ShopTalk: PGA Show

[Arniesclubs]

    The new 'rules' for PGA attendance may be a way to weed out people who
shouldn't be going to the show.  In my opinion, with all the talk of how the
Show may be downsizing, it may be a bit of a mistake.

You have hit the nail on the head (ball on the screws)!  This is not a "consumer show". I have been attending trade only shows for 35 years as a buyer, exhibitor and as a manufacturers' rep and find the requirements of three trade references quite unique.  I believe that those running the show have tackled a rather difficult, time consuming task to check these references.  More power to them if they are able to do it. Most shows request a business card, tax lic., assumed name papers or something on that order. As a buyer I have no problem with the new requirement, as an exhibitor (another capacity) they got paid for the booth space so there is no problem. If a new clubmaker, investigating new resources, feeling out the business, etc., wishes to attend he/she would have no problem contacting any component exhibitor and asking if they would act as a reference. If you just build your own clubs and are going to attend this show to "mooch" whatever components, gizm! os, and other freebies or are trying to buy equipment at bargain basement prices for your own use YOU DON'T BELONG THERE.
This is not a move to downsize the attendee numbers. It is a valid attempt to improve the quality of those attending so that the exhibitors continue to attend the show. What exhibitor would want to spend many thousands for booth space, cost of staff, housing/feeding, booth fixturing, literature cost, sample cost to chat with some "squirrel" who is there to gather nuts? These guys are there to write orders. If they don't make the show pay for itself they won't be back. So, a word of advice.....get a Buyer Badge, be a buyer or act like one, stash all that free crap so you don't blow your act, and stop grabbing enough free grips to redo all your clubs, don't ask if they are selling their samples (unless you are prepared to buy the entire booth and pack it after the show closes) and don't waste the exhibitors' time with long discussions about the merits of their product for your swing.  Earn some respect for fellow clubmakers and yourself. Clubmaker does not mean you are Ro! dney Dangerfield!
In closing, I would like to say I am looking forward to meeting anyone on this forum at the show. Let's share some thoughts on a great business!
Rant over.
Arnie