Given the sensitivity of my profession, I would never attend one of these functions for fear of running into someone who could recognize me and potentially compromise my ability to perform my job, or worse yet, to disqualify me from holding my position. They sound intriguing, and there are always these positive "thank you" posts afterwards, but who actually attends these get-togethers, especially as it pertains to the male participants? Is it a small circle of acquaintances who know each other personally and thus feel comfortable attending without consequence? Or, are there new male initiates each year who attend? Just curious.

I have attended a number of meet n greets over the years. I think the anxiety of the uncertainty is what used to concern me. At this point in time, I enjoy the meet n greets. So, I guess the answer is that you have to evaluate it and make your own decisions

I have never met anyone I know.  If I did, he or she would be in the same situation so I would assume mutual discretion would prevail.  M&Gs should be interesting and fun.  If your anxiety would prevent you having a good time, don't go.

I was a bit worried, but then I realized that even if I saw someone I knew, so what? They are AT THE M&G.  Their hobby is your hobby.  The only thing a man should worry about is if his daughter's husband or bf shows up! (ok, perhaps it might be a little more awkward if his daughter showed up).

How was the M/G

I'm not sure if that thread was pulled.  

Perhaps others tried to post those pics (on other threads) and out the unwitting....but those outing threads were quickly removed.

absolute discretion.

Exactly. Well said chiguy.