Sure, there are a lot of scammers and a-holes out there, but I figure if you're going to make the effort of going to Steemfest, you must be at least a bit nice and care about the community.

I would say you are right. Those who attend are likely the ones who think they can maintain their position.

Honestly, I have no clue what it's going to be like...but I'm hoping for awesome. And don't worry about the monkey. Surely, he will find some other monkeys to play with ;)

I am glad you are going and I hope you are able to get some support. I am hoping I can go too, even if the monkey is out of the bag ;)