Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #21: The End (for now)

This will be the final bulletin for the 2016-2017 program year and my final bulletin as the Lead Advisor for both delegations. It has been a privilege to serve all of our delegates and their families this year. You may hear from me again on other Coalition news and opportunities, but as far as bulletins go, you're free!

Here are just a few things to wrap up the year:

1.) Due to popular demand, Banquet ticket sales are extended through 12 noon tomorrow, Feb 28. Over 150 people will be there on Thursday. Will you?

2.) Parent Program Evaluations: We depend on feedback to improve our program each year. Please take a moment to provide your thoughts on this year.

3.) Delegate Program Evaluations: An opportunity for delegates to weigh-in on what they liked and what they didn't like this year. Use your voice! Please complete this program evaluation.

4.) Annual Support Campaign Matching Gift Challenge! Today we learned that an anonymous donor has offered to match all coalition donations from now through the close of Thursday's banquet, dollar-for-dollar up to $500. That means each dollar you spend magically becomes $2! El Dorado currently has about 41% participation and Sacramento Central about 35% participation in the Annual Support Campaign. There's still time to hit 100%! You can donate to El Dorado here and Sac Central here. All money raised goes directly to providing program access to Y&G and all youth programs our YMCA offers. Every dollar matters and makes a difference.

5.) 70th Model Legislature & Court Mailing List: Want to get a jump on the next program year? Be the first to hear about the 2017 delegation registration process? Need a link to pass along to your friends who want to join next year? Your wish is granted: http://bit.ly/capcointerest

And with that, I bid you adieu. I am pleased to hand over the Lead Advisor reins to Derek Dolfie, current advisor and El Dorado Delegation alumnus. He will be supported by Whitney and Marcus Worthington in advising leadership roles, Dylan O'Tarrow, our YMCA Y&G Coordinator, and by our entire Capitol Coalition advisor team (who are all amazing).

I wish you all well - especially our graduating seniors. Don't forget to let us know where you're off to next year. We can't wait to see how you all change the world. Looking forward to seeing many of you on Thursday! 

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?March 2 Celebration Banquet

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #20: And away we go!

(Check your email inbox for referenced attachments)

Well, we made it! Two conferences, about 20 meetings, several community service events, a couple of parties, and a million emails later, here we are: only 3 sleeps till Sac Conference! You finally get to put to work your training and preparation. You'll dress the part. You'll walk the walk. You'll talk the talk. These 5 really long, super short days will be what you make of them - so go big or go home and regret what could've been.

Raise your hand, share that viewpoints, speak with confidence, own the room! Your advising team is so proud of you and we know you're going to do GREAT THINGS this week.

Parents/Guardians: if you missed the pre-conference meeting last week, you must review the attached letter (make sure you read the one for your delegate's delegation!). You must either send me a picture of the signed form or send the signature slip with your delegate to conference check-in on Thursday.  Also, please review the code of conduct carefully with your delegates.  Here is the presentation from last week's meeting (El Dorado here; SacCentral here - they are different). Please email any questions you have ASAP.

Here's what you need to know. Read it carefully!

1.) YMCA Annual Support Campaign - down to the wire! Can delegations reach their goals this week? Here are the current stats:

Sacramento Central:

62.5% of monetary goal

20% of 100% participation goal

El Dorado:

25.5% of monetary goal

28% of participation goal

As a reminder: delegates who participate at any giving level will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Pizza Rock gift card. $5 or more and get a free CapCo pin. $20.17 or more and you'll be entered into a drawing for a $50 Starbucks gift card. (those are all cumulative incentives, too!) The first family group to hit 100% participation AND the family that raises the most money each earn a Sac Conference pizza party. Your last chance to enter for these prizes is at conference check-in on Thursday. Make sure you bring your pledge form with your donation (whether it's $1 or $1000).

And as if those prizes weren't enough: giving is a concrete way to live our delegations' and the YMCA's values. Your gift keeps the doors to Y&G open to all who want to participate. Every. single. dollar. helps. Please give today via the pages for Sacramento Central or El Dorado.

2.) End-of-The-Year Celebration - March 2: Get your tickets for the Old Spaghetti Factory Banquet today! I need to give our reservation numbers to the restaurant next week. It would be very helpful to have our numbers relatively set by then! You can order online or bring CASH to conference check-in on Thursday (on-line is preferred) http://bit.ly/CapCoBanquet

CONFERENCE INFORMATION

3.) Attendance: Attendance is required at all sessions from check-in on Thursday to check-out on Monday. Sports and school do not constitute reasons for missing any part of our final conference. Dates have been advertised since the start of the year and setting priorities - like time management and public speaking - is another skill our program helps delegates develop.

A sample excused absence letter is attached. If you are an Oak Ridge HS student, your information has already been provided to the attendance office and you do not need to submit anything further. The sample letter is for your use - do not submit a copy to me.

4.) Arrival info: Luggage will be stored in Convention Center Hall E which is closest to the intersection of K and 13th Street. Please drop off there. Boundary note: 16th Street is not in-bounds this year (so there is no access to Mikuni's, PF Changes, etc) Reminder: Under no circumstances are delegates permitted to drive themselves to conference.

5.) Sac Attire Arrive in style on Thursday. You should know what to pack already, but if you don't check out the dress code again. Don't overpack (you still have to carry all your own stuff). Watch weather reports carefully!

6.) Food and Drink: unlike Fresno, meals are NOT provided in Sacramento (aside from dinner on Friday and dinner on Sunday). We also HIGHLY recommend packing non-perishable breakfast food (instant oatmeal cups, oranges, bananas, granola bars, etc) for at least Friday morning, if not the whole weekend. It will save you tons of time and money. A refillable water bottle is also recommended. There are drinking fountains in all conference facilities.

Make sure you take time to eat and hydrate! ALL delegates have time in their schedules for meals. Use that time . . . for meals.

7.) Schedule: it's as long and confusing as ever, so give it a read NOW. If you're a delegation president, delegation chaplain, primary bill sponsor, or in ConCon, Forum, NIC, or Houses, you have some special stuff to look out for.

8.) CONA, Governing Board, Awards Apps: all due VERY soon. CONA and Governing Board apps need to be submitted in Reggo by 11:59pm tomorrow, Feb 14. Awards nomination form is found here.

9.) Top 5 things to bring:

Besides Sac attire make sure you bring:

- Food money

- Band-aids for blisters

- Pen and Highlighter

- Delegation sweatshirt

- Your "A" Game!

Special info for El Dorado Delegates:

- Your check-in window is 10:15-10:45am on Thursday. Don't come earlier and don't be late!

- Your go-home time on Monday, Feb 20 is 10am.

- Make sure to check out your delegation leadership candidate statements!

Special info for Sacramento Central Delegates:

- Your check-in-window is 9:45-10:15 on Thursday. Don't come earlier and DO NOT be late!

- Your go-home time on Monday, Feb 20 is 8am

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!February 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

March 2, Celebration Banquet

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #19: Countdown to Sac Conference

Check your email inbox for referenced attachments

Dates to know:

Feb 8/9: MANDATORY Delegate and Parent/Family Meeting, pre-conference prep

Feb 15: Sac Central Delegation: No meeting

Feb 16-20: 69th Model Legislature & Court

Here's what you need to know this week:

1.) End of the Year Celebration Banquet: Join us for our first-ever (we hope first annual!) Celebration Banquet. Delegates and their families are invited to join us for an evening at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Rancho Cordova on Thursday, March 2. Tickets and more information available here.  Get yours today!

2.) Delegate & Parent/Family Meeting, Feb 8 (Sac) and Feb 9 (Eldo): Delegates and a family member are required to attend next week's delegation meeting for pre-conference information. If you or a parent/family member has a known conflict that evening, you must contact me in advance to let me know. Each year brings slightly new information and slightly different rules. Don't assume you know all you need to know for the year even if you are a returning delegate.

3.) Annual Campaign Corner: Thank you to those who have donated so far. To date, our coalition has raised $657.51. It's a start but it is by no means what I think we're really capable of.

If each delegate works to collect or donates a minimum of $34, we'd hit both of our fundraising targets for the coalition. Without the nearly $14,000 in Y-Assist we receive each our, our coalition would be missing 25 delegates right now. And each of those 25 delegates brings a unique, irreplaceable spirit to our family. We wouldn't be the same without them. We each need to do our part to ensure program access for all students, regardless of financial means. Democracy must be learned by all of  each generation!

A pledge form is attached or you can donate online. There are pages for each delegation: El Dorado at http://bit.ly/EldoDonate and Sacramento Central at http://bit.ly/SacCDonate

To be considered for the various raffles and competitions, pledge forms must be received or online donations made by 12 noon on Thursday, February 16. 

4.) Y&G Awards, Conference on National Affairs (CONA), Governing Board Youth Member apps are all available via google form or reggo with QUICKLY APPROACHING deadlines. See last week's bulletins for more on each.Some require lead advisor letters of recommendation. You must request a letter of recommendation no later than 11:59pm on Feb 9.

5.) Sac Attire: We reviewed the dress code at our delegation meetings this week. You can review the presentation here and a copy of the dress code is attached. Please review it carefully.

6.) El Dorado Delegation Elections - Successful primary candidates received an email with next steps. Candidates MUST complete this form by 11:59pm onThurs, Feb 9 or they will be disqualified from their race.  They should fill out forms for EACH office in which they are a finalist.

Delegates/Voters should review candidate statements here. Delegates should also review the officer duties and ask candidates questions specific to their desired job as they campaign. The descriptions can be found here.

Run-off elections will be held Monday, February 20th at 9am at Sac Conference.

7.) Program Area Specific News:

- Bill Primary and Secondary Sponsors should make sure they meet up between now and Sac conference to make sure each has everything needed for a successful bill presentation. Primary Sponsors need to have their 2 min sponsor speech ready for committee and the floor (if your bill passes committee. Secondary Sponsors need a floor speech ready if the bill makes it over to their house.

- NIC Delegates need to have a 2 minute sponsor speech ready to go on their proposals. Keep in mind the criteria used for evaluating your proposals. Make sure you're ready!

- Court delegates should be preparing their cases

- DOF delegates should be preparing to present their proposals

- This list is not exclusive! If you have stuff to do before Sac conference, get workin'!

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!February 8/9, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

March 2, Celebration Banquet

Y&G Sac Central Delegation Bulletin #18: And then there were two [meetings]

NOTE: Delegations have SEPARATE Bulletins this week. Make sure you are reading the correct bulletin for your delegation. All referenced attachments are in your email inbox.

There are just two regular meetings left this year and they are BIG ones:

Feb 1: Sac Attire Discussion; Bill Sponsor and NIC sponsor practice speeches, CONA, other info

Feb 8: MANDATORY Delegate and Parent/Family Meeting, pre-conference prep

Here's what you need to know this week:

1.) End of the Year Celebration Banquet: Join us for our first-ever (we hope first annual!) Celebration Banquet. Delegates and their families are invited to join us for an evening at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Rancho Cordova on Thursday, March 2. Tickets and information available here. 

2.) Y&G Awards. Each year, Y&G recognizes outstanding delegates, advisors, program supporters, and program innovations. You have a chance to nominate people for these awards. Here is the form to nominate (includes descriptions of the various awards). Nominations are due by 11:50pm on Feb 16.

3.) Conference on National Affairs - The YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) is a ten-day, national Youth & Government conference held in North Carolina each summer. Y&G programs from all over the country send their best and brightest to debate proposals of national and international importance. Applications are now open in Reggo and delegates are welcome to apply. CONA 2017 will be Tuesday, June 27-Friday, July 7.

The application process requires:
-Submission of a leadership application in Reggo
-Completion of a one-minute, unedited video showcasing public speaking ability (topic found in Reggo application)
-Submission of two online recommendations (one must from their delegation Lead Advisor)

-If you wish to apply, you must notify Christiana via email that you need a letter of recommendation no later than Thursday, February 9 at 11:59pm.

All application materials (Reggo application, video and recommendations) are due by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, February 14th. (You may see other deadlines publicized, but this is YOUR deadline so we can make sure your application is approved on time.) The 25 students chosen to represent California are will be announced at the Closing Joint Session in Sacramento.

4.) Annual Campaign Corner: We haven't logged many online donations yet, but I'm hoping we get a lot of forms turned in this week. You have until check-in at Sac Conference to give to enter our various friendly competition categories. A pledge form is attached or you can donate online. There are pages for each delegation: El Dorado at http://bit.ly/EldoDonate and Sacramento Central here http://bit.ly/SacCDonate

5.) Program Area Specific News:

- Bill Primary and Secondary Sponsors should make sure they meet up between now and Sac conference to make sure each has everything needed for a successful bill presentation. Primary Sponsors need to have their 2 min sponsor speech ready for committee and the floor (if your bill passes committee. Secondary Sponsors need a floor speech ready if the bill makes it over to their house.

- NIC Delegates need to have a 2 minute sponsor speech ready to go on their proposals. Keep in mind the criteria used for evaluating your proposals. Make sure you're ready!

- Court delegates should be preparing their cases

- DOF delegates should be preparing to present their proposals

- This list is not exclusive! If you have stuff to do before Sac conference, get workin'!

6.) Governing Board Youth Member Applications Available

Each year, Y&G allows delegates to apply to serve on the California YMCA Youth & Government Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the planning and policy decisions for California YMCA Youth & Government. For 2017-2018, there will be four Youth Board Members (70th Youth Governor, 70th Chief Justice and two board members selected by the 69th Youth Governor).

The Board meets approximately four times a year in various locations across the state to discuss issues that affect the program. Transportation costs will be covered by California YMCA Youth & Government. Applicants must be current juniors as they will serve through next year.

Applications are now available in Reggo and are due by 11:59 PM on Thursday, February 16th. Candidates will be interviewed in Sacramento and the 2 delegates selected will be announced at the Closing Joint Session

7.) Delegate & Parent/Family Meeting, Feb 8: Delegates and a family member are required to attend the delegation meeting on Wednesday, February 8 for pre-conference information. If you or a parent/family member has a known conflict that evening, you must contact me in advance to let me know.

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
Feb 1 - regular meetingsFebruary 8, 2017: Mandatory Delegate AND PARENT/FAMILY MEMBER pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

March 2, Celebratory Banquet!

Y&G El Dorado Delegation Bulletin #18: And then there were two [meetings]

NOTE: Delegations have SEPARATE Bulletins this week. Make sure you are reading the correct bulletin for your delegation. All referenced attachments are in your email inbox. 

There are just two regular meetings left this year and they are BIG ones:

Feb 2: Sac Attire discussions; Delegation Primary Elections

Feb 9: MANDATORY Delegate and Parent/Family Meeting, pre-conference prep

Here's what you need to know this week:

1.) Delegation Elections - IMPORTANT - READ THIS! - In response to delegate concerns expressed at last week's meeting, we are making some additional changes to this year's election process. El Dorado Delegation Elections will occur as follows:

- The Primary Elections will be held this Thursday, Feb 2

- Candidates may run for more than one office.

- All Candidates must prepare a speech for each office they wish to pursue and should be prepared to answer questions about their qualifications and plans for THAT SPECIFIC OFFICE.

- Candidates are invited to complete this "Candidacy" form. They should fill out forms for EACH office for which they wish to run.

- Delegates/Voters can review candidate statements here.

- The top 3 candidates in the Primary will advance to the General Election held on the final day of Sac Conference (Monday, Feb 20)

- Finalists will be required to complete the candidacy form (so you may as well get a start on it now if you're running!)

- Candidates should make sure they review the requirements of all delegation officers and requirements/qualifications specific to the office for which you wish to run. Be prepared to speak specifically about any office for which you want to run. Officer descriptions are available here at the google form. 
- Candidates are strongly encouraged to wear Sac Attire to Thursday, 2/2 meeting. 

2.) End of the Year Celebration Banquet: Join us for our first-ever (we hope first annual!) Celebration Banquet. Delegates and their families are invited to join us for an evening at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Rancho Cordova on Thursday, March 2. Tickets and information available here. 

3.) Y&G Awards. Each year, Y&G recognizes outstanding delegates, advisors, program supporters, and program innovations. You have a chance to nominate people for these awards. Here is the form to nominate (includes descriptions of the various awards). Nominations are due by 11:50pm on Feb 16.

4.) Conference on National Affairs - The YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) is a ten-day, national Youth & Government conference held in North Carolina each summer. Y&G programs from all over the country send their best and brightest to debate proposals of national and international importance. Applications are now open in Reggo and delegates are welcome to apply. CONA 2017 will be Tuesday, June 27-Friday, July 7.

The application process requires:
-Submission of a leadership application in Reggo
-Completion of a one-minute, unedited video showcasing public speaking ability (topic found in Reggo application)
-Submission of two online recommendations (one must from their delegation Lead Advisor)

-If you wish to apply, you must notify Christiana via email that you need a letter of recommendation no later than Thursday, February 9 at 11:59pm.

All application materials (Reggo application, video and recommendations) are due by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, February 14th. (You may see other deadlines publicized, but this is YOUR deadline so we can make sure your application is approved on time.) The 25 students chosen to represent California are will be announced at the Closing Joint Session in Sacramento.

5.) Annual Campaign Corner: We're off to a good start! So far, we've raised $201 online and more on forms - but we're not done yet. You have until check-in at Sac Conference to give to enter our various friendly competition categories. A pledge form is attached or you can donate online. There are pages for each delegation: El Dorado at http://bit.ly/EldoDonate and Sacramento Central here http://bit.ly/SacCDonate

6.) Program Area Specific News:

- Bill Primary and Secondary Sponsors should make sure they meet up between now and Sac conference to make sure each has everything needed for a successful bill presentation. Primary Sponsors need to have their 2 min sponsor speech ready for committee and the floor (if your bill passes committee. Secondary Sponsors need a floor speech ready if the bill makes it over to their house.

- NIC Delegates need to have a 2 minute sponsor speech ready to go on their proposals. Keep in mind the criteria used for evaluating your proposals. Make sure you're ready!

- Court delegates should be preparing their cases

- DOF delegates should be preparing to present their proposals

- This list is not exclusive! If you have stuff to do before Sac conference, get workin'!

7.) Governing Board Youth Member Applications Available

Each year, Y&G allows delegates to apply to serve on the California YMCA Youth & Government Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the planning and policy decisions for California YMCA Youth & Government. For 2017-2018, there will be four Youth Board Members (70th Youth Governor, 70th Chief Justice and two board members selected by the 69th Youth Governor).

The Board meets approximately four times a year in various locations across the state to discuss issues that affect the program. Transportation costs will be covered by California YMCA Youth & Government. Applicants must be current juniors as they will serve through next year.

Applications are now available in Reggo and are due by 11:59 PM on Thursday, February 16th. Candidates will be interviewed in Sacramento and the 2 delegates selected will be announced at the Closing Joint Session

8.) Delegate & Parent/Family Meeting, Feb 9: Delegates and a family member are required to attend the delegation meeting on Thursday, February 9 from 7:00-8pm for pre-conference information. If you or a parent/family member has a known conflict that evening, you must contact me in advance to let me know.

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
Feb 2 - regular meetingsFebruary 9, 2017: Mandatory Delegate AND PARENT/FAMILY MEMBER pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

March 2, Celebratory Banquet

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #17: 3 more meetings, 1 more conference, 1 more event, and 1 big campaign

After a big weekend and a week off, I hope you're ready to give into the last few weeks of our Y&G year!

1.) Meetings return this week for both delegations. We only have 3 meetings left, make sure you attend all 3.

2.) NIC, DOF, and Legislative Analyst delegates had proposal submission deadlines this week. The approval deadline in Reggo for NIC proposals is tomorrow. Only about half of our NIC delegates have uploaded their proposals (meaning they missed OUR coalition submission deadline of 1/23). If you're in any of these program areas, make sure you look for the email I sent on Friday with proposal submission information. If NIC delegates submit late and without notifying Christiana, they risk not having their proposal approved.

3.) End of the Year Celebration Banquet: it's been a year of firsts and changes, so here's one more. We want to hold the first-ever coalition-wide celebratory banquet after Sac Conference. We need information from you to do so. (Eldo delegates who complete this form get 3 points towards their family group competition totals. That award will be presented at the banquet). Please complete this form ASAP. We hope to see most delegates and their families at this event. READING TEST ALERT: anyone who completes this form before 6pm on Thursday, Jan 26, will be entered into a gift card drawing.

4.) T&EII Survey. You should've received an email from CalYMCA with a link to a conference survey. Make sure you complete that survey. It counts towards delegation of distinction. If you can't find that email, use this link (make sure to indicate your delegation).

5.) Y&G Awards. Each year, Y&G recognizes outstanding delegates, advisors, program supporters, and program innovations. You have a chance to nominate people for these awards. Here is the form to nominate (includes descriptions of the various awards). Nominations are due by 11:50pm on Feb 16.

Annual Campaign Corner: Last week, I sent information to both delegations about this year's annual campaign. This week, I want to share with you some of my favorite data about our program - the value our volunteer advisor corps donates to our community. Each volunteer hour has a recognized value. In California, it's currently valued at $24.75 an hour. In 2016, our advising team donated the equivalent of $123,861 worth of their time to our community. That's pretty phenomenal. Donations you make to Youth & Government enable more delegates to benefit from the education we provide. And the total value contributed to our community is even higher, as you can see. Our advisors love to serve - so help us give them more delegates to serve! Your donation is 100% tax deductible and makes a measurable impact in your community. A pledge form is attached or you can donate online. There are pages for each delegation: El Dorado at http://bit.ly/EldoDonate and Sacramento Central here http://bit.ly/SacCDonate

El Dorado News:

- All leadership (delegation officers, elected, and appointed leaders, including family group leaders) must attend the leadership meeting on Thursday, Jan 26 at 6pm in B3

- Non leadership delegates must be arrived, checked-in, and in their seats by 7pm. That means get there by 6:45. We're starting without you at 7pm if you aren't there.

- For the Jan 26 and Feb 2 meetings, NIC sponsors and bill sponsors should be prepared to run through their 2 min speeches (as time allows)

Sacramento News:

- Quick leadership meeting tonight at 6:15pm

- Regular meeting begins promptly at 6:30pm - please arrive on time.
- For the Jan 25 and Feb 1 meetings, NIC sponsors and bill sponsors should be prepared to run through their 2 min speeches (as time allows)

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
Jan 25/26 - regular meetings
Feb 1/2 - regular meetingsFebruary 8/9, 2017: Mandatory Delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

March 2, 8, or 9 (TBD) Celebratory Banquet

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #16: To Fresno!

Welcome back! I hope you had a great winter break. It's time to get back to work - we have a quick sprint to the finish line!

1.) MANDATORY meetings this week for both delegations. If you want to go to Fresno, you better be there! Roommate assignments will also occur at delegation meetings this week. As a reminder, all rooms will have 4 assigned occupants.

                   1a.) If you didn't attend T&EI and thus did not receive your delegation sweatshirt, please reply to this email to let me know.

2.) Lunch pre-order: We will not stop for lunch on our return trip from Fresno on Monday. It will be a LONG time between breakfast and our return to Sacramento. Lunch pre-orders are due by 11:59pm on Thurs. Jan 12. Order here: http://bit.ly/CapCoLunch

3.) T&EII Schedule: Our next conference will start earlier than the last one. We will depart in the morning on Saturday, January 14. Our return times should remain the same. Conference information will be presented at this week's meetings.

4.) NIC Delegates: Your draft proposals are due by Thursday night. You were sent an email with links to a google drive folder and instructions. Be ready to present your proposal at this week's meeting. You need 20 copies (1 of them signed by the lead advisor) for the coming weekend. Don't miss your deadline!

5.) Elected/Appointed Leadership Applicant Notice: are you a candidate for elected office? Did you apply for an appointed position or program area? Make sure you review the conference schedule for mandatory meetings. And make sure you check your email daily for updates from program staff about interview times and details. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure you show up prepared and on-time for your interviews! Also, if you are an elected office candidate it is YOUR responsibility to make sure you have any required forms (campaign disclosure, etc) completed and signed by the lead advisor in time to submit them.

6.) Final payments were due December 14 (SacCentral) and 15 (El Dorado):  If you have made your final payment, thank you! If you have a question about your balance, email Dylan ASAP at dotarrow@ymcasuperiorcal.org. You can pay online here or over the phone to the YMCA Front Desk at 916-452-9622. You can also drop a check off at the Sacramento Central YMCA (2021 W Street, Sacramento, 95818) during regular business hours, in an envelope attention to Dylan O'Tarrow.

El Dorado News: 

i.) Pre-Conference and Parent Meetings: Our first meeting of 2017 will take place on January 12 and will be a mandatory pre-conference meeting worth 6 points. Parents are encouraged to attend from 7pm to 7:30pm for pre-conference information.



NOTE: Our meeting will start at 7pm whether you are there are not. Do not arrive at 7pm - arrive 10-15 before so that you are checked in and sitting down so we can start on time. 

 ii.) Parents please also note that February 9 will be a mandatory delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meeting (10 points). Add it to your calendars now! Watch the bulletin for more details about these meetings. 

Sacramento Central News:

a.) Meeting schedule: Leadership meets at 6pm this Wednesday, all other delegates need to arrive promptly at 6:30. NIC delegates should be prepared to present their draft proposals and speeches. Candidates should also be prepared to practice their speeches. Our meeting will conclude promptly at 7:30. An advisor meeting is set to start immediately after our meeting - please make sure your rides pick you up on time. 

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
January 11/12, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsJanuary 14-16, 2017 (Fresno) Training & Election Conference IIFebruary 8/9, 2017: Mandatory Delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #15: Winter Break is Here!

Happy Winter Holidays! 

Most of the information in this email is a repeat of last week's bulletin - but we want to make sure you've read it. The most important thing on your to-do list, if you haven't done it already, is to make sure you have made your final program payment. All Dylan wants for Christmas is on-time payments. Don't make advisors spend their winter break sending you reminders!  

As we pause our delegation meetings for the next couple of weeks for some needed R&R, the advising team wants to wish all of our delegates and their families a wonderful winter break and a joyous New Year. We're so grateful that each and every one of you are a part of our program. 2017 will bring great things with our final two conferences of the year. 

There will be no bulletin on Dec 26 - make sure you've read this one and act on its information as required - especially when it comes to noting events like mandatory pre-conference meetings and bill boxes work (for SacC delegates).

1.) Final payments were due December 14 (SacCentral) and 15 (El Dorado):  If you have made your final payment, thank you! Your prompt payment is appreciated as we near the end of the budgetary year and the holiday rush reduces our time to send payment reminders. Everyone should have received an email confirming their final balance. If you have a question about your balance, email Dylan ASAP at dotarrow@calymca.org. You can pay online here or over the phone to the YMCA Front Desk at 916-452-9622. You can also drop a check off at the Sacramento Central YMCA (2021 W Street, Sacramento, 95818) during regular business hours, in an envelope attention to Dylan O'Tarrow. Delegates not on an approved extended payment plan must clear their balances by December 31. 

2.) Leadership Applicant Notice: are you a candidate for eleced office? Did you apply for an appointed position or program area? Make sure you review the draft conference schedule when it comes out in January for mandatory meetings. And make sure you check your email daily for updates from program staff about interview times and details. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure you show up prepared and on-time for your interviews! 

2.) MUN Secretariat Applications: The Secretariat oversee and provide leadership to the California YMCA Model United Nations program participants (who are wee small adorable middle school students). For more information on MUN and the Secretariat program, click here. This is great for delegates who like teaching, mentoring, and aiding the leadership development of wee small adorable middle school students and who are responsible and like travel. Applications are still available for non-priority interviews.

3.) Speaker's Bureau: Are you a returning Y&G Delegate? Do you annoy people with your limitless love for our program? Wish you could talk to more people about Y&G? Now's your chance! Apply to the speaker's bureau via Reggo. Questions? Contact Derek or Christiana.

4.) T&EII Schedule: Our next conference will start earlier than the first. We will likely depart between 10-11am on Saturday, January 14. Our return times should remain the same. 

El Dorado News: 

i.) Meeting schedule: We will not meet on Dec 22 or 29 or Jan 5. Happy Winter Break!

ii.) Pre-Conference and Parent Meetings: Our first meeting of 2017 will take place on January 12 and will be a mandatory pre-conference meeting worth 6 points. Parents are encouraged to attend from 7pm to 7:30pm for pre-conference information. Parents please also note that February 9 will be a mandatory delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meeting (10 points). Add it to your calendars now! Watch the bulletin for more details about these meetings. 

Sacramento Central News:

a.) Bill Boxes: Mark your calendars for BIll Boxes work on January 3 and 4, 2017. A separate email with instructions and the address (NEW address this year!) will hit your inbox during winter break. Watch for it!. 

b.) Meeting schedule: We will not meet on Dec 21 or Dec 28. Meetings resume on January 4, 2017.Special note about Jan 4 meeting: it may take place at the CalYMCA HQ (which is NOT where it was last year). Make sure you watch for updates about the Jan 4 meeting. 

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
January 11/12, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsJanuary 14-16, 2017 (Fresno) Training & Election Conference IIFebruary 8/9, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #14: Almost Winter Break!

Some repeat info from last week at the top, but still worth a review. Check out your delegation-specific section, however, for important new info. 

1.) Final payments due December 14 (SacCentral) and 15 (El Dorado): The final payment for the current program year is due this week. Your prompt payment is appreciated as we near the end of the budgetary year and the holiday rush reduces our time to send payment reminders. Everyone should have received an email confirming their final balance. If you have a question about your balance, email Christiana or Dylan ASAP. You can pay online here or send a check with your delegate (payable to "Sacramento YMCA" with the delegate name in the memo line) to this week's meeting). See special note about El Dorado's meeting schedule in the relevant section below.

2.) Leadership Applicant Notice: are you a candidate for eleced office? Did you apply for an appointed position or program area? Make sure you review the draft conference schedule when it comes out in January for mandatory meetings. And make sure you check your email daily for updates from program staff about interview times and details. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure you show up prepared and on-time for your interviews! 

2.) MUN Secretariat Applications: The Secretariat oversee and provide leadership to the California YMCA Model United Nations program participants (who are wee small adorable middle school students). For more information on MUN and the Secretariat program, click here. This is great for delegates who like teaching, mentoring, and aiding the leadership development of wee small adorable middle school students and who are responsible and like travel. Applications are still available for non-priority interviews.

3.) Speaker's Bureau: Are you a returning Y&G Delegate? Do you annoy people with your limitless love for our program? Wish you could talk to more people about Y&G? Now's your chance! Apply to the speaker's bureau via Reggo. Questions? Contact Derek or Christiana.

4.) T&EII Schedule: Our next conference will start earlier than the first. We will likely depart between 10-11am on Saturday, January 14. Our return times should remain the same. 

El Dorado News: 

UPDATED: Due to finals week and the impending holiday, the Officer and Advisor Teams have decided to cancel this week's regular delegation meeting. Officers and elected leadership will instead attend a 2017 planning meeting (non officer/elected delegates are not expected to attend).

(Officers, Elected Leadership, Statewide candidates, and those who expressed interest in participating with the YMCA Annual Support Campaign will receive another email from me shortly.

IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT PAYMENTS:

Payments are still due this week. Since we won't have a meeting, here are the 3 ways you can submit your payment:

1.) Online any time before 11:59pm on December 15 at https://www.ymcasuperiorcal.org/forms/youth-and-government-payment-page/

2.) In-person to Delegation President Ryan Thoms at the benches outside B3 at Oak Ridge between 12:45 and 1:15pm on Thursday, December 15 (only).

3.) To Christiana at B3 at Oak Ridge between 6:50pm and 7:10pm on Thursday, December 15 (only).

Everyone should have received a reminder about their payment due this week. If you have any questions about what you still owe, let me know ASAP. Unless you are on a pre-approved special payment schedule, final payments are due this week.

-- Pre-Conference and Parent Meetings: Our first meeting of 2017 will take place on January 12 and will be a mandatory pre-conference meeting worth 6 points. Parents are encouraged to attend from 7pm to 7:30pm for pre-conference information. Parents please also note that February 9 will be a mandatory delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meeting (10 points). Add it to your calendars now! Watch the bulletin for more details about these meetings. 

-- Points - still a thing! We now move into our family competition. Which family will reign supreme? Points you earned individually will be totalled by family (excluding senior points and previous ML/C points. Meeting attendance still counts! On time payments this week are worth 4 points instead of the usual 3!

Sacramento Central News:

a.) Ice Skating this week! Instead of our usual meeting this week, we'll gather for some winter fun at the Downtown Skating Rink (701 K Street). Bring your holiday cheer and wear something warm as we take to the ice (or stand and watch others take to the ice). Free for delegates (big thank you to Ms. Rapton for providing tickets! ). Parents/family welcome. We will meet at 6pm and skate till 7:30. Parents please note: your delegate must be picked up by 7:30. If you are late, advisors have to stay until you arrive.  If you know you CANNOT attend on Wednesday, please email Christiana to let her know by 12 noon on Wednesday - otherwise we'll expect to see you! 

b.) Bill Boxes: Mark your calendars for BIll Boxes work on January 3 and 4, 2017. A separate email with instructions and the address (NEW address this year!) will hit your inbox during winter break. Watch for it!. 

c.) Meeting schedule: We will not meet on Dec 21 or Dec 28. Meetings resume on January 4, 2017.Special note about Jan 4 meeting: it may take place at the CalYMCA HQ (which is NOT where it was last year). Make sure you watch for updates about the Jan 4 meeting. 

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
December 14/15: $400 Payment Deadline (El Do 3 pts)
January 11/12, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsJanuary 14-16, 2017 (Fresno) Training & Election Conference IIFebruary 8/9, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetingsFebruary 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court

Y&G CapCo Combined Bulletin #13: A Short December, Festive Gatherings, Leadership, and some google forms

Final payments due December 14 (SacCentral) and 15 (El Dorado): The final payment for the current program year is due next week. Your prompt payment is appreciated as we near the end of the budgetary year and the holiday rush reduces our time to send payment reminders. Everyone should have received an email confirming their final balance. If you have a question about your balance, email Christiana or Dylan ASAP. You can pay online here or send a check with your delegate (payable to "Sacramento YMCA" with the delegate name in the memo line) to this week's or next week's meeting).

As 2016 enters its homestretch, so do we. Here's what you need to know this week:

1.) Last Chance For Leadership Applications: leadership applications have been extended through 11:59pm tomorrow, December 6. Access them through Reggo. If you have questions about any leadership positions, contact Derek (eldo) or Christiana (SaC).

2.) National Judicial Competition: The NJC takes place in Chicago each summer and is a fantastically fun opportunity for those interested in the court programs. You can read about the program here. Only 28 California delegates are selected to participate in this national competition, but our Coalition has a great history of sending delegates! Application is available in your Reggo account. If you love Y&G, love to travel, are team-oriented, and maybe a bit competitive, this program is for you! (Additional program fees are required, Financial Assistance is available. Do not let cost concerns prevent you from applying!) Applications must be approved by December 8. Accordingly, your deadline is December 7 at 11:59pm.

3.) MUN Secretariat Applications (Priority deadline) due Dec 8: The Secretariat oversee and provide leadership to the California YMCA Model United Nations program participants (who are wee small adorable middle school students). For more information on MUN and the Secretariat program, click here. This is great for delegates who like teaching, mentoring, and aiding the leadership development of wee small adorable middle school students and who are responsible and like travel.  Applications must be approved by December 8. Accordingly, your deadline is December 7 at 11:59pm.

4.) Bill Supplement Forms must be postmarked by this Thursday, December 8. This means we need all bill supplements completed before then. Bill Authors and Sponsor received an email on Sunday with directions on this important process. If you can't find that email, contact Christiana ASAP.

5.) Speaker's Bureau: Are you a returning Y&G Delegate? Do you annoy people with your limitless love for our program? Wish you could talk to more people about Y&G? Now's your chance! Apply to the speaker's bureau via Reggo starting this Wednesday. Questions? Contact Derek or Christiana.

6.) T&EII Schedule: Our next conference will start earlier than the first. We will likely depart between 10-11am on Saturday, January 14. Our return times should remain the same.

El Dorado News:

i.) Holiday Party! Our holiday party will be hosted by the Gill Family (thank you, Gill Family!) this Thursday, December 8, from 7-9pm. The Gill residence is located (SEE EMAIL FOR ADDRESS AND ACCESS INFO). Delegates should plan to bring a treat (i.e. food) to share with the delegation (should serve 10). What are you bringing, tell the google form below! Wear your "Polar Express" best! (That's pajamas)

ii.) At our holiday party we will be doing El Dorado's first ever LIVE PROGRAM AREA SELECTION. Attend prepared to select your program area. We'll be going in points-order. You have until noon on Wednesday to raise any concerns about your points.Come prepared to make your selection. Have backups. Your first (or second, or third) may not be available. Be prepared!

iii.) Program Area Proxy Process: won't be at the party? The google form will tell you what to do! 

iv.) GET ONE LAST POINT: Do this google form! It will collect RSVPs for the party (only very rude people don't RSVP and you're all better than that, right?) and it will tell you what to do if you aren't there so you have a shot at getting your program area. OH and if you do it by 11:59pm on Wed Dec 7, you get a point! Form is closed after that!

v.) Meeting schedule: We will have our holiday party this week and our final meeting of 2016 on Thursday, Dec 15. That may be during finals week, but you know you have a meeting every Thursday and you've known about finals, too! Manage your time and make sure you attend our final meeting of the year. We will not meet on Dec 22 or 29 or Jan 5. Our first meeting of 2017 will take place on January 12 and will be a mandatory pre-conference meeting. Parents are encouraged to attend from 7pm to 7:30pm for pre-conference information. Parents please also note that February 9 will be a mandatory delegate AND PARENT pre-conference meeting. Add it to your calendars now!

Sacramento Central News:

a.) Holiday Party! Our holiday party will again be hosted by the Marcins (thank you, Marcins!). The party takes place this Wednesday, December 7, (SEE EMAIL FOR THE ADDRESS). Plan to be picked up by 8pm. Remember to bring your Secret Santa gift. There is a $10 limit on gifts. If you are unable to attend for any reason, contact Christiana ASAP and see if you can send your secret santa gift with someone else so your assigned person isn't left sad with no presents to open. Here is the list of information for all participants. You should have received the name of your assigned person at the last meeting. If you weren't there, email Christiana. Please bring a dish/treat to share with the delegation. Wear your holiday sweaters or other festive wear. Please complete this Google form to RSVP. 100% participation by Tuesday at 11:59pm = special delegation treat.

b.) Swim With Santa is this Friday at the YMCA! We expect to see Miranda, Dexter, Gus, Brenna Leigh, Victoria, Delaney, and Calvin to volunteer. If you volunteered for in-pool duty, bring a one-piece suit and a towel. If you're land-based for the evening, wear your delegation sweater and all the holiday flair you have (jingle bells, Santa hats, elf shoes, etc). Please arrive as close to 5pm as you can. Plan to be picked up at 8:30 so you can assist with clean up. Please share the event on social media! Here's the FB event.

c.) Meeting schedule: We will have our holiday party this week and our final meeting of 2016 on Wed, Dec 14. We will not meet on Dec 21 or Dec 28. Meetings resume on January 4, 2017.

d.) Bill Boxes: Have you reviewed your availability? Please try to consolidate on days when the most people are available. We need two full work days staffed with at least 3-4 delegates who are ready to crank out the work! Doodle poll closes Wednesday evening:  http://doodle.com/poll/e6i2yssqm7nygdrf

Missed a bulletin?
Need to make a payment?
Mark your calendars for these key events!
December 14/15: $400 Payment Deadline (El Do 3 pts)
January 11/12, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetings
January 14-16, 2017 (Fresno) Training & Election Conference II
February 8/9, 2017: Mandatory pre-conference meetings
February 16-20, 2017 (Sacramento) Model Legislature & Court