Networking paradise or iSeries island?

There is a wealth of technology and industry experience walking the streets out there. The question is, are you tapped into it ? Or are you on an island somewhere, hopelessly isolated when project specifications overextend your expertise ? There are many ways to connect with your peers, from user groups to conferences, blogs and webcasts. But you'd never know it:

• Attendance at conferences, including COMMON, has dropped sharply. Okay, that's understandable given the cost of travel, lodging and absenteeism. But there's a lot of long term productivity benefits to be gained that likely outweigh the costs.
  


• Local user groups are drying up faster than TARP funds, and many of those that are still afloat have cut back to just a handful of meetings per year. That is a shame because LUG's offer many amenities such as periodicals, tech tips, conference discounts, acclaimed speakers and the ability to network with your peers in a relaxed setting for a very affordable price.
  


• Community websites like iSociety offer blogs and webcasts on all types of subjects, both technical and non technical. But aside from a few hard core enthusiasts, participation is light. And these are free websites were are talking about.

We'd like to know how (and how often) you network with your fellow front liners in the profession. If you don't, then why, and what type of networking medium would draw your interest?

Thanks for sharing. Chris.