REPORT FROM THE SHOW: DAY 1 of 4

I left Boston this morning, heading for Orlando, FL and the 58th PGA Merchandise Show — just ahead of a major snow storm. Landed in sunshine and positively vibrant energy. I had just enough time to check out the lay of the land and pick up my official media pass before the media center closed for the evening.

The Orlando Convention Center, this year’s venue for the PGA Merchandise Show, is enormous, with space for 1000+ vendors, demonstration rooms, exhibit halls, educational seminars, plus a theatre and central lobby that soars at least four stories over the marble floor. This lobby will be the focus for tomorrow’s opening ceremony. It all begins at 7:45 a.m. with a concert by grammy award winner, saxophonist Branford Marsalis, followed by the presentation of the Vardon Trophy to Matt Kuchar who will also hit the ceremonial first ball from the 2nd floor stage. This should be something special.

I’ve marked off all the vendors that are “musts” and scheduled my morning seminars and interviews. Will report back tomorrow with all the news of the day. Tonight, it’s Chinese food and an early to bed. Must be ready and wide awake for all the show action to come.