"The American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature met in Denver on Nov. 17 to 20 and set a record attendance of more than 8,000," Dilbeck notes. "This was just slightly below their original projection. We have found this to be consistent with all the other conventions that have met in Denver since Sept. 11."

Dilbeck acknowledges some cities have seen reduced attendance at conventions since Sept. 11, but he believes that will not be the case in here next year. "We have a lot going for us," Dilbeck says. "Our airport is sixth busiest in the country so there are a lot of direct flights and a lot of good fares right now. We're in the center of the country and we are perceived as being very safe. And we're Denver. We are regarded as a very exciting and desirable city to visit. A lot of convention delegates have never been here before and have been looking forward to coming. The evidence is showing us that they are not going to cancel their plans.