When I first started using Amigas (circa 1988), I was desperate to join a user group; however, I was 12, and my mother wouldn't let me. (Seriously.) Around the time I was old enough to start participating, CCN (California Computer News, a local computer rag) had stopped publishing bulletin board numbers, Put's Electronics/ACS(think I still have a mousepad around somewhere) had closed up shop, and Wil Wheaton was pushing the video toaster. I did make it to the city to see Wil and Kiki (*sigh*), but I had mostly moved on to other things.
Then one day, I'm older, have lots of disposble income, and decide to buy an Amiga again. AmiWest started up around the same time, but what do you know, it's held on the same weekend as my mother's birthday. Once again, Mom spoils my Amiga dreams. ;-) Seriously, though, it kept me from attending. I really wanted to attend last year, especially to chat with Jens, but I coulnd't make it.
I'm not the most social person, but I'd love to be more involved.
EDIT: Were the workshops anounced, or were they spontaneous? If I had know about them, I would have shown up a bit earlier and hung around a bit longer.
Trev