BLUE BELL, Pa.- Because of the many news reports - and the sometimes confusing and conflicting stories - coming out of New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina, the FSCT felt it imperative that its exhibitors and attendees receive a report on the status of the city and its recovery efforts.

According to Bob Ziegler, FSCT executive vice president, the FSCT staff and ICE personnel visited New Orleans in late February where they met with city officials, as well as management from the Convention Center and hotel management. FSCT reports that the level of recovery and repair in the city center, French Quarter, Warehouse District and Convention Center is well under way.

Most of the convention service-related businesses are operating, and the city anticipates that all will be open by this summer. All renovation to the Center was scheduled for completion by March 31.