Conventions

Mar. 20-23, 2012. CPRS is the California Park and Recreation Society.  It’s there to provide career development, networking and resources, and is the public advocate for California park and recreation professionals.  CPRS is a nonprofit public interest organization with more than 4,000 members who create opportunities for providing recreational experiences to individuals, families and communities, fostering human development, promoting health and wellness, increasing cultural unity, facilitating community problem solving, and protecting natural resources.  86 percent of park and recreation agencies in California claim at least one CPRS member. In addition, over 175 park and recreation agencies are themselves CPRS members.  Tired of walking round all the booths already?  Park it…

Jan. 17-20, 2012. The Shot Show, we were assured by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, was “too good to miss” — and they had a target logo to prove their point.  The Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT is one of those acronyms that actually means something!) and Conference is “the largest and most comprehensive trade show for all professionals involved with the shooting sports, hunting and law enforcement industries”. It’s also the world’s premier exposition of combined firearms, ammunition, law enforcement, cutlery, outdoor apparel, optics and related products and services. The SHOT Show attracted buyers from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.  Oh, personal firearms or ammunition were not allowed, and only firearms on display by exhibitors whose firing pins have been removed were permitted on the show floor.

Jan. 12-15, 2012. Georgia’s premier boat show is celebrating its 50th year as a great place to see and buy boats, boating gear and accessories. If it’s for boating, you’ll find it here! Hundreds of new boats, including powerboats, sport fishers, ski boats and personal watercraft, and booths showcasing the latest in engines, marine gear, electronics and accessories fill the Georgia World Congress Center. The 4-day event is delegates’ once-a-year chance to compare makes and models, secure insurance and financing and gear up with the latest accessories all at one time.  An exciting radio-controlled boat docking game let visitors test their navigational skills, and compete for a chance to win great prizes. Unfortunately due to a pool malfunction, Atlanta’s Indoor Wake Park feature will be shut down for the duration of the show. Don’t go near the water…

Jan. 10-12, 2012. Surf, skate and beach lifestyle brands show renewed energy in the market as Surf Expo hosts more than 14,000 buyers, exhibitors and media.  Since 1976 manufacturers and retailers in the surf, skate, water sports, swim and resort industries have come together in a buying and selling environment at Surf Expo, which features approximately 2,000 booths of apparel and hardgoods, and a full line-up of special events, including fashion shows, annual awards ceremonies, and demos.  Buyer and exhibitor turnout exceeds 12,000 attendees including retailers, exhibitors and media per show.  There is a comprehensive wearing apparel and accessories collection, including tees and shorts, casual shirts, dresses, sarongs and batiks, jewelry, towels, plus premiums and souvenirs.  But where in Orlando can you actually surf, dude?