Hi Doug, I've been trying to locate a few local makers too. My CEO at work mentioned that he knew someone who was doing a lot of forged blades, but I lost his contact info. I believe he was south of B/N somewhere. I'm not sure I could commit the time to an organized club right now, but I think it would be fun to have a group get together for some hammer/grind-ins or just chewing the fat. Drop me a line if you are ever in my neck of the woods. I've got a pretty modest shop and don't get the time in there that I would like, but it's always cool to meet other makers.
Hey! Hope we keep in touch. I was in the garage tonight and will be tomorrow working on the grinder in a box kit.