Darren,
This is my third trip to Copia from Nebraska.  About a 7.5 hr drive.  My favorite part is it is a gathering place to meet up with "canoe fanatics" I have met along the trail and on sites like this and BWCA.com, Solotripping.com, etc.
I really enjoy the merchandise part of the show, because it gives us a chance to "touch and feel" the latest and greatest.  My favorite part after seeing my friends, is the speakers.  That is the part I really dig.
I truly enjoyed the Pagami Fire Presentation as I learned a lot about fire in the Boreal forest.  I also think that much talked about is a little basic for the "seasoned crowd".
I do also Enjoy Martin and his talks and passion.
Also would like more on something around first time soloing, and maybe the latest in technology for those first timers to "communicate" with their wife/spouse.  Like utilizing Sat phones, spots, plb's, etc.
I won't quit coming as I enjoy the "fun" with friends, but have a lot of the same sentiment as the above posters.
One other thing, your HELP was really polite and courteous!
SunCatcher