PRESS RELEASE

Do you know a great show manager? SMOTY nominations are open

Contact Dana Freker Doody
The Expo Group
Direct: 972-751-9644
ddoody@theexpogroup.com

Irving, Texas - Jul. 11, 2006 - Pushed by exhibitors, pulled by suppliers, challenged by owners and executive directors. The outstanding show organizers in our industry take it all in stride. The Expo Group Show Manager of the Year (SMOTY) Awards honors these individuals who work tirelessly in the quest to create a thriving marketplace.

"The Expo Group Show Manager of the Year award is all about recognizing the person, not their show," says The Expo Group President and CEO Ray Pekowski. "We want to recognize the unsung heroes who toil endless hours, come up with innovative solutions to challenges and remain committed to premier customer service and organizational success along the way."

SMOTY trophies are awarded yearly in five categories, based on the size of the show. Each winner receives a trophy at the annual awards gala. This year's ceremony will take place on Nov. 29 at the U.S. Grant Hotel, currently undergoing a $52 million restoration in downtown San Diego. The Expo Group makes a $1,000 donation in each winner's name to the charity or educational institution of his or her choice.

Please submit nominations online at www.theexpogroup.com/smoty. Self-nominations are encouraged as well. The SMOTY Awards are judged by an independent panel and are open to all show organizer, regardless of their chosen suppliers.

Nominations will be accepted through Sept. 15. Questions about The Expo Group Show Manager of the Year program can be directed to Barbara Fett or Dana Doody at 972-580-9000.

The Expo Group SMOTY awards are sponsored in part by American Airlines, Production Transport and Wyndham Jade.

The Expo Group is a general service contractor providing a patented Single Source SolutionR for exhibitors' need. The Dallas-based company has sales offices in Washington D.C. and San Jose, Calif., and a distribution center in Las Vegas. In addition to contracting services, TEG provides show management, graphic and exhibit design services..

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