Should a small business owner attend a business conference?

As a small business owner myself, I attend at least one major conference each year.  It is great to have an opportunity to connect with other business owners face to face, rather than through the use of technology.  Also, many business owners find it difficult to break away and spend the time needed to focus on the changes that are necessary to “take the business to the next level”.  When at the office it is easy to work through lunch, take calls and do everything else that comes up, rather than taking time to focus on the business rather than just working in the business.  Attending a conference can “force” you to step away and focus on making the changes necessary to be more successful.