I attended my first “Geek Dinner” last night in Appleton, WI. There were ten people present from several different technological disciplines. As we consumed mass quantities, we discussed the state of Tech in Wisconsin, and what could be done to improve the states profile as being a world leader on this front (thirty years ago it was at the forefront of silicon processing, etc.).

There were many new concepts discussed, many of them revolving around web technologies and business - even the idea that some companies might even benefit from re-locating to the state from Silicon Valley.  A lower cost of living, higher quality of life, fewer distractions - plus there’d be less attrition rates as competition for talent is not as vicious.
A very interesting idea indeed.  We shall see how this idea develops.