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April 30, 2015            


 

 
The 44th Annual CAMA Conference will be held in Jasper, Alberta at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge from Monday, June 1st, 2015 to Wednesday, June 3rd, 2015.   Pre-Conference activities will begin on Monday morning with the Conference Program ending after the President’s Dinner on Wednesday evening.   The on-line registration for this event closes on Friday May 15th so don't delay!

You can also keep up-to-date with Conference news by following us on Twitter, @camalink, and by using the hashtag #CAMA2015.
                                                     
This year’s Conference will be “Business Casual” so leave your suits and ties at home – even for the President’s Dinner!  We want you to enjoy the sessions and the beautiful scenery in clothes that are comfortable to you!
 
Registration Fees
Please note that CAMA members who are attending their first CAMA Conference are eligible for a $150.00 discount off the registration fee.
 
Delegate Type Registration Fee (+ 5% GST) 
*CAMA Member (Municipal) $725.00 + $36.25 GST = $761.25
 *First Time Attendee Members (Municipal) $575.00 + $28.75 GST = $603.75 
*Non-Member (Municipal) $925.00 + $46.25 GST = $971.25 
**Affiliate CAMA Member (Non-Municipal) $1025.00 + $51.25 GST = $1076.25 
**Non-Member (Non-Municipal)  $1225.00 + $61.25 GST =  $1286.25 
Retired Member $425.00 + $21.25 GST =  $446.25 
Municipal Intern $625.00 + $31.25 HST = $656.25 
*“Municipal” refers to an individual who is currently employed with a municipal government organization. 
**“Non-Municipal” refers to all other individuals. 


The registration fee for members, non-members, and municipal interns includes all Conference sessions, a complimentary delegate gift, Tradeshow, Opening Reception, breakfasts, refreshment breaks, lunches, Casual Night Out at Trefoil Lake, the President’s Dinner and the Hospitality Suites.  Additional tickets to the Casual Night Out ($115.00) and the President’s Dinner ($125.00) can be purchased for companions not participating in the full Companion Program.

An additional fee of $25.00 (plus GST) will be charged for the Study Tours.
 
The registration fee for retired members includes all Conference sessions, a complimentary delegate gift, Tradeshow, Opening Reception, breakfasts, refreshment breaks, Casual Night Out at Trefoil Lake, and the Hospitality Suites.  At an additional cost, tickets can be purchased to the lunches ($40.00), the Study Tours ($25.00), and the President’s Dinner ($125.00).
 
COMPANION PROGRAM
The Companion Program includes the Opening Reception, Opening and Closing Keynote Speakers, Casual Night Out, President’s Dinner, and Hospitality Suites.  The Companion Program does not include breakfasts or lunches with the delegates.

Delegate Type Registration Fee  (+ 5% GST)
*Companion of a CAMA Member (Municipal) $325.00 + $16.25 GST = $341.25
*Companion of a Non-Member (Municipal) $350.00 + $17.50 GST = $367.50
**Companion of an Affiliate CAMA Member (Non-Municipal) $375.00 + $18.75 GST = $393.75
**Companion of a Non-Member (Non-Municipal) $425.00 + $21.25 GST = $446.25
 *“Municipal” refers to an individual who is currently employed with a municipal organization.
**“Non-Municipal” refers to all other individuals.

 
Companions have the option of joining the delegates for the Pre-Conference Events (Golf Tournament and Rafting Excursion) and the Study Tours for an additional cost.
 
LINKS TO REGISTRATION
Using the links below, members can register for the Conference, the Golf Tournament, the Companion’s Program, and purchase additional event tickets.  Have your credit card ready.  For those wishing to pay by cheque, register online then forward payment to the CAMA National Office.  Registering online is the only way to sign up for this year’s Conference.  CAMA members must register with their e-mail address.
TRANSPORTATION
Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver all have international airports that are serviced by major national and international carriers.  Delegates can get to Jasper by vehicle, rail or by bus.  Further details on transportation can be found at the following link:  http://www.jasper.travel/discover-jasper/getting-to-jasper-alberta
 
Sundog Tours operate a daily shuttle from the Edmonton Airport:  http://sundogtours.com/airport-shuttle/.  There are departures from the Airport at 3:15 p.m. arriving in Jasper at approximately 8:00 p.m. and departures from Jasper at 7:15 a.m. and arriving at the Airport at 12:30 p.m.  Please note that this is not a direct route and there are stops at the West Edmonton Mall, Edson and Hinton.  The cost for this service is $99.00 one-way or $189.00 return.  Delegates will receive an additional 10% discount on one-way or return fares.  To make a reservation on this shuttle call Sundog Tours directly at 1-888-786-3641 and mention the CAMA Conference or register on-line at www.sundogtours.com and note CAMA in the Comments Section (which will automatically apply the 10% reduction).

CAMA PRIVATE DIRECT SHUTTLES

CAMA has also booked three private direct shuttles through Sundog Transportation on the following dates:

Departing Edmonton (to Jasper) on Sunday, May 31st, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Departing Jasper (to Edmonton) on Thursday, June 4th, 2015 at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 1:00 p.m.

The cost for this service is $75.00 one-way or $140.00 return.  These private shuttles can be booked through CAMA when you register on-line for the Conference. 

If you have already registered for the Conference and would like to take advantage of this special offer, please use the following link and skip to the bottom of the form:  http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/cama2015_exhibitor.asp?type=extra%20tickets
 
Back for 2015 is our popular Mobile App!    This year’s app will give you an instant connection to:
  • The complete Conference Agenda – by day or time. Take notes within each session.
  • Conference speakers – read their bios with one tap.
  • ***NEW*** In-app networking.  Add a profile to connect with other conference delegates.
  • Receive alerts about conference changes.
  • Connect with CAMA via social media at the click of a button.
  • See maps of the event facility and tradeshow.
  • Access to our sponsors and exhibitors.
  • Also new this year, we will be asking delegates to participate in periodic polls that will only be available on the app.  Check it out under the "Polls and Feedback" tab.
  • From your device, go to www.eventmobi.com/cama2015   That will bring you to the event page.  Please note that the complete app is also available in French - www.eventmobi.com/acam2015
  • Depending on what type of device you have, you need to follow different instructions to get the icon on your device home page. ***New*** You should see a pop-up that will guide you to make the right choice for your device.


LGMA-CAMA MAY Webinars
         

Web based E-Learning courses provide the ability to participate via either internet and audio, or audio only. The technology allows participants to ask questions or comment via either voice or a “chat” feature.
 
The cost for each session is $150 plus applicable taxes per person.  All fees must be paid at the time of registration by credit card and are non-refundable. 

Tuesday, May 5      
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                  
Conflict Resolution & Having Difficult Conversations
Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services Ltd.
All of us face those “difficult conversations” in the workplace, both with internal and external stakeholders. In this course we will explore strategies for managing those conversations to turn them from conflict to collaboration. We will also discuss the ways in which our own communication can contribute to either the resolution or escalation of those conversations.

In addition, individuals will assess their own approaches to conflict, and will consider whether there are strategies that can make them more successful. This course will be useful for those that find “difficult discussions” very stressful, those that enjoy “spirited” debates, and those that might be seen to be “overbearing.” 
Register at:
http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/LGMAElearning.asp?session=may5

Wednesday, May 6   
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
Succession Planning - Managing the Risk of Planned and Unplanned Vacancies
Presenter: Tracey Lorenson, Paragon Strategic Services Ltd.
What should organizations with finite resources do to ensure they are addressing the challenges of succession? How can individuals increase their opportunities inside their organizations? No department is immune from the challenges of finding and keeping the right talent for key positions. Participants will receive practical planning tools for even the smallest of organizations or departments to move their succession planning forward. In this session we will also discuss the links between recruitment, performance, training and succession.  Register at:
http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/LGMAElearning.asp?session=may6
Tuesday, May 12       


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                
Communication Planning in Six Simple Steps
Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
Whether you are launching a new project, changing an existing one or working to spread the word about your strategic priorities, ensuring your residents, businesses and key stakeholders are informed and engaged from the outset can reduce the challenges associated with project delays such as public opposition, bad press and questions from your Council or Board – especially in an election year! This interactive webinar will show you how to create a basic communication plan in six simple steps. Plus, learn about cost-effective examples of special marketing tools and tips to help you effectively communicate and engage with a variety of audiences – increasing participation and support for your programs and services.
Communication planning is the first in a series of webinars offered to prepare you to inform and engage your constituents. Others include how to plan your citizen engagement, media relations, social media and managing issues.   To get the most out of this workshop, attendees are invited to share a project they are currently working on that can be used as an example to demonstrate the six steps.
 
BONUS:  Attendees will receive a workbook with a step-by-step “how to” checklist and template to use for future reference.
 
Register at:
http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/LGMAElearning.asp?session=may12

Wednesday, May 13           
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Planning for Successful Public and Stakeholder Consultation in 10 ‘Easy’ Steps
Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
Community consultation, citizen engagement and stakeholder relations are big buzzwords in local government. More and more, residents are asking for a say in how decisions are made and local governments across Canada are looking for ways to inform and engage. Find out how to plan for successful engagement in 10 “easy” steps so you can get it right the first time! This fast-paced and engaging session will elevate your understanding of public consultation and provide you with a step-by-step guide to apply effective consultation planning in your organization, including pitfalls to avoid. Bring some local examples and we’ll share ideas on how to apply these steps to improve your program or service!
 
BONUS:
Attendees will receive a detailed workbook with a 10 step checklist to use for planning future projects.
Register at:
http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/LGMAElearning.asp?session=may13
Tuesday, May 26       
  


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                 

Media Relations: Tips & Techniques to Improve Your Interview Skills and Media Coverage
Presenter: Jan Enns, Jan Enns Communications
New faces at your Council and Board table? Local elections often generate more media interest as they interview staff and newly elected Council and Board members to get their “take” on what your local government is doing. Help your team deliver a clear and consistent message, reduce misinformation and ultimately increase participation in your programs or services with this webinar on media relations. This engaging, interactive and informative webinar is designed to help you work proactively with the media and hone your skills when it comes to responding to media requests. Key points covered include:

  • How to develop strong, clear and consistent key messages
  • What to do when the media calls
  • How to answer media questions and stay on message
  • Some dos and don’ts for damage control
  • Ongoing discussion and sharing of ideas and experiences.
BONUS:  Includes a special workbook with tips and techniques to use in your next media interview, helping you become a better media spokesperson!
Register at:
http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2015/LGMAElearning.asp?session=may26

For more information regarding the LGMA-CAMA E-Learning Spring 2015 Series visit: 
LGMA-CAMA E-Learning Opportunities  at www.lgma.ca

Please feel free to post this information on your staff notice boards and circulate throughout your office.


Alberta Members: May 29 Deadline for Minister’s Awards for Municipal Excellence Submissions
Submissions are now being accepted for the Government of Alberta’s 2015 Minister’s Awards for Municipal Excellence. The 14th annual awards will recognize municipal government excellence and promote the sharing of knowledge among municipalities. An independent review committee will recommend award recipients in five categories, as well as one award for overall outstanding achievement.

The categories being considered this year are:
  • Innovation—recognizes a leading practice embodying the first use of an idea in a municipal context in Alberta.
  • Larger Municipalities—recognizes the creative practices developed by municipalities with a population over 500,000.
  • Partnership—recognizes a leading municipal practice involving consultation, coordination, and cooperation with other municipalities, jurisdictions, or organizations.
  • Safe Communities—recognizes the innovative practices developed by communities with less than 3,000 residents.
  • Outstanding achievement—recognizes a municipality or municipal partnership that has helped to inspire action and change that has benefited local government practice in Alberta.
All municipalities are eligible for the awards, and are encouraged to submit their successful practices by the May 29, 2015 deadline. More information and the submission forms can be found at the Alberta Municipal Affairs website. Questions regarding the Awards can be directed to the Municipal Excellence Team at 780-427-2225 or via email [email protected]
 


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