Good Stuff from Joan Eisenstodt

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Tag >> Taxes

Economic news continues to hit our industry

Posted by: JoanEisenstodt in Travel costs, Tourist attractions, Tourism, Taxes, St. Louis, San Antonio, Research - Travel Trends, News, Jobs, Hotel, Employment, Economy, Destination, Boston, Birmingham Alabama on Nov 02, 2008

A spate of articles today in just one of the news services (bizjournals.com) I receive:

 From Boston, news of cuts of personnel at tourist attractions and the CVB.  And it's the state where there is a proposition (Massachusetts Question 1) on the ballot to again vote on eliminating the state income tax which will further decimate the budget.

From Birmingham, AL, news about a potential increase in

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Talking points

Posted by: JoanEisenstodt in Taxes, Politics on Apr 07, 2008

I find myself often in the company of those who are either in the meetings/hospitality industry or 'near' it. My spouse (Joel) is great about sitting through some pretty (to him) boring conversations about room blocks, attrition, travel woes, and the like.

Yet, in this election 'season' in the US, we have found that in almost every group in which we find ourselves (including the PCMA awards dinner), talking politics.

There are those who say that one should always stay away from religion and politics in conversations. I find that odd. On both subjects, many have strong opinions and why should they not be expressed?

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Politics .. there I've said it!

Posted by: JoanEisenstodt in Taxes, Marriott, Industry and Elections, Immigration, Conventions on Mar 22, 2008

It's been said that one should never discuss politics and religion in 'polite company' - but how can that be when both play such a huge role in our lives - personal and professional?

There are few elections - local or national, in all countries - that do not impact our industry.  Tax initiatives are found on so many ballots.  Individuals elected may be pro-tourism and may also pass laws (like the Visa restrictions in the US) that curtail who can enter a country and when and why.

In the current debates in the United States which will lead to national and local elections 4 November 2008, the economy is much discussed as is immigration.  [Have you registered to vote?  If not do so .. now!]

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