Next time you find yourself near a book store, check out the Knives annuals. They list makers by state, etc. I think Craig Camerer isn't too far away, in Illinois, Phil Detmer is also in the Metro area, and several others I'm surely forgetting in addition to those mentioned.
Also, there is usually a knife show held near the end of January in the Carpenter's Union Hall along Hampton Avenue (same exit as the zoo, between the interstates). I guess that means it's coming up real soon, but I was unable to find any further info so far. That would be a really great chance to meet lots of guys and drool over some blades.