TAH Washington Summer Trip E-mail 7 (Bags, Binders, etc. & Security Policies)
June 22, 2013
Tuesday, June 25: Due to Security at the Senate buildings, the U.S. Capitol, and the National Archives, it might be best that we decide not to carry any bags, binders, etc. that day. Just to be safe.
Wednesday, June 26: Due to Security Policies at the Library of Congress, I am going to try to have the bus be at Garfield Circle to meet us and take us to the Newseum. That way we can pick up bags which are permitted at the Newseum and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, but will be checked. Best policy, keep all bags as light as possible for searches. Policies for these 2 locations appear below (I bolded specific passages due to certain individual members in the group. Just kidding!):
Newseum Security Policy
We hope you enjoy your visit to the Newseum. To ensure that all visitors have a safe and fun experience, everyone will be subject to security screening. Please be prepared to remove all objects from your pockets and place them in the plastic bags that will be provided. All purses, bags and backpacks should be open for inspection. Thank you for your cooperation.
Policies:
· Photography: Flash photography is welcomed throughout the Newseum, except in areas where it is prohibited.
· Smoking: The Newseum is a tobacco-free facility. Smoking is strictly prohibited.
· Pets: Only service animals are allowed inside the building.
· Weapons: Weapons of any type are strictly prohibited.
· Food: Food, gum and beverages are not permitted inside the building or in the exhibit areas.
· Banners: Posters, signs or placards with attached handles and/or larger than 11" x 15" are not permitted. Banners of any size are prohibited without prior approval from the Newseum. Solicitation is strictly prohibited.
Tips for Visiting the Smithsonian
We ask that when you visit the Smithsonian that you help us to ensure our collections remain safe. Please consider leaving any items that need to be checked by security at home or at the hotel to speed entry.
1. Bring only a small purse or "fanny-pack"-style bag
2. Do not bring large daypacks, backpacks, or luggage into the museums, as they will be subject to a lengthy search in each building entered. Leave such items on the tour or school bus or in a hotel room.
3. A reminder: bag lunches may not be eaten in the museums.
4. Do not bring any sharp items into the museums such as knives (including pocket or "Swiss Army"-style knives), screwdrivers, scissors, etc.
5. Other items not permitted include firearms, pepper spray, and Mace.