I've been reading these forums for a few weeks, and am just making the plunge into microcontroller-based robotics myself. I'm organizing an Expo in the NE Ohio area loosely around the Parallax Propeller Chip.
There will be both Propeller/Micro, and Propeller/Robotics enthusiasts present. If you happen to have a reason to be in the NE Ohio area on August 23rd, check it out. RSVP as requested for the giveaways.
Here's the website:
http://www.warrantyvoid.us/upeneOBC
