NetRoots Nation, a major conference of progressive activists, was scheduled to come to Providence in 2011, but now that is threatened by ongoing labor relations issues at the Westin Hotel, GoLocalProv is reporting. You should go read the story, but here's the nut: "The state stands to lose millions of dollars in economic activity, a potential big boost for Rhode Island's creative economy and the attention of the nation's premiere Internet entrepreneurs."

Netroots Nation is huge, whether you're considering the progressive networking opportunities or just the visitor revenue. I sure hope this provides some additional leverage to get issues resolved, because I would LOVE to go to this, but I ain't flying to Las Vegas.

Additional coverage at RI Future.

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