I don't go to Chicago because I might get a free figure (which is not actually free since we have to pay the dinner). I'm going to see and hang around with friends I rarely get to see like Louis, Shannon, Tom, Hans, Tim Tyler, Brian W (Warbuff26), Ed, Clive, Gary from St. Louis, George, Rick and Andy. Apologies to any I missed. I'm also hoping to find a few good items but if I don't, no biggie.
Yes, it's not cheap, what with airfare, rooms and purchases. Trust me, it's worth it, several times over. While I was there I ran into the actor Ruben Blades, to whom I've sold a few things on eBay. He said it's like going to Mecca.
If there was no figure or no dinner, I'd still be going. The figure is irrelevant.
Brad