Green Innovation Energizing the Propane Industry
Learn More about the Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo
In Atlanta from April 4-6 2009 www.propaneexpo.com WLPGA: Why do we call the South Eastern Convention THE US show?
Rick Roldan: The Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo is North America’s largest event and serves as the National Propane Gas Association’s annual convention. The Exhibit Hall features over 200 companies displaying the widest array of propane-related products and services. This is the only event in the United States that attracts participation from across the nation and around the globe. Over 2,500 participants travel to Atlanta each year to attend the Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo.
WLPGA: What is particular about the show this year?
Rick Roldan: The theme of the 2009 event is focused on a cleaner energy with the Exhibit Hall and educational program featuring green innovations that are energizing the propane industry. The keynote speaker for the Opening General Session on Saturday, April 4, 2009 is Ron Jones, Editorial Director of Green Builder Magazine and Founding Partner of Green Builderâ Media. Mr. Jones will discuss how propane’s versatility, reliability and efficiency make it one of the fastest growing energy choices for homebuilders in a multi-billion dollar market. The high-caliber educational program held in conjunction with the tradeshow presents thirty sessions, including topics on green business operations.
In the spirit of international cooperation, the National Propane Gas Association is joining forces with the World LP Gas Association to launch an International Pavilion. The International Pavilion will be located in the exhibit hall and will feature valuable tools and resources to assist in developing business overseas. The International Pavilion will showcase emerging opportunities within the international marketplace. The World LP Gas Association will also organize two educational sessions. The partnership was created to continue growing international participation and share global policies and trends.
The National Propane Gas Association is also partnering with the Propane Education & Research Council to present an Innovation Pavilion at the 2009 Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo. Located in the exhibit hall, the Innovation Pavilion will showcase emerging trends, new products and cutting-edge technologies that are changing the face of the propane industry. The Innovation Pavilion will feature quick-hitting Fast-Track training sessions and a New Product Showcase.
WLPGA: How will a new administration impact the value of the show this year?
Rick Roldan: The change in Administration will not affect the show. However, the massive economic stimulus package that the Congress has approved should boost show attendance and the ability of our members to buy the type of equipment that is on display at the International Propane EXPO. One key provision of the economic stimulus bill that directly benefits our members is the extension of the enhanced expensing provision of the tax code (section 179). For 2008 Congress temporarily increased the amount businesses could expense (deduct immediately as opposed to depreciate) from $125,000 to $250,000. In addition, the phase out limitation for the credit (the total amount of property that the business placed in service that year) was also temporarily increased from $500,000 to $800,000 for 2008. For 2009, the expensing figures were scheduled to return to the $125,000 and $500,000 levels. The House and Senate Stimulus Bills both propose continuing the higher temporary figures for another year meaning the $250,000 and $800,000 figures will apply to property placed in service in 2009, should this provision become law.
WLPGA: Why is it a good idea to invest in participation despite the economic crisis!?
Rick Roldan: Attending an industry tradeshow provides access to resources and strategies to stimulate business during a down economy. For companies that consistently exhibit, an absence from the industry’s major tradeshow may send a negative message about your business’s viability. The Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo is a cost-effective investment that provides an interactive marketplace with opportunities to meet existing clients, conduct business meetings, network with colleagues and showcase new products.
Contact: rroldan@npga.org
www.npga.org
www.propaneexpo.com
