We have talked about some sort of get-together for some time. I have been involved in the organization and presentation of numerous recreational and professional events and conferences. There are significant difficulties with making it happen.

1. Cost: About the cheapest weekend event I attend these days, put on with entirely volunteer help in a not very expensive location is about $350 for the weekend, lunch and dinner and a modestly priced keynote speaker included, but no travel or room charges and it assumes at least 75 persons attending for break even. So, by the time you factor in travel and hotel bills and misc, attendees need to be prepared to spend at least $700 - $1000 or more depending upon room sharing arrangements and travel. I see the cost as a major impediment to the majority of those on this board, but I could be wrong.

Sponsorship of an event by manufacturers and wholesalers and retailers requires that they perceive that their expenses, typically a few thousand dollars for a two day event, will pay for itself in sales, either at the event itself or subsequently. I think that is a difficult sell for such a small and niche gathering, especially considering that many suppliers are themselves so small, so it likely needs to be self-supporting.

2. Organization: Someone has to organize it all. This is a significant undertaking and requires an extraordinarily dedicated chairman with a lot of available time and resources and at least a couple very dedicated additional volunteers. I don't have the time myself.

3. Timing and location: Always a PITA to find a date a majority who want to come have free and a location that is affordable and affordably accessible.

Address these issues and I'd be interested in supporting such an effort.