I just returned from the BAM (Blacksmith Association of Missouri) conference in Sedalia, MO, about 8 miles east of Kansas City MO. It was a great conference. I don't know how many people attended, but I saw auction numbers in the high 300's, at least. This year's conference was billed as a sort of ABANA mini-conference and that it was. They really had it organized.
-3 concurrent demo stations
-Plenty of "commercial" vendors
-Lots of tailgate stuff for sale.
-Training station for up to 8 students
-Great gallery
-Wide selection of "spouse" activities.
-Close to a Walmart
Certainly one to consider for next year.
Pete Stanaitis