Super Heroes, Singer To Be At Gop’s Party Gingrich Invites Power Rangers, Lee Greenwood To Help Open Congressional Session

Country singer Lee Greenwood and the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers will be at the party Wednesday when Republicans celebrate their first day in control of Congress in 40 years.

When incoming House Speaker Newt Gingrich asked some of his colleagues to start planning a celebration, he set out a few guidelines: Make it family-oriented, make it affordable and include the Rangers, those kicking and fighting masked super heroes the kids are so nuts about.

Wedged between a morning prayer service for lawmakers and spouses and an evening country-Western bash, which is open to the public, is a visit with the Mighty Morphins, designed for congressional kids.

On the first morning of the 104th Congress, members of Congress and their spouses will be invited to gather at 9 a.m. for a prayer service at St. Peter’s Catholic Church - just a short walk from the Capitol.

Later in the day, lawmakers and their families can join the Power Rangers for two hours of entertainment in one of the House cafeterias.

In the evening, anyone with $25 to spend on a ticket can come to the Renaissance Hotel to hear Lee Greenwood sing songs like “God Bless the USA,” which became the virtual GOP anthem under Presidents Reagan and Bush.

“Don’t Miss It, The Party of the Year,” reads a leaflet advertising the party, which will also feature a speech by Gingrich.

The party will be casual, featuring a dessert buffet, coffee and a cash bar. Greenwood and his band will play throughout the night and dancing is expected.

Greenwood is also expected to sing without his band the night before at the “Georgia Salute to Speaker Newt Gingrich and the Georgia Congressional Delegation,” sponsored by the National Republican Congressional Committee.

About 1,200 people are expected to attend that party, which is by invitation only and costs $50 a head.