Dear Members:
 
As you know, recent bailout funds for banks and financial institutions have led to scrutiny of the business travel and meetings/events industries.   One bill currently under consideration even seeks to prohibit firms that receive TARP funds from hosting, sponsoring, or paying for conferences, holiday parties and entertainment events.

The effect of the bill and these related actions will have serious ramifications on our industry. Therefore, we are asking you to voice your opposition.

What can you do?

1. Email your Congressman (link to www.house.gov) and Senator (link to www.senate.gov) the following letter:
Dear Elected Official:

The meetings and conventions industry is a vital component of the economy that creates jobs and supports businesses. As a member of this important industry, I feel it is important to encourage growth of the economy and job creation. While I do not support abuses of federal funds, I do not feel the government should be passing legislation that discourages economic activity in a viable industry.

Sincerely,

[your name]

2. Visit Keep America Meeting (link to keepamericameeting.com) to voice your support and sign the petition.

3. Complete the NACE survey
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=4PzYpRZjcCJzsrBixOxDnA_3d_3d on this topic so that NACE can add to the dialogue with facts and figures.

4. Educate your clients about the importance of continuing their normal business activities and meetings. Remind them  NACE members are a valued resource for creative, affordable catering and special events and that the meetings industry is important to our economy.

Thank you for your urgent action on all of the above action items to defend and protect our industry.

Greg Casella, CPCE, NACE President, Owner of Catered Too!, San Jose, CA

Bonnie Fedchock, NACE Executive Director