“Las Vegas is the most popular convention destination in America,” stated Pennie Sabel, Executive Director. “With its excellent convention center, ease of traveling, array of hotel choices, and vast entertainment options, it was the natural choice for StonExpo 2005. We expect a very positive response to this location from exhibitors and from the thousands of stone professionals who consider StonExpo a 'can't-miss' event.”

StonExpo 2004 will be held in Los Angeles from October 28-30, and is already on track to be another successful show, Sabel reported, offering networking, education and business opportunities. In planning for future venues, the Federation took into consideration the expected success of this year's first-ever West Coast location and the possibilities for growth that a Las Vegas location provides.

“The Marble Institute of America is extremely pleased about the choice of Las Vegas for StonExpo and our 2005 annual meeting,” said Garis L. Distelhorst, MIA's Executive Vice President. “Our Board of Directors was unanimous in endorsing this location, and we expect MIA members to enthusiastically welcome the opportunity to meet in this highly desirable and easy-to-reach location.”

Headquartered in Mount Sterling, OH, the StonExpo Federation is a nonprofit corporation composed of representatives from major stone industry trade associations, vendors and publications. All proceeds from StonExpo are channeled back into the natural stone industry through support of industry education and natural stone promotion programs. Complete event details, seminar descriptions and registration options can be found online at www.stonexpo.com. Or contact StonExpo Federation by phone at 740-869-9990 or by e-mail at info@stonexpo.com.