September 23, 2003 – ORLANDO – Graphics of the Americas (GOA), one of the two largest graphic arts trade shows held annually in the Americas; and Helene Smith Public Relations (HSPR), a marketing communications agency specializing in publishing and graphic arts for over ten years; today announce that HSPR will represent Graphics of the Americas beginning immediately. HSPR will work with Graphics of the Americas personnel to promote the 29th annual Graphics of the Americas, which will take place January 23-25, 2004, in Miami Beach. TrendVision Companion Conference Led by Frank Romano A key focus of the initial communications campaign will be the establishment of TrendVision, a two-day strategic directions conference conceived by industry author, expert and RIT professor Frank Romano; and engineered with the assistance of renowned publishing industry consultants working with GOA management staff. TrendVision will be held in conjunction with Graphics of the Americas. “Graphics of the Americas and parent organization PAF, an industry trade association, come to us with so many positives, including a 600-plus strong company membership and ownership of one of the most prestigious tradeshows in the graphic arts industry,” says Helene Smith of HSPR. “As 2004 nears and the industry’s attention turns to the new technologies that will premiere in the spring, Graphics of the Americas takes on an even greater level of importance as one of the preeminent events for decision makers in 2004 and beyond.” Smith says that among Graphics of the Americas’ distinct differentiators are its Q1 timing, burgeoning attendance from the creative/designer segment, and continued, major attendance from the Latin and South American marketplaces. “Helene Smith PR is a top-notch firm well-known and well-regarded in the graphic arts industry. We knew we needed this caliber of support as we realized we had built Graphics of the Americas 2004 into something bigger than it’s been before,” says Michael Streibig, PAF (Printing Association of Florida) president.  “We’re confident that Helene and her team will effectively help us communicate the significance and benefits of Graphics of the Americas and TrendVision to our target audiences.  We look forward to a very positive relationship.”