met fellow mongers outside of meet and greets from your local area?  Do you reach out to them for advice or tips?  

When I lived in Sacramento CA. a few us would get together for drinks at one of the local strip clubs.

One hobby friend became my HVAC guy.  Another I had some drinks with and we discussed having a double with a local provider, but he bailed at the last minute.  Interesting guy, though, lots of European and long-term experiences to relate.

I agree one million percent.  I think it would be extremely interesting to meet others and share our thoughts....