from USA Today 7/15/2009
Americans lend a hand to new Liberia
By Christina Holder, Special for USA TODAY
"MONROVIA, Liberia — After 14 years of civil war, Liberia was known for its blighted buildings, bullet-sprayed roads and child soldiers who wear wigs to dress up for battle.
Since a peace accord was signed nearly six years ago, American investors such as Black Entertainment Television founder Robert Johnson have started trying to help change the ruinous image of this small nation that has historic ties to the United States." ...
"...he opened a four-star, $8 million resort last month on the outskirts of the capital of Monrovia, saying he wanted to help awaken business." ...
for the complete story
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Osaka to get Paramount Park
from today's HNN (7/16/2009)
Investment firm unveils Paramount Resort Osaka plan
Japan Economic Newswire, July 16, 2009 Thursday 6:52 AM GMT
"An Osaka-based investment firm said Thursday it will cooperate with an affiliate of U.S. movie company Paramount Pictures Corp. to develop a theme park named Paramount Resort Osaka in Suita, Osaka Prefecture." ...
for the complete story
Investment firm unveils Paramount Resort Osaka plan
Japan Economic Newswire, July 16, 2009 Thursday 6:52 AM GMT
"An Osaka-based investment firm said Thursday it will cooperate with an affiliate of U.S. movie company Paramount Pictures Corp. to develop a theme park named Paramount Resort Osaka in Suita, Osaka Prefecture." ...
for the complete story
Monday, June 8, 2009
MGM Mirage moving to Taiwan for casino development
from today's Hotel Newswire (6/8):
MGM Mirage in talks to develop a casino in TaiwanChina Knowledge Newswire, June 8, 2009 Monday
"MGM Mirage, the second-largest casino operator in the world, is in negations with three investor groups to develop a casino in Taiwan to enhance its presence in the fast-growing Asian market, said Lloyd Nathan, president of the company's global gaming development..."
for the complete story
MGM Mirage in talks to develop a casino in TaiwanChina Knowledge Newswire, June 8, 2009 Monday
"MGM Mirage, the second-largest casino operator in the world, is in negations with three investor groups to develop a casino in Taiwan to enhance its presence in the fast-growing Asian market, said Lloyd Nathan, president of the company's global gaming development..."
for the complete story
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Sacramento Railyards project abandoning depot
from today's Sacramento Bee (6/3):
Sacramento's historic train depot not moving
Published Wednesday, Jun. 03, 2009
"The historic I Street train depot is staying put.
After staff testified the city could lose hundreds of millions of dollars in federal support if the building is moved, the Sacramento City Council on Tuesday night decided not to jack the mammoth structure up and roll it 300 feet north in the railyards." ...
for the complete story
Sacramento's historic train depot not moving
Published Wednesday, Jun. 03, 2009
"The historic I Street train depot is staying put.
After staff testified the city could lose hundreds of millions of dollars in federal support if the building is moved, the Sacramento City Council on Tuesday night decided not to jack the mammoth structure up and roll it 300 feet north in the railyards." ...
for the complete story
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Macao statistics
Macao has just released several million forms of visitor statistics in Excel for April 2009. Ok, so maybe it's several dozen, but let's just say it's a lot, shall we?
For the excel tables, contact Ruth.
For the excel tables, contact Ruth.
Ski areas see revenue increase
from today's National Sporting Goods Assn newsletter (5/26):
Ski Areas Report Increased Revenues for the 2007/08 Season
"With increased revenues in all major sales areas, the U.S. ski area financial results for the 2007/08 season improved over a strong 2006/07 season. According to the 2007/08 Economic Analysis of U.S. Ski Areas produced for the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), overall average resort revenue grew 11.4% to $26.0 million per resort.
Life tickets remain the primary driver of ski area revenue. The average resort reported life ticket sales of $12.1 million in revenue in 2007/08, up 11.3% nationally. The average proportion of total revenue derived from lift ticket sales was 46.5% industry-wide, flat from the previous year."...
for complete news, contact Ruth
Ski Areas Report Increased Revenues for the 2007/08 Season
"With increased revenues in all major sales areas, the U.S. ski area financial results for the 2007/08 season improved over a strong 2006/07 season. According to the 2007/08 Economic Analysis of U.S. Ski Areas produced for the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), overall average resort revenue grew 11.4% to $26.0 million per resort.
Life tickets remain the primary driver of ski area revenue. The average resort reported life ticket sales of $12.1 million in revenue in 2007/08, up 11.3% nationally. The average proportion of total revenue derived from lift ticket sales was 46.5% industry-wide, flat from the previous year."...
for complete news, contact Ruth
Hotels hosting concerts
from today's Atlanta Journal Constitution (5/26):
Hotels to host concerts, with guests the goal
By Leon Stafford
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
"Sometimes everything old is new again in the hotel business.
Hotels, which were the social gathering places in decades past with big dances and glitzy, Hollywood-style receptions, are attempting to resurrect those good times by bringing in music acts — some known, others on the cusp of stardom — to draw big crowds." ...
"The W Hotel Midtown, the Four Seasons Atlanta, Hotel Palomar and other lodgers have gotten into the game as metro Atlantans begin to look for entertainment options this summer. The concerts are usually free or have a nominal fee." ...
for the complete story
Hotels to host concerts, with guests the goal
By Leon Stafford
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
"Sometimes everything old is new again in the hotel business.
Hotels, which were the social gathering places in decades past with big dances and glitzy, Hollywood-style receptions, are attempting to resurrect those good times by bringing in music acts — some known, others on the cusp of stardom — to draw big crowds." ...
"The W Hotel Midtown, the Four Seasons Atlanta, Hotel Palomar and other lodgers have gotten into the game as metro Atlantans begin to look for entertainment options this summer. The concerts are usually free or have a nominal fee." ...
for the complete story
Middle East needs hotels
from Gulf News (5/25):
Hotel occupancy to bounce back
05/25/2009 06:24 PM | By Nadia Saleem, Staff Reporter
"Dubai: Though the Gulf region is seeing a total of 306 new hotels under construction at a value of over $140 billion (Dh514 billion), more will be needed by 2013 to satisfy the expected demand, a study says.
Proleads, a research house for the leisure industry yesterday revealed a report at The Hotel Show, a hospitality services trade show that stated occupancy rates will return to previous levels by 2010, followed by significant growth by 2013." ...
for the complete story
For information on the Proleads report and how to order it
Hotel occupancy to bounce back
05/25/2009 06:24 PM | By Nadia Saleem, Staff Reporter
"Dubai: Though the Gulf region is seeing a total of 306 new hotels under construction at a value of over $140 billion (Dh514 billion), more will be needed by 2013 to satisfy the expected demand, a study says.
Proleads, a research house for the leisure industry yesterday revealed a report at The Hotel Show, a hospitality services trade show that stated occupancy rates will return to previous levels by 2010, followed by significant growth by 2013." ...
for the complete story
For information on the Proleads report and how to order it
San Diego military contracts boom
from today's San Diego Business Journal (5/26):
Military Readies Building Offensive
By BRAD GRAVES - 5/25/2009
"Just as a weaver twists multiple strands of nylon together to make a rope, the U.S. government has twisted several military construction initiatives together to form something with a good deal of economic pull.
February’s economic stimulus package contains 80 military construction projects — many of them local — worth $1 billion. “We have a very aggressive timetable to get this stuff awarded,” said Capt. Steve Wirsching." ...
"The Navy captain said this month that he hopes to put 62 projects in the hands of builders by Sept. 30 — the end of the federal fiscal year." ...
"The command is on track to award $1.7 billion worth of work in the 2009 fiscal year. In 2010, Wirsching said his command may award $3.1 billion worth of contracts — a far cry from the $350 million to $500 million in contracts it would award in a slower year." ...
for the complete story
Military Readies Building Offensive
By BRAD GRAVES - 5/25/2009
"Just as a weaver twists multiple strands of nylon together to make a rope, the U.S. government has twisted several military construction initiatives together to form something with a good deal of economic pull.
February’s economic stimulus package contains 80 military construction projects — many of them local — worth $1 billion. “We have a very aggressive timetable to get this stuff awarded,” said Capt. Steve Wirsching." ...
"The Navy captain said this month that he hopes to put 62 projects in the hands of builders by Sept. 30 — the end of the federal fiscal year." ...
"The command is on track to award $1.7 billion worth of work in the 2009 fiscal year. In 2010, Wirsching said his command may award $3.1 billion worth of contracts — a far cry from the $350 million to $500 million in contracts it would award in a slower year." ...
for the complete story
Thursday, May 21, 2009
NY museums struggling
From the Democrat and Chronicle (NY) (5/5):
Area museums struggle to balance budgets as attendance rises
Stuart Low
"Museums enjoy the reputation of timeless temples of art. But throughout western New York, hard times are eroding these venerable institutions' most precious assets: their budgets.
The long recession has brought layoffs, salary cuts and hiring freezes to Monroe County museums. In Buffalo, the influential Albright-Knox Art Gallery saw a 24-percent drop in revenues from July 1, 2008 to April 24, 2009. It will close for the week of May 18 to 24." ...
for the complete story
Area museums struggle to balance budgets as attendance rises
Stuart Low
"Museums enjoy the reputation of timeless temples of art. But throughout western New York, hard times are eroding these venerable institutions' most precious assets: their budgets.
The long recession has brought layoffs, salary cuts and hiring freezes to Monroe County museums. In Buffalo, the influential Albright-Knox Art Gallery saw a 24-percent drop in revenues from July 1, 2008 to April 24, 2009. It will close for the week of May 18 to 24." ...
for the complete story
Indy 500 frugality hitting local hotels
from the Indianapolis Star (5/21):
Some hotels struggle to fill up for Indy 500 weekend
Higher-end hotels struggle to fill up for the city's biggest tourism event
By Melissa Tussing
"Call it the frugal fan 500.
Ticket sales for Sunday's Indianapolis 500 are holding steady, but race fans and sponsors appear to be cutting corners this year, opting for cheaper choices that could put a pinch not only on local hotels but on the economic impact of the city's most significant tourism event." ...
for the complete story
Some hotels struggle to fill up for Indy 500 weekend
Higher-end hotels struggle to fill up for the city's biggest tourism event
By Melissa Tussing
"Call it the frugal fan 500.
Ticket sales for Sunday's Indianapolis 500 are holding steady, but race fans and sponsors appear to be cutting corners this year, opting for cheaper choices that could put a pinch not only on local hotels but on the economic impact of the city's most significant tourism event." ...
for the complete story
Canadian Human Rights Museum budget shortfall
from CBC News (5/20):
Human Rights Museum dealing with $5.2M operating shortfall
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 | 2:54 PM CT
CBC News
"The Canadian Museum for Human Rights, not set to open until 2012, is already running a deficit.
The latest corporate report for the museum, currently under construction in Winnipeg, indicates a $5.2-million shortfall in its operating budget." ...
for the complete story
Human Rights Museum dealing with $5.2M operating shortfall
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 | 2:54 PM CT
CBC News
"The Canadian Museum for Human Rights, not set to open until 2012, is already running a deficit.
The latest corporate report for the museum, currently under construction in Winnipeg, indicates a $5.2-million shortfall in its operating budget." ...
for the complete story
Thursday, May 14, 2009
CA too taxing on golf?
from this morning's San Diego Business Journal (5/13):
State Shouldn’t Tax Golf Games, Association Warns
By Mike Allen - 5/13/2009
San Diego Business Journal Staff
Time to yell fore!
"May 13 was National Golf Day, according to a release from an organization called the California Alliance for Golf." ...
"... the industry is responsible for creating 160,000 jobs in the state, either directly or through the hospitality, retail and landscape industries, CAG says.
Also, golf put $6.9 billion into the state’s economy in 2006, mainly through tourism, property taxes, income taxes and taxes on golf merchandise.
CAG thinks the sport and industry have been sufficiently taxed, and wants to squash an effort in Sacramento to impose a sales tax for playing at golf courses." ...
for the complete story
State Shouldn’t Tax Golf Games, Association Warns
By Mike Allen - 5/13/2009
San Diego Business Journal Staff
Time to yell fore!
"May 13 was National Golf Day, according to a release from an organization called the California Alliance for Golf." ...
"... the industry is responsible for creating 160,000 jobs in the state, either directly or through the hospitality, retail and landscape industries, CAG says.
Also, golf put $6.9 billion into the state’s economy in 2006, mainly through tourism, property taxes, income taxes and taxes on golf merchandise.
CAG thinks the sport and industry have been sufficiently taxed, and wants to squash an effort in Sacramento to impose a sales tax for playing at golf courses." ...
for the complete story
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Nonprofits and the economy
We have the new report out from Guidestar on the impact of the economy on nonprofits. Photo forthcoming.
Live Nation sells three properties
from today's Los Angeles Business Journal (5/5):
Posted date: 5/5/2009
Live Nation to Sell Three Theaters
By DEBORAH CROWE
Los Angeles Business Journal Staff
"Concert promoter Live Nation Inc. said Tuesday it plans to pay down debt by selling three well-known Boston theaters, including the Boston Opera House, for about $22.5 million.
Live Nation, which hopes to merge with competitor Ticketmaster later this year, said it would take a non-cash impairment charge of about $7.7 million in the first quarter to account for the difference between the sales price and the carrying value on the company's balance sheet." ...
for the complete story
Posted date: 5/5/2009
Live Nation to Sell Three Theaters
By DEBORAH CROWE
Los Angeles Business Journal Staff
"Concert promoter Live Nation Inc. said Tuesday it plans to pay down debt by selling three well-known Boston theaters, including the Boston Opera House, for about $22.5 million.
Live Nation, which hopes to merge with competitor Ticketmaster later this year, said it would take a non-cash impairment charge of about $7.7 million in the first quarter to account for the difference between the sales price and the carrying value on the company's balance sheet." ...
for the complete story
U.S. manufacturing and employment up
from the Royal Bank of Canada Daily Economic Update enews (5/5):
"U.S. ISM non-manufacturing stays above 40 for the fifth consecutive month
The ISM manufacturing index followed the manufacturing index’s trend upward, rising to 43.7, putting it at its highest level since October of last year. At 47, the new orders component forged its strongest print since the intensification of the credit crisis in September 2008. Employment posted more muted gains, increasing to 37 from the prior month’s 32.3." ...
for
U.S. supporting data
for Canadian data
"U.S. ISM non-manufacturing stays above 40 for the fifth consecutive month
The ISM manufacturing index followed the manufacturing index’s trend upward, rising to 43.7, putting it at its highest level since October of last year. At 47, the new orders component forged its strongest print since the intensification of the credit crisis in September 2008. Employment posted more muted gains, increasing to 37 from the prior month’s 32.3." ...
for
U.S. supporting data
for Canadian data
Thursday, April 30, 2009
New item -- Meetings Market Report
We are now the proud owners of the latest Meetings Market Report:
CA Redevelopment Agencies win battle to keep state funds
from the California Redevelopment Association Executive Director's Update
April 30, 2009
CRA Prevails in Court Case - Redevelopment Agencies Keep $350 Million!
"Sacramento Superior Court Judge Lloyd Connelly this morning ruled in CRA's favor and found unconstitutional a provision in the current state budget, which would have required redevelopment agencies statewide to transfer $350 million to be used to fund State obligations. The Court held that petitioners are entitled to declaratory and injunctive relief invalidating and enjoining Health and Safety Code Section 33685 - the section which created the ERAF payment obligation for redevelopment agencies for fiscal year 2008-09....."
see the CRA homepage for more info on the suit
April 30, 2009
CRA Prevails in Court Case - Redevelopment Agencies Keep $350 Million!
"Sacramento Superior Court Judge Lloyd Connelly this morning ruled in CRA's favor and found unconstitutional a provision in the current state budget, which would have required redevelopment agencies statewide to transfer $350 million to be used to fund State obligations. The Court held that petitioners are entitled to declaratory and injunctive relief invalidating and enjoining Health and Safety Code Section 33685 - the section which created the ERAF payment obligation for redevelopment agencies for fiscal year 2008-09....."
see the CRA homepage for more info on the suit
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Shanghai Expo 2010 China pavilion donation
from the Shanghai 2010 newsfeed (4/23):
Major donation boosts China pavilion
Date:23/04/2009
"The China Pavilion yesterday received its largest ever donation - 100 million yuan (US$14.6 miilion) - from Cheung Kong (Holdings) Ltd and Hutchison Whampoa Ltd, both headed by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing." ...
for the complete story
Major donation boosts China pavilion
Date:23/04/2009
"The China Pavilion yesterday received its largest ever donation - 100 million yuan (US$14.6 miilion) - from Cheung Kong (Holdings) Ltd and Hutchison Whampoa Ltd, both headed by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing." ...
for the complete story
Friday, April 17, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
IL opens state Holocaust Museum
For the list of events and offerings at the Illinois Holocause Museum which has its grand opening this weekend.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
IN county parks in development (trails) despite economy
from the Reporter-Times (Martinsville and Morgan County, IN) (3/29):
Economy won’t keep parks board from projects
Board’s goal is to finish trail at Burkhart Creek County Park this year
By Amy Hillenburg ahillenb@reporter-times.com
March 29, 2009
"MORGAN COUNTY — Although the Morgan County Parks and Recreation Board might have to scale back on some of its countywide trail plans, the recession hasn’t scared it away from those projects.
Board Secretary Trena Trusty said the board plans to finish the trail at Burkhart Creek County Park this year with funds from a $50,000 Kendrick Foundation grant. The park is north of Paragon, bounded by Warthen and Duckworth roads off Ind. 67. It encompasses 83 acres from the state that took the board four years to transfer. Members didn’t count on the process taking so long, but now they are ready to go on to the trails component of the county comprehensive plan. The much-discussed countywide trail is not on the forefront, but Trusty said it is still being considered." ...
for the complete story
Economy won’t keep parks board from projects
Board’s goal is to finish trail at Burkhart Creek County Park this year
By Amy Hillenburg ahillenb@reporter-times.com
March 29, 2009
"MORGAN COUNTY — Although the Morgan County Parks and Recreation Board might have to scale back on some of its countywide trail plans, the recession hasn’t scared it away from those projects.
Board Secretary Trena Trusty said the board plans to finish the trail at Burkhart Creek County Park this year with funds from a $50,000 Kendrick Foundation grant. The park is north of Paragon, bounded by Warthen and Duckworth roads off Ind. 67. It encompasses 83 acres from the state that took the board four years to transfer. Members didn’t count on the process taking so long, but now they are ready to go on to the trails component of the county comprehensive plan. The much-discussed countywide trail is not on the forefront, but Trusty said it is still being considered." ...
for the complete story
New York State parks economic impact report released
from Parks and Trails NY (3/16):
ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NYS PARK SYSTEM
CLOSE TO $2 BILLION, PLUS 20,000 JOBS, NEW STUDY FINDS
—Analysis reveals Park System gives back more than five times state investment—
ALBANY, NY—A new economic analysis released by Parks & Trails New York, the leading statewide park and trail advocacy organization, shows that the New York State Park System is a valuable economic asset to the Empire State. It supports up to $1.94 billion in output and sales for private businesses, plus 20,000 jobs." ...
for the complete press release
for the complete report, contact Ruth
ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NYS PARK SYSTEM
CLOSE TO $2 BILLION, PLUS 20,000 JOBS, NEW STUDY FINDS
—Analysis reveals Park System gives back more than five times state investment—
ALBANY, NY—A new economic analysis released by Parks & Trails New York, the leading statewide park and trail advocacy organization, shows that the New York State Park System is a valuable economic asset to the Empire State. It supports up to $1.94 billion in output and sales for private businesses, plus 20,000 jobs." ...
for the complete press release
for the complete report, contact Ruth
AR for-profit casino initiative makes it the the ballot
from Arkansas Business (3/31):
Amendment Would Write For-profit Casino Company into State Constitution
By Arkansas Business Staff
3/31/2009 10:09:01 AM
"An amendment whose ballot title was approved Tuesday by the state Attorney General's office would write a for-profit casino company into the Arkansas Constitution." ...
for the complete story
Amendment Would Write For-profit Casino Company into State Constitution
By Arkansas Business Staff
3/31/2009 10:09:01 AM
"An amendment whose ballot title was approved Tuesday by the state Attorney General's office would write a for-profit casino company into the Arkansas Constitution." ...
for the complete story
San Diego's Lindbergh Field lands major contract approvals
from the San Diego Business Journal (3/30):
Lindbergh Field Expected To Award 2 Big Contracts
By MIKE ALLEN
San Diego Business Journal Staff
"Now that airport officials have a configuration for the future of Lindbergh Field, they can turn their attention to a long-delayed series of improvements estimated to cost $876 million — up 25 percent from $700 million in 2008 and 35 percent from 2007." ...
"It’s the single biggest project at Lindbergh ever, nearly four times the $224 million spent in the mid-1990s on a variety of projects, including the addition of nine gates to Terminal 2." ...
for the complete story
Lindbergh Field Expected To Award 2 Big Contracts
By MIKE ALLEN
San Diego Business Journal Staff
"Now that airport officials have a configuration for the future of Lindbergh Field, they can turn their attention to a long-delayed series of improvements estimated to cost $876 million — up 25 percent from $700 million in 2008 and 35 percent from 2007." ...
"It’s the single biggest project at Lindbergh ever, nearly four times the $224 million spent in the mid-1990s on a variety of projects, including the addition of nine gates to Terminal 2." ...
for the complete story
Canadian photography museum hopes quashed
from the National Post (Toronto) (3/27):
No photos please
Randy Boswell , Canwest News Service
"The 30-year dream of creating a stand-alone national museum of photography in Canada's capital - frustratingly elusive through the 1980s, joyously realized in 1992, then "temporarily" interrupted by a leaky roof in 2006 - has been quietly and permanently dashed, Canwest News Service has learned.
Earlier this month, in a board room at the National Gallery of Canada, trustees of the federally governed institution formally decided to stop seeking a separate home for its dispossessed junior affiliate: the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography.
The museum and its 200,000-item collection had been relocated to the National Gallery three years ago after water began seeping into the unique, underground facility near Parliament Hill that had served as the CMCP's headquarters and exhibition space for 14 years." ...
for the complete story
No photos please
Randy Boswell , Canwest News Service
"The 30-year dream of creating a stand-alone national museum of photography in Canada's capital - frustratingly elusive through the 1980s, joyously realized in 1992, then "temporarily" interrupted by a leaky roof in 2006 - has been quietly and permanently dashed, Canwest News Service has learned.
Earlier this month, in a board room at the National Gallery of Canada, trustees of the federally governed institution formally decided to stop seeking a separate home for its dispossessed junior affiliate: the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography.
The museum and its 200,000-item collection had been relocated to the National Gallery three years ago after water began seeping into the unique, underground facility near Parliament Hill that had served as the CMCP's headquarters and exhibition space for 14 years." ...
for the complete story
Arsenal basketball team leaving Anaheim for Springfield, MA
from the Orange County Business Journal (3/31):
Arsenal Basketball Team Leaving Anaheim
By Michael Lyster
Orange County Business Journal Staff
"The Anaheim Arsenal, an NBA Developement League basketball team that’s played at the Anaheim Convention Center since 2006, is moving to Massachusetts later this year.
The team is set to move to Springfield, Mass., home of the Basketball Hall of Fame, at the start of the 2009-10 season in November." ...
for the complete story
Arsenal Basketball Team Leaving Anaheim
By Michael Lyster
Orange County Business Journal Staff
"The Anaheim Arsenal, an NBA Developement League basketball team that’s played at the Anaheim Convention Center since 2006, is moving to Massachusetts later this year.
The team is set to move to Springfield, Mass., home of the Basketball Hall of Fame, at the start of the 2009-10 season in November." ...
for the complete story
Anaheim Angels seat sales
from the Orange County Business Journal (3/31):
Angels Offer New Seats; Sales Slow, AIG Factor
By Michael Volpe
Orange County Business Journal Staff
"The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have carved out some prime field seats at Angel Stadium of Anaheim as the baseball team battles tough sales of season tickets.
The team is selling 36 seats in boxes next to the dugouts, which was empty space during last year’s regular season and was used for photographers during the playoffs." ...
for the complete story
Angels Offer New Seats; Sales Slow, AIG Factor
By Michael Volpe
Orange County Business Journal Staff
"The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have carved out some prime field seats at Angel Stadium of Anaheim as the baseball team battles tough sales of season tickets.
The team is selling 36 seats in boxes next to the dugouts, which was empty space during last year’s regular season and was used for photographers during the playoffs." ...
for the complete story
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Macao gaming manpower needs and wage data released
The 4th quarter 2008 Macao manpower needs and wage survey report for the gaming industry was released today.
Contact Ruth for the spreadsheets.
Contact Ruth for the spreadsheets.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Javitts expansion approved
from Tradeshow Week (3/25):
Javits Expansion Approved
-- Tradeshow Week, 3/25/2009 1:37:00 PM
"The Empire State Development Corp. board of directors has approved the $463 million expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center of New York." ...
for the complete story
Javits Expansion Approved
-- Tradeshow Week, 3/25/2009 1:37:00 PM
"The Empire State Development Corp. board of directors has approved the $463 million expansion of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center of New York." ...
for the complete story
Canadian hotel financing slow
from the Globe and Mail (3/24):
Recession puts skids on hotel construction
While new projects are being shelved, sales of existing properties could see a rise as investors look for deals
TERRENCE BELFORD
March 24, 2009
"The once stately pace of new hotel construction in Canada has hit a recessionary speed bump.
The challenges of finding financing during a global credit crunch, along with uncertainties about short-term demand from both business and recreational travellers, has meant that almost all new projects in the planning stages, and even those in the early stages of construction, have or will be shelved to wait for better days, experts say." ...
for the complete story
Recession puts skids on hotel construction
While new projects are being shelved, sales of existing properties could see a rise as investors look for deals
TERRENCE BELFORD
March 24, 2009
"The once stately pace of new hotel construction in Canada has hit a recessionary speed bump.
The challenges of finding financing during a global credit crunch, along with uncertainties about short-term demand from both business and recreational travellers, has meant that almost all new projects in the planning stages, and even those in the early stages of construction, have or will be shelved to wait for better days, experts say." ...
for the complete story
Dubai topping list of hotel projects in the works
from Emirates Business 24|7 (3/24)
Dubai tops hotel pipeline list in Middle East, says report
By Nina Varghese on Tuesday, March 24, 2009
"Dubai has more hotel rooms in the pipeline than anywhere else in the Middle East, a new report reveals.
Thirty-four per cent of all hotel projects in the region are under construction in the emirate, according to the 2009 Hotel Pipeline Report by Lodging Econometrics." ...
for the complete story
for the summary Pipeline Reports on all regions contact Ruth
Dubai tops hotel pipeline list in Middle East, says report
By Nina Varghese on Tuesday, March 24, 2009
"Dubai has more hotel rooms in the pipeline than anywhere else in the Middle East, a new report reveals.
Thirty-four per cent of all hotel projects in the region are under construction in the emirate, according to the 2009 Hotel Pipeline Report by Lodging Econometrics." ...
for the complete story
for the summary Pipeline Reports on all regions contact Ruth
Doha opens Grand hyatt
from Al Bawaba (3/22):
Grand Hyatt Doha opens in Qatari Capital
Posted: 22-03-2009 , 11:06 GMT
"Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced today the opening of Grand Hyatt Doha, a hotel and residential complex, which is the latest addition to Qatar’s luxury hospitality offerings and the first Hyatt hotel to be built in the country." ...
for the complete story with facility sizing and amenities details
Grand Hyatt Doha opens in Qatari Capital
Posted: 22-03-2009 , 11:06 GMT
"Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced today the opening of Grand Hyatt Doha, a hotel and residential complex, which is the latest addition to Qatar’s luxury hospitality offerings and the first Hyatt hotel to be built in the country." ...
for the complete story with facility sizing and amenities details
Monclair Museum (NJ) announces financial plan
from Art Daily (3/25):
The Montclair Art Museum Launches Financial Security Plan
"MONTCLAIR, NJ.- In response to the current sharp economic downturn, the Montclair Art Museum (MAM) has conducted a strategic review of its operations and capitalization, culminating with the recent adoption by its Board of Trustees of a long-range financial security plan. The plan calls for expense reductions, including reductions in hours for staff; a major capital campaign; and a deaccessioning campaign to support future art acquisitions." ...
for the complete story
The Montclair Art Museum Launches Financial Security Plan
"MONTCLAIR, NJ.- In response to the current sharp economic downturn, the Montclair Art Museum (MAM) has conducted a strategic review of its operations and capitalization, culminating with the recent adoption by its Board of Trustees of a long-range financial security plan. The plan calls for expense reductions, including reductions in hours for staff; a major capital campaign; and a deaccessioning campaign to support future art acquisitions." ...
for the complete story
The Brooklyn Museum ups admission
from Art Daily (3/25):
Brooklyn Museum Increases Admissions
"BROOKLYN, NY.- The Brooklyn Museum announced today that it will increase its suggested admission fee to $10 for adults and to $6 for older adults and students with valid identification, effective Saturday, March 21, 2009. Admission, which has not been increased since 2004, is currently $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students." ....
for the complete story
Brooklyn Museum Increases Admissions
"BROOKLYN, NY.- The Brooklyn Museum announced today that it will increase its suggested admission fee to $10 for adults and to $6 for older adults and students with valid identification, effective Saturday, March 21, 2009. Admission, which has not been increased since 2004, is currently $8 for adults and $4 for seniors and students." ....
for the complete story
Cultural institutions emphasizing the family
from the NY Times (3/19):
Putting a New Emphasis on ‘Family Friendly’
By KAREN BERMAN
"AT the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte, N.C., families can help themselves to tote bags hanging in some of the galleries. Inside, they find felt-board collages that children can spread out on the floor, draw-your-own postcards in the landscape gallery and touchable wooden masks in the African gallery." ...
"Around the country, art museums large and small are finding innovative ways to attract families. Prompted by the aging of their primary audiences and competition from high-tech entertainment aimed at the young, curators and administrators are hoping to develop the next generation of regular museumgoers." ...
for the complete story
Putting a New Emphasis on ‘Family Friendly’
By KAREN BERMAN
"AT the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte, N.C., families can help themselves to tote bags hanging in some of the galleries. Inside, they find felt-board collages that children can spread out on the floor, draw-your-own postcards in the landscape gallery and touchable wooden masks in the African gallery." ...
"Around the country, art museums large and small are finding innovative ways to attract families. Prompted by the aging of their primary audiences and competition from high-tech entertainment aimed at the young, curators and administrators are hoping to develop the next generation of regular museumgoers." ...
for the complete story
Macao visitor arrivals numbers
Macao has released their February 2009 visitor arrival numbers as well as revised annual totals for 2008.
For the spreadsheets, contact Ruth.
For the spreadsheets, contact Ruth.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Canadian retail up
from Royal Bank of Canada's Daily Economic Update (3/20):
Canadian retail sales show signs of life
"Retail sales came in stronger than expected in January, rising 1.9% compared to market expectations of a 1% gain. This increase only partially reverses the 5.2% drop in December. Eliminating the impact of price changes, the picture was little changed, with the volume of retail sales up a strong 1.8%, although this only reversed about one-half of December’s 4% drop.
Expectations of a solid gain in January retail sales were primarily based on indications of rising unit car sales and higher gasoline prices raising service station receipts." ...
for the complete story
Canadian retail sales show signs of life
"Retail sales came in stronger than expected in January, rising 1.9% compared to market expectations of a 1% gain. This increase only partially reverses the 5.2% drop in December. Eliminating the impact of price changes, the picture was little changed, with the volume of retail sales up a strong 1.8%, although this only reversed about one-half of December’s 4% drop.
Expectations of a solid gain in January retail sales were primarily based on indications of rising unit car sales and higher gasoline prices raising service station receipts." ...
for the complete story
SANDAG transport bond ratings upheld
from the San Diego Business Journal (3/19):
Posted date: 3/19/2009
Sandag Bonds Get High Marks
by Mike Allen
"Two Wall Street bond rating agencies reaffirmed the highest ratings on $600 million in transportation improvement bonds that were issued last year, according to the San Diego Association of Governments in a statement March 19." ...
for the complete story
Posted date: 3/19/2009
Sandag Bonds Get High Marks
by Mike Allen
"Two Wall Street bond rating agencies reaffirmed the highest ratings on $600 million in transportation improvement bonds that were issued last year, according to the San Diego Association of Governments in a statement March 19." ...
for the complete story
MI counties sue on hotel occupancy tax
from the Chicago Tribune (3/19):
4 Michigan counties sue over hotel occupancy taxes
Associated Press
7:37 AM CDT, March 19, 2009
"LANSING, Mich. - Four Michigan counties are suing several online travel companies, claiming that they're being shortchanged on local hotel occupancy taxes." ...
for the complete story
4 Michigan counties sue over hotel occupancy taxes
Associated Press
7:37 AM CDT, March 19, 2009
"LANSING, Mich. - Four Michigan counties are suing several online travel companies, claiming that they're being shortchanged on local hotel occupancy taxes." ...
for the complete story
Shanghai Bund on the hotel development rise
from Hotel News Now (3/21);
Bringing the Bund back to life
20 March 2009 7:52 AM
By Helena Iveson
"SHANGHAI—Recently, all the glamour in the Shanghai hotel scene has been on the futuristic Pudong side of the Huangpu, the river that divides the city in two. A rash of ultramodern luxury hotels like the Grand Hyatt and the Park Hyatt, both in two of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, alongside the Shangri-La and St. Regis, literally and metaphorically looked down on the stately but decaying procession of buildings along the Bund.
But now the tables are turning, and the Bund, with its mixture of East-meets-West architecture, soon will be the place to stay again." ...
for the complete story
Bringing the Bund back to life
20 March 2009 7:52 AM
By Helena Iveson
"SHANGHAI—Recently, all the glamour in the Shanghai hotel scene has been on the futuristic Pudong side of the Huangpu, the river that divides the city in two. A rash of ultramodern luxury hotels like the Grand Hyatt and the Park Hyatt, both in two of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, alongside the Shangri-La and St. Regis, literally and metaphorically looked down on the stately but decaying procession of buildings along the Bund.
But now the tables are turning, and the Bund, with its mixture of East-meets-West architecture, soon will be the place to stay again." ...
for the complete story
IL House promises to back Olympics' shortages
from Crain's Chicago Business 3/20:
Illinois House pledges $250M Olympics backstop
March 20, 2009
"(AP) —— The Illinois House has voted to pledge up to $250 million to Chicago for any potential losses it may incur if the city hosts the 2016 Olympic Games." ...
for the complete story
Illinois House pledges $250M Olympics backstop
March 20, 2009
"(AP) —— The Illinois House has voted to pledge up to $250 million to Chicago for any potential losses it may incur if the city hosts the 2016 Olympic Games." ...
for the complete story
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
NY museums cutting back
from the NY Times (3/19):
March 19, 2009
New York’s Local Museums Feel the Pinch
By ROBIN POGREBIN
"THE Queens County Farm Museum has switched its animal feed to spent grains donated by the Brooklyn Brewery, and Flushing Town Hall, which presents arts and education programs, has taken its trolley tours of famous jazz sites off the road.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts has laid off part-time security guards and postponed plans to build a “youth activity garden” in its three back lots, because its capital money dried up.
The Staten Island Museum finds itself trying to slim down even as it prepares to move its library and archive into buildings at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, which requires more staff." ...
for the complete story
March 19, 2009
New York’s Local Museums Feel the Pinch
By ROBIN POGREBIN
"THE Queens County Farm Museum has switched its animal feed to spent grains donated by the Brooklyn Brewery, and Flushing Town Hall, which presents arts and education programs, has taken its trolley tours of famous jazz sites off the road.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts has laid off part-time security guards and postponed plans to build a “youth activity garden” in its three back lots, because its capital money dried up.
The Staten Island Museum finds itself trying to slim down even as it prepares to move its library and archive into buildings at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, which requires more staff." ...
for the complete story
IALEI moves to merge with IAAPA
IALEI announced to members today that it has begun the process of a full merger of operations with IAAPA.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
L.A. port traffic down
from the Los Angeles Business Journal (3/17):
Posted date: 3/17/2009
Traffic Down at Long Beach Port
By FRANCISCO VARA-ORTA
"Container traffic at the Port of Long Beach fell 40 percent last month, shrinking back to trade levels seen five years ago, according to figures released Tuesday.
Long Beach’s figures mirror lower business at the Port of Los Angeles, which was released last week and showed a fall of more than a third – and indicating an accelerating trade decline that port officials don’t expect will reverse this year." ...
for the complete story
Posted date: 3/17/2009
Traffic Down at Long Beach Port
By FRANCISCO VARA-ORTA
"Container traffic at the Port of Long Beach fell 40 percent last month, shrinking back to trade levels seen five years ago, according to figures released Tuesday.
Long Beach’s figures mirror lower business at the Port of Los Angeles, which was released last week and showed a fall of more than a third – and indicating an accelerating trade decline that port officials don’t expect will reverse this year." ...
for the complete story
The stimulus package and the construction industry
from Reed Construction Data (3/17):
Stimulus Impact on Construction Begins in April
Mar 17, 2009 - Jim Haughey
"The $787 billion economic stimulus plan will begin to impact the construction market in April. The added federal spending is about 1-1.5% of GDP in 2009, which is only enough to reduce the severity of the recession. GDP is likely dropping at a 4-5% annual pace in the current quarter, and will still be declining faster than a 1% pace through the summer.
While a second round of stimulus spending is being discussed in Washington, the economy — and the construction market — is expected to work through the inventory cycle and be expanding by the end of the year." ...
for the complete story
Stimulus Impact on Construction Begins in April
Mar 17, 2009 - Jim Haughey
"The $787 billion economic stimulus plan will begin to impact the construction market in April. The added federal spending is about 1-1.5% of GDP in 2009, which is only enough to reduce the severity of the recession. GDP is likely dropping at a 4-5% annual pace in the current quarter, and will still be declining faster than a 1% pace through the summer.
While a second round of stimulus spending is being discussed in Washington, the economy — and the construction market — is expected to work through the inventory cycle and be expanding by the end of the year." ...
for the complete story
FL tourism and austerity meeting planning
from the Wall Street Journal (3/17):
MARCH 17, 2009
Austerity Tide Hits Florida Beaches
Tourism Industry Suffers as Businesses Cancel or Scale Back Events in the Sunshine State
By ALEX ROTH
"AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. -- Luxury resorts are accustomed to unusual requests. But Amelia Island Plantation was surprised to get this one from a corporate event planner worried about a function appearing too extravagant: could the resort drop the word "island" from its address?
Only a scattering of people dotted the sand near the Ocean Drive strip in Miami Beach in late January. In the last quarter of 2008, the number of out-of-state visitors to Florida dropped 13.6% from a year earlier, the largest decline since the quarter following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks." ...
"For tourism officials in Florida, the drop-off at Amelia Island Plantation is an ominous sign that the tourism industry, the state's lifeblood, is in for a brutal year. Executives at the resort say they have lost about $750,000 in revenue since January, as businesses and trade groups shun the negative publicity associated with anything even remotely resembling a boondoggle." ...
for the complete story
MARCH 17, 2009
Austerity Tide Hits Florida Beaches
Tourism Industry Suffers as Businesses Cancel or Scale Back Events in the Sunshine State
By ALEX ROTH
"AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. -- Luxury resorts are accustomed to unusual requests. But Amelia Island Plantation was surprised to get this one from a corporate event planner worried about a function appearing too extravagant: could the resort drop the word "island" from its address?
Only a scattering of people dotted the sand near the Ocean Drive strip in Miami Beach in late January. In the last quarter of 2008, the number of out-of-state visitors to Florida dropped 13.6% from a year earlier, the largest decline since the quarter following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks." ...
"For tourism officials in Florida, the drop-off at Amelia Island Plantation is an ominous sign that the tourism industry, the state's lifeblood, is in for a brutal year. Executives at the resort say they have lost about $750,000 in revenue since January, as businesses and trade groups shun the negative publicity associated with anything even remotely resembling a boondoggle." ...
for the complete story
The KORPACZ is here! The Korpacz is here!
1st Quarter 2009 is in the house. ... picture forthcoming.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Macao statistical data available
Macao has released their most recent visitor expenditure statistics.
Contact Ruth for further info --- on any Macao stats you might be interested in.
Contact Ruth for further info --- on any Macao stats you might be interested in.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
NY museum doing well
from Crain's New York Business (2/4):
New museum exceeds expectations
By Miriam Kreinin Souccar
Published: February 4, 2009 - 2:37 pm
"The Museum of Arts and Design has proven its critics wrong.
Since opening its $95 million remake of the late architect Edward Durell Stone’s “lollipop” building on Columbus Circle about four months ago, the museum has received more than 160,000 visitors." ...
for the complete story
New museum exceeds expectations
By Miriam Kreinin Souccar
Published: February 4, 2009 - 2:37 pm
"The Museum of Arts and Design has proven its critics wrong.
Since opening its $95 million remake of the late architect Edward Durell Stone’s “lollipop” building on Columbus Circle about four months ago, the museum has received more than 160,000 visitors." ...
for the complete story
Corp travel budgets cut
from USA Today (2/10):
Surprising number of companies cut travel spending
By Dan Reed, USA TODAY
"Twice as many U.S. companies as previously expected are cutting their travel spending this year in response to economic weakness and uncertainty.
The Association of Corporate Travel Executives says 71% of its member companies now plan to spend less on travel this year than in 2008. That's a huge and unprecedented shift in corporate travel managers' plans from just five months ago, says Susan Gurley, the association's executive director." ...
for the complete story
Surprising number of companies cut travel spending
By Dan Reed, USA TODAY
"Twice as many U.S. companies as previously expected are cutting their travel spending this year in response to economic weakness and uncertainty.
The Association of Corporate Travel Executives says 71% of its member companies now plan to spend less on travel this year than in 2008. That's a huge and unprecedented shift in corporate travel managers' plans from just five months ago, says Susan Gurley, the association's executive director." ...
for the complete story
Arts economic impact questioned
from the Boston Globe (2/5):
Stimulus funding for arts hits nerve
Some doubt it would create jobs
By Michael Kranish, Globe Staff | February 5, 2009
"WASHINGTON - The massive economic stimulus bill moving through Congress is being watched closely by arts groups across the country, including the Massachusetts Cultural Council. If the House version becomes law, the National Endowment for the Arts would get $50 million - and the council's federal funding would soar by nearly 50 percent.
While the NEA money is a minuscule portion of the $819 billion House bill, it has become a lightning rod for some critics, who question whether the dollars for the arts will create many jobs - and who see the money as a symbol of House Democrats trying to lard up the plan with spending wish lists that have been pent up for years.
The criticism has reached such a crescendo that some arts advocates are concerned that the push for the $50 million could backfire, reigniting a debate over the value of taxpayers funding everything from "poetry out loud" events to community theater." ...
for the complete story
Stimulus funding for arts hits nerve
Some doubt it would create jobs
By Michael Kranish, Globe Staff | February 5, 2009
"WASHINGTON - The massive economic stimulus bill moving through Congress is being watched closely by arts groups across the country, including the Massachusetts Cultural Council. If the House version becomes law, the National Endowment for the Arts would get $50 million - and the council's federal funding would soar by nearly 50 percent.
While the NEA money is a minuscule portion of the $819 billion House bill, it has become a lightning rod for some critics, who question whether the dollars for the arts will create many jobs - and who see the money as a symbol of House Democrats trying to lard up the plan with spending wish lists that have been pent up for years.
The criticism has reached such a crescendo that some arts advocates are concerned that the push for the $50 million could backfire, reigniting a debate over the value of taxpayers funding everything from "poetry out loud" events to community theater." ...
for the complete story
NY museums face the economy
from Crain's New York Business (2/1):
Picture darkens for city's museums
By Miriam Kreinin Souccar
Published: February 1, 2009 - 5:59 am
"As a way to save money, the Queens Museum of Art will no longer provide visitors with exhibition brochures. The American Museum of Natural History has canceled its popular Friday night jazz concerts. And the Brooklyn Museum is planning more exhibits around its own collections." ...
"Hit with steep cuts in public funding, as well as declines in earned income and corporate and foundation grants, museums throughout the city are slashing budgets, laying off staff and doing everything else they can to operate with dwindling resources. For New York culture hounds, that will mean their favorite museums will have fewer—and less ambitious—shows and special programs, as well as shorter hours." ...
for the complete story
Picture darkens for city's museums
By Miriam Kreinin Souccar
Published: February 1, 2009 - 5:59 am
"As a way to save money, the Queens Museum of Art will no longer provide visitors with exhibition brochures. The American Museum of Natural History has canceled its popular Friday night jazz concerts. And the Brooklyn Museum is planning more exhibits around its own collections." ...
"Hit with steep cuts in public funding, as well as declines in earned income and corporate and foundation grants, museums throughout the city are slashing budgets, laying off staff and doing everything else they can to operate with dwindling resources. For New York culture hounds, that will mean their favorite museums will have fewer—and less ambitious—shows and special programs, as well as shorter hours." ...
for the complete story
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