Warm greetings from Florida. The Srigandha Kannada Koota has taken the mega project to host the 3rd AKKA World Kannada Convention 2004 ( AKKA-WKC 2004) in Orlando, Florida during the labor day weekend (September 3rd, 4th and 5th , 2004). It is my pleasure to invite you all for this special event of Kannadigas of North America. Orlando is home to some of the most spectacular vacation sites, amusement and theme parks in the world. Over 4000 Kannadigas are expected to attend this convention. The convention committee, sub-committees and volunteers have stared to work in right earnest to make this convention a grand event.

During the three days of the convention, we have planned several cultural activities depicting the rich heritage of our language and culture. Noted Kannda writers, poets, dignitaries and entertainers from Karnataka will be taking part in this convention. We have planned activities in various fields including dance, drama, music, kavi ghosthi, film festival, folk arts, janapada and contemporary Kannada entertainment. In addition, the convention will also present workshops, seminars, exhibits, business meetings, networking amongst entrepreneurs, Continuing medical education, Alumni meetings and a gala evening banquet. A special event recognizing the presidents of all Kannada Kootas of North America and the visiting Kootas from abroad will be held. AKKA Kannada achievement awards will be given during the convention. Authentic Karnataka food along with menu for children and youth from popular American choices will be served during the convention.

Our special emphasis is targeted towards promoting Youth programs to allow Kannada children and young adults to mingle and network amongst them and establish friendship. Towards this goal AKKA has sponsored its first Young Adult get together, Sneha-Spandana in New York city on October 10, 11 and 12 of 2003. I request you to encourage the young adults to attend this in large numbers.

The 2004 AKKA -WKC will take place in the mega convention center and resort, the Gaylord palms of Orlando, Florida. This magnificent resort and convention center is one of its kinds in the world. The convention can seat more than 6,000 people in the ballroom completely equipped with a Broadway quality performance stage. The room rates have been negotiated at a fabulous $85 per night.

I encourage you to visit our web page www.akkaonline.org periodically for more details about the convention and registration. Details about participation in cultural events, program, workshops and business meetings etc will be available on the web page.

I hope the above information will be helpful. Should you have further questions and suggestions please feel free to e-mail at wkcorlando@yahoo.com

As a not for profit corporation AKKA must depend on you and outside sources for funding and support for this convention. Your monetary contribution and sponsorship will be greatly appreciated. Part of the proceedings from the convention will be earmarked for charitable activities in the state of Karnataka.

Let us take a giant leap in AKKA -WKC 2004 for the unity of Kannadigas in North America and carry forward the torch of Kannada heritage and culture for our future generations.

Sincerely
Renuka Ramappa,
Chairperson