PREVIEW / Some of the Business and Economic Events Happening Today : Democratic Convention to Boost Southland

Next year’s Democratic National Convention at Staples Center is expected to pump $132 million into Southern California’s economy, local economists are forecasting.

But perhaps just as important as dollars, civic boosters say, the event--which will draw three news professionals for every convention delegate, for a total of 35,000-plus visitors--will provide an opportunity to showcase Los Angeles to millions of TV viewers.

“You can’t buy exposure like that,” said Jack Kyser, chief economist for the Los Angeles Economic Development Corp. City tourism officials hope the four-day convention in the summer of 2000 will spark interest among travelers to visit the region.

Compared to Los Angeles County’s $260-billion annual output of goods and services, Kyser said, spending sparked by the convention is nothing more than “extra change.”

“It’s a nice blip, but it’s still a blip,” he said.

According to PKF Consulting, which tracks the local hospitality industry, indirect spending generated by the convention, such as hotels and restaurants stocking up with supplies, will account for $66.2 million, or half the total economic impact. Direct spending by delegates, their guests and the news media, along with outlays for convention infrastructure, make up the other half. Nearly 80% of visitor spending will go for food, lodging and incidentals.