Will any of this matter at the trial in August?

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is in regard to Tom Frank, my nephew by marriage. Over the past 36 years I have proudly witnessed Tom’s growth from an endearing young boy, into an adoring husband and father. He has matured into a man who makes his entire family proud.

Having been a teacher of children with disabilities for 35 years, I am accustomed to observing how parents engage and interact with their children. I must say I am truly impressed with Tom’s parenting skills. It is truly gratifying to see that the carefree young man who had spent much time with us for a summer, many years ago, has become such a wonderful father and family man. One example of this was when I had opportunity to spend a few days at a resort with Tom, his family, his sister and half-siblings, their spouses and children, and his father and stepmother. Tom was often the center of attention, entertaining everyone with his magic and stories.

During this vacation, Tom sought my advice about his oldest son, John, who had been experiencing some difficulty with Math in school. Tom asked me for some advice and if I would sit with John to try to assess what his problems were. Knowing that I was experienced in teaching students with learning deficits, Tom wanted my "expert" opinion and validation that he was approaching his son's school difficulties in the correct manner. Back then, as he does now, Tom showed much concern for John’s academic success.

In May of 2003, I spent time with John at a family wedding that Tom was unable to attend. At that time, John resided with his mother. I mentioned to him that his father had e-mailed me John's claymation movie, and how much I enjoyed it. Although we don’t get to see one another often, Tom is diligent in keeping the family updated on all of the achievements of the children. John confided to me that he made the movie in hopes that his father would move home to Cincinnati! He also expressed disappointment and sadness that he might not get to spend that upcoming summer with his dad in Seattle because of difficulties that had arisen between Tom and his stepmother, Moira. I am pleased to say that John now resides with his father, and Tom and John’s mom have been very successful in engaging in a healthy relationship that supports John’s success. The results of their efforts can be seen in John’s excellent school achievement since he moved in with Tom.

Since Tom and Moira have been apart, Tom has suffered deep emotional pain at not having adequate time to spend with their three children. He loves them dearly and is very interested in their wellbeing. This is evident from the loving photo journal he shares with family members, his efforts to be included in their academic progress, and his constant expression of overall concern that he cannot be more involved in their daily lives. He rightfully fears for the negative impact this will have on their future.

I am certain that Tom Frank is an excellent father who idolizes his four children. I know he loves his family and deserves to continue to be an integral part of their lives. In my experience as a teacher in a large urban setting, I observed the negative effects of dysfunctional families, and the resulting impact on children who do not have their fathers in their daily lives. On a more personal note, as a stepmother to a child whose mother made every attempt to deny or limit visitation, I can attest to the fact that no good comes from such revengeful, hostile efforts. Denying or impeding visitation benefits no one. The obvious losers are the children and their father.

Tom Frank deserves to share custody of his children, and at the least be granted more liberal visitation rights, including overnight stays. He has more than proven he is a responsible, devoted father to his son, John. Kindly grant Tom extended visitations and allow Tom to be the great father he already is to his other children, for his sake, but more importantly, for theirs.

Thank you.

Sincerely,


Janey Frank