Very well put Master..I think the vast majority of investors are more interested in the sort of meet up you are suggesting - as opposed to paying into an "event" where you give lots of people an opportunity to try to sell you something. Although those events are undoubtably of value to some, they may be better viewed as an available option rather than something you "daren't miss out on" - as they are often portrayed by their organisers and supporters alike (just me thinking aloud here as many may disagree with that viewpoint - which they are perfectly entitled to).
Joe Cool if any of your Brummie friends are likeminded I'd be more than happy to exchange views with them..over a beer of course!.. Pat
Happiness is a journey, not a destination,
so Work like you don't need the money,
Love like you've never been hurt,
and Dance like no one's watching..