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Carolina GCSA conference and trade show breaks records

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — In times of crisis, associations often become a source of connection and support for their members. After Hurricane Helene hit North and South Carolina in late September, many Golf Course Superintendents Association of the Carolinas (GSCA) member courses were damaged.

Courses in the mountains of western North Carolina have been hardest hit, with some not reopening until next year and others possibly not opening at all. Still, the Carolina GCSA Conference and Trade Show went on as planned at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center from Nov. 18-20, attracting 2,173 attendees — the highest number since 2013 . The number of exhibitors also broke records, with a total of 240 companies participating in the show. That’s up from the high of 217 in 2017. More than 1,400 seminar seats have been sold, with topics ranging from lawn insect management to soil-borne diseases.

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“From the courses, to the trade show to the attendance, the Carolina Show has been a huge success for us,” said Pete Gergon, president of the Carolina GCSA and golf course director at Grandfather Golf and Country Club in Linville, North Carolina. “What struck me was how much everyone needed to come together and talk about what was going on.

“Many of our members are still on the mountain cleaning up Helen’s body and are unable to come. But the response from members and people from across the country bringing in much needed supplies has been truly amazing.”

The association provides financial support and supplies to those in areas most affected by the storm, establishing a “pick-up and drop-off” site program, as well as a hurricane relief fund that will donate to individuals affected by any type of personal loss. Since many schools have been destroyed, the company also plans to purchase Starlink systems to provide to local communities.

“I can’t tell you how proud I am of you for coming together during this time,” Gurdon said in a letter to members. “Even before the storm was completely gone, our members started calling headquarters to see what they could do.” What a help. Many of them are our industry partners. If there was ever a time to say thank you to these people, it is this meeting.”

Contact Pete Gerdon at (828) 387-7835 or pgerdon@grandfatherclubnc.com

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