Ryan M. Smith, Director of Communications for “visitRaleigh,” the Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau as seen on the streets of NYC waiting for the FacBlog “Staff”. Smith was in town meeting with the meetings industry press and meeting planners. The Raleigh Convention Center, which opened in September of 2008, has completed its first full year of operation. Bookings have exceeded projections, according to Smith, especially among the meetings of state associations. She noted a growing interest in the CVB’s Red Carpet service, which not only promotes the destination to meeting attendees, informing them of the dining, entertainment and other attractions Raleigh has to offer, but provides a press release and publicity services to promote the event. “We provide public relations services to these associations, which they really appreciate,” said Smith.