I'll call it like I see it. It's kinda ******** (<------------thanks to the family friendly filter) that old and new members of JF are coming together and you're too busy. Not to mention Ballou is trying to make something of himself (against monumental odds) and folks (bound by your site) are coming together in support... but the leader can't make it.
Granted, I'm not making it tomorrow, but I'm just a normal poster.. not 'the' guy.
I'm sensitive to family time, tight schedules.. but this seems important, at least as far as I see it. You can either be the site owner that views members coming together as a non-priority, or show that you get it and think it's cool.... and show up in support... and appreciation.
Not to mention your wife wants to some and deal some cards..... and if she was my wife, I'd take her to the event.