KCCNA Convention - Orlando, Florida

25 Years; 10 Conventions; Growing in Heritage & Prospering in Youth

Dear Knanaya Brothers and Sisters,

We have been getting several questions in recent weeks from our community members with respect security measures we will be taking at the next convention. We are happy to let you know that security and safety of convention participants at all ages are being considered as the highest priority for the convention committee. While we would all agree that thefirst step in having a safe convention starts with parents educating and having open conversations with their children prior to arriving in Orlando, we would like to personally assure you that the Convention committee is committed to helping you keep your children safe throughout the event

We would like to share with you some of the highlights in this respect for your information:

1. This year the theme for the convention is “Family” therefore we are planning activities that will ensure participation of family as a whole. Some of the examples are:
a. We are planning a Father – Daughter event as well as a Mother-Son event.
b. Education related seminars where both parents and college age children can participate together
c. Families will sit together for Banquet (parents and children at the same table)
d. Given the fact that all events including sports will be conducted under one roof, we are planning to have all the finals at prime time when both our kids and parents will be able to participate

2. Upon arrival at the Convention center, one of the requirements to obtain the registration package will be to attend an orientation session. While parents and there children are together, we will outline various details of the convention including details on logistics, activities, rules, security etc. This will be another opportunity for
everyone to be aware of all aspects of the convention.

3. Convention center and hotel premises will be completely drug free and we will employ services of drug sniffing dogs.

4. Curfews will be in place past mid night for all children under 21.

5. Alcohol consumption will be limited to designated areas by Hotel authorities and will be available only for limited hours during the day.

6. We will have activities for youth of various ages planned by youth themselves which now include a poker tournament, Vallam Kali, focused entertainment, and fun-filled day care service for kids from 0-12 years of age.

7. Traditional activities such as basketball tournament, Volley Ball tournament, Cultural program competition, Battle of the cities, Beauty Pageant, etc. will be organized and executed by our youth themselves bringing new and creative approaches to ensure maximum participation

These are some of the examples. The input from youth on various committees is ensured through the Convention Co- Chair, Youth Chair, Youth NC and EC members. We will commit to you that at the end you will be able to go home with a unique convention experience that brings family members closer than ever before.

Sincerely,

Shiens Akasala
President, KCCNA

James Illickal
Convention Chairman

Vipin Chalungal
Convention Co- Chair

Anish Nadakuzakkal
Youth - Chair