If there’s one person who was glad to see the Arctic blast that enveloped the Grand Strand area this week, it is Kevin Bennett.

Bennett is the coordinator of the Grand Strand Boat and Sportsman Expo, which runs Friday through Sunday at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

“Down here after we’ve been cooped up and we’ve gotten through Christmas, people want to get out,” said Bennett. “When we have warm weather during the show, people want to get out on their own boats. When it’s cold and nasty, it is better for the boat show. (Attendees) can come to the show for a glimpse of spring.”

On Wednesday afternoon, Bennett was fully involved with getting the show set up, quite a chore with boats of all sizes and designs being put on display along with boating and fishing related vendors.