HB ON THE SCENE: Business-As-Usual As La Quinta Kicks Off 2003 National Conference

ORLANDO, FL—Despite the Iraqi conflict and its resultant business, personal and travel concerns commanding much of the world’s attention, it was business-as-usual for La Quinta franchisees and corporate professionals alike as the Irving, TX-based lodging organization officially took the wraps off its 2003 National Conference here last night. Apparently demonstrating a penchant for knowledge and networking opportunities surpassing possible personal-safety concerns, it was reported some 90% of those La Quinta representatives pre-registered for this year’s three-day conclave are expected to show up at the Orlando World Center Marriott to demonstrate their full support for the conference, the company, and the entirety of the travel industry itself. It was further noted most of those canceling at the last minute were offset by a number of “walk-up” registrants.–Michael Billig