February 9, 2004

Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, immediate past President of the Conference of Mayors, this summer will host the 72nd Annual Meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors June 25th to 29th.

Addressing a Plenary Session of the Annual Winter Meeting January 22, Menino said his city has not had a Conference Annual Meeting for 28 years, and is eager to welcome mayors to Boston, an urban area growing increasingly culturally diverse.

Menino pointed out that mayors should look closely at arts in their communities as an economic development tool. He noted that arts for Boston accounted for more local revenue than all of the Boston sports franchises.

Boston, Menino said, plans a "fabulous show" for mayors, their families, and the other attendees. The Boston business community has rallied around the Annual Meeting to support the many planned host-city events. "The Big Dig is done, the schools are out, and the city is getting ready for your five day visit, "Menino said.

Charlotte Mayor Patrick McRory, joining Menino at the podium, predicted that the Charlotte Panthers would win the February 1 Superbowl and that he looked forward to eating Boston lobster following the event in Houston between the Panthers and the Boston Patriots. Menino presented him with a Patriots jersey.

Boston this summer will also host the Democratic Convention in a few short weeks following the Conference event.

BOSTON EVENTS