When I worked for a Maternal Child Health Consortium, they were well aware that I would not attend any conference sponsored by a formula company. My job was never threatened and I made my feelings clear in a very honest ,professional way. My supervisor respected my position although she continued to use these companies to sponsor meals or expenses associated with various conferences. As you know, conferences are very expensive to run so it is very tempting when the formula reps wave money in your face but I was able to do a 3 day BF conference with a very well known speaker with no money from formula co. (even though they offered repeatedly). I don't believe it is necessary to sit in and observe (spy)......we all know what it is about and how it is done. I think your presence will just associate you with them and I'm not sure that is what you want. We are never going to be able to compete with the mega-bucks these companies have so trying to beat them at their own game is just not going to work.........I'd rather not play at all ! Maria Parlapiano RN, IBCLC The Lactation Resource Center, Inc. Chatham, NJ