Dear Members/Friends,

Thank you all who have already registered to ride with us on the buses. We have reached occupancy.  Yes, a total of 5 buses with nearly 300 guests!!  PLEASE, PLEASE print and bring your email confirmation with you.


QUICK POINTS:

1. Local artist Shepard Fairey contributed his talents to our cause and created the above artwork as the main image for the movement. The poster will debut to everyone at the rally, but you get to see it here first.

2. For your safety, keep to planned route. A copy will be available on the buses.

3. Protest is divided in 3 parts:

4. Buses will drop us off at the parking lot between Broadway and Spring Street, just across from City Hall. We may have to walk around the block. (tbd)

5. There's limited long-term parking near The Abbey available across the street (valet) and WeHo Park. Plan to arrive early, carpool as much as possible or grab a cab.

6.  The Abbey will have the kitchen open early if anyone wants to purchase breakfast, although complimentary coffee and donuts are available.

7. Registered riders will also receive drink tickets for a complimentary cocktail upon return from the rally.

8. A sign making party will occur today from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It will take place at the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center located at 1625 N Schrader Blvd, Room 106, Los Angeles, CA 90028

**Some material are being donated but please bring your own supplies as well**

 
9. Remember, this rally is all about inclusion. The focus and tone of our message should be PEACEFUL & POSITIVE. Refrain from making derogatory comments or attacking other groups via negative signage.  It's OK to be angry but let's do it in civilized and mature way.

10. Thank you David Cooley, The Abbey Food & Bar/ SBE for sponsoring our buses and the West Hollywood Sheriff's Department for their support.

Please READ the following information carefully and check your email or the registration page often for updates in RED.
EVENT DETAILS
Date:                        Saturday, Nov. 15th, 2008
Departure Time:        9:00am
Pick up Location:       The Abbey, 629 N. Robertson Ave, West Hollywood
Drop Off Location:     Los Angeles City Hall, downtown (exact location tba)
Return Time:             3:00pm

Buses will be waiting to pick up returning guests at the end of the march at The LA State Historic Landmark Park. Complete details available at check-in.

PREPARATION:
Remember, departure is very early in the morning and there may not be any food available at the rally. Plan in advance to have an early breakfast or bring a brown bag lunch to eat in the bus.  Coffee and pastries will be available at The Abbey prior to departure.

Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen. It will be hot, expected temperatures will top 90 degrees, please bring water and stay hydrated throughout the day. Water will also be provided on location by The Abbey/SBE.

You are welcome to invite up to 3 guests. Make sure to RSVP with each person's complete information (name, phone #, email, etc..).

Once you RSVP, make sure to PRINT OUT your confirmation receipt and bring it with you just in case.

CHECK-IN PROCEDURE:
Please arrive early for check in. A check in table will be located inside the Abbey, near the main gates, by 8:00am.  Everyone who RSVP'd will be on the guest list and will receive a wrist band.  YOU MUST WEAR THE WRIST BAND AT ALL TIMES. This will allow re-entry to the bus for your return trip.

Buses will be numbered #1-5 and riders will be assigned to a particular bus. If you RSVP for more than 1 person, we will do our best to seat you together, but we can not guarantee it. Please be patient and flexible with us.

We will need to check everyone in very quickly, so as soon as you get checked in, please head to your designated busses.


THE RIDE:
As all LA residents know, traffic will decipher how long it will take us to arrive. There will be street closures, so it may take longer than planned. We hope to arrive by 10:30am.

Water will be provided on the bus.  Take this opportunity to eat your breakfast.  Mom always said "you can't successfuly rally on an empty stomach." LOL


POST-RALLY
Make note of the time and set your alarms if necessary. The buses will be returning promptly at 3pm, meaning you must be back to the buses by 2:45pm.  Enjoy the march but be aware of the time.

If you decide to return early on your own or will be staying late, please text me with your name so I know not to wait for you.

The Abbey may be providing an after-party with drink specials for everyone who attended the rally. Invite your friends and other rally participants to join us. (not confirmed)