By David Crary
It was almost cruel. I sat down to write this blog on events you should consider attending over the next year and read my first email. It was from a trade publisher highlighting the great Turfgrass Producers International show in Orlando, Florida this week. That’s not cruel but my
thermometer read -11 degrees! Why hadn’t I booked this months ago? Next year I won’t forget. 
Moral of the story, get your calendar out and make some plans. We put together a few for you to consider that we think are worth your time and money. I have it on my calendar for
2015. Yes…Orlando in February. This will not happen to me again because I know that my body, mind and spirit will thank me AND my business will likely grow because of it. See you at the shows!
1. The Green Industry and Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO) is the largest annual conference and exhibit event for the green industry. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to attend educational sessions, network with your peers, see all the latest equipment and gain valuable ideas for growing your business. It's scheduled for October 22-24 and is centrally located in Louisville, KY.
As a seasoned veteran of this event, I can tell you that it is the best show for a green industry professional. Their educational tracks are second to none and, even better, you can unleash your inner child and play with some of the heavy machinery in the outdoor exhibit space.
The HindSite Business Summit is the day before the Green Industry Conference really gets going (October 22), so why not kill two birds with one stone? This is an excellent way to build relationships within our industry. We will have a few guest speakers and discussions along with lunch and happy hour. In 2013 we had the privilege of taking a behind the scenes tour of Churchill Downs. It was fabulous. 2014 promises to be an exciting event as well. Mark your calendars for October 22 and book your travel for Louisville, Kentucky.
3. Landscape Ontario Congress is Canada’s premiere green industry trade show and conference. This is a great way to educate you on the latest equipment, trends and that important networking that can re-energize us from sometimes feeling isolated in our small business. Watch for specific dates but it is typically held in early January in Toronto.
4. The Lawn Care Summit 2015 is sponsored by The National Pest Management (NPMA) and the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET). This educational program offers both technical and business management sessions for lawn care business professionals, including owners, managers, and technicians. There is a wide range of offerings at this summit for the novice to the seasoned professionals in our industry. You don’t want to miss this opportunity for learning and networking. Typically held the end of January in Nashville, Tennessee.
5. The Snow and Ice Symposium will be held in Columbus, Ohio, from June 18-21, 2014. From the welcome reception for networking with friends and every day filled with educational sessions and chances to browse the exhibit hall with over 100 exhibitors you will undoubtedly be enlightened on what is new in the snow removal industry and issues we may be facing in the years ahead.
These are just a few of the events that we find to be very valuable. There are other events at a more local/regional level that may be of interest to you as well. Check out the events calendar on the PLANET website for more details.
Forecast for this week in my hometown….lows below zero…everday! Orlando forecast: lows in the 50’s. Don’t wait and regret like I did that I didn’t book some key events this year. It will be time well spent and we would enjoy seeing you!
