Last month, the National Council of La Raza suspended the economic boycott of Arizona it instigated after the passage of the controversial immigration law SB 1070, saying that “there is a concerted and growing effort in the state to foster civil and constructive dialogue” about immigration reform. They also were heartened by the injunction filed against […]
A planner’s review of The Special Event Show
The Special Event Show (TSE) is a great trade show to attend. You get to network with people from all over the world, learn about new products, restore your creative juices and — most importantly —learn new techniques to incorporate into your events. Annually, TSE attracts more 5,000 event planners, meeting planners and exhibitors. I […]
Arizona injunction issued as immigration debate grows
At least 40 meetings have been canceled in Arizona in the past four months, ever since the state passed a tough new immigration law. But the politician who began the call for an economic boycott has since changed his mind. In an interview with the Arizona Republic, U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalya (D-Ariz.) said a federal […]
Arizona shifts image campaign into overdrive
Arizona is spending $280,000 to assure would-be visitors that it is a safe and welcoming destination despite its tough new immigration law. The passage of the immigration law in April resulted in nationwide boycotts, protests and numerous cancellations by meeting planners and others, who either found the law offensive or were worried about the state’s […]
Meeting and tourism industry leaders call for end to Arizona travel boycott
Within a week of the passage of Arizona SB 1070, a controversial immigration bill, 19 groups canceled meetings scheduled for the state, costing the local hospitality industry more than $6 million in lost revenue. But meeting and tourism industry leaders are urging meeting professionals to continue with their Arizona-based events as planned. “We call for […]
New Arizona immigration bill already costing the state convention business
The controversial new immigration bill Arizona Governor Jan Brewer signed into law on April 23 has prompted the Board of Governors of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) to vote to move their annual 2010 fall convention from Arizona to another state. AILA is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate […]
Take a [enter theme here] break
The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix has some unusual break offerings on its catering menu. The Healthy Spa Break has test tube shots of vegetable and fruit juices, yoga stretches and chair massages. The Native American-themed break features native heirloom popcorn, cactus candies and cowboy coffees sweetened with agave nectar. Other […]
Fore our troops
Over Labor Day weekend, the Greater Phoenix CVB and the Valley Hotel & Resort Association helped kick off “Operation White Christmas, Fore Our Soldiers.” The goal is to deliver thousands of golf balls to Arizona soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The organizations partnered with Troon Golf and the Westin Kierland Resort for the campaign.