Posted on: Monday, August 25, 2003

EDITORIAL
Roll out red carpet for convention group

E komo mai, American Society of Association Executives. We hope the more than 3,000 attendees experience the best of local hospitality and take back with them the message that Hawai'i is a great place to do business.

For those who don't know, this coveted convention, which began Saturday at the Hawai'i Convention Center, is for association executives and exhibitors who represent 10,000 other associations and includes those who decide where conventions and meetings take place. Honolulu is indeed fortunate to have landed the event.

As Frank Haas, tourism marketing director for the Hawai'i Tourism Authority points out, "This is a very important group of customers." Their approval could lead to a boost in sorely needed convention bookings.

The state is pumping about $1.4 million into the event, so we expect results. Hawai'i must be seen as more than just sun and fun. This gathering can help sell that message.