The Chicagoland International Pipe & Tobacianna Show will be coming up in a few weeks (May 1 & 2). This is the Mecca of all pipe shows. All 304 exhibitor tables are sold. The carvers are from all over the world. There are numerous activities, including Brian Ruthenberg doing a hands-on pipe making seminar. For more activities see http://www.chicagopipeshow.com/show_information/ShowActivities.php. Also the U.S. national smoking contest will be held.