Jody Halsted, an UpTake blogger created a mid-west conference for bloggers called I_Blog. If you live in Iowa or nearby and wish to attend the conference, there may be a few openings left.  This is her introduction to what we expect to be an intimate, entertaining and useful annual conference.– Patricia Jenkins, Editor

I_Blog came about as I was preparing for a blog conference on the east coast. As I spoke of my upcoming trip I realized that I had never run into another Iowa blogger while at a conference. So I decided to bring a conference to Iowa. While I’ll admit it is not a destination there are so many wonderful places within the state; many that lifelong Iowans have never visited. With that simple thought, coupled with building a community of Midwest bloggers, I_Blog was born.

The inaugural conference is being held at the incomparable Hotel Pattee is Perry, Iowa.  Its themed and sumptuous rooms reflect on the rich history that has made Iowa what it is today. In the basement are an antique two lane bowling alley and a small spa. David’s Milwaukee Diner, located in the hotel, is catering the event.

While I_Blog is not a big conference I do want it to be a gathering for Midwest bloggers to learn and have fun- with an emphasis on the fun. My goal is to host I_Blog in a different Iowa location every year to showcase just what our state has to offer.

See the schedule and speakers here: http://iblogconference.com/2009/10/19/i_blog-conference-schedule/

Registration is closed but there are still a few vacancies. If you would like to attend please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)..