NMRA and Model Railroading

I am active in my local NMRA Division and have found it to be something that adds another element of enjoyment to the hobby. I also have met many of the modelers I consider my mentors at the local shows. There is something special to visiting modelers at their own layouts and having them in person describing what they are doing.
Today it seems like the "shows" in my Division as well as those around the country have suffered a lack of attendance. Don't confuse this problem with the mega-shows like Trainfest in Milwaukee, WI. etc. They are growing! I'm talking only about "NMRA" type local shows where the emphasis is on networking (a.k.a. shooting the bull) and taking in clinics, model contests, and layout tours. It seems to me that the web-based groups have for the most part become a type of "show" that narrows our interests and lets us find out about only what we are interested in and at the same time view layouts without having to leave the comfort of our chairs! The exchange of knowledge can take place as well and we are connected to each other as often as we wish, not just a few times a year like at a NMRA show. Still, I am old enough to remember life before any of this and sometimes wonder if I would have met many of my friends if all we would have done 30 years ago is talk online. Bottom line seems to be that unless "new" events are planned at local NMRA shows, most folks won't bother attending. Please make it a point in 2008 to attend at least one NMRA meet -even if you are not a member.