Convention Guide

Table of contents

1. Accessibility
2. Awards & Recognition
3. Bags, Backpacks & Purses
4. Beta Serves
5. Beta Shop/Merchandise
6. Cashless Facility
7. Club Trading Pins
8. Code of Conduct
9. Concessions
10. Deals & Discounts
11. Dress Code
12. Emergency Information
    1. Upon Issuance of a Warning
    2. Drop, Cover, and Hold (For use in the event of an earthquake or other imminent danger to building or immediate surroundings).
    3. Fire
    4. Bomb Threat
    5. Weather Emergencies
    6. Local Care and Hospitals
13. Facility Map
14. Feedback
15. First Aid
16. Food Trucks
17. General Sessions
18. Health & Safety Guidelines
19. Leadership Ambassadors
20. Leadership Challenges
21. Livestream
22. Loading Dock Schedule
23. Lost Badges
24. Media
25. Microphones & Keyboard
26. Mobile App
27. Mobile Charging Stations
28. National Exhibitions
29. National Officers
30. Onsite Registration
31. Parking / Bus Parking
32. Photography and Videography
33. Premier Performers
34. Prop Storage
35. Refunds
36. Registration & Badge Pick Up
37. Reserving Seats
38. Safety Measures and Tips
39. Scavenger Hunt
40. Schedules
41. Sensory Sensitivities
42. Social Media
43. Staff Shoutout Survey
44. Stage
45. Transportation
46. Visitor Center Locations
47. Voting

Accessibility

The Savannah Convention Center is ADA compliant, providing means of accessing the facility for those with disabilities. They offer ample designated disabled parking, several passenger drop-off areas and convenient curb cuts for easy wheelchair access.

The SCC has manual push wheelchairs available for use by attendees while in the building. A legal identification card is required for a deposit; however, there is no rental charge for use of the wheelchair. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Awards & Recognition

The top 10 places in each competition are recognized during National Convention. Individuals placing 6 - 10 will receive a trophy and on-stage recognition during pre-session activities. Individuals placing in the top 5 will receive a trophy and on-stage recognition during General Session. Attendees should check the winner icons within the mobile app to determine if they should report side-stage prior to each awards ceremony. An announcement will be made prior to every awards ceremony indicating when students should make their way side-stage. Students will be asked to line up behind a sign with their competition name on it. National Beta staff and board members will provide each student with their trophy before providing them with instructions for the awards ceremony.

If a member fails to pick up their trophy, they can report sidestage prior to or immediately after a Session and ask a National Beta staff member for assistance in picking up their trophy. Any awards not picked up prior to the end of Convention will be shipped directly to each school by September 1, 2024.

Bags, Backpacks & Purses

Bags, backpacks and purses are allowed in convention venues.

Beta Serves

Beta Serves is a service initiative that gives National Convention attendees the opportunity to demonstrate our motto, Let Us Lead by Serving Others. Attendees are encouraged to donate items upon arrival and volunteer their time during National Convention. Details can be found here.

Beta Shop/Merchandise

The Beta Shop is open to all National Convention attendees. It features apparel, trading pins, drinkware, accessories and more. The Beta Shop accepts cash, debit/credit card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Beta Shop hours:

Cashless Facility

The Savannah Convention Center is a cashless facility. Debit/credit cards will be accepted but the facility does not accept Apple or Google Pay.

Food trucks that will be onsite may accept those forms of payment.

The Beta Shop accepts all forms of payment.

Club Trading Pins

Participating in Club Trading Pin is a fun and innovative way to connect with other Betas attending National Convention.

• Many clubs produce pins that best represent their club and trade them with other attendees.
• A variety of trading pins are available for purchase in the Beta Shop.
• Trading pins can be displayed on a convention lanyard, on a lapel, a pin towel, etc.
• Designated trading pin times can be found on the Sessions tab in our mobile app and on the final convention schedule at betaclub.org.
• All six National Sponsors and the National Beta CEO have their own trading pin. Many attendees make it their mission to meet each National Sponsor to collect their trading pin.
• Attendees that collect all six National Sponsor pins can receive a prize at the Beta registration desk.

Preferred Vendor: Trading Pins Direct

Since 2022, we have partnered with TJM Promos, Inc, and TradingPinsDirect.com as our preferred trading pin vendor. They provide all National Beta clubs with discounted pricing on any orders when you order through the link below. They are committed to excellence and service.

With Beta alumni on their team, they have the talented artists and the skills to craft award-winning pins. When you need National Beta trading pins for your upcoming Trading Pin Competition, count on them!

• How to access the discount:
  Visit: https://betaclub.tradingpinsdirect.com/
  Enter password: betaclub2022

Code of Conduct

To download Code of Conduct form, click here. This Code of Conduct content can be used for school records ONLY. This content should NOT to be returned or submitted to National Beta.

Concessions

Concessions will be available for purchase at Savannah Convention Center. The Savannah Convention Center is cashless.

Concessions schedule and offerings can be viewed here.

Deals & Discounts

We’ve partnered with local attractions to provide deals for all National Convention attendees. For details, click here.

Dress Code

• Dress for National Convention must be in good taste. Many attendees wear their club t-shirts.
• Adults are to follow the same dress code as students.
• Name tags will be issued at registration and must be worn at all times.
• Sponsors/chaperones should monitor student dress to ensure its appropriateness.
• Students running for National Office will be dressed in suits.

Emergency Information

Upon Issuance of a Warning

• CEO/National Office/Convention Staff will implement Severe Weather Safe Area procedure.
• All students and attendees shall proceed to designated safe areas and remain quiet to hear further instructions.
• Sponsors should follow standard student accounting procedures and notify National Beta Club staff of any issues.
• Occupants of shelter areas shall remain in that area until the “all clear” is given.
• In the event of building damage, students and attendees shall be evacuated to safer areas of the building or from the building.
• If evacuation occurs, do not reenter the building until given the “all clear.”

Drop, Cover, and Hold (For use in the event of an earthquake or other imminent danger to building or immediate surroundings).

• DROP to the floor, take cover under a nearby desk, table, or chair and face away from the windows.
• COVER your eyes by leaning your face against your arms.
• HOLD on the desk, table, or chair legs and maintain present location/position.
• If no cover is available, get against inside doorway or crouch against inside wall and cover head; stay away from outside walls, windows or other expanses of glass, and potential falling objects.
• Leave doors open to minimize jamming if the building shifts.
• Do not attempt to run through the building or outside due to risk of falling objects.
• Wait for further instructions.

Fire

• Implement evacuation procedures to outside assembly area.
• Assist any students needing special assistance.
• Follow standard student accounting procedures.
• Do not re-enter the building until being given the “all clear” to do so.

Bomb Threat

• If an evacuation response is initiated, modify evacuation routes as necessary based on the possible location of bomb.
• If what appears to be a bomb is found, DO NOT TOUCH IT; the police department will take charge.
• Turn off cell phones and DO NOT transmit with radios.
• Leave the environment as it is.
• Avoid altering any electrical items or systems (DO NOT turn on or off lights, DO NOT change thermostat, etc.).

Weather Emergencies

Watches: Indicate that conditions are right for the development of a weather hazard. Watches cover a larger area than Warnings. Watches usually have lead times of approximately 1-2 hours (tornado or thunderstorm), 3-12 hours (flash flood), and 12-36 hours (river flood or winter storm).

Warnings: Indicate that a hazard is imminent and the probability of occurrence is extremely high. Warnings are issued based on eyewitness reports or clear signatures from remote sensing devices (radar, satellite). Warnings usually have lead times of approximately 30 minutes or less (for thunderstorm type events), and 6 -18 hours (for river floods and winter storms).

Advisories: Issued when weather is expected to disrupt normal routines, but is not expected to be life threatening (e.g., 2-3 inches of snow, dense fog, etc.). Advisory lead times are the same as Warnings.

Upon Issuance of a Watch or Advisory: CEO/Convention Staff will monitor weather reports for change in conditions.

Local Care and Hospitals

Urgent Care 24/7 Savannah 210 Fahm St., Savannah, Ga 31401 912-662-8645

Memorial Health University Medical Center 4700 Waters Ave, Savannah, GA 31404 (912) 350-8000

Candler Hospital 5353 Reynolds St, Savannah, GA 31405 (912) 819-6000

Facility Map

View facility map of Savannah Convention center here.

Feedback

A survey will be emailed to all Sponsors of registered clubs following the close of Convention.

First Aid

First aid stations are located in the upper and main concourse areas of the Savannah Convention Center. Multiple AED’s are located on each concourse. First aid items are also available by request at the Registration desk.

Food Trucks

Food truck options and schedule can be viewed here.

General Sessions

General Sessions feature National Officer speeches, candidate campaign rallies, performing art competition finals and awards ceremonies. It is recommended that all Beta members attend General Sessions, however, attendance is not mandatory. Detailed session information can be found on our mobile app or at betaclub.org.

Livestreams of each General Session are available through Vimeo. Links to each stream can be found in the mobile app or using the links below:

• Senior Convention: https://vimeo.com/event/2837258
• Elementary Convention: https://vimeo.com/event/2837249
• Junior Convention: https://vimeo.com/event/2837257

Health & Safety Guidelines

In connection with your registered attendance for National Convention, please be advised that you must follow National Beta policies, CDC guidelines and the recommendations of health officials. Please note that any public location where people are present provides an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 and National Beta cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit. By attending National Beta Convention, you acknowledge and agree that you assume these inherent risks associated with attendance.

Leadership Ambassadors

National Leadership Ambassadors are selected annually by a panel at the National Convention. They help facilitate the their respective Regional Leadership Summits and any Leadership Sessions held during National Convention.

Leadership Challenges

National Leadership Challenges are events for clubs that qualified at a 2023-2024 Regional Leadership Summmit. Qualifying clubs must register online during the National Convention registration process. These challenges include: National Ambassador, Collaboration Connection, Project Proposal, and Lead Outside the Box. Additional details can be found here.

Livestream

Livestreams of each General Session are available through Vimeo. Links to each stream can be found here.

Loading Dock Schedule

Loading Dock area can be accessed via the blue arrow route on the map below.

Lost Badges

Any lost badges may be replaced at the National Beta registration desk. If you find a badge, please bring it to the registration desk.

Media

National Beta welcomes members of the news media to cover National Convention. All media members must email marketing@betaclub.org for instructions.

Microphones & Keyboard

The National Office provides up to 8 handheld microphones for Performing Arts - Solo, Duo, Trio, Performing Arts - Group and Campaign Skit participants. Participants in Performing Arts - Group also have access to dedicated instrument microphones. An 88 Key Weighted Yamaha Keyboard is also available.

Mobile App

Download the National Beta app on Apple and Android devices. The app features links to schedules, General Session details, the Handbook, winner lists and more!

• Download for Apple device
• Download for Android device

Mobile Charging Stations

The Savannah Convention Center offers two FuelRod portable charger station to purchase Power-to-Go Mobile Charge Kits or Swaps.

National Exhibitions

National Exhibitions are events designed to showcase Betas’ cooperative teamwork, creativity and knowledge in S.T.E.M. areas. A club may enter each of the exhibitions. Since exhibitions are not state competitions, all clubs are eligible to participate. Registration must be completed during National Convention registration. Each exhibition is limited to 100 participating clubs. Exhibitions are: Meeting of the Minds, Reimagine - Recreate - Recycle, Create and Animate, and Convention Invention. Details on the Exhibitions can be found here.

National Officers

National Officers are elected annually by registered National Beta Convention attendees to serve the following year. Officers preside over General Sessions and are available to assist in a variety of National Convention activities.

Onsite Registration

Registration for individuals planning to register onsite may be completed ahead of time. The link to complete onsite registration will be available on the app 48 hours prior to the convention start. Registration through the app can only be paid via credit card. Your registration materials including name badges, schedules and lanyards will be prepared for you ahead of time. You’ll receive a text message and email when they are ready for pick up.

Attendees wishing to pay via check/PO must complete their registration when arriving at convention.

Parking / Bus Parking

Parking information for downtown Savannah and the Savannah Convention Center can be found here.

Photography and Videography

Photography and video recording are allowed during National Convention. There will be a professional photographer in attendance. Photographs will be posted on National Beta’s social media platforms following the conclusion of National Convention. Your attendance grants your permission to be in photos or videos, which may be used for educational, archival, or promotional purposes.

Premier Performers

Premier Performers are a group of talented singers and dancers who are featured during the opening session of National Convention. These students are hand-selected during their State Conventions and are invited to perform in a special opening number.

Prop Storage

Prop storage will be available in the Exhibit Hall behind the stage.

Loading Dock area to drop off large props can be accessed via the blue arrow route on the map below.

Refunds

National Beta does not issue refunds for National Convention registrations, unless the entire convention is canceled by the National Office. Email finance@betaclub.org with any questions.

Registration & Badge Pick Up

Sponsors of pre-registered attendees can pick up their bags at the registration desk. Registration bags contain badges and lanyards for each attendee. Registration is required for all attendees. Onsite registration will be available for any attendees who did not register prior to the deadline. Registration fees are as follows:

• $50 per member/guest (if registering by the deadline)
• $55 per member/guest/sponsor (if registering onsite)
• Single day passes will be available for purchase onsite only for $25 per guest. Single day passes will only be valid for day of purchase.
• Day passes will not be available for members participating in competitions.*

Registration dates/times will be released closer to National Convention.

Reserving Seats

A select number of seats are reserved during General Sessions for National Officer Candidates, National Beta Board Members, and winners of the Water Bottle Flip Challenge. These seats are clearly marked with branded seat sleeve or signage on each seat back.

The winners of the Water Bottle Flip Challenge are Springdale Elementary School, A.G. Cox Middle School, and Bleckley County High School. Congratulations on your reserved seating!

All other seating is open to all National Convention attendees on a first come, first served basis. Seats cannot be saved for groups with signage or by roping off sections of seating.

Safety Measures and Tips

General Safety Tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to the people and activities happening around you.
• Avoid walking alone. Whenever possible, walk with a group and use well-lit and populated areas.
• Keep your belongings secure. Use hotel safes to store valuable items and carry only what you need.
• Inform a trusted adult if you observe any suspicious or concerning behavior from anyone.
• Before leaving an area, make sure that you have collected all belongings and any personal items (phone, car keys, hotel room keys, jackets, bags, etc.).
• When traveling in separate groups, make sure that someone knows your location/destination and check-in periodically with a group contact person.

Interactions with the Homeless Population:

• Treat everyone with respect and kindness, including the homeless population. Remember that they are individuals deserving of dignity.
• Maintain a comfortable distance from strangers, including homeless individuals, and only interact with them under adult supervision.
• Do not give money directly to individuals on the street because you could become a daily target for additional funds. It’s often more impactful to support organizations that can address the underlying causes of homelessness.
• Avoid displaying large amounts of cash, valuable items or sharing personal information. This can help minimize the risk of becoming a target for theft.

Cell Phone Usage:

• Keep your phone out of sight when walking in public. This helps prevent distractions and reduces the risk of becoming a target for theft.
• If you need to use your phone, find a safe and well-populated area to do so.
• Stay aware of your surroundings while using your phone. Pause and find a safe spot if you need to respond to a message or check directions.

Pedestrian Safety:

• Utilize crosswalks and pedestrian signals when crossing streets. Wait for the signal indicating it’s safe to cross before proceeding.
• Look both ways before crossing the street, even if you have the right of way. Always be cautious of oncoming traffic.
• Avoid jaywalking or crossing streets in the middle of the block. Stick to designated crosswalks for your safety.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of vehicles. Ensure they have seen you and are stopping or yielding before proceeding.
• Stay alert for turning vehicles, even when you have the right of way. Always be prepared to yield if necessary.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Familiarize yourself with the convention center layout and the location of any emergency exits.
• Keep emergency contact information saved on your phone or written down in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
• Follow the instructions and guidance of event organizers, security personnel, and law enforcement if any emergency situation arises.
• For groups traveling together, make sure that everyone in the group has each other’s contact information or way to reach everyone in the group.
• Have a dedicated meeting spot if someone were to get lost or for everyone to meet should an emergency occur.

Scavenger Hunt

All National Beta attendees are welcome to participate in an online scavenger hunt, hosted through Goose Chase. The scavenger hunt is a great way for your Betas to take advantage of any down time between competitions. New hunts will go live every day of National Convention. The top three teams each day will receive a custom trading pin. Full details can be found here.

New in 2024, we’ll be hosting a Savannah City Scavenger Hunt. Clubs can participate in this during National Convention! Clubs will have three hours to tackle numerous scavenger hunt missions, all of which require exploring Savannah beyond the convention center.

Schedules

The National Convention schedule of each convention is available within the mobile app and online. Detailed general session information can be found under the Sessions icon on the mobile app. All scheduled events are listed in Eastern Standard Time and are subject to change.

Sensory Sensitivities

The experience of attending a National Beta Convention is enhanced by loud, sudden audio, flashing/strobing lights, video display boards and other elements. Participants with sensitivities to these experiences should be aware of their use, especially during General Sessions. All Sessions will be broadcast via livestream for any attendees who may choose to view in a separate location.

Social Media

Follow National Beta on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see all news and highlights during National Convention. Be sure to tag National Beta or use the hashtag #betacon24 to be featured.

Staff Shoutout Survey

Fill out this survey to shout out a National Beta staff member or share a highlight.

Stage

The stage will be at least a 60 x 40’ performance area.

Transportation

Complimentary Shuttle and Water Ferry Service will be available to all hotels located in the historic district and to River Street of Savannah. Transportation information and schedules can be found here.

Visitor Center Locations

Visit Savannah Manages two visitor Centers in Historic Savannah. Each center is staffed by knowledgeable Visit Savannah staff and are happy to assist you.

MLK Visitor Information Center 301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Savannah, GA 31401 912.944.0455 HOURS OF OPERATION Daily 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

River Street Visitor Information Center 1 West River Street Savannah, GA 31401 912.651.6662 HOURS OF OPERATION Sunday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Voting

All National Beta members registered for National Convention can vote for National Officers. All voting is electronic and may be completed on a smart phone, tablet, etc by visiting www.betaclub.org/vote or by clicking the Vote icon in the National Beta mobile app. Pre-registered members will vote using the membership number printed on their name badge. Because ID numbers are required for voting, a device can be used for more than one member. Students, that register onsite, will vote at a designate area immediately following the campaign session.

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