Homecoming/Reunion 2020 - Planning Manual USCGA Alumni Association - USCGA ...
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Homecoming/Reunion 2020 #CGAHomecoming 1.0 Reunion Overview 2.0 Alumni Association Reunion Support • Volunteer Recruitment and Stewardship • Registration Support for Reunion Classes • Event Planning • What the Association Staff Will Provide You • Marketing and Communication • What the Association Staff Requests from You • Services Provided by the Alumni Association 3.0 Alumni Association Events • Registration/Tickets • Sponsorships • Transportation, Parking & VIP Parking • Accommodations for Guests with Mobility Issues • Arrival by Boat 4.0 Event Planning • Tips for Successful Reunion Planning • Ordering Merchandise • Typical Class Reunion Events • Tailgate Planning • Questions to Consider When Choosing • Alcohol Policies a Venue or Lodging • Academy Security • Class Meetings 5.0 Reunion Financial Overview • Class Admin Funds • Expenses Incurred by the Class Treasury • Generating Funds for the Class Treasury • Refunds for Reunion Activities • Registration Fees 5.0 Reunion Financial Overview • Reunion Gift Giving • Support the Academy and Leave your Class Legacy Appendices • Appendix A: Alumni Association Homecoming Events • Appendix B: Sample Homecoming Schedule • Appendix C: Sample Registration Form • Appendix D: Frequently Asked Questions
1.0 Reunion Overview Reunions take place every five years in September or October. A reunion allows classmates to see old friends, make new ones who have shared their cadet experience, and re-engage. Class reunion committees and the Alumni Association staff form a collaborative partnership to plan successful reunions. Strong class leadership is critical to a successful reunion. Classes with leaders who work collaboratively with other volunteers and the Alumni Association staff are classes that set attendance records and present record-breaking class gifts. Homecoming/Reunion 2020 October 14 - October 18 Registration Open: July 22 - September 24 We hope you find the information in this manual helpful as you plan for your reunion. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any questions, requests or concerns. We are here to help you have the best reunion possible! Alumni Association Homecoming Coordinators Emily Herbette, Director of Alumni Engagement (860) 442-2683 x16, eherbette@cgaalumni.org Sue Fage, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement/Alumni Center Manager (860) 442-2683 x14, sfage@cgaalumni.org Lolly Owens, Alumni Volunteer & Engagement Manager (860) 442-2683 x27, lowens@cgaalumni.org Alumni Association Class Liaisons Bob McKenna: Classes of 1950, Class of 1965 and Class of 1990 (860) 442-2683 x13, rmckenna@cgaalumni.org Susan Kenyon: Class of 1955, Class of 1960, Class of 1975, Class of 1980 (860) 442-2683 x12 skenyon@cgaalumni.org Abby Lund: Class of 1985, Class of 1995, Class of 2000, Class of 2005, Class of 2010 and Class of 2015 (860) 442-2683 x19 alund@cgaalumni.org Sue Fage and Susan Kenyon: Class of 1970 4
2.0 Alumni Association Reunion Support Members of the Alumni Association staff support reunion committees in many ways: Volunteer Recruitment and Stewardship • Serve as advisors and resources to the reunion committee Event Planning • Suggest reunion activities and venues, and advise on logistical arrangements • Suggest CGA leadership to invite speakers on behalf of the class • Serve as liaisons between Academy and classes • Suggest bus transportation for reunion events • Provide lists of vendors for catering, equipment rental, entertainment, lodging, etc. Marketing and Communication The Alumni Association staff works with coordinators to develop a participation strategy and will assist with marketing and communication efforts including: • Assisting in event publicity by including Homecoming information in The Bulletin, on the website and via the eNewsletter and emails • Supporting select mailings with Association letterhead, envelopes, printing, and postage Other Services • Planning and hosting Homecoming events, including the 50th reunion year ceremonies and events listed in Appendix A: Alumni Association Homecoming Events • Managing the Registration Process for Alumni Association-hosted Events: All Alumni Association- hosted events (Appendix A: Alumni Association Homecoming Events) will be managed by the Association, this includes producing registration materials, processing alumni registrations, staffing Alumni events, sending registration confirmation emails and pertinent information prior to Homecoming. • Assisting in the registration process for class events: Classes are encouraged to use the Alumni Association online Homecoming registration form for their class events. The Association will collect registration fees for the classes and will provide monthly registration reports, as well as, weekly reports in the month prior to Homecoming. A 3% credit card processing fee should be taken into account when setting event ticket prices. Occasional distribution of registration fees collected may be requested at any time. Class event information should be submitted to the Alumni Association class liaison by June 30 (See “Class Homecoming Information Request Form). • Transportation on the Academy and transportation to and from the off-site parking area (See Section 3.0 Alumni Association Events) • Special Accommodations: Those with special needs or challenges in need of accommodations should contact Sue Fage to make arrangements. Golf cart transportation is available for everyone on Friday and Saturday on the Academy and is funded by Class of 1952. • Reunion Committee Conference Calls/Meetings: The Alumni Association will be available for conference calls and meetings to ensure reunion committees have all the information they need for the weekend and have all questions answered. • Independent Transportation Coordination: The Alumni Association will help coordinate bus transportation for classes who hire buses for hotel/CGA transport. 5
What the Association Staff Will Provide You • Class List: We will email you an up-to-date class list with names, contact information and classmates’ membership standing. (Coordinators must be members of the Alumni Association and must sign the “USCGA Alumni Association Release of Constituent Information - Terms of Annual Use” form prior to receiving their class list.) • Planning Resources: See section 4.0 Event Planning • Use of the Alumni Center: During Homecoming weekend, the 50th and 25th reunion classes have first priority use of the Event Room in the Alumni Center for their tailgate, as well as, either Friday or Saturday dinners. If class declines use of the Center, the room will be available to other classes. • Tailgate Locations: The Alumni Association assigns class tailgate locations. The 50th and 25th reunion classes have first priority in selecting a tailgate location. All other classes will be assigned tailgate locations on a first-request basis. Requests should be made directly to Sue Fage. Due to ongoing construction and existing Academy needs, there are fewer tailgate locations available, please consider sharing your tailgate with another class. The Alumni Association will plan a joint tailgate for the 5, 10 and 15 year reunion classes if they are interested. • Support with Reunion Gift Planning: Please contact your class’s Alumni Association liaison to discuss ways the Association can help you in creating or reaching class fundraising goals. • Online and Hard Copy Registration Forms: The Alumni Association hosts an online registration form and provides a hard copy form to use for registering for Alumni Association hosted events. Classes may also choose to have their class events included on the online form. The “Class Homecoming Information Request Form” must be completed for class registration to be hosted on the Alumni Association’s website. • Photos: Alumni Association staff, CGA Public Affairs, and volunteers will take photos throughout the weekend, including class photos, which will be posted online and shared via email after Homecoming. • VIP Parking: The 50th reunion class and older reunion classes will receive a limited number of VIP parking passes. We try our best to accommodate those who need on-base parking. What the Association Staff Requests from You • Updated Classmate Information: Please help us keep our information accurate by sharing updates to classmates’ contact information or status. Updates should be sent to Michele Thompson (mthompson@cgaalumni.org). • Membership Support: We appreciate your support and encouragement in increasing your class membership percentage. Classmates interested in joining the Alumni Association may visit www.cgaalumni.org/joinrenew or contact Sue Fage. • All Class Memorial Service: The All Class Memorial Service honors classmates who have crossed the bar in the last five years. Please provide a list of these classmates to Judy Zakutansky, Executive Assistant, Chaplain’s Office, at Judith.B.Zakutansky@uscg.mil or (860) 444-8480 NLT September 14. You have the option of having a classmate read the names of deceased classmates during the service or having the chaplain read the names. Judy should be notified of this decision early in the planning process to ensure that Memorial Service brochures will be printed accurately. • Walk-on Script: As your class walks onto the field the announcer will read a “15 second class commercial.” Please send this script to Sue Fage NLT September 28. • Class Plans: Please provide your class’s reunion plans and information (hotel, coordinators names, POC, class event details, and caterer, etc.) to your Alumni Association class liaison. 6
3.0 Alumni Association Events Homecoming Schedule & Registration Form See Appendix B: Sample Homecoming Schedule and Appendix C: Sample Registration Form. The schedule of events and registration form will also be emailed to coordinators, published in The Bulletin and available online at www.cgaalumni.org/HC20. Please note that the Homecoming weekend schedule is updated frequently, shared with coordinators, and updated online as they are revised. Registration / Tickets • Registration: Registration is open July 22 to September 24 • Registration Fees: Alumni Association members receive a discount on all tickets purchased prior to the registration deadline. • Ticket Pick-Up: Tickets may be picked up on the 2nd deck of the Alumni Center during the following times. Tickets will not be sent by mail. • Thursday, October 15 - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. • Friday, October 16 - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. • Saturday, October 17 - 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Stairs to the 2nd deck are located on both sides of the center. There is also an elevator located to the right of the event room when you enter the building. • Parking at the Alumni Center: The Alumni Center parking lot is for attendees picking up tickets. Please see Transportation, Parking and VIP Parking for parking options during the weekend. • Registrations After Registration Deadline: Missed the deadline date? Some event tickets may be purchased on the 2nd deck of the Alumni Center on Thursday, Friday or Saturday during ticket pick-up hours. Tickets may not be purchased online or by phone after the registration deadline. Walk-ins will be charged the non-member rate. • Refunds: Refunds are available if they are requested prior to the registration deadline. After the registration deadline, refunds will be applied to the CGA Today! fund unless the registrant requests it directed to another fund. • Guest Registrations: Please include the names of everyone you are registering for (ex. family, friend, spouse) on the registration form (hard copy or online). The Alumni Association will provide a name tag, lanyard and ticket holder for the alumni attending, as well as, one guest. Sponsorships If you would like to sponsor a Homecoming event (ex. cocktail party, photo booth, balloon animals, bounce house, Fun Run, etc.) please contact Sue Fage. • Bear Open Golf Tournament Sponsors: We are once again offering alumni classes the opportunity to purchase tee sponsorships for the Bear Club Golf Open. The tournament will be held at Stonington Country Club on Friday, October 16. All proceeds benefit the Bear Club and directly support CGA athletics. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels. For more information, contact Trueson Tarinelli, Director of Athletic Giving, at (860) 442-2683 ext. 29 or ttarinelli@cgaalumni.org. 7
Transportation, Parking & VIP Parking • Limited Parking Availability: Parking on the Academy is extremely limited! We highly recommend hiring a bus (school or coach) to transport your class to and from the Academy. It is important to note that Academy Police will tow any car not following parking signs throughout the weekend. Again, we encourage you to come by bus. • Buses: If you charter a bus, please provide Sue Fage with the name of your bus company so she may give them necessary instructions and information (ie. parking, cell phone number, etc). The following companies provide bus chartering services: First Student School Bus Company of Waterford, CT - (860) 443-2244 First Student School Bus Company of Stonington, CT - (860) 599-0838 Dattco Bus Company - CGA Cadet Contract - (860) 229-4878 ext. 641 Constitution Coach Bus Company - (860) 646-0363 • Golf Carts/Special Assistance/Mobility Issues: Thank you to the Great Class of 1952 for funding the golf carts throughout the weekend! Alumni staff and volunteers will drive anyone around the Academy on Friday and Saturday. Our first priority is to the 50th year class and older reunion classes, as well as, individuals with mobility issues, oxygen and other special challenges. • Shuttles on the Academy: There will be a shuttle service running on the Academy on Friday. The shuttle accommodates 15 to 20 people, has a low step at the door, and is wheelchair accessible. • Shuttles off of the Academy: A shuttle service will run between Connecticut College South Lot and Leamy Hall on Saturday only (times TBD). • North Gate (walk-in): The North Gate (near Waesche) will be open for walk-in guests on Saturday only (times TBD). • VIP Parking Passes: Limited VIP parking passes are granted to the 50th year and older reunion classes for designated Academy lots. Coordinators will be contacted a few days after registration closes with the number of parking spots available per class. Please remember to carpool when possible. Guests with a handicap placard do not need a VIP pass. We appreciate your understanding and patience with this challenge! Accommodations for Guests with Mobility Issues • Handicapped Parking: If you own a handicapped placard, please use it and park in one of the handicapped spaces in the VIP parking areas or anywhere around the Academy. • Elevator/Lifts: Elevators and lifts are located in the Alumni Center, Consolidated Club (formerly the Officers’ Club), Leamy Hall, Hamilton Hall, the Chapel, and Waesche Hall. • Ramps: Ramps are located outside Hamilton Hall, Billard Hall (Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence), the chapel, and between Lot K (behind Hamilton Hall) and the football stadium viewing area. • Football Viewing Area: Guests with mobility issues may use the handicapped viewing area in the football stadium to watch the game. The football viewing stand is located at the south end of stadium closest to Billard Hall near Lot K (the handicap parking lot). Please make a note on your registration form if you would like to be seated in this area. • See Transportation Information above for more details about transportation on Academy grounds. Those with special health challenges (oxygen, crutches, etc.) are encouraged to contact Sue Fage to discuss golf cart, shuttle assistance or other concerns. Arrival by Boat • Docking: Homecoming attendees arriving by boat may dock at the waterfront. Please make arrangements with Allen Kruger, Waterfront Director, prior to arrival at (860) 444-8575 or Allen.L.Kruger@uscg.mil. 8
4.0 Class Event Planning Tips for Successful Reunion Planning • Include all classmates (grads and non-grads) • Survey classmates about their interests prior to planning events • Recruit a committee and delegate assignments (Share this list of volunteers with Alumni Association staff.) • Establish goals around general attendance, finding missing classmates, participation in key events, increasing class memberships • Communicate with the reunion gift committee and the other class officers • Focus on the reunion planning timeline • Put as much work into marketing the reunion as planning it • Develop a budget so you have a total for attendees • Use your Alumni Association class liaison • Have fun! Typical Class Reunion Events • Pre-Reunion Events: Small pre-reunion events are often held to promote and plan for the upcoming reunion. • Dinners: It's not unusual for a class to hold two dinners over the course of a reunion, one casual and one formal. • Speaking Programs: CGA speakers or fellow classmates can provide an educational component to the reunion on a variety of topics. • Tours: Your Alumni Association class liaison can help arrange a class-specific tour of the Academy and can suggest off-campus venues, as well. Question to Consider When Choosing a Venue or Lodging • Does the location fit the theme of the event and accommodate everyone? • Can the room be arranged to fit the style of event you're planning? i.e. banquet, dinner dance, lecture, etc. • Are there restrooms nearby? • Is the room handicapped accessible? • Does the venue charge a rental fee? Be aware of any guaranteed minimums, cancellation fees or attrition charges associated with venues outside of the Academy. • The Alumni Association can help you secure rooms on the Academy if desired. Class Meetings Some classes hold a class meeting during their reunions. To make a reservation in a space at the Academy please contact your Alumni Association class liaison. If you are interested in discussing a class reunion gift or how your class can support the Alumni Association initiatives and projects, please contact your Alumni Association class liaison. Class Dinners The Consolidated Club, Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence, Jacob’s Rock and the Alumni Center are available on Friday and Saturday night for classes wishing to host a dinner at the Academy. To request catering, contact Lori Beckwith at the Consolidated Club (formerly the Officers’ Club) at (860) 444-8458 or lori.j.beckwith@uscga.edu. The Alumni Association also has a list of preferred caterers for events held at the Center. View our preferred caterers at www.cgaalumni.org/caterers. Ordering Merchandise • CGABearGear.com: Find a variety of customizable merchandise (hats, t-shirts, mugs, etc.) on CGABearGear.com. A portion of all proceeds benefit the Alumni Association. Items may be purchased individually online and shipped directly. For more information about creating class customized items, contact Trueson Tarinelli at 860-442-2683 x29 or ttarinelli@cgaalumni.org. 9
Tailgate Planning • Catering: Classes are invited to use the vendor of their choice for class tailgates (food truck, restaurant catering, on-site catering company, etc.). Alumni are invited to research local caterers or speak to their Alumni Association Class Liaison for recommendations. Tailgates held at the Alumni Center must be catered by Aramark (Academy caterer) or one of our preferred caterers. For more information about Aramark please contact Bill Lacey at (860) 442-5501 or Lacey-William@aramark. com. View our preferred caters at www.cgaalumni.org/caterers. Please let your Alumni Association Class Liaison know the name of the caterer that you hire. • Tailgate Schedule: Tailgates begin at 11 a.m. and end based on their location, due to caterers clean-up and set-up schedule for post-game events and/or CGA policies with regard to alcohol. Tailgate Times • Consolidated Club/Buffet Lunch: 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. • Alumni Center: 11:00 a.m. - Half Time • All Other Locations: 11:00 a.m. - End of Game • Grilling: Please let us know if you or your caterer will be using a grill so we can inform the Fire Marshall. • Academy Support: Each tailgate location will have 1 table and 2 trash barrels delivered. If you would like chairs, tables, more trash barrels or grills, please make arrangements with MWR or your caterer. You, your caterer or MWR are responsible for removing the equipment at the end of your tailgate and for paying for these extras. You may want to bring large garbage bags for excess trash. MWR POC: Vic Ianonne - Victor.L.Iannone@uscg.mil; (860) 444- 8470. • Stonington Lodge: To reserve the lodge, please fill out the request form with the CG Foundation (860) 535-0786 or contact Christy Rose in the Commandant of Cadets Office at (860) 444-8280. Cadets traditionally have priority for lodge usage. Alcohol Policies • Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverages are allowed within the confines of the designated tailgate areas until the end of the tailgate. • Alcohol Permit: If you will be serving alcohol at your tailgate or any event on the Academy, please notify your Alumni Association class liaison. We will submit your permit for alcohol. For events at Stonington Lodge contact the CG Foundation. • Beer, Ale & Wine Only: Beer, ale, and wine are the only alcohols permitted. Glass containers and hard liquor not allowed at tailgates (per Supt’s Instructions M5400.1 – CGA Organization and Regulations Manual). Coast Guard Academy policy prohibits the consumption of alcoholic beverages within intercollegiate athletic facilities, including Cadet Memorial Field. Individuals who violate this policy will be removed from the stadium and not permitted to return. Trash receptacles have been placed adjacent to Cadet Memorial Field so that alcoholic beverages may be conveniently discarded before entering the field. Security Please note that all individuals 18 and older may be asked to show photo I.D. when entering the Academy, this includes each individual in a car and all walk-ins. Bus drivers must also show their I.D. only. If you do not have an I.D. you will NOT be allowed to enter the Academy. An I.D. will also be required to enter the bus in South Lot at Conn College to board the off-site shuttle to CGA. 10
5.0 Class Admin Funds - Reunion Registration Finances Class Admin Fund Most classes have a separate class bank account or a Class Admin Fund that is set up through the Alumni Association and managed by the class treasurer. This account or Admin Fund is separate from the Class Fund. The Admin Fund can be used for reunion expenses and income, whereas the Class Fund is a holding account where funds designated to a particular class reside until the class gifts the funds to a selected area of need. (See more on Class Funds and Reunion Gifts in section 6.0.) Expenses Incurred by the Class Treasury As the class reunion committee begins planning, it is important that the committee and the class treasurer work together to establish and manage a reunion budget. When preparing a reunion budget, the treasurer and reunion committee must decide whether the treasury will subsidize any of the reunion expenses or whether these costs will be passed onto reunion attendees. For example: • Prices for class events are often set to cover the meal price at a minimum. In many cases these events are completely self-supporting. • Additional expenses to consider: • Costs for any reunion mailings above those provided by the Alumni Association • Expenses related to class event decorations, photographers, entertainment, room rental, and credit card transactions • Reunion souvenirs (if you opt not to sell them) • Committee meeting refreshments Generating Funds for the Class Treasury A class wishing to generate additional revenue for the Class Admin Fund has three options: • Solicitation of donations from classmates • Setting the price for reunion events high enough to generate a profit • Selling novelty/class insignia items Registration Fees and Transfer of Funds • Refunds are issued for Alumni Association events (Alumni Association and Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner, Fun Run, 5-10-15 Tailgate, Post-Game Cocktail Party, Women’s Leadership Initiative Brunch and Football Game) if the registrant cancels before the registration deadline. Alumni Association events are not refundable after the registration deadline. • All refunds for class events are at the discretion of the reunion coordinator and class treasurer. • Classes who choose to have their reunion registration hosted on the Alumni Association website may request a check from any class-event registration payments by emailing Karen Licitra (klicitra@cgaalumni.org). The class treasurer or Homecoming committee should notify Karen via email who in the class is authorized to receive the funds. The Alumni Association will assist in paying vendors directly or reimbursing committee members for Homecoming expenses. A 3% fee will be deducted from all online class event registration transactions to cover the associated credit card fees. 11
6.0 Class Funds and Reunion Gifts Reunion Gift Giving One of the significant outcomes of reunions is a renewal of the bonds created among classmates, as well as an appreciation for what the Academy did in developing its graduates to succeed in life. As a result, returning classes have strengthened a growing tradition of etching their legacy at their alma mater and engaging in meaningful fundraising campaigns which has inspired high levels of class participation and support of the Margin of Excellence for our Academy and the Corps of Cadets. Reunion fundraising efforts rely on dedicated volunteer gift committees. The class gift committee works closely with an Alumni Association staff member who will guide the committee through the process of selecting an area of need to support, provide logistical and strategic fundraising support, and steward the class at the fulfilment of their class gift. At the reunion the class may formally present their gift to the Academy. Below are a few examples of the meaningful impact reunion classes have made in the last few years: Class of 1965 The Class of 1965 was our first class to make a $1,000,000 commitment to the Alumni Association for their 50th reunion. The Class of 1965 chose to support the Center for Arctic Study and Policy (CASP). Class of 1987 At their 40th reunion, the Class of 1987 chose to support three different areas of impact: the Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence; an endowment to support the purchase of championship rings for exceptional cadet-athletes; and the Women’s Leadership Initiative Endowment. Class of 2009 At their 10th reunion, the Class of 2009 made a lasting impact by memorializing a fallen classmate with a pledge in support of the Cadet Strength and Conditioning Center. Support the Academy and Leave your Class Legacy While the Academy’s core academic, military and athletic programs receive federal funding, many critical projects and activities receive minimal or no financial support from the government. Thus, the fundraising efforts of the United States Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association, the only non-profit whose mission is to support its members and the Corps of Cadets, are critical to the Academy’s ability to maintain its military, academic and athletic programs. Class Reunion Gifts are contributions given in addition to annual gifts, typically given over a defined number of years, intended to support specific initiatives, programs or projects jointly identified by the class, the Academy, and the Alumni Association as crucial to the organization’s fulfilment of its mission and vision. There are many ways alumni can support their class reunion gift: a Letter of Intent/Pledge, traditional one-time cash gift, recurring allotment gift (active duty or retired), a matching gift from an employer, a planned gift, a gift of stock and/or mutual funds, IRA Rollover contribution or a gift from a 529 Plan. To learn more about class reunion gifts, please contact your class liaison. 12
Appendix A: Alumni Association Homecoming Events Homecoming/Reunion 2020 October 14 - October 18 Brought to you by your USCGA Alumni Association www.cgaalumni.org/HC20 Athletic Hall of Fame & Fun Run Alumni Association Awards Dinner Start and End at Leamy Hall • Saturday - 8:30 a.m. Thursday - 7 p.m.- 10:30 p.m. Awards Run or walk one lap around CGA. T-shirts will Come honor the 2019 Athletic Hall of Fame be provided to those who register. inductees and Alumni Association award winners at the Athletic Hall of Fame and Alumni Buffet Lunch Association Awards Dinner held at the Otto Officers’ Club • Saturday - 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence in Billard Hall. Enjoy a buffet lunch before the football game. Bear Club Golf Open Stonington Country Club Walk-On & Football Game Friday - 7 a.m. arrival Cadet Memorial Field • Saturday - 1:00 p.m. Arrive bright and early for social hour and Take part in the Walk-on with your class then continental breakfast, then get golfing at the watch as the Bears take on Catholic University 8 a.m. shotgun start. Enjoy the use of golf carts, at 1:30 p.m. eat a hearty lunch and win some great prizes and giveaways! Sponsorship options available Post-Game Cocktail Party at www.cgaalumni.org/bearopen. Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence in Billard Hall Saturday - 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 50th Reunion Lunch with Cadets All are welcome to attend the post-game Wardroom/Chase Hall • Friday - 11:15 - 12:15 p.m. celebration in the new Otto Graham Hall Have lunch with the cadets in the wardroom of Athletic Excellence to enjoy heavy hors and learn first-hand what cadet life is like d’oeuvres and a cash bar. today! Space is limited. 9th Annual Women’s Leadership Initiative Together We’re Transforming the Academy: Networking Brunch Briefing and Recognition Lunch Alumni Center • Sunday • 11:00 a.m. Alumni Center • Friday • 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Women’s Leadership Initiative, make this your new Homecoming tradition! Join us Classes celebrating their 55th or greater reunion for an exciting networking brunch with active duty are invited to join us to hear from Academy and members, alumni, staff, officer candidates, cadets Alumni Association leaders on the amazing impact and local Coast Guard supporters. Meet the donor generosity has had in the last five years. Service’s future leaders and discuss your Academy and Coast Guard experiences. All profits go to the Women’s Leadership Initiative Fund. Interested in sponsoring an event? Contact Sue Fage at sfage@cgaalumni.org. 13
Appendix B: Sample Homecoming Schedule Wednesday, October 14, 2020 7:00 p.m. Distinguished Graduates Panel - Leamy Auditorium Thursday, October 15, 2020 Ticket Pickup : Alumni Center - 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Athletic Hall of Fame & Alumni Association Awards Dinner - Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence in Billard Hall Cash Bar; Honoring the Alumni award recipients & Academy Athletic Hall of Fame inductees - Registration Required Friday, October 16, 2020 Ticket Pickup: Alumni Center - 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m. Bear Club Golf Open - Stonington Country Club, Stonington, CT Arrival/Continental breakfast; 8:00 a.m. shotgun start; Lunch included; Registration Required 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Coast Guard Academy Museum Open to Visitors - Waesche Hall 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Hall of Heroes Open to Visitors - Chase Hall Quarterdeck Area Includes Wall of Gallantry, Wall of Remembrance and the Cadet Memorial Wall 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Together We’re Transforming the Academy - A Presentation on Our Collective Impact - Alumni Center Event Room 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Together We’re Transforming the Academy - Recognition Lunch - Class of 1965 & Earlier - Alumni Center Event Room Registration Required 11:15 p.m. - 12:15 p.m. 50th Year Reunion Lunch with Cadets - Cadet Wardroom, Chase Hall - Enter through north side Wardroom NLT 11:15; Limited Seating - Class of 1970 12:45 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. Memorial Service - Class of 1970- Coast Guard Memorial Chapel 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Class of 1970 Reception - Leamy Student Union 3:15 p.m. Review of Corps of Cadets - Washington Parade Field - In Honor of the Great Class of 1970; Weather Permitting 4:30 p.m. 50th Year Medallion Presentation - Class of 1970 - Roland Field House, 3rd Deck 5:00 p.m. Happy Hour - Lee Rail Room/Officers’ Club - All welcome! Cash Bar Saturday, October 17, 2020 Ticket Pickup: Alumni Center - 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. Fun Run- Start/Finish at Leamy Hall Reservations Required 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Objee Bear Tracker - Alumni Center 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chase Hall Open to Visitors - Guided tours from Quarter Deck every 15 minutes 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Coast Guard Academy Museum Open to Visitors - Waesche Hall 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. All Class Memorial Service - Coast Guard Memorial Chapel 11:00 a.m. Class Tailgates - Various Locations 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Buffet Lunch - Consolidated Club (formerly the Officers’ Club) • All Hands - Chase Hall, - Open 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Dry Dock - Leamy Hall - Open 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. • Chief’s Grill - Behind Press Box on Harriet Lane - Open 12:00 p.m. throughout the game 1:00 p.m. Class Walk On - Cadet Memorial Field Line Up: Even years - North End by Alumni Center Odd Years and 50th Year- South End by Billard 1:30 p.m. Football Game - Cadet Memorial Field - Classes seated together; Tickets Required 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Cocktail Party - Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence in Billard Hall - Cash Bar - Featuring the Cadet Jazz Band Sunday, October 18, 2020 9:00 a.m. Catholic Mass - Coast Guard Memorial Chapel - Fellowship follows 11:00 a.m. 9th Annual USCG Women’s Leadership Initiative Networking Brunch- Alumni Center; All welcome! Registration Required 11:00 a.m. Protestant Worship Service - Coast Guard Memorial Chapel - Fellowship follows 14
Appendix C: Sample Registration Form Name: Class Year: Address: City: State: Zip: Primary Phone: Cell Home Business Primary E-mail: Number of people attending Homecoming with you: How would you like your name listed on name tag & registrant list (nickname, etc.)? Spouse or Primary Guest Name (for name tag and registrant list): Association Members & # of Amount Event Non-Member their Guests Tickets Due Thursday, October 15 Alumni Awards & Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner $45 $50 E Honoree: $8 Child $8 Child Friday, October 16 L Bear Club Golf Open $150/person $175/person P Foursome Members: 50th Year Reunion Lunch in the Wardroom M Complimentary Complimentary (Class of 1970 only) Together We’re Transforming the Academy A Complimentary Complimentary Recognition Lunch (Class of 1965 & Earlier) Saturday, October 17 S Fun Run $25 $30 Buffet Lunch (’50, ’55, ’60, ’65 only) $20 $25 5 - 10 - 15 Tailgate $15 per adult $20 per adult (Class of ’15, ’10, & ’05 only) $5 per child (5-15 years old) $5 per child (5-15 years old) (please include all attendees in count) Under 5 - Free Under 5 - Free $15 per adult Football Game $10 per child (5 -15 years old) Under 5 - Free Season Ticket Holders: Please indicate how many tickets you have. _______ # adult season tickets _______ # child season tickets (*Seating is with your class, unless otherwise indicated on this form.) Cocktail Party $15 $20 Sunday, October 18 Women’s Leadership Initiative Brunch $30 $35 Class Fund: $___________ Reunion Contribution CGA Today! Fund (Area of Greatest Need): $___________ Total Amount Due: $__________ 15
Appendix D: Frequently Asked Questions Below are several questions we frequently receive from alumni. Please refer to this list when answering your classmates questions. For other questions, please contact your Alumni Association class liaison. 1. How can I register for events that are hosted by the Alumni Association? You have several choices: • Visit www.CGAalumni.org/HC20 to register online • Call Lolly Owens at (860) 442-2683 ext. 27 or Karen Licitra ext. 11 • Mail in the Registration Form (published in the June issue of The Bulletin or obtained from your reunion coordinator) with a check • Stop in the Alumni Center between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 2. Can I purchase tickets for someone else? We prefer alumni register just themselves and their guests. 3. Can someone else pick up my tickets? We prefer individuals pick up their own tickets. This causes less confusion. 4. Do I need a football ticket? Yes, everyone attending the game will need a ticket. Tickets are not free with walk-on participation. 5. What if I already have season tickets for football games? You still need to fill out the Homecoming Registration Form and indicate that you are a season ticket holder and indicate the number of tickets that you have. Mark “Free” in the Amount box. You may also put “Donate” in the Amount box if you wish to donate your season tickets. 6. Will I be sitting with my class for the football game? Yes, if you register prior to the registration deadline, we automatically seat you with your class. Guests who purchase their tickets after the deadline are not guaranteed reserved seating with their class. Handicapped Viewing Area: Those with more restrictive mobility issues may watch the game from the viewing area located on the south side of the stadium, across from the Billard entrance (at the top of the stadium and the back of McAllister Hall). Please indicate on your registration form if you prefer to sit there instead of in the bleachers, along with how many will be seated with you as we will need to arrange for enough chairs. 7. How can I register and pay for class events and/or hotel payments? Your reunion coordinator will provide you with this class-specific information. 8. Can I register and pay for Alumni Association events and class events together? Some classes have chosen to host their class-event registration on the Alumni Association website. These classes will be able to purchase tickets for Alumni Association events and class events in the same transaction. Your reunion coordinator will provide all information on class events and payments. 9. What events does the Alumni Association host? Our events are the Athletic Hall of Fame & Alumni Association Awards Dinner, Bear Club Golf Open, 50th Year Reunion Lunch with Cadets in Chase Wardroom, Fun Run, Buffet Lunch at the Consolidated Club, Football Game, post-game Cocktail Party, and the 9th Annual Homecoming Brunch, sponsored by the Women’s Leadership Initiative. 16
10. Will my tickets be mailed to me? No, we do not mail tickets. After ordering, and up to the deadline date of September 19, you will receive an email confirmation. You can pick up tickets at the Alumni Center during ticket hours. 11. Where and when do I pick up my tickets? Tickets for Alumni Association hosted events will be available for pick up at the Alumni Center on the 2nd floor on Thursday, October 15 and Friday, October 16 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 17 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 12. Do you accept checks or do I have to pay by credit card? We accept checks and credit cards for events hosted by the Alumni Association. Class event registration hosted on the Alumni Association website, may be paid for via credit card only on the secure site. If you are registering for events hosted by the Alumni Association, you may also call the office and register with your credit card over the phone or by mail with your registration form and a check. If you are local, feel free to just stop in the Alumni Center to register in-person. 13. Do you have handicap parking? Yes, there will be additional handicap parking. Your reunion coordinators will be updated on the location of the parking, as well as, other information pertaining to Homecoming Weekend. Please remember to bring your own handicap parking placard to place in your windshield, as Academy security will be checking. We do not provide handicap parking placards. A map of designated parking areas will be available on the Homecoming website and in the Homecoming program distributed at ticket pick-up. 14. Is special assistance available? Yes, if you call ahead, we can arrange for a cadet to assist you if someone in your party will be using a wheelchair. Golf carts will also be available to help with transportation around the Academy. The golf carts are generously provided by the Class of ’52 (since 2003). Alumni staff and volunteers give priority to those with restricting mobility issues (crutches, walker, wheelchair, oxygen, etc). Our focus is also on the 50th year class and those senior to them, with regard to transportation. In addition to golf carts, we will have shuttles circling the Academy. Please contact Sue Fage at sfage@cgaalumni.org or 860-442-2683, Ext. 14 to set up arrangements for those with restricting mobility issues. Shuttles have low step-up. 15. Who gets VIP parking passes? Special VIP parking passes are given to those from the 50th year and older reunion classes. Each of those classes will receive a certain number of passes from the Alumni Association. Unfortunately, there are not enough spaces for each car, so carpooling and buses are encouraged. The VIP parking area is still to be determined. Reunion coordinators will be informed of the parking area and signs will be posted. 16. Where can I park? If you are not eligible for VIP parking pass (50th year and those more senior reunion classes), we recommend you park across the street from the Academy at Connecticut College in the South Lot (Saturday only) and catch the shuttle which drops off and picks up at Leamy Hall. Contact Sue Fage at ext. 14 or sfage@cgaalumni.org for information regarding class bus transportation. Please let her know the bus company you are using and she will contact them about parking, etc. If you attempt to park at the Academy, please obey parking rules, otherwise you may be subject to towing ~ at your expense. 17
17. Is there transportation around the Academy during the weekend? Yes, shuttles and golf carts will be available for transportation on the Academy. There will be separate shuttles from parking areas off of the Academy to and from Connecticut College South Lot on Saturday only. 18. What do I need to know about guests and seating arrangements for the Hall of Fame Dinner? Everyone must pre-register by the Homecoming registration deadline date as table seating is pre- arranged for this special event. You may not bring guests or attend unexpectedly. Please list the Honoree that you are attending for so we may seat you near the individual you are honoring. 19. What if I’m unable to pick up my tickets, but am planning to attend the Thursday evening Hall of Fame Dinner? We will have a list of registered ticket holders with us at the dinner. You may pick up your tickets at the Alumni Center the following day for the other events. 20. What if I miss the deadline date for ordering tickets to Alumni Association hosted events? We cannot guarantee ticket availability after the deadline date, however, we will do our best to accommodate you. Please come to the Alumni Center during the ticket hours listed in question #11. 21. Can I get a refund for an event that I’ve already registered for? Yes, you can be refunded for any Alumni Association hosted event up until the registration deadline date. 22. Who participates in the 1:00 p.m. “walk-on” before the start of the 1:30 p.m. football game? Alumni attending their reunion, including those who did not graduate with their class but attended the Academy for any amount of time, are invited to participate. Please encourage all of your classmates, grads and non-grads, to attend your reunion. 23. How can I become an Alumni Association member or rejoin the Association? Visit www.cgaalumni.org/joinrenew to learn about the various membership options and to join. You may also call the Alumni Center at (860) 442-2683 ext. 27 and speak to Lolly Owens or dial ext. 14 to speak to Sue Fage. 18
Appendix E: Local Hotel Discounts Several local hotels have partnered with the Alumni Association to offer discounts to our alumni members. Please view the list of these hotels below. For more information, contact Sue Fage. The list is also available online at www.cgaalumni.org/hoteldiscounts. Groton Mystic Marriott (860) 446-2600 or 1-866-449-7390 Prevailing per diem rate (currently $104.00) through December 30, 2020. Rate is per room, per night plus tax and is subject to change. Rate is available for individual travel that is connected to the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Note that rate may exclude holidays and blackout dates. Please reference the United States Coast Guard Academy when making your reservation by phone or online. For group travel please contact the sales office directly to negotiate a rate. Hilton Garden Inn (860) 445-6800 They are offering a 15% off Best Available Rate through December 31, 2020. This is for individual travel which is connected with the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Note that the rate may exclude holidays and blackout dates. This rate also excludes Coast Guard Graduation week. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy Rate when making your reservation. For group travel please contact Sagar Parekh at (860) 445-6800 ext. 703 or Sagar.Parekh@hilton.com. Hampton Inn (860) 405-1585 They are offering a 15% off Best Available Rate through December 31, 2020. This is for individual travel which is connected with the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Note that the rate may exclude holidays and blackout dates. This rate also excludes Coast Guard Graduation week. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy Rate when making your reservation. For group travel please contact Sagar Parekh at (860) 445-6800 ext. 703 Sagar.Parekh@hilton.com. Baymont Inn & Suites (Formerly Best Western Olympic Inn) (860) 445-8000 Prevailing per diem rate is available to Coast Guard Academy visitors, friends and family members for 2020. This rate includes twenty five dollars per room in our in-house money to be used in our restaurant Flanagan’s Food and Drink. Please reference CGA or military rate(currently $104) when making your reservation. The rate is based on availability. Group rates are also available. Mystic Hyatt Place (860) 536-9997 or (800) 833-1516 A government rate of $104 is available through December 30, 2020. This offer is for friends and family of the CGA and based on availability. Please be sure to request the “government rate” when booking. To book, call (860)536-9997 ext. “0” or online at www.hyattplace.com and again reference USCGA/government rate. Group rates are available for groups of 10 or more and extended rates for stays of 7 days or more. Check with hotel for blackout dates. Residence Inn by Marriott (860) 536-5150 A 15% discount off the best rate is available through December 31, 2020. This rate is for individual travel which is connected with the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy when making your reservation by phone or online at: http://cwp.marriott.com/gonsh/uscganewlondon . For group travel, please contact the hotel directly. Other rates may apply depending on season and availability. This hotel is “pet friendly” for a fee. 19
Hilton Mystic (860) 572- 0731 Prevailing government per diem rate (currently $104.00) through December 30, 2020. Rate is per room, per night plus tax and is subject to change and is based on availability. In the event the per diem rate is not available, a 20% discount off the published rate will be available through December 31, 2020. These rates are offered for travel which is connected with the USCGA. Rates are based on availability. Please reference USCGA Alumni Association when calling for reservations. Book online at www.hilton.com/en/hi/reservations/indes.jhtml and enter code N2682763. For group travel, please contact Stephen Aird at saird@distinctivehospitalitygroup.com, 860-572-2535. Mystic Hampton Inn & Suites (860) 536-2536 They are offering 15% off through December 31, 2020. This is for individual travel which is connected to the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. This rate is not available Friday and Saturday nights. These rates include on-the-house hot breakfast daily, usage of the fitness center, indoor pool and wireless internet. Group rates are also available. Please reference U.S. Coast Guard Academy when booking by phone or use their website www.mysticsuites.hamptoninn.com enter in corporate id #0002722736. This is a “pet friendly” hotel. When making reservation please let them know if you will be bringing a pet. New London Springhill Suites by Marriott (860) 439-0151 A 15% discount off their best rate is available through December 31, 2020. This rate is for individual travel which is connected with the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy when making your reservation by phone or online http://cwp.marriott.com/gonsh/uscganewlondon. For group travel, please contact the hotel directly. Other rates may apply depending on season and availability. Holiday Inn New London (860) 443-7000 For 2020 a 15% discount off of their Best Flexible Rate is available for individual travel which is connected to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Rate is based on availability. For group travel, please contact the sales department. Other rates may apply depending on season and availability. Please reference USCGA when booking. Norwich Holiday Inn (860) 889-5201 or Central Reservations 1-800-HOLIDAY Preferred rate of $89 Sunday – Thursday and $169 Friday and Saturday plus tax per night extended through December 31, 2020. This is for individual travel which is connected to the United States Coast Guard Academy and is based on availability. Group rates are also available. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy or Corporate ID #100200201 when making your reservation. Hampton Inn (860) 885-1100 The Hampton Inn by Hilton is proud to offer the United States Coast Guard Academy $20.00 off their available rate for 2020. The hotel serves continental breakfast daily from 6am-10am and offers flexible meeting room space. The hotel offers a free shuttle on Friday and Saturday evening to Mohegan Sun. Mila’s Lounge is open seasonally. The Hampton is 14 minutes or 10 miles from the Academy in New London. Please use the corporate link or corporate code 000325657 to make your reservation. 20
Courtyard by Marriott (860) 886-2600 A rate of $104/night is available through December 31, 2020. This rate is for individual travel which is connected with the USCGA and is based on availability. Please reference United States Coast Guard Academy when making your reservation by phone or online. For group travel, please contact the hotel directly. Other rates may apply depending on season and availability. The Spa at Norwich Inn (860) 425-3500 The Spa at Norwich Inn offers a $99/$199 weekday/weekend rate for individual room reservations associated with the USCGA through December 28, 2020. In addition the Spa offers a 15% discount on all spa services and food & beverage (not including alcohol) to military personnel seven days per week. These rates would be based upon availability and exclude certain holiday weekends and blackout dates. Simply call Reservations at 860-425-3500 or 800-ask-4-spa and ask for the CGA room rate. The Norwich Inn is only about 10 minutes north of the Academy, right on Rt. 32 Stonington Inn at Stonington (860) 535-2000 The following rates are available through December 31, 2020: May 15 – November 14 Weekdays = 15% discount Weekends = 10% discount, November 15 – May 14 Weekdays = 20% discount Weekends = 10% discount. All rates would apply to the best rooms available at the time of booking. Please reference CGA when booking. Uncasville Hyatt Place (860)383-1234 Hotel Direct or 1-888-492-8847 Reservation Line Coast Guard Academy visitors are offered a rate of $103 (plus tax) Sunday through Thursday. A 15% discount off the best rate (plus tax) is available on Fridays and Saturdays for 2020, please speak to the sales department directly to book a Friday or Saturday stay. Rates are based upon availability. Group rates are also available by contacting the Sales Office (860)383-1234. If booking on the web for Sunday through Thursday please use https://mohegansun.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html?corp_id=56912 if contacting by phone please use code CGAA. Microtel Inn & Suites (860) 367-0880 The following preferred rates have been extended through December 31, 2020. (Note that the rates may exclude holidays, special events and blackout dates.) Please reference code: LBCG when making reservation. • Sunday thru Friday Single/Double: $69 per room, per night, plus tax Suites: (1 Queen Bed with sleeper sofa or Two Queen Beds, microwave & refrigerator or 2 Queen Beds): $89, per night, plus tax • Saturday nights Single/Double: $129 per room, per night, plus tax Suites: (1 Queen Bed with sleeper sofa or Two Queen beds, microwave & refrigerator): $159, per night, plus tax • Extended Stay Rates – BOOK THRU SALES OFFICE 14 days or more: $59 per night, per room, plus tax Deluxe Continental Breakfast is included and served daily. 21
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