It was the opening ceremonies, but there were no flags waving. A few flashbulbs went off, but not a gigantic stadium full of them. There were no famous musical performers, global TV audiences or fireworks and intricate dance numbers.
No, the opening ceremonies for the Canadian International Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show did not hold the pomp of an Olympic kick-off or a royal wedding, but it did have something more special, something more important.
It had passion.
To hear Tim Kubash and Jim Flett talk about their dedication to the CGSA and their encouragement for others to not only participate, but really get involved lit a spark in me. I was ready to get to those seminars and learn all I could.
And this passion kept up right on through the day.
From the speakers, who all talked so excitedly about their research and areas of expertise, to the discussions around the lunch table about which methods of spring start up were best and what new technique to use, it was clear that everyone had arrived ready to show their dedication to their jobs and ensure a healthy, vibrant industry.
But nowhere was this passion more evident than during the awards portion of the lunch. Who would not be inspired by Brian Youell, Superintendent of the Year, and his story of mentorship, dedication, talent and overcoming some high hurdles to achieve some monumental successes.
Who could deny that the story of Gordon Witteveen, a founder of GreenMaster Magazine, a man who shaped so many people and careers, a true trailblazer and now a Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member, gave them some great motivation to get back to their clubs and make them great?
One by one, great members of the CGSA, from John B. Steele winner Pelino Scenna to Environmental Award winner Robin Sadler and every other award winner, scholarship receiver and newly certified member, showed the kind of passion that all our members have and how that dedication to their craft can change things for the better.
Of course the passion of CGSA members can also be measured by the hearty back slaps and plentiful conversation at the President's reception and the abundant questions asked at seminars.
I really saw today what it means to be a member of the CGSA. It means smiles and a hunger for learning. It means good-natured joking and educational and entertaining seminars. It means honoring those who have changed this industry for the better and looking forward to those who will keep on changing it. But above all, it means a passion.
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