Just as an offer of an opinion, I have hosted several events like this, where a donation 'box' is made available, but a lot of folks don't understand the actual costs involved in putting one of these events on. There is always a preparation time of more than a week where employees spend various amounts of time moving, sweeping and re-arranging of various tools and equipment. Then there is the actual event where employees contribute little or nothing to the shops productivity, followed by several days of cleanup and re-organizing.
It has been my experience after (8) of this style of event that the organizer can expect to pay around $40 per day per person just for food, beverages and loss of shop expendables. NOT included are assorted broken or damaged or mis-placed tools, lost shop productivity, etc. However, I have found it to be a huge learning experience and fun for both the host and the attendees. In the past, I have paid to attend some metal shaping style seminars where the tuition was always more than $300 per person per day. If Brent puts this event on it would be unkind to take advantage of him in any way that makes it cost prohibitive for him to continue with this style of event. I have attended past events that were 'produced' by Brent and can attest to his attention to detail and concern for his attendees. I hope he decides to host an event like this.
