Aside from the national debate, the fight over gay rights has made big headlines in Colorado and North Carolina in particular in recent days.

There’s little these states have in common with one exception: New Belgium Brewing.

You’ll recall that Fort Collins’ largest brewer announced last month it would open a second brewery in Asheville, N.C., after a months-long search for an East Coast location.

It’s no secret that New Belgium is a supporter of equal rights for members of the GLBT community, extending company benefits to same-sex partners as readily as heterosexual couples.

So, not surprisingly, it was watching carefully as voters in North Carolina went to the polls to determine the fate of a constitutional amendment declaring that a marriage is between one man and woman.

The measure won handily, with 60 percent of voters approving it.

Was New Belgium having second thoughts about North Carolina?

Nope.

Instead, in response to the vote, the company reaffirmed on its Facebook page that it would proceed with its plans for Asheville.

“Thanks for everyone’s thoughts on the recent vote on Amendment 1 regarding gay