Regional Networking

[MrManager]

One of my tech support staff came into my office this afternoon and told me about these forums right about the time I was mulling a question I've had recently.

I've started several businesses prior, but I've never met legitimate business owners in this industry in my Chamber of Commerce and other standard networking venues - who weren't resellers. I mean no offense to those who do resell- but having your own data center presents a far different perspective to the business than those who share these types of facilities.

How does one, such as myself, locate/meet others within my region? Is there a quarterly or periodic event where business owners in this industry get the chance to find their favorite martini and get to know some folks in their same boat?

Again, I'm very new to this (mostly a strict business type and not exactly the most tech savvy of the bunch), so I apologize if this is posted in the wrong place. Thoughts?

[interactive]

I would just try to locate companies in your area on google. Call them up and see if they have their own DC. Only thing I can think of. By the way there are expos, seminars, etc every so often.

[CompCity]

Well you could always find out where the major POPS in your area are located. Generally speaking in smaller areas (like less then 200,000 people) will only have POPS in VERY few buildings. Be the easiest way I'd think :).

[Chicken]

Originally posted by MrManager:

One of my tech support staff came into my office this afternoon and told me about these forums...

How does one, such as myself, locate/meet others within my region?
For one, please give that tech a raise, and tell him/her Chicken thanks 'em. :D Two, what is your region (or what would you consider your region)? You could very well meet up with some folks from here, or at least be directed to some people.

[maxhest]

Yes, I don't even know any hosts in my area.. :-/

[interactive]

I live in a town of 50,000 and I believe there's around 5 hosts in my area. The 10Mb's of space 50mb's of transfer for $19.95 type of hosts though.

[MrManager]

Originally posted by Chicken:

For one, please give that tech a raise, and tell him/her Chicken thanks 'em. :D Two, what is your region (or what would you consider your region)? You could very well meet up with some folks from here, or at least be directed to some people.

Well, my team is based in the greater Sacramento county, but our company has offices in Roseville CA, Miami FL and Kansas City MO.

I work in the Roseville office.
Thanks for your help!