The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association leadership made the difficult decision to cancel the exhibition scheduled for New Orleans in September.

Instead SGIA is holding Digital Expo in Phoenix from December 8 – 10. The suppliers and users of the latest in digital imaging technology and some of the industry’s most successful innovators will come together to discuss and display new digital technology, hardware, essential consumables and other exciting applications.

SGIA president and CEO Michael Robertson says while Digital Expo will draw a good crowd, it was particularly disappointing to cancel SGIA ’05 as it was well on its way to being the best SGIA convention in recent years.

“The quality and quantity of exhibitors and attendees was staggering,” says Robertson. “Were we to relocate the show, which we strongly considered, we faced the challenge of delivering the same level of value to attendees and exhibitors. Unfortunately, the challenge is simply too great to accomplish in the few weeks available.”

Those who had already paid registration fees can receive a refund or can donate all or part of the fees to Gulf Coast relief efforts.

“The situation on the Gulf Coast is heart-breaking, and we are establishing a fund and a network for donations so SGIA members can help their fellow members in the areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina rebuild,” says Robertson.

“We greatly appreciate the efforts of the people from New Orleans and Atlanta who have worked so hard on our behalf, and our thoughts and prayers are with them, their families and neighbors in the Gulf Coast region.”

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