I would not be expecting the NY Post to run the usual research routine, check their sources, etc. Theirs is the business of gossip, rumors, etc. Sex and scandals sell. And if you throw a few $$$ into the equation, you have got a sure winner.
I have a long track record of attending professional conferences, annual meetings, etc. The bigger the event the more side entertainment
. So, I wouldn't completely discard their story either...
KD