BILLINGS, MONTANA ---December 23, 1999--- With a population of only 91,000 people, Billings, Montana continues to attract a diverse range of major groups for meetings and conventions. Groups such as the American Bowling Congress, Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA), International Association of Clerks, Recorders, Election Officials and Treasurers (IACREOT) and Montana Stock Growers Association are choosing Billings as their convention destination.

Billings offers 3,500 sleeping rooms, 350,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space and great transportation service. It boasts numerous recreational opportunities, a variety of scenic and historical attractions and plenty of Old West hospitality. Billings also offers groups the lowest bed tax in the U.S. and one of the lowest hotel room rates at just under $52.00 per night.

Over 11,000 participants are expected for Wing Ding XXII, the annual convention of the GWRRA July 4-7, 2000. The city of Billings is putting together a parade, fireworks display and concert for the Fourth of July events. In addition, Billings is hosting a pre- and post-event party for Wing Ding. In 2002, the American Bowling Congress tournament will be held at MetraPark in Billings. The tournament will bring in 50,000 bowlers and an additional 35,000 family members and guests from February through June 2002.

Billings is also the perfect destination for smaller gatherings. For planners looking at unique facilities for company retreats or small meetings, Billings offers guest ranches, hotel banquet rooms, historical museums or the Yellowstone Art Museum. The Montana Stock Growers Association, a group of approximately 700 attendants, has found Billings the perfect destination for their annual convention for over 15 years. Another convention recently choosing Billings as a destination is IACREOT. This convention consists of over 2,000 people taking part in governmental meetings.

The Billings Convention and Visitor Council partners with convention planners to make their visit to Billings, Montana a successful and enjoyable experience. The CVC can arrange site visits, put organizers in touch with local contacts, provide promotional materials and assist with itinerary suggestions. In addition, the CVC can provide space on their web site for information specific to each individual groups' convention.

For more information on Billings, Montana as your meeting or convention destination contact Rhonda Harms, Director of the Billings CVC, at 406-245-4111/800-711-2630 or visit the web site at http://billingscvb.visitmt.com.