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VISIONING THE FUTURE
FULL LIVES FOR ALL
“Until No One Waits…”
The Key Coalition
of Alaska
MISSION
STATEMENT
“The Key Coalition, through unified
statewide advocacy, promotes the
dignity, status, and equality of all
Alaskans who experience disabilities as
valued, contributing participants in a
shared community.”
February 13, 2018
Welcome to Key XXXI the Key Coalition of Alaska {Key} through unified statewide advocacy,
promotes the dignity, status and equality of all Alaskans who experience disabilities as valued,
contributing participants in a shared community. This year’s KEY Campaign Theme: Visioning
the Future -Full Lives for ALL continues our journey of advocacy and commitment to assure
all Alaskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities have opportunities to live
meaningful lives.
For 30 years coalition advocates have been coming to Juneau with a united message and through
the years we have made a significant difference.
Our 2018 Key Platform:
1. Putting into statute a shared vision of a flexible system in which each person directs their
own supports based on his or her strengths and abilities toward a meaningful life in their
home, their job and their community. Our vision includes supported families,
professional staff and services available throughout the state now and into the future.
2. A stable and sustainable fiscal plan which if attained would:
3. Reactivate the commitment to reduce the waitlist. Currently there are more than 700
individuals on the waitlist. It is imperative that we increase the number of individuals
removed from this registry.
4. KEY Coalition supports the passing of Senate bill 80—a telecommunication bill that
would require telephone utilities to provide services to deaf, hard of hearing and speech
impaired subscribers that would permit the subscriber to communicate by telephone with
persons of normal hearing.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for taking the time out of your busy lives to travel
to Juneau to participate in KEY XXXI. Once again we are KEYED UP and READY TO GO!
Sincerely,
Dennis Haas
Dennis Haas—Katie’s Dad
President of the KEY Coalition of Alaska
An Introduction to the Key Campaign
An Introduction .............................................................................................................. Page 2
Dedication ...................................................................................................................... Page 3
The Organization of the Key Campaign Let Us Start Now ........................................................................................................... Page 4
Thursday Schedule ......................................................................................................... Page 6
Friday Schedule ............................................................................................................. Page 8
Key Campaign Events.................................................................................................... Page 9
Preparing for Your Legislative Visits
Photo Album ................................................................................................................ Page 19
Governor/Lt. Governor ....................................................................................... Page 21
DHSS/SDS .......................................................................................................... Page 21
Alaska State Senate ............................................................................................. Page 22
Alaska House of Representatives........................................................................ Page 24
The Key Coalition of Alaska
Board of Directors........................................................................................................ Page 28
Become a Member ....................................................................................................... Page 29
Membership Registration ............................................................................................. Page 30
A Key Thank You ........................................................................................................ Page 31
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 1
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 2
The
KEY CAMPAIGN
For some of us it seems like it was only yesterday, when a small group of men and women traveled
together to Juneau. Filled with uncertainty, yet fueled by a fierce belief in the dignity and rights
of all citizens who experience disabilities, they numbered just shy of 50. Their journey began in
towns and villages, regions, and big cities across the vast face of their shared state called Alaska.
When they arrived in the Capitol, they gathered in a tiny meeting room in the Baranof Hotel to
educate, and to advocate, and to light a spark that they would call The Key Campaign. That was
1988.
And today is 2018 – so many years down the road of Alaskan history. That spark has now grown
into a flame – a blaze of brilliance that burns brighter and brighter with the passing of each and
every year. Numbers have increased into the hundreds and we justly consider ourselves a “small
army” with local chapters of the Key Coalition now in existence in Alaska! Yes, many of the faces
have changed since that first year. But the commitment, the reason, the dream of unity and
advocacy that founded that very first assembly in Juneau – it remains the same today, as it did
then! The dream stands unaltered by the flow of sand through the relentless hourglass of time.
The fire that ignites the dream is simply that of community – a community that is open and
accessible to every citizen of Alaska; a community that values all Alaskans with respect, dignity,
opportunity and status; a community that celebrates diversity and binds itself together in mutual
similarities. All of this, and so much more, will be in our hands for such a short, short time.
Today we are still given evidence that we are sorely needed here – that our Campaign is not only
necessary, but vital in the lives of our families who experience disabilities.
WE CARE! And because we care our job is clear – to continue that timeless battle to eradicate
the Wait List for community services while partnering with the State of Alaska in seeking solutions
to the fiscal crisis, “giving” an equal and equitable share of our BRU to begin a true process of
financial solvency for Alaska. We care, and in caring, we will act!
Today, we will also make a promise, by our very presence here in Juneau and by our belief and
commitment to our Campaign – WE SHALL NOT FORGET! We will remember the pain, the
suffering, and the waiting of our families across Alaska. In our remembrance, we shall grasp the
sword of advocacy and take it forth into the political battle, fearlessly, unapologetically, and with
that timeless spirit of partnership, pulling together for our families and for our shared state! We
shall continue to live the legacy of 30 years. This is the heart of our message; this is the essence
of our dream; this is foundation of our beliefs, AND, THIS IS
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 3
“As we have done for so many decades, it is now time to dedicate this year’s Key Campaign.
We do so with love, with commitment, and with an endless hope in the power of our unity to
effectuate a permanent change that will, one day, some day, see our shared dream materialize
— full and total community inclusion for every Alaskan.”
We Dedicate the Key Campaign To:
all of those who still must wait.
every family in crisis.
those who feel alone, isolated, segregated, excluded.
our brothers and sisters entrapped by barriers to accessibility and
independence.
our Direct Support Professionals who care so deeply and sacrifice so
much.
all of our Key Campaigners who have paved the road ahead of us and for
us, with commitment, pain, and with so much progress.
AND,
to our Dreamers of Dreams who will never stop believing in the Key
Campaign and the power of people united together in advocacy to make
Alaska a far, far better place for all of its’ citizens.
“We shall never forget”
For as long as there is just
One person on a Wait List,
One barrier that exists to accessibility,
One right denied,
One family in crisis, then,
We will still be here, in Juneau, Year,
after year,
after year…”
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 4
This following pages of your Orientation Handbook will present the mechanism of the Key
Campaign – the heart of our advocacy that will be the structure for all that we do and all that
we hope to accomplish together.
You will now be introduced to a theme; to all of our events, times, location, and purpose of
each event; and to your guides. Please be prompt and attempt to attend all functions/events.
A show of numbers is critical for our campaign. The only exception to this rule of thumb is
one that we repeat, over and over again – Legislative Visits are our NUMBER ONE
priority. If a visit conflicts with a scheduled event, attend the visit! Never, and I repeat
NEVER, never miss a legislative visit.
The leader for each event is called a “Guide”. You will meet them at General Orientation.
See them for any questions or concerns with anything pertaining to their event and even to
the Key Campaign itself.
Always remember that discretion and caution is never out of fashion. If the Juneau weather
is just short of abominable, take no chances. If you, or someone with you is medically fragile,
it is good policy to avoid events that require marching or standing in the rain or snow. Safety
is the foundation of our advocacy, so please – if conditions are hazardous to your health, skip
any and all events that may compromise your health.
The next few pages will highlight our schedule. Keep in mind that life changes in a heartbeat
in our Capitol City. There will be alterations, changes, additions and deletions to many of
our events and schedules. This is to be expected. We will do our best to keep you informed
as quickly possible. If you miss a change, please give us just a touch of grace. It is often
very difficult to keep pace with an ever-evolving landscape.
Lastly, please remember that all of our Guides are volunteers who work hard to make this
Key Campaign successful and to include as many advocates as possible in our series of
planned events. If you can help them in any way thinkable, please jump in. We need and
value your assistance.
All of us hope that you will find this Key Campaign both rewarding and inspiring as we move
forward into the future.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 5
And now,
the
2018
KEY XXXI
CAMPAIGN
MAY I
PRESENT
TO YOU
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 6
Key XXXI Campaign
Schedule of Events
Thursday, March 1, 2018
9:45 – 12:00 Key XXX Campaigners arrive in Juneau – WELCOME!
LUNCH ON YOUR OWN
Before General Orientation
12:00 p.m. GENERAL ORIENTATION (KEY CAMPAIGN 2018)
Looking Back at Yesterday:
The Key XXX Campaign Slide Presentation
Passing of the Torch
“Visioning the Future” Our Handbook
The Key Coalition of Alaska – President’s Message (Dennis Haas)
Setting the tone for Key XXXI
Introduction of the Key XXXI Campaign, 2018
“We are Alaska” and “We are Here”
Presentation of Key XXXI Events, Schedule, Guides
Introduction to Each Event by Guide
Department of Health and Social Services
(Commissioner, Valerie Davidson)
Division of Senior and Disability Services
(Director Duane Mayes)
Alaska Mental Health Lands Trust
(Chief Executive Officer Mike Abbott)
Dave Parish (Juneau Liaison)
Updates from the Hill, strategies for our visits
Break
Legislative Orientation to Key XXXI Platform & Priorities, 2018
Key XXXI – Priorities and platform review/discussion
Understanding the Priorities
Review Legislative packet
Finalize Legislative visits
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 7
3:30 MEETING WITH ADMINISTRATION
Gather for a meeting in the Governor’s Conference Room (3rd Floor –
Capitol Building) for a brief explanation of the Key XXXI Campaign,
personal stories, request for assistance/commitment and gift
presentation.
UNITY DINNER
5:30 Unity Dinner
Fine food, great company, decorations, program
Compliments of R.E.A.C.H.
SILENT and LIVE AUCTIONS
Silent Auction
Bidding ends at 8:00p.m. – Bring your checkbooks/credit cards/jewelry
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
Candlelight Vigil
Immediately after dinner
A solemn vigil to remember the individuals and their
families on the wait list
AND NOW
By now, each and every one of our Key Campaigners will be totally free for the remainder of
the night or early morning hours. You may party hearty, crash and desist, siesta, sack out or
pursue whatever highly individualized activities, qualms or habits that you may have brought
with you to Juneau.
WE’LL SEE YOU BRIGHT
AND EARLY TOMORROW
MORNING
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 8
Key XXXI Campaign
Schedule of Events
Friday, March 2, 2018
8:00 – Noon VISITS WITH LEGISLATORS BEGIN
Personalized advocacy visits start at 8:00 a.m. SHARP, and will
continue throughout the day, afternoon and into the early evening
hours (check your handbook materials for office locations).
11:30 – 12:00 MARCH TO THE CAPITOL STEPS
Gather in the lobby of the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and take the
route to the steps, spreading our message across the hills and streets of
Juneau.
12:00 – 12:30 CAPITOL STEPS RALLY Outside on the steps of the Capitol Building; regardless of weather.
We will show a united demonstration of the need and the Wait List
providing a public media forum of interaction and advocacy
1:00 – 5:00 VISITS WITH LEGISLATORS CONTINUE Key Campaigners conclude their personal visits with their elected
officials during the afternoon.
1:00 GOVERNOR’S HOME TOUR Meet in the lobby of the Capitol Building and walk to the Governor’s
Home (Tour starts at 1:30). This is your opportunity to see the
Governor’s Home – up close and personal.
5:30 -- ??? PREPARE FOR DEPARTURE Make sure you get to the airport on time to various locations
throughout urban and rural Alaska.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 9
March to the
Capitol Steps
Legislative Visits
Capitol Steps
Rally Legislative
Orientation
Unity Dinner
Governor’s Home
Tour
Legislative Hearing
and Testimony
Live Auction
Candlelight Vigil
Meeting with
Administration
General
Orientation
Songs & Cheers
Torch Ceremony
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 10
GENERAL ORIENTATION
Thursday, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Centennial Hall
GUIDE: Michele Girault
Orientation is the official beginning of every Key Campaign. As advocates arrive in Juneau
from across the state of Alaska, they first check in/drop off luggage at their hotel (usually the
Four Points by Sheraton – formerly the Goldbelt). They then travel to Centennial Hall – the
official headquarters of the Campaign. This is located a mere step or two across from the
Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and is quite convenient for some, and a little less central for
others.
GENERAL ORIENTATION SERVES SEVERAL PURPOSES:
It is our first opportunity to gather together to meet each other – rekindle old friendships,
make new friends.
It serves as an introduction to each Key Campaign – events and schedules will be
explained in detail; appointments will be reviewed and schedule changes highlighted.
You will meet your guides.
It affords us an opportunity to get to know the status, plans and future of the Key Coalition
of Alaska.
It is a time to re-affirm just why we are in Juneau – to renew our commitment to the
hundreds of individuals, and their families, on the wait list, and to the preservation of
community.
General Orientation will include a brief look back at last year’s Key Campaign, an official
introduction to each other, a review of our book, a detailed explanation of all Key events, a
message from the Department of Health and Social Services, as well as SDS, and a forum
with our legislative liaison. We will then introduce you to the “GUIDES” who have been
designated as the leader for each and every Key event. They are the people who will answer
any and all questions regarding their part in the schedule of activities for Juneau.
SO – PLEASE BE ON TIME
AND HELP US LAUNCH
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL KEY CAMPAIGN!!
12:00 Noon
SHARP
ORIENTATION BEGINS AT NOON – SHARP!!!
PLEASE DON’T BE LATE
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 11
LEGISLATIVE ORIENTATION
Thursday, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Centennial Hall
GUIDE: Kathy Fitzgerald
Immediately after General Orientation, following a short break, our Key Campaigners will
participate in a Legislative Orientation session. This is one of the most critical events in our
schedule, since it prepares our advocates for their legislative visits occurring on the second day
of our Campaign. We will begin with a general overview of our platform and priorities as a
group. Depending on the complexity of our priorities, sessions may then be broken down in a
number of ways. Each legislative visit group will have a designated Captain. There will also
be mentors floating around the Capitol who will assist groups with detailed discussion and who
will answer just about any question that you may have or could ever hope to construct!.
LEGISLATIVE ORIENTATION SERVES SEVERAL PURPOSES:
It gives us an opportunity to sit down and review our legislative priorities and strategies,
and core arguments.
It is a time of strategizing – how we will approach our legislators and administrators,
what we will ask for, and how we will organize our teams.
It is a moment to understand need and how we can best achieve our collective goals.
It is a time to get to know at least some of the members of our Legislative Teams in
preparation for Friday’s visits.
It is a space reserved for you to ask any and all questions that you may have in respect
to our platform and priorities.
Since Legislative Orientation is actually the best and last chance you will have to clearly
understand our goals/objectives and legislative approach, it is a critical session for you to
attend. Even if you are a veteran Key Campaigner, you are urged to join in the discussions.
Without a doubt, your prior years of experience in advocacy will assist us enormously in
orientation. This is a great chance to interact with many other Key Campaigners on the real
issues of our time.
PRIORITIES
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 12
MEETNG WITH THE GOVERNOR AND/OR ADMINISTRATION
Thursday, 3:30 p.m. Governor’s Conference Room
3rd Floor, Capitol Building
GUIDE: Emily Ennis/Millie Ryan
Our meeting with key members of the Administration will be held on THURSDAY. It will
occur toward the end of Orientation. Hopefully we will be able to dismiss Orientation to
allow people to travel to the Capitol Building for this meeting. Whatever time is set, we
would like people to gather for the meeting at least 15 minutes early so we can optimize our
time with the Administration. In the time that we have with these key Administration
members, we hope to briefly explain the history of our advocacy efforts, the status of our
service system, the need to continue to reduce the wait list, and entertain a period of questions
and answers. It is also a time of storytelling, when members of the Key Campaign will share
their personal stories with Administrative staff – of success and support, of want, need and
devastation. We will present the Administration with an official Key Campaign button and
an appropriate memento of our time together.
PLEASE BE SURE TO ATTEND THIS MEETINGS!
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 13
UNITY DINNER
Thursday, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Centennial Hall
GUIDE: Dennis Haas
Year after year we culminate our first day together with our Unity Dinner. Hosted once again
by our incomparable chefs, amazing attendants and steadfast friends from the REACH
program, we will assemble together with our friends and advocates and extended Key family
to break bread and share fine food and good company. We will be joined by many of our
supporters in the Legislature, their families and their aides. Members of the Administration
and Municipal government are also expected to attend the dinner this year. There will be
lasagna, bread, salad and beverages, followed by dessert.
As we have always considered your personalized legislative visits to be the HEART of every
Key Campaign, we consider the Unity Dinner to be the SOUL of each Key Campaign. The
evening’s program will include cheers and songs, special recognition, introduction of our
Key Coalition Board of Directors, candle light vigil and so much more. It also highlights
both Silent and Live Auctions! It has always been a night filled with fun, entertainment,
inspiration, and that Key sense of lasting friendship and compassion. So, join us for a night
to remember, and see the power of unity in action and how big our Key Family has become
“OVER THE YEARS…”
SILENT AUCTION
Thursday, 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Centennial Hall – Unity Dinner
GUIDE: Millie Ryan
Once again, a silent auction will be held in Centennial Hall at the time of the Unity Dinner.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., the silent auction will be closed. After the candlelight vigil, all
individuals will pick up and pay for the item for which they are the highest bidder. We take
cash or personal checks and we are also able to take credit cards for our time together in
Juneau!!! All funds go to support the Key Coalition of Alaska. We thank our many sponsors
who have donated the gifts to this annual fundraiser here in Juneau. We invite all of our Key
Campaigners and interested friends and advocates to participate in a hearty round of bidding.
LIVE AUCTION
Thursday – During the Unity Dinner
Centennial Hall
GUIDE: TBD
There will be a limited number of very special items available for a live auction. This will
occur during the Unity Dinner. We guarantee it will be a lively time filled with several,
meticulously chosen items for your careful consideration and ultimate purchase. All bidding
wars over any and all items are highly encouraged. We also strongly back outrageous “over–
bids” since all of the proceeds are dedicated to a most worthy and undeniably wonderful
cause – the Key Coalition of Alaska.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 14
TORCH CEREMONY
Thursday – During General Orientation
Centennial Hall
GUIDE: Michele Girault
The Torch Ceremony signifies the passing of the Torch of Advocacy from past advocates to
the Key Advocates of today. It symbolizes the fire that ignites the dream and is the light of
community – A community that is open and accessible to every citizen of Alaska; a community
that values all Alaskans with respect, dignity, opportunity and status; a community that
celebrates diversity and binds itself together in mutual similarities. All of this, and so much
more, will be in our hands for such a short, short time. Carry the torch with honor and with
pride. Keep the fires burning so bright and so brilliant that all of Alaska will finally see that
we will still be here in Juneau, year, after year, after year.
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
7:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
GUIDE: Faith Kelly
Our Unity Dinner always ends with the lighting of candles – the FIVE candles o the Key
Coalition. It is our way of quietly pausing to remember the individuals and their families who
are on the Wait List. This is the reason why we have gathered here in Juneau and the
Candlelight Vigil recalls our sacred trust and mission – to eradicate, once and for all, that
shameful list of our brothers and sisters. As we prepare for Legislative visits on Friday, let the
glow of our candles reflect the fires in our hearts as we advocate, without apology, for our
families who wait.
Each Key Campaigner will be given a phosphorescent candle. The Vigil will end with the
joining of hands singing the Key Campaign theme song, “That’s What Friends Are For…”
All are invited to stay as we pledge, once again, that “for as long as there is just one individual
or family in need who wait – then we will be here – year after year after year…”
HOSPITALITY
ROOM
REACH has once again generously offered their office as a place to kick back and relax and
enjoy a hot cup of coffee. If you find the need for a short break, please go to their office at 213
Third Street and visit for a while. The Hospitality Room will be open for you on Friday, March
1, 2018 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 15
LEGISLATIVE VISITS
Friday, all day as scheduled
Capitol Offices
Guide: Bethany Munoz
Personalized visits are the very heart of the Key Campaign. These are intimate opportunities
to come together, face to face, with your elected officials. Teams of Key Campaigners will be
visiting their elected officials. Each team will have a captain who will introduce the team and
present the Legislator with his/her own copy of our Legislative Priorities and this year’s Key
Campaign button. This should form a solid foundation for discussion. Please remember that
legislative visits are our TOP PRIORITY. If your visit conflicts with a scheduled Key
Campaign event, PLEASE ATTEND THE VISIT AND SKIP THE EVENT. AND
PLEASE BE ON TIME FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT!
The Team Captain should facilitate, not dominate, the meeting. He/she should make every
effort to see that each team member has an equal opportunity to participate and a chance to
speak to the Legislator. Recall that Legislators might have their aides attend your meetings, if
they are unable to meet with you. Aides are a wonderful way to relay important information
and many times they will become staunch allies and champion our cause to the elected official.
As a rule of thumb remember, if you speak from your heart, you will never go wrong. Take
notes, if necessary. It is okay to “not know” the answer to a question that you may be asked
by a Senator, Representative or aide. Please report back to us any questions that your team is
unable to answer and let that legislator or aide know that we will be getting back to them as
quickly as possible with an answer, data, back-up information or whatever is necessary to
respond!. We will then follow-up with that particular legislator. And always keep in the
forefront of your mind – we elected all members of this Legislature. They are answerable to
us.
Our platform and priorities are equitable, fair and cost-effective. A waiting list is unacceptable
in Alaska. (Remember to encourage your legislators to continue to reduce the wait list.) Right
IS on our side and this is the time for us to create justice. The Wait List has always been a
foundation for our Platform and one of two reasons why the Key Campaign itself was created.
All other planks in our united platform are formulated by the pressing issues of the times. We
have always attempted to narrow them down to a select few so as not to overwhelm the
Legislature with our priorities. We consult with aligned groups such as the Governor’s Council
on Disabilities and Special Education and the Alaska Association on Developmental
Disabilities to evolve a united platform that often contains issues shared by all advocates.
Oftentimes we also include Legislative and/or Administrative Bills in our Platform.
A final word concerning your visits – you are here, in Juneau, as a part of the Key Campaign.
It is extremely important to advance Key Coalition issues and our united Platform. This is not
the time nor is this the place to advance personal issues, agency concerns, or business priorities.
We ask you to “stick to” the priorities printed in our Platform Booklet. Such Unity is the very
base for all of our effective advocacy throughout the years.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 16
MARCH TO THE CAPITOL STEPS
Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton Hotel Lobby
GUIDE: Michael Bailey/Eric Gurley/Kristen Spencer
If your schedule permits, gather in the lobby of the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel at 11:30
a.m. on Friday morning. Your Guide will be there, ready and waiting with bated breath and
an anticipation that the weather is fine and dandy and doesn’t include a plethora of rain, snow,
sleet or hurricanes. Some of you will be given banners, and others will be encouraged to join
us in a march as we take our advocacy efforts through the streets of Juneau up to the State
Capitol. Hopefully, as we parade, we will catch the attention of the citizens and visitors on
that morning. We ask for a show of support for the march, which will culminate in our
Capitol steps rally.
Always use your discretion. We do not want anyone to become sick as a result of outdoor
activities So, use your best judgment and watch the weather. If the weather permits, and if
you are feeling well, join us at the Four Points by Sheraton and we will march up to the
Capitol for our annual Capitol Steps Rally.
CAPITOL STEPS RALLY
Friday, 12 noon to 12:45 p.m.
Capitol Building Steps (outside)
GUIDE: Dennis Haas/Faith Kelly
At HIGH NOON, on the dot, we will gather on the steps of our State Capitol Building
(OUTSIDE) for our annual rally! We will assemble, regardless of the weather. Please dress
appropriately and remember to bring your song and cheer book with you. And remember
above all else – if the weather is really bad (like heavy rain, very cold, icy, way too windy,
snowing like crazy etc.) use good and sound judgment. Do not gather outside with us if there
is any medical concern that might compromise the health and safety of even one Key
Campaigner. We value you far above any rally, platform, or event. YOU are our #1
Priority!!!
The purpose of the rally is a united public demonstration for the needs and the platform of
the Key Campaign. In the past, several Legislators have joined us and even a Governor. We
will host a program (30 to 45 minutes) that includes key note speakers, songs and cheers, and
an abundance of signs and banners. We must keep ONE LANE OF THE STEPS TO THE
CAPITOL BUILDING BE KEPT TOTALLY FREE AND CLEAR AT ALL TIMES! This is an absolute requirement given to us by security. And, please be extremely careful.
Other parts of the state (such as Fairbanks, Anchorage, Kenai/Soldotna, and Wasilla) will
hold unity rallies at the same time as a symbol of our statewide solidarity and unity of
purpose. This is, like all other Key Events, a time to “come out in numbers”. We hope to
flood the Capitol steps and spread across the block in both directions
“Until No One Waits…”
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 17
GOVERNOR’S HOME TOUR
Friday, 1:30 p.m.
Meet in the Lobby of the Capitol Building
at 1:00 p.m.
GUIDE: To Be Announced
For many of you, this is your first visit to our Capitol city. One of the highlights of the city is
the Governor’s Home. Located just up the hill from the Capitol Building, it is a short jaunt to
see what the Governor calls “home”. This year, a limited number (25) of you can make this
little jaunt and get a tour. Take your cameras and get pictures. Enjoy a relaxing time and learn
a little history.
SONGS ‘N CHEERS
Thursday AND Friday
Various Locations
GUIDES: KeyTones Choir: Lizette Stiehr
Key Orchestra Conductor: Rick Benjamin
Beginning at the Unity Dinner and culminating on the steps of our Capitol Building, a small
band of tried and true singers and cheerleaders will give our purring engines that extra boost.
Songs and cheers have always held a special place in the hearts and throats of our Key
Campaigners. Songs and cheers set the mood, convey our priorities, and add an overwhelming
sense of camaraderie and spirit to our two days in Juneau.
Please remember to have your song book with you on the steps of the Capitol. They will be
distributed on the night of our Unity Dinner. Be prepared to warble your best, raise your voice,
and hit the high notes. After all, it’s Key Campaign days and that’s really something to cheer
about!!!
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 18
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 19
Who’s
Who in
Alaska’s
Government
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 20
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 21
Governor Lt. Governor
Bill Walker Byron Mallott
DHSS Commissioner SDS Director
Valerie Davidson Duane Mayes
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 22
ALASKA STATE SENATE
LEADERSHIP
Pete Kelly
SENATE President
Room 111
Peter Micciche
Majority Leader
Room 508
Berta Gardner
Minority Leader
Room 11
SENATORS
Tom Begich
Room 419
Click Bishop
Room 121
John Coghill
Room 119
Mia Costello
Room 504
Dennis Egan
Room 9
Berta Gardner
Room 11
Cathy Giessel
Room 427
Lyman Hoffman
Room 518
Shelley Hughes
Room 125
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 23
ALASKA STATE SENATE
Pete Kelly
Room 111
Anna MacKinnon
Room 516
Kevin Meyer
Room 103
Peter Micciche
Room 508
Donald Olson
Room 510
Bert Stedman
Room 30
Gary Stevens
Room 429
Natasha Von Imhof
Room 514
Bill Wielechowski
Room 7
David Wilson
Room 115
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 24
ALASKA STATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
LEADERSHIP
Bryce Edgmon
HOUSE President
Room 208
Chris Tuck
Majority Leader
Room 204
Charisse Millett
Minority Leader
Room 404
REPRESENTATIVES
Chris Birch
Room 112
Mike Chenault
Room 434
Matt Claman
Room 118
Harriet Drummond
Room 108
David Eastman
Room 114
Bryce Edgmon
Room 208
Neal Foster
Room 410
Les Gara
Room 511
Jason Grenn
Room 418
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 25
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
David Guttenberg
Room 501
DeLena Johnson
Room 405
Jennifer Johnston
Room 430
Andy Josephson
Room 102
Scott Kawasaki
Room 502
Sam Kito
Room 403
Gary Knopp
Room 424
Charles (Chuck) Kopp
Room 13
Jonathon Kreiss-Tomkins
Room 411
Gabrielle LeDoux
Room 216
John Lincoln
Room 432
Charisse Millett
Room 404
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 26
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Mark Neuman
Room 104
Daniel Ortiz
Room 513
Justin Parish
Room 24
Lance Pruitt
Room 415
George Rauscher
Room 426
Lora Reinbold
Room 409
Dan Saddler
Room 428
Paul Seaton
Room 505
Ivy Spohnholz
Room 421
Louise Stutes
Room 406
Colleen Sullivan-Leonard
Room 420
David Talerico
Room 110
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 27
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Geran Tarr
Room 126
Steve Thompson
Room 500
Cathy Tilton
Room 400
Chris Tuck.
Room 204
Tammie Wilson
Room 422
Adam Wool
Room 412
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 28
Key Coalition of Alaska
State Board of Directors
March 2018
BOARD OFFICERS
Dennis, Haas, President
Ric Nelson, Vice-President
Noel Murray, Secretary
Kristen Spencer, Treasurer
DIRECTORS
Susan Drathman
Emily Ennis
Kathy Fitzgerald
Michele Girault
Virginia (Ginny) Glasheen
Dennis Haas
Faith Kelly
Millie Ryan
Helen Simmonds
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 29
The Key Coalition of Alaska is founded on the premise that all people should be embraced as
meaningful, valued, and contributing members of an equally shared society. We need your support
in our efforts. When you enroll, you will be connected to the most powerful advocacy group in the
state and receive ongoing information about current events and issues.
Based on the vision that the Key Coalition of Alaska recognizes total equality in all human beings,
we do not differentiate among our many labels. No one person is more important than the next,
because of given label(s), life status, or position. As such, our family is truly open to everyone
who can share our mission and dream. We only want your involvement, energy and effort, and
belief in “Community is for Everyone!”
We kicked off our first membership drive at the Pathways Conference on November 6-8, 1997. At
each Key Orientation in Juneau, as well as at our Unity Dinner, there will be a Key Coalition
Membership table for anyone who wishes to join us, YEAR ROUND, to become an official part
of our movement. Details can be discussed at those times or with any guide or member of our
steering committee throughout our two days together.
We encourage everyone to become a huge part of our growing movement across the face of Alaska.
We need you in Juneau and throughout the year! Together, we HAVE made a difference, and,
together, we will continue to make a difference!
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 30
Last Name First Name MI
Physical Address:
Mailing Address:
Home
Phone;
Work
Phone:
Cell
Phone:
Fax Email
Your “role” (circle all that apply)
Self-Advocate Parent Provider Policy Maker Other:
Would you like to make a contribution to Key? Amount:
Who are your Legislators?
Senate
House
Which Key committees (if any) are you willing to join?
Are you interested in hosting a meeting with your Legislator YES NO
What special talents/interests/skills are you willing to donate to the Key Coalition?
What issues are the most important to you and your family?
Please give us a brief profile of you and your family that includes work, boards/organizations you
represent, children, children with disabilities, their ages, school/work, etc.
Key Campaign XXXI Orientation Handbook 2018 – Page 31
Thank you so much, from the bottom of our Key hearts, for being here; for assuming such a
caring and important role in this year’s Key Campaign. Without you, there would be no Key
Campaign. Without you, this little northern niche we call Alaska would be a far more
friendless and emotionally remote section of the globe.
Keep the Key Spirit alive in your city, town, village, and region. Keep the Flame of Community
burning brightly wherever you might go. And, someday, somewhere, sometime, just close
your eyes and drift back. Drift back to a Unity Dinner when we all held hands in candlelight
and shared a song: “That’s What Friends Are For.” Drift back to a day when we marched and
rallied, sang and cheered, testified and advocated for all that was right and proper and fair.
Then it just might become clearer than ever before – We are Family!
We share in each other’s dreams and pain, successes and failures, triumphs and despair. We
support each other, dry a tear and share a good laugh. We listen and we hear and we act, and
we do this together! And we remember. We remember all of our families, all of our children,
adolescents and adults who wait. We remember our community programs that are hurting from
decades of inadequate support. We shall never forget…
When the Key Campaign is just a memory, we wish you nothing less than good thoughts – of
a time and a place way back through the years, when you were a part of something much bigger
than yourself. When you made a difference and changed the course of Alaskan history for so
many of our families who experience disabilities. When you really knew beyond a doubt that
all things were possible, that dreams can and do come true if you work hard enough and just
believe!!! When friendship, belief, and the spirit of Unity lit flames of hope through the
darkness of the Wait List.
Yes, remember, someday, when you were a part of a thing called the Key Campaign……
And for now, a simple, heartfelt “thank you” for caring enough to be “here”.
“Caring makes You
a better person
and
the World
a better place…”
