Organization of American States gathering (OAS) means big bucks for Fort Lauderdale

Sun Sentinel ^ | May 22 2005 | Tom Stieghorst

[Caipirabob]

On the surface, when the Organization of American States convenes its General Assembly at the Broward County Convention Center on June 5, the product generated will be lots and lots of words. Picture 600 diplomats talking for three days about democracy.

But there will be some dollars spent, too.

Even a diplomat needs a bed, a ride and a bite to eat between speeches. Diplomats' spouses and families might want to shop. And if President Bush and his travel party show up to kick off the discussion, hotels could get a windfall of White House spending.

The three-day event could fill 2,100 to 3,000 hotel rooms in a slow travel month in South Florida and pump at least $15 million into the economy.

That's nice, but not the real story, according to tourism promoters. After all, when the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors sets up at the convention center June 8 after the diplomats leave, it expects to bring 2,500 attendees.

That's more than the OAS meeting, unless the president comes.

But to the hospitality industry, the OAS meeting isn't just another convention. It is a group of ultra-influentials, a category that also embraces event planners and tour operators. Tourism promoters say they matter because they can bring large numbers of other people to the destination for years after their conference has been gaveled to a close.

[Caipirabob]

Is anyone familiar with this organization? It's charter was established in 1948 according to their site. Here is is.

Well, if nothing else the South Florida economy may hope for a decent boost from this convention. Thoughts anyone? Any further info to share on this organization? Sounds more like a means to facilitate business and trade than political ideology to me.

[sgtbono2002]

If things go as they have been Bush will fill them all in on how to come to America the back way, by walking over the border. One thing they wont have any language problem in Fort Lauderdale or south Florida.

[Caipirabob]

One thing they wont have any language problem in Fort Lauderdale or south Florida.

True, we do English, Spanish and Portuguese in my home alone. : )

But as far as Illegals, I don't see how they can affort it down here without major subsidies. The housing market has spun way out of control. You have to have major $'s to be able to afford a standard home down here now.

Apartment rental is just a step behind the houseing market. I can't even imagine where all the money comes to move here. If I hadn't bought when I did...jeez!