Georgia Governor Vetoes Anti-Gay Legislation, High Point Market Loses Business from North Carolina Law
March 28, 2016
While the convention and meetings industry is able to breathe a sigh of relief today in Georgia, headaches abound in North Carolina, after both states recently dealt with legislation that was deemed discriminatory to the gay community by many.
Less than two weeks after the Georgia assembly voted through House Bill 757 – the Free Exercise Protection Act, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal vetoed the bill.
The bill would have allowed churches to refuse to perform gay marriages and not hire people they felt conflicted with their religious beliefs, which prompted big-name companies, such as Coca-Cola, NFL and a bevy of Hollywood studios to say their business in the state would be threatened.
It also would not have bode well for the meetings and conventions business in the state.
“Today, Gov. Deal ensured Atlanta’s position as a top meetings and conventions destination by his swift action in vetoing HB 757,” said William Pate, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau CEO.
He added, “By his decision, the governor has shown his continued support for one of the largest industries and employers in the state of Georgia.”
Gov. Deal said that Georgia was a “welcoming state with warm and loving people.”
He added, “If indeed our religious liberty is conferred by God and not by man-made government, we should heed the 'hands-off' admonition of the First Amendment to our Constitution. When legislative bodies attempt to do otherwise, the inclusions and omissions in their statues can lead to discrimination, even though it may be unintentional.”
In North Carolina, the High Point Market Authority is dealing with a swift backlash after a new law was passed that would block transgender individuals from using a public bathroom that matched their gender identity.
“In the last few days, dozens of customers have contacted the High Point Market Authority to inform us that they have cancelled plans to attend the Market in April due to passage of HB2,” said the High Point Market Executive Committee in a statement.
The committee said the law was not only causing damage to the High Point Market, but also the North Carolina economy overall.
“Based on the reaction in just the last few days, hundreds and perhaps thousands of our customers will not attend Market this April,” they added.
The High Point Market – Spring is on tap April 16-20, attracting more than 75,000 attendees to the biannual editions.
Both states possibly could have taken a page from Indiana’s lesson book, after that state passed the “Religious Freedom Restoration Act” last year that was later reworked when several large groups and businesses threatened to boycott the state.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
Add new comment