If the city of Raleigh was so burnt by a financial loss by their first convention canter, why were they so eager to vote, build and complete a new larger convention center? Which by the way is totally booked. Like many other SMART AREAS, they look at their centers as good investment. Again New Burn, NC did it and their center is booked and a success, why can't we. P.S. their was no interest in the north end ( including new hotels) until the civic center plans became a real possibility.