FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2007

SGIA Spruces Up New Orleans with Large-Format Graphics - Volunteer effort donates graphics to NOLA community during reconstruction

Fairfax, Virginia -- In a unique community effort, the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) is coordinating with volunteer member companies and affiliates to install large-format graphic panels in construction areas along a major artery in downtown New Orleans. http://www.sgia.org

The SGIA Canal Street Initiative -- created to promote the city's heritage and enhance its storefront landscapes while reconstruction is in full force -- has already netted support from more than 20 SGIA members and affiliates. (See the full list at SGIA.org, Keyword: CanalStreet) http://www.sgia.org/new_orleans/volunteers.cfm

"This is a major undertaking that will not only enhance the building façades along Canal Street, but also demonstrate the aesthetic benefits of large-format digital imaging," said SGIA President/CEO Michael Robertson.

Using images that represent the historical essence and rich culture of New Orleans, SGIA will provide graphic files that will be printed by volunteer member companies and installed over construction areas on Canal Street -- from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center to the French Quarter.

Advancements in large-format imaging have allowed for the innovative application, Robertson said. "This volunteer project illustrates how specialty imaging can improve the appearance of construction renovation areas."

It's an unprecedented opportunity for New Orleans, which will host SGIA '09 (October 6-9, 2009), said Stephen Perry, President and CEO of the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, the city's marketing and tourism arm.

"We are so grateful to SGIA for this extremely generous donation, and for the organization's support of New Orleans," said Perry, noting Canal Street is heavily traveled by tourists and residents.

As the city completes its beautification plans for Canal Street "the installation of these beautiful graphic panels will be a much welcome addition to the urban landscape," he added.

Visit SGIA.org, Keyword: NOLA, to find more information on the initiative and photos for the first phase of installation as they become available. http://www.sgia.org/new_orleans/press_support.cfm

SGIA -- Supporting the Leaders of the Digital & Screen Printing Community
"Specialty imaging" comprises digital imaging, screen printing and the many other imaging technologies SGIA members use, including those they'll tap in the future. These are the imaging processes and technologies employed to create new products and to enhance existing products including point-of-purchase displays, signs, advertisements, garments, containers and vehicles. Make the most of your specialty imaging business. Take full advantage of the information on SGIA.org, and experience the specialty graphic imaging industry firsthand at SGIA '07 (Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida; October 24-27, 2007).

SGIA
10015 Main St.
Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: 703-359-1310
E-Mail: mhiggins@sgia.org
Website URL: www.sgia.org