2012 National Sweepstakes Convention

[kbsocial]

The 2012 National Sweepstakes Convention will be held in Atlanta, GA on August 15-19, 2012. All information can be found on the AtlantaGA2012 (http://www.atlantaga2012.com/index.html) website!

Who runs the convention and decides where it will be?

There has to be a sweep club (or dedicated individuals) willing to come to a convention and put a bid in for it- "state their case" so to speak as to why their community should host the convention - if there is a club willing to do the work and can come to a convention, attend a Past/Present/Future Convention Hosts meeting and put together the bid for it - that is then taken to the large group attending that convention and it is voted on. There is a lot of support from past convention hosts that will assist with details and items leading up to and throughout the weekend. There is no National Convention Sweepstakes Committee or anything like that - sweepers rely on the clubs or individuals to step up and host. Pulling off a convention for 600+ sweepers is no easy task - so you have to have a strong club and/or strong leadership to make it happen. As you can see from the list below there have been conventions all over - any location is welcome to bid

Past/Present/Future Convention Hosts:

1990 - Lansing, MI
1991 - Clemson, SC
1992 - Arlington, TX
1993 - Annapolis, MD
1994 - Indianapolis, IN
1995 - San Diego, CA
1996 - Nashville, TN
1997 - Naperville, IL
1998 - New Orleans, LA
1999 - Arlington, TX
2000 - Bahama Cruise Convention
2001 - Orlando, FL
2002 - Louisville, KY
2003 - Baltimore, MD
2004 - San Diego, CA
2005 - Moline, IL
2006 - Scottsdale, AZ
2007 - Dearborn, MI
2008 - San Antonio, TX
2009 - Manchester, NH
2010 - Bloomington, MN
2011 - Ft Wayne, IN
2012 - Atlanta, GA
2013 - Salt Lake City, UT

[KISSaholic4life]

Me, Baked and RewCatherine met up with Tania and her mom today in Manchester, NH - site of the sweepstakes convention they put together a couple of years ago. They are putting together next years convention in Hotlanta, GA. - durin' our meetup today I begged for some tidbit of information about the upcoming convention that no one knows about yet. They said they had a few things they are working on and can't reveal too much just yet - they said they'd think about it and see what they could let be known now. Awhile later while goin' to our next destination on our road trip I got a text from Tania. Below is what she said -



http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y139/KISSaholic4life/IMG_3132.jpg








Text: Atlanta is home of Coke. Start collecting licensed Coca-Cola merchandise as it will be your entry into special raffles to win baskets of Coca-Cola items.




It was great seein' all the conventioners this year - and hope to see even more next year!







:cheer2:

[uclafan]

Me, Baked and RewCatherine met up with Tania and her mom today in Manchester, NH - site of the sweepstakes convention they put together a couple of years ago. They are putting together next years convention in Hotlanta, GA. - durin' our meetup today I begged for some tidbit of information about the upcoming convention that no one knows about yet.
Awhile later while goin' to our next destination on our road trip I got a text from Tania. Below is what she said -Text: Atlanta is home of Coke. Start collecting licensed Coca-Cola merchandise as it will be your entry into special raffles to win baskets of Coca-Cola items.
:cheer2:


Thanx for the advance notice KISS, will keep my eyes opened at Thrift Stores, etc.


See everyone in Atlanta, next year. 415 days and counting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


:jackbox:

[semtaylor]

Will start watching for New and Licensed Coke products to bring. Thanks

Since we do not have official info yet on how this will work I will keep my receipts. I know at the Hershey mini convention you have to show what you paid for items and they must be new so I am thinking this maybe will be the same.

[KISSaholic4life]

Will start watching for New and Licensed Coke products to bring. Thanks

Since we do not have official info yet on how this will work I will keep my receipts. I know at the Hershey mini convention you have to show what you paid for items and they must be new so I am thinking this maybe will be the same.



Tania and her crew will be updating the 2012 convention (http://www.atlantaga2012.com/index.html) webpage quite often - and I'm sure she'll post here letting us know of the latest info.










:cheer2:

[TaniaNH]

We are working on the guidelines for that special drawing and more. We expect to have new information posted on the website this weekend. (I have been delayed by making Bud Light Crews, I just can't help myself)

[TaniaNH]

Come check out the convention on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/pages/AtlantaGA2012/133713396679670?sk=wall

AtlantaGA2012

We will be posting the lastest information and updates as well as providing an additional place for people to chat about the convention.

We already have 212 "likes" and hope that we can get many more!

[TaniaNH]

Convention attendees can bring new and unused licensed Coca-Cola merchandise. We will make bags of these awesome Coke items and draw for winners!

-$5 worth of new and unused licensed Coca-Cola merchandise per entry
-Bring receipts to verify value
-Value of items without receipts will be left to the discretion of the convention planning team

Have fun and be creative!

[cinderoo]

have fun all !

[tarah86]

lol I might go to this one since ATL is just around the corner for me

1. Do I have to book a room since I live near Atlanta, GA to go to the convention?

[KISSaholic4life]

lol I might go to this one since ATL is just around the corner for me

1. Do I have to book a room since I live near Atlanta, GA to go to the convention?


Nope.

I believe the only requirements for the convention are -

1- You must register in order to attend.

2- Have a great time at the convention!






:cheer2:

[tarah86]

Nope.

I believe the only requirements for the convention are -

1- You must register in order to attend.

2- Have a great time at the convention!






:cheer2:

thanks for answering so quickly:)

[TaniaNH]

The 23rd Annual National Sweepstakes Convention will convene in Atlanta one year from today!!! Don't forget if you register by September 19th the cost is only $185 and you will be entered into a drawing for three free room nights at the convention hotel!

www.AtlantaGA2012.com

We are planning a convention that you won't want to miss! You will be able to catch up with old sweeping friends and meet new ones. We are lining up great speakers, loads of fun and fantastic prizes. Even though the convention is a year away...the prize closet is already growing!!!

Register early for the best rates! See you in Atlanta!!!!!

[SweepsAng]

Very excited Tania! Can you leak any convention secrets? We promise not to tell!

[TaniaNH]

I can't think of any secrets right now, but Ican tell you that we are going to have a contest called BYOWP. Rules will be coming soon, but we are challenging people to create and bring their own winner paddles to the convention. They will be judged either in an individual category or in a group category. I have a feeling that sweepers will be able to use their imagination and make some great winner paddles. It will be our job to make sure that you have a reason to wave them!

[TaniaNH]

http://www.80daysofga.com/
Explore the 80 days of Georgia giveaways!

http://www.atlanta.net/50fun/index_new.asp
50 Fun Things to do in Atlanta

[gacarol]

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES just announced it is coming to Atlanta in Feb. 2012! That could be great news if you want to come to the convention but airfares are holding you back. Not only will SW be offering lower fares, but Delta will probably follow suit to keep their passengers. We could see an airfare war! YEA!

Wish I could book my flight to SLC in 2013!

[caseycupcake]

I know I'm ready. Sent in my registration and my sister's too (sis2ccc) ! :dance:

[uclafan]

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES just announced it is coming to Atlanta in Feb. 2012! That could be great news if you want to come to the convention but airfares are holding you back. Not only will SW be offering lower fares, but Delta will probably follow suit to keep their passengers. We could see an airfare war! YEA!

Wish I could book my flight to SLC in 2013!


That's GREAT news because I'd prefer to take Southwest as it's usually better pricewise. Perhaps they new our convention was coming to Atlanta. LOL

"346 days and counting"

[secular]

2013 YEE-HAW!!! :blues:

[leeleepee]

I am so excited to see that its slc in 2013!

[dmkayes]

planning on going? I would love to go but I hate traveling by myself!!! Please send me a message if you are planning on going!
Thanks!
Darcie

[TaniaNH]

I know that we have quite a few coming from Michigan. Send me an email at atlantaga2012@gmail.com and let me know where in Michigan and I will see if I can help you connect with some convention goers from your neck of the woods.

[MookieStink]

I would be happy to attend for a fee of $3000. I win an average of 3 radio station contests a month and 2 internet sweeps. I would be able to speak to an audience and tell them what I have learned the past 25 years of consistently winning. By the way that adds up to hundreds of wins over the last 25 years. $3000 is a reasonable fee to learn the tricks of the trade. The real irony is I got my start 25 years ago when I won $500 on Fox 97 in Atlanta.

[ResourcePress]

I would be happy to attend for $3000. I win an average of 3 radio station contests a month and 2 internet sweeps. I would be able to speak to an audience and tell them what I have learned the past 25 years of consistently winning.

I'm hoping to spend less than 3k for the convention. Anyone else have estimates on total cost (transportation + hotel + meals + registration)?

[ResourcePress]

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES just announced it is coming to Atlanta in Feb. 2012! That could be great news if you want to come to the convention but airfares are holding you back. Not only will SW be offering lower fares...

Thanks for that info! I have SW credits and will be looking for great deals from them. :jet:

[KISSaholic4life]

I'm hoping to spend less than 3k for the convention. Anyone else have estimates on total cost (transportation + hotel + meals + registration)?



From the convention website -


Convention Registration Fees

$210 if paid registration is received prior to Saturday, December 31, 2011

$235 if paid registration is received prior to Monday, July 9, 2012




Rooms at the special convention rate are $99 per night for singles or doubles.

•A non-refundable & non-transferable deposit of one night's stay will be required to book
•Room rates are based on singles and doubles- each additional person is $10 per night
•Rooms are subject to 15% state and local taxes
•These rates are available for three days prior and three days after the convention if you would like to extend your stay
•The convention rates will be available until August 1, 2012
•Parking is $10 per day for self parking in the hotel garage (usually $22)
•Wireless Internet is $9.95 per stay (normaly $11.95 per day)

[ResourcePress]

Thanks for the numbers KISS! I calculate I'll be at $1500+, $500 of which is already paid for.

Registration $200
Hotel, 4 nights w/taxes + internet $500
Airfare $200
Raffles, etc $200
Meals $200
Entertainment $200 (Georgia Aquarium and Braves baseball)

[gacarol]

2013 YEE-HAW!!! :blues:

How about warming up in Atlanta in 2012!

[gacarol]

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES just announced it is coming to Atlanta in Feb. 2012! That could be great news if you want to come to the convention but airfares are holding you back. Not only will SW be offering lower fares, but Delta will probably follow suit to keep their passengers. We could see an airfare war! YEA!


Southwest Airlines officially starts flying from & to Hartsfield Jackson International Airport, Atlanta, GA on Feb. 12, 2012.

[gacarol]

Thanks for the numbers KISS! I calculate I'll be at $1500+, $500 of which is already paid for.

Registration $200
Hotel, 4 nights w/taxes + internet $500
Airfare $200
Raffles, etc $200
Meals $200
Entertainment $200 (Georgia Aquarium and Braves baseball)


The Atlanta Braves are home during the convention:

Aug 13 - 16 -vs Padres

Aug 17 - 19 - vs Dodgers
No times have been announced for the games. Maybe, Wed 8/16 will be an afternoon game - if you're coming early!

[ResourcePress]

The Atlanta Braves are home during the convention:
Aug 13 - 16 -vs Padres
Aug 17 - 19 - vs Dodgers
No times has been announced for the games. Maybe, Wed 8/16 will be an afternoon game - if you're coming early!

Great news on the Braves home game dates! Am hoping that the Falcons will play a home preseason game on Sunday. Planning to leave on Monday, but not sure when we will arrive. I'm SO looking forward to Atlanta in August.

[KISSaholic4life]

Great news on the Braves home game dates! Am hoping that the Falcons will play a home preseason game on Sunday. Planning to leave on Monday, but not sure when we will arrive. I'm SO looking forward to Atlanta in August.



Don't wait til Friday to show up - on Thursday evening is the meet & greet!










:cheer2:

[ResourcePress]

Thursday at the latest then, and maybe even Wednesday. Thanks for the info KISS!

[gacarol]

The Atlanta Braves are home during the convention:

Aug 13 - 16 -vs Padres

Aug 17 - 19 - vs Dodgers

No times has been announced for the games. Maybe, Wed, 8/16 will be an afternoon game - if you're coming early!


8/16/2012 is a THURSDAY, not a Wed. Sorry. Works out better if the 16th turns out to be a day game - usually starts at noon -If you get to town Wed. you will be able to go over to the stadium early Thurs morning to see batting practice before the game.

[ResourcePress]

Thanks for the heads up! I'm sure sis and I will catch some Braves baseball (maybe even some batting practice) while we're in Atlanta.

[uclafan]

Thanx for posting about these baseball games. Hoping the Dodger game on the 19th is a "nite" game.

I'm so excited to see that my Dodgers will be in town. Who knows maybe they'll be in the hotel or close by. LOL

[risavjl]

I spent $1000 for New Hampshire from Wisc. Then I was lucky to have won it back on banquet night!

I imagine it would be around $1500 now at least. Save your pennies!

[jolee62]

I want to plan to go to the 2012 convention. I dont usually treat myself to such fun things but I have been sweeping for many years and would love to attend!!! I really really want to go!:royal:

[KISSaholic4life]

I want to plan to go to the 2012 convention. I dont usually treat myself to such fun things but I have been sweeping for many years and would love to attend!!! I really really want to go!:royal:



I really really really want you to come to the convention!












:cheer2:

[jolee62]

Thank you Kiss!!!

Is there anyone in NC that is planning on going? Would love a travel companion and roomate if possible!!!:smile7:

[jolee62]

Calling all NC people!!! Anyone want to travel and share a room with me?? I promise I dont snore!:dance:

[TaniaNH]

Registrations received prior to December 31st will be the discounted rate of $210 and you will be entered into the drawing for two free convention hotel nights!

http://www.atlantaga2012.com/Registration.html

You will still be able to register after December 31st, but the price will be $235.

Register early so you will save a little money to spend on your convention raffles and the chance to win the brand new car!!! http://www.atlantaga2012.com/Raffles.html

On the flip side, the last day to receive a full refund for those who, sadly, will not be able to join us in Atlanta is also December 31st. atlantaga2012@gmail.com

[TaniaNH]

We have posted a tentative convention schedule...

http://www.atlantaga2012.com/Schedule.html

[TaniaNH]

The Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau has offered us Atlanta Savings Cards for all Convention Attendees. These are valid at a variety of places in Atlanta and offer a considerable savings to us! For example, $10 off a ticket to the Georgia Aquarium! Check it out!

The Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau has offered us Atlanta Savings Cards for all Convention Attendees. These are valid at a variety of places in Atlanta and offer a considerable savings to us! For example, $10 off a ticket to the Georgia Aquarium! Check it out!

http://www.atlanta.net/easy/hospitalityservices.asp?meetingNum=123607&accountNum=00120451

[ResourcePress]

We have posted a tentative convention schedule...

http://www.atlantaga2012.com/Schedule.html

Thanks! Looks like a great schedule and there's still time to catch a baseball game and time to spend at the Aquarium.

[kbsocial]

The Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau has offered us Atlanta Savings Cards for all Convention Attendees. These are valid at a variety of places in Atlanta and offer a considerable savings to us! For example, $10 off a ticket to the Georgia Aquarium! Check it out!

http://www.atlanta.net/easy/hospitalityservices.asp?meetingNum=123607&accountNum=00120451

Way to go Atlanta CVB!!!

[gacarol]

Register early so you will save a little money to spend on your convention raffles and the chance to win the brand new car!!! http://www.atlantaga2012.com/Raffles.html

Reminder: The Raffle Shopper Service is under 'Winning' on the convention page, or you can use the link above to directly access the page. You do NOT have to purchase all optional raffle items at one time, so it is a little easier on the pocket book. The 'Car' raffle is also at this link.

[gacarol]

The Atlanta Braves are home during the convention:

Aug 13 - 16 -vs Padres

Aug 17 - 19 - vs Dodgers
No times have been announced for the games. Maybe, Wed 8/16 will be an afternoon game - if you're coming early!


FINALLY - Times have been posted for the home games during the convention:

All are AUGUST Dates

14 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Tues) In case you are coming early

15 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Wed)

16 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Thurs)

17 vs Dodgers 7:35 pm (Fri)

18 vs Dodgers 7:10 pm (Sat)

19 vs Dodgers 1:35 pm (Sun)

Here is the schedule link: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/schedule/index.jsp?c_id=atl&partnerId=ed-5623498-249995762#m=8&y=2012&calendar=DEFAULT

Tickets & Seating chart: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/atl/ticketing/season_tickets.jsp?partnerId=ed-5623498-249995762

[KISSaholic4life]

FINALLY - Times have been posted for the home games during the convention:

All are AUGUST Dates

14 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Tues) In case you are coming early

15 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Wed)

16 vs Padres 7:10 pm (Thurs)

17 vs Dodgers 7:35 pm (Fri)

18 vs Dodgers 7:10 pm (Sat)

19 vs Dodgers 1:35 pm (Sun)

Here is the schedule link: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/schedule/index.jsp?c_id=atl&partnerId=ed-5623498-249995762#m=8&y=2012&calendar=DEFAULT

Tickets & Seating chart: http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/atl/ticketing/season_tickets.jsp?partnerId=ed-5623498-249995762



If you do plan on goin' to one of the above games - keep in mind that on Thursday Aug 16th there is a Convention Kickoff Party from 6pm - 9pm and on Saturday Aug 18th there is the convention banquet from 6pm - ?. In the past the banquets have lasted 3-4 hours and lotsa prizes are given away durin' the banquet!







:cheer2:

[gacarol]

If you do plan on goin' to one of the above games - keep in mind that on Thursday Aug 16th there is a Convention Kickoff Party from 6pm - 9pm and on Saturday Aug 18th there is the convention banquet from 6pm - ?. In the past the banquets have lasted 3-4 hours and lotsa prizes are given away durin' the banquet!







:cheer2:

Oh yes! Don't want anyone to miss a minute of this exciting convention or free time with convention friends. Posted only for those who expressed interest earlier and family not attending the convention. :smile7:

[JuneWish]

Can anyone tell me what the "Convention Shopper" is all about in Atlanta? I don't understand how this works...sorry I'm such a newbie...but VERY interested in joining this elite group!:mm::mm:

[semtaylor]

The convention shopper service is a way for you to get in on optional raffles if you choose to participate in these. These are raffle items you purchase yourself for your entries. This year they are giving us a way to purchase these items with the convention shopper service.

In past you would bring the items to the convention and turn in to get an entry in raffles for these items. Example if you brought USPS postcards you were in drawing for postcards. At the Saturday evening banquet the winners of these optional raffles are chosen.

So the convention shopper service was set up to make these optional raffles easier. You can either still bring the items with you OR you can purchase via the convention shopper service page and your items will be purchased for you.

The convention shopper page will tell you what items are in this raffle and give you # of entries information.

I believe after you register for the convention you will receive an email with a link to this convention shopper service page.

This is my understanding of how it works and I hope it explains things better.

[gacarol]

I feel like a kid at Christmas - so excited! Can't wait till Santa gets here!!!!!! That's what a convention feels like - so much excitement and anticipation and gifts (prizes) galore!!!! And the family is coming to share! Oh my!

Can't get here soon enough for me!!!!

[gacarol]

Sweet Jack just posted a 50% discount on a Segway tour if you're coming to Atlanta.

Link: https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=wm#inbox/1391faefa165673a

[ResourcePress]

Hotel emailed me a coupon for 20% off at Fandangle's.