Ste Marie ON
Saturday, August 30
7PM - 9PM
Galaxy Cinemas
Superman flew into Sault Ste Marie ON a little later than expected but was greeted by a lovely lady, Angela Pezzotti, from Soo news and a fellow equal parenting supporter.
The F4J Barney mobile visited the Sault Ste. Marie City Hall.
The Sault Ste Marie Courthouse
Batman paid a special visit to MP Tony Martin's office for a photo op.
After bidding adieu to the Soo, Superman travelled on to Sudbury for a very special breakfast meeting.
Sudbury ON
Sunday, August 31
11AM - 1PM
Superman had breakfast with a very special supporter under the Big Nickel.
This very special supporter just lost a tooth!
Superman then jetted off to meet another supporter
Ang mingled with some local radio celebs.
Before travelling on for brief stops in North Bay and Gravenhurst.
Barrie ON
Monday, September 1
1:00PM
Centennial Park on Kempenfelt Bay
We had a fantastic time in Barrie!!
Superman met up with other Justice League Members Spiderman, Wonder Woman and Robin.
Everywhere we go, kids and parents support our message.
Superman eventually flew home for some much needed rest after handing the F4J Barney mobile over to Batman and Batgirl for the Southwestern Ontario leg.
Orangeville ON
Tuesday, September 2
8am
Orangeville Town Hall
Batman and Batgirl arrived in the Barney mobile and were greeted by a fellow supporters and another family with children, as well as a reporter from the Orangeville Citizen.
Pictures to follow
Collingwood ON
Tuesday, September 2
9:45am
Collingwood Town Hall
The new superhero couple were welcome in Collingwood by Jim and Kim.
We would like to thank Valerie from Helen Guergis' office for coming out.
Batman did an interview with the local paper and Morgan from the local Rogers TV News.
Owen Sound ON
Tuesday, September 2
11:30AM
City Hall
Our superheroes were met by Dave and Mary.
They did an interview with the Sun Times and a freelancer doing a story for Rogers News.
Port Elgin ON
Tuesday, September 2
1:15PM
Port Elgin Town Hall
Some logistical issues made our team late so it was off to Kincardine for the next stop.
Kincardine ON
Tuesday, September 2
2:15PM
Procession down Queen Street
Another quick stop through. Took some pictures and will post soon.
Goderich ON
Tuesday, September 2
3:45PM
Town Hall
Our Dynamic Duo were met by Gerrard from the local paper and supporter Kevin Talbot.
The pair were sent over to the radio station for an impromptu interview.
Sarnia ON
Tuesday, September 2
7:00PM
Centennial Park
Our Barney mobile and superhero escorts arrived at the Library at 6:20PM and were able to do an interview with CBC reporter Michelle Wright.
Batman was interviewed by a reporter from the Sarnia Observer and were joined by a crowd of a couple dozen people who marched for 2km to Centennial Park.
The team was joined by the Boy Wonder.
Gracious thanks to Councillor Bev MacDougall and MP Pat Davison for meeting our Cross Country Crusade Mobile and everyday superheroes.
Inaugural CEPC ( Canadian Equal Parenting Council ) Meeting for Sarnia
Friday, September 5th 7PM
Great appreciation to the men and women in Sarnia who support equal parenting!
On Wednesday morning, Denis did a great interview on CHOK for an hour.
The pair were then off to Petrolia.
Petrolia ON
Wednesday, September 3
12:30PM
Town Hall
Supermand and Wonder Woman paid a quick visit to town hall before heading to Wallaceburg and on to a great event in Chatham.
Chatham ON
Wednesday, September 3
3:30PM
Civic Centre
Attended by Mayor Randy Hope and Maureen Geddes
MP Dave Van Kesteren
The Barney Mobile and procession of Superman, Wonder Woman and Batgirl walked to the town hall where they were met by members of the Press and local political figures.
See the great Chatham Daily News article here:
Much thanks to Maureen Geddes, Co-President of the Canadian Equal Parenting Council and Mayor Randy Hope and MP Dave Van Kesteren for their passion!
Much thanks to Tom Faber, documentary filmmaker for filming the event.
Superman and Wonder woman met up with the next driving team to hand the Barney mobile over for its exciting stop in London ON.
Windsor ON
Cancelled
On to London
London ON
Friday, September 5th
NOON - 8PM
Army, Navy and Airforce Veteran's Club Parking Lot
Barney spent Thursday touring the city and visiting some key locations.
Friday was a great day at the entrance of the Western Fair with Batman, Robin, Flash and Superman having a chance to get our equal parenting message out to hundreds of kids and adults alike.
Much thanks is due to our special young photographer. This is one of the best shots yet!
We are reminded yet again what we're here for. Our kids!
We hope the 'good' people of London Ontario continue to embrace our message.
Much thanks to the London ON group for a great showing!
Coverage on A-channel news and a brief spot in the London Free press.
Orono, ON
Saturday, September 6th
10:15AM
The 156th Durham Central Fair Parade
We were very happy to have our Barney mobile and Everyday Superheroes participate in celebrating our local harvest, our children.
We had a full superhero contingent out as Mother Nature decided Barney needed a bath! LOL
We had a great time meeting and greeting the hundreds of parents and kids in Orono ON.
Much thanks to all our Junior Justice Leaguers who made it worth every minute!
Barney is now getting some badly needed maintenance and cleaning before he continues on to Newmarket ON on Tuesday!
Toronto ON
Tuesday, September 9th
Osgoode Hall
Ceremonial Opening of the Courts
Barney and Flash arrived downtown Toronto in grand style!
Flash spread our message of Truth, Justice & Equality in our family law courts.
Many other equal parenting activists and supporters were also there to demand truth, justice and equality in our family courts.
Please do not be afraid to encourage our Judges to be accountable to the children whose best interests they presume to protect. Removing a parent from a child's life without a full preponderance of evidence showing clear and indisputable harm to the child, is in and of itself, CHILD ABUSE.
Newmarket ON
Article: Fighting for Family
Wednesday, September 10th
A fantastic day in Newmarket!
Now that we've worked through some technical difficulties, we can update you on the incredible impact the Barney mobile has had on its journey thus far.
Barney and crew were up bright and early to visit the Newmarket Courthouse, one of the worst family law courts in the country.
Our Everyday Superheroes were greeted by a Rogers TV crew.
Watch the footage for Wednesday, September 10th here:
Proud to fight for truth, justice and equality in family law!
From there it was off and marching for Justice to the Municipal buildings.
The team attended a special function and met up with Conservative candidate Lois Brown
And were inspired by meeting Captain Canada!
The great day was topped off by a Parade down Yonge Street
Our heroes gathered with other supporters at Aurora Town Park and topped off the day with the support of Glenn Hubbers, Green Party Candidate.
Glenn has boldly made equal parenting one of his top 5 issues for the election.
Much thanks to the documentary film crew who took the time to come out and meet our everyday superheroes.
Aurora Rocks!
Fathers 4 Justice and Barney go Hollywood at TIFF 08
Friday, September 12
It was a night out on the town for the Barney Mobile and our Fathers 4 Justice superheroes who were out and about enjoying the city lights during the Toronto International Film Festival.
Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Spiderman, Batman JR, Robin and Superman cruised Yorkville.
And then attended a Premier, sort of. LOL They liked our costumes, but wouldn't let us in.
Then it was off to Yonge Dundas Square, a swinging downtown hotspot!
The Hardrock Cafe knows where it's at!
All is one!
Kingston ON
Saturday, September 13th
We had a great day at the Kingston Fair!
The rain passed just in time to enjoy a fabulous day. We were able to speak to several hundred families and spread our message for equal parenting and truth, justice and equality.
Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Spiderman and Batman were joined later in the day by the whole Incredible Family!
The Joker showed up! We'll tell you who that is soon enough.
Don't worry, the Everyday Superheroes were on the job.
Much thanks to the staff who were warm and supportive.
Ottawa has been postponed until after the election. Watch for further announcements.
The Barney mobile is now in QUEBEC. If you'd like information on the Quebec Cross Country Crusade Leg, please visit their website and CCC blog:
Barney has been temporarily transformed into an election mobile for Federal independent candidate Daniel "F4J" LaForest.
Daniel LaForest is President of Fathers 4 Justice Quebec.
He is running against Gilles Duceppe.
Please visit our F4J Quebec Candidate page for pictures and information on Daniel's fantastic campaign for equal parenting rights. |
