ABANA_2012_Conference_Logo

Greetings!

The 2012 ABANA Conference comes at a time when the current economic situation continues to challenge all of us. We are faced with difficult choices in our spending habits. This year our Conference has been reshaped in order to fit with the times so that it can be a success. ABANA depends upon educating members and expanding our blacksmithing family to be able to preserve and promote our craft. Our 2012 Conference is dedicated to sharing knowledge of technical, aesthetic and business aspects of the craft for beginners to established professionals.

First, the destination is at the premier vacation area of United States.  
Second, we are holding it at a site that permits car/tent camping and has RV hook ups.  Third we are working with the South Dakota School of Mines to "bundle" the food and housing services that were a big part of previous ABANA conferences.  These factors and more will hold the cost down for the majority of our members.  
 
However, we need your help to continue to keep the cost down so that we can create a great event at low cost to all blacksmiths and families.  If you can't make it to South Dakota your support can and would be welcome. Many types of support are possible to ensure that we have a spectacular event:

"Iron in the Hat"
Thanks to several generous donors we have secured the "big ticket" items for the raffle. However, we are in desperate need of tools for the "Bam Box". A few dedicated members have already promised some items, but we need more.  Items for the daily IITH are a welcome as well. The net proceeds of this event will fund ABANA's scholarships and grants program. Sponsorships will help defray expenses.

Sponsorship of Conference Venues and Activities
All monetary support is gladly welcomed! Your name or business can be displayed in our program for sponsoring a tent, venue, support crew, demonstrator, program, or other needed functions. Reimbursement of our costs is greatly appreciated. Even if we can't create signage, we will acknowledge all donors in the program.

Gallery and Auction
The gallery will be open to all persons that would like to display their work.  Contact George Matthews at [email protected] for information about the gallery. ABANA would appreciate if you donate your work to the auction to help offset our operating expenses. This is a very good way to get your name and work exposure to the public.

Thank you for your support.

Lance Davis and Jack Parks
2012 Conference Co-Chairs

For more information, please contact:
[email protected] or 423-913-1015
[email protected] or 423-913-1022
 
ABANA 2012 Conference 
July 18 - 21, 2012 
Central States Fairgrounds 
800 San Francisco St. 
Rapid City South Dakota 57701 
 

ABANA 2012 Conference Information

 

Register Now to avoid the $50.00 Late Fee  

Registration Fee - $275 Per Person - $225 for ABANA Members (If paid before June 20, 2012)

Family members - $25 each for Spouse and Children 12- 17 (Under 12 Free)
Day Passes - $75.00 - Available at the Gate

Your ABANA Membership ID is required to Register at the Member Rate.  

Don't know have you ID?   

Have it sent to you by email:  Get Membership ID

Or Call the Central Office (423)913-1022

Register Now!

I can't make it

 

If you don't want to register online, you can also Download a Registration Form and mail it along with your payment to the ABANA Central Office.