I have yet to visit the hotel and convention center. I have had meetings, social events and invitation for drinks and a few dinners, all of which I replied with regrets or did not attend. Why? Even with Valet parking, it is inconvenient.
The organizations with which I am associated are NOT going to rebook and are returning to their regular meeting places. I was told by some of the family who attended a wedding that they, they would not recommend the place to their friends and family for several reasons.
When a county function is scheduled, I ask why the price is almost double of other dinner meeting places. The answer is that they are told to support the facility.
Roller derbies, cheerleading contests, functions that should be out on Rt. 30 or in an area that attendees can afford to stay and eat. It is a shame for all the dollars wasted at shows to attract business.
Just recently an out of town visitor said they were using their reward points to have two free nights at our up scale hotel. Sad part is that they had nothing to do downtown after I dropped them off. They walked up to the old Zimmermans but the crowd was too young. They walked over to Annie Baileys and thought the same. There was no movie theater or window shopping. At 7:30 so they went into the lounge and spent 20.00 including tip for 2 drinks, then retired.
The owners of the Holiday Inn that used to be the Penn Harris in Harrisburg are trying to get that last gambling licenses. They are RENTING campers to get their occupancy to 275 to qualify for a license. We have the rooms and space. Someone should get PSP to sit down and apply for that license.
It is what it is and those that either have an interest or need to pay back favors etc. will use the facility. WE the taxpayers were screwed and just were not strong enough to fight the money.
