18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

15 Pages·2017·5.32 MB·English

by  Leslye Tinson

18th Annual

California AKA Day at the Capitol

“Sisters Leading For
Justice”

March 12-13, 2017

Sacramento, California

Leslye M. Tinson, California State Connection Coordinator
Patrice Marshall McKenzie, California Legislative Liaison
Gail M. Atley, Representative to the International Connection Committee
Carol R. Dixon, Regional Director

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

California AKA Day at the Capitol
March 12-13, 2017
Santa Clara, CA & Sacramento, CA

This Registration Packet includes the following contents:

Event Information

• Letter from the Regional Director page 3
• Invitation Letter from Planning Committee Chairmen page 4-5
• Schedule at a Glance page 6
• Hotel Room Block at Sheraton Grand Sacramento page 7
• Parking Information page 7
• Transportation page 7 - 8
• Attire Requirements page 9
• VIP Tour of the State Capitol – RSVP information page 9
• Special Needs Accommodations Information page 9
• Downtown Sacramento Walking Map page 9
Registration Details
o Technology instructions page 10
o Chapter Group Registration Payment Information page 10
o Soror Registration Form (for internal use) page 11
o Guest Registration Form page 12
Connection-related Resources
• How to make an appointment with your State Legislators page 13
• Helpful hints to have a successful advocacy/constituent meeting page 14
• Regional Refund Policy page 15

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
Corporate Office | 5656 South Stony Island Avenue | Chicago, IL 60637-1997 | [phone]

OFFICE OF:
Carol R. Dixon
Far Western Regional Director
P.O. Box 730190
San Jose, CA 95173-0190
Phone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]

January 13, 2017

Dear Sorors and Guests,

It is indeed an honor to join you on this important journey to Sacramento for AKA Day at the Capitol.
This year’s theme, “Sisters Leading For Justice” engenders our continuing dedication to promoting social
responsibility and community engagement. I am pleased that so many of you recognize the significance
of lending your wisdom to the legislative process that guides our daily lives.

Given today’s political climate we are reminded that progress cannot be made without our collective
energy spurring the evolution of our laws and policies. Our elected officials need our guidance and
support as they make decisions that impact healthcare, education, social services and more. They need
to hear from us in their quest to do the most good with the limited available resources. It is paramount
that we ensure our voices are heard and that our resolve to uplift the social consciousness of our
communities remain steadfast.

When this illustrious sisterhood was founded 109 years ago, our founders persevered through the most
unfavorable political environments imaginable. They united in sisterhood and were tenacious in their
pursuit of racial and gender equality. Because of their sacrifice and that of so many, we now have a seat
at the table on our political course. We must not take that for granted. We must be strategic and
obstinate in ensuring that our laws are fair and equitable and will propel our state forward. I’m proud
that we are taking this opportunity to engage with our elected officials and offer them guidance as they
make important decisions about our future.

Again, I thank you for taking time to be a part of the change. I am certain that we will learn much and
walk away with a greater sense of pride for having participated in this experience. I would like to also
express my appreciation to the state legislators who welcome and support us in our efforts to make a
difference. Together we can accomplish so much.

Sisterly in service,
Soror Carol R. Dixon
Far Western Regional Director
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

January 13, 2017

Dear California Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated:

We are pleased to join our Far Western Regional Director Carol R. Dixon in inviting you to attend the
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol, “Sisters Leading for Justice” on March 12-13, 2017.
This year we are excited to again offer an opportunity to visit Sacramento immediately following the 88th
Far Western Regional Conference in Santa Clara, CA. Our legislative sponsor, Assemblymember Chris
Holden and members of the California Legislative Black Caucus are looking forward to our visit and we
look forward to your registration for this important event. In light of recent civil rights struggles across
the nation, our presence in Sacramento and continued engagement with lawmakers is more critical than
ever before. Our International Connection Committee has identified our legislative focus area to be civil
rights and social justice. We want to continue to mobilize our communities for A.C.T.I.O.N. and as Alpha
Kappa Alpha women, it is our duty to lend our voice to the conversations that will ultimately shape the
policies that impact all of California’s residents.

Registration opens on-line at www.aka1908.com/farwestern. Regular registration starts on
Friday, January 20, 2017 and ends Wednesday, February 15, 2017. Late registration of $90.00
will be accepted through February 22, 2017.

This registration packet includes all the pertinent details and registration instructions. We are
encouraging all graduate and undergraduate chapters to participate, and we sincerely hope that every
chapter in California can send as many sorors as possible, so that we have a diverse representation from
across the state.

Registration is $85.00 per person, which includes registration materials, a commemorative badge, a
workshop on Sunday, and a lunch buffet at the Sacramento Convention Center on Monday. Please note
that all registrations must be submitted online via the Far Western Regional registration website.
Chapter Basilei and Technology Committee members are asked to assist those sorors without internet
access or email addresses with their registration.

An important part of the day is meeting individually or in small groups with our state officials. There will
be time to do this after the luncheon. In order for your advocacy/constituent meetings to be more
successful, we strongly recommend booking your appointment with state officials ahead of time. The
packet includes helpful information regarding this important part of the Capitol day. If necessary,
coordinate your meeting with other members of your geographic area (in small groups).

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

Lastly sorors, the California AKA Day at the Capitol is a public event. Please consider inviting your local
NPHC chapters and community members to join us. The cost for guests is the same as soror registration.
As the event draws closer, we will send updates via email to the registered sorors and Chapter Basilei. If
you have any questions, please contact us via e-mail. We look forward to seeing you in Sacramento!

Sincerely,

Soror Leslye M. Tinson
California State Connection Coordinator
Rho Delta Omega, Palo Alto
[email protected]

Soror Patrice Marshall McKenzie
California Legislative Liaison
Eta Lambda Omega, Pasadena-Altadena
[email protected]

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol
EVENT SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Sunday, March 12, 2017
Santa Clara Marriott
2700 Mission College Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95054

Registration 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Educational Session and Workshop 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Travel to Sacramento (after close of workshop – cost not included in conference registration)
Overnight stay at Sheraton Grand Sacramento (cost not included in conference registration)

Monday, March 13, 2017
State Capitol Building
1015 L Street
Sacramento, CA 95816

Registration (for those not present Sunday) 7:30am – 8:00am
Group Photo 8:00am – 8:15am
California AKA Day at the Capitol – Legislative meeting 8:00am – 12:00pm
California State Assembly meeting 12:00pm*
Luncheon at the Sacramento Convention Center 12:30pm – 1:45pm
California State Senate meeting 2:00pm*
Tour of the Capitol (optional) 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Meeting with State legislators and staff 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Please contact and scheduled your meetings www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html
Depart from the State Capitol & Travel Home safely! 4:00pm

TRANSPORTATION – If you need travel arrangements from Santa Clara to Sacramento, please indicate
this on your registration form, so we can plan accordingly. There will be an additional cost associated
with this arrangement (see flyer on Page 8 of this packet).

Reminder for FWRC attendees - Please make your flight reservations to arrival flight to SJC (San Jose
International), and book your return flight out of SMF (Sacramento International).

EVENT QUESTIONS: Please contact Soror Leslye Tinson at [email protected] or Soror Patrice
Marshall McKenzie at [email protected]

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

REGISTRATION RATES
Full rate registration includes event materials, commemorative badge, Sunday workshop, Monday
session, Luncheon and group photo!

SORORS $85.00 Includes Sunday and all Monday sessions + luncheon
GUESTS $85.00 Includes Sunday and all Monday sessions + luncheon
Sunday Only Rate $25.00 For sorors who are not attending Monday. Does not include
commemorative badge, Monday session, luncheon or group
photo
Monday Luncheon $65.00 Does not include commemorative badge, Monday session or
Only Rate group photo

HOTEL ROOM BLOCK
A room block has been secured at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento for the night of Sunday, March 12,
2017. The hotel is conveniently located three (3) short blocks from the State Capitol. High-speed
internet is included in all guest rooms.

Sheraton Grand Sacramento
1230 J Street (13th and J Streets), Sacramento, CA 95814
Refer to the “Alpha Kappa Alpha” room block – Make reservations by calling [phone]
Guest Room Rates: $135/night, plus tax and hotel fees
Booking Deadline: February 10, 2017, subject to availability.

Below is the StarGroups Link for the online reservations:
https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/AKADayattheCapitolMarch2017

TRANSPORTATION
Availability of arranged transportation from Santa Clara to Sacramento will require an additional fee.
Please check the box on your registration form to indicate your travel needs. (See flyer on Page 8).

PARKING
• The parking rate at the Santa Clara Marriott (for Sunday workshop) is $12 per day.
• Parking at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento is $23 self-parking or $32 valet per day.
• The area around the State Capitol in Sacramento is permit or metered parking only. For your
convenience, there is a daily parking lot located near 10th and K Streets. The daily max rate is
approximately $18.00- $20.00.

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol

How to get to AKA Day at the Capitol
TRANSPORTATION ALERT

If you are attending the 88th FWRC and
AKA Day at the Capitol
1) Book your airline flight from home to SJC (San Jose)
2) Book your return home flight from SMF (Sacramento)

If you need transportation arranged from Santa Clara to Sacramento,
please indicate this on your registration form. We are hoping to arrange a
one-way shuttle bus from Santa Clara, CA to Sacramento, CA – or arrange access
to the Amtrak train – from Diridon Station (San Jose) to Sacramento, CA. These
arrangements will be based on the number of sorors who indicate this need.
PLEASE NOTIFY US ASAP if you will need transportation. Sorors who use this
transportation are responsible for the costs associated and will be notified of the
costs once the transportation mode has been finalized.

Downtown Sacramento is an approximate 2-hour drive (116 miles) from
Santa Clara, CA.

Train or bus service will take approximately 3 hours.

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol
ATTIRE

Sunday workshop – Santa Clara, CA Business casual, AKA paraphernalia OK
Monday at the Capitol – Sacramento, CA Business attire - pink and green recommended!
Additional attire notes: Wear comfortable shoes, bring a jacket, scarf and umbrella,
dress in layers

VIP Tour of the State Capitol
Want to learn more about the Capitol’s history?
A docent will provide a special walking tour of the capitol for our group. Learn more about the building’s
history, Governor portraits, assembly and senate galleries and more. Space for the tour is limited to 35
people. RSVP is required with your registration. For questions, please email Soror Diane Peete at
[email protected]

Special Needs Accommodations
AKA Day at the Capitol includes lots of walking, both inside the Capitol building and to nearby locations.
For special needs accommodations, please contact Soror Monique Powell-Jones at
[email protected]

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Far Western Region
18th Annual California AKA Day at the Capitol
REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS
All registrations will be processed online at www.aka1908.com/farwestern

SOROR REGISTRATION
1. Login using your email address on file with Corporate Office.
2. Your password is your financial card number.
3. If you have trouble logging in, it is possible that your information is incorrect in the Corporate Office database. Please
ensure that you can log in to the members only side of the Corporate Office database at www.aka1908.com and check
your profile information to verify the email address that you have on file and your membership status.
4. Send an email to: [email protected] if you have problems logging into the registration website.
To Register:
1. Click “Upcoming Events” on the left menu. Then Select “California Day at the Capitol.”
2. Click “Register for this Event”
3. Confirm or make changes to the First Name, Last Name and Badge name. Also, select all the categories/ designations
that apply. Then click on the “Next” Button.
4. Scroll down, complete the registration form, and select if you will need transportation and luncheon choices. Click on
the “Next” Button and then “Register Now” Button.
5. This screen will summarize all of your event selections. Review the activities selected (If you need to make changes
or forgot a session, use the PREVIOUS button). Click on “Check Out.”
6. Verify the current billing address or enter a new billing address, then click on Next Button. Enter the credit card
information and the Next Button. Review your order and then click the SUBMIT Button. Your registration is now
complete and you will get an email confirmation.
NOTE: All chapter Basilei and Graduate Advisors are able to complete GROUP REGISTRATION for sorors in their chapter who
do not use computers. There will be no mail-in registration and no on-site registration.

GROUP REGISTRATION
1. Click “Upcoming Events” on the left menu. Then Select “California Day at the Capitol.”
2. Click “Register for this Event”. Then Select “Group” for your registration choice.
3. Select the Soror(s) you want to register and click “Next.” Note: use page numbers at the top of the list to find all
Sorors that are being registered before you click the “Next”.
4. Enter the Appropriate data for each Soror selected and click “Next”.
5. There will be a line item for each Soror registered. Confirm the list of Sorors is correct, then click “Register Now”
6. Verify the total for the Item Price is correct, and then click “Proceed to Checkout.”
7. Please ensure that “BILL Organization” information is correct and click “Next.”
8. Payment Info Screen: Select “Purchase Order” and enter the chapter check # in the Purchase Order text box.
9. Verify “Order Summary” and complete transaction by clicking “Next.”
10. Complete transaction by clicking the “Submit Order” button.

GROUP PAYMENT
1. A chapter check must be postmarked to the Regional Pecunious Grammateus within 3 business days from the date of
submitting a group registration. Include a copy of the email confirmation with the chapter check.
2. Make chapter checks payable to AKA Far Western Region. Mail to:
AKA Far Western Region
PO Box 730190
San Jose, CA 95173

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