Not to beat a dead horse, but Michael is one of the most active, thus social, members of NANFA. I think I understand your post now that I have re-read it a couple of times and you were stating that if he were socially awkward, he should still be able to host a convention.
As someone that has hosted a convention and helped with a couple others, I can say that it is not always easy, even with the great social network that Michael has in place in GA. There are many things to consider when contemplating whether to host or not. The most important ones are:
- Time away from work and family. Most of us have full time jobs that require more than full time hours on occasion. In addition, many have kids and the related activities of said kids which reduces free time to nearly none. NANFA is an all volunteer organization. Michael already volunteers FAR(!!) more than nearly every other NANFA member.
- Local regulations and restrictions. While Michael has cultivated excellent relationships with the fisheries professionals in his state, this does not mean that he can do whatever he likes. Relationships with professionals take years to foster, and require the development of trust and respect. Michael has the luxury of spending time with his local group and knows that they share his ethical standards, but this is more difficult to control in a convention setting. In addition, some states simply don't allow the types of activities that we typically conduct.