I haven't seen overt signs of hostility toward builders, either from this particular event or from local retailers. Julio McWilliams teaches for a local shop, and two years ago gave a talk and demo on Greenland boats and technique. There were maybe 6 of us in the audience though.

I don't find a commercial orientation surprising or disturbing, unless it becomes exclusionary. People, even paddlers, need to make money. However if Bay Area builders are interested I will look into the possibility of getting a session next year on self building. I will need a lot of other participation though - a currently half finished SOF, an imminently planned S&G and a vaguely intentioned stripper won't carry it off. Please e-mial me directly if you are interested in participating - kbrunton@garlic.com. Let's se if we can broaden the spectrum a bit. (nb: Up to now, my only connection to Paddlefest has been as a day tripper, but I'm willing to check things out.)

: I believe the promoters of that event were specific in presenting vendors of
: products sold in the local retail paddling shops. Wood boats and kits
: aren't a direct part of that market. My impression is that most retail
: shops feel a sense of competition with this small segment of the market.
: Go figure.