Mashable Meetups Everywhere

Our June 30, 2010 Meetup

Wednesday, June 30, 2010, 7:00 PM

Selected By:

Mike Ditka's Restaurant

100 E Chestnut St, Chicago, IL (map)

Selected by:

Please join us at Da Coach's place for this Chicago Mashable event on Wednesday, June 30th. Located in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast, this venue is a vibrant reflection of Chicago's past and present sporting success!!

https://ditkasrestaurants.com/pages.ditkas/dining_chi.html

We'll be in the second floor bar area to enjoy networking, cash bar & appetizers. I was hoping that Mashable would sponsor some appetizers or drinks, but so far we are on our own. For those interested in dinner before or after the event, this full-service restaurant offers an array of delectible meals for any budget! Please follow the link above and click through to the menu for prices on drinks, appetizers and dinner to get an idea of what this event might set you back. There's no admission charge beyond what you order on your individual tab.

Later in the evening, we'll enjoy the live entertainment of Coach's good friend John Vincent. You may know John from his terrific performance of the Star Spangled Banner at the Crosstown Classic!

I understand that Mashable has some sort of premiums on their way to me, but I have no idea what they are. I do know that Ditka's Restaurant will be offering a $50.00 gift certificate to one lucky winner of our business card drawing. If you have a product you'd like to contribute as a doorprize, feel free to contact me.

Ditka's is located in the Tremont Hotel building, just west of North Michigan Avenue on Chestnut Street. It's just a couple short blocks from the Red Line stop at Chicago Avenue.

I just created a new twitter identity for our event. Please follow @chicagomashable for introductions and updates as our event takes place.

You can also visit http://www.qik.com/tombesore for periodic live streaming (and recordings afterward) of our event.

PLEASE USE THE MESSAGE BOARD BELOW TO INTRODUCE YOURSELF AHEAD OF THE EVENT.

Selected by:

Talk about this Meetup

Next month, we'll celebrate Social Media Week. Let's have a meetup and become a host city. Contact me if you're interested in organizing one.
Posted by LaShon January 14, 2011 at 11:16 PM
CHICAGO SOCIAL MEDIA SUMMIT: from powerhouse social brands ConAgra, Kenmore, General Motors, Kodak & more at Windy City Social?s Social Media Summit on August 23-24 at the gorgeous Blackstone Hotel.

There are a limited number of full day conference tickets at the discount Early Bird rate of $149 ($249 full price). If you need more time to decide, you can use code WCS10 to save 10% off full price company registration.

Register today at
http://www.windycitysocial....
Posted by Hope August 4, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Posted by Hope August 4, 2010 at 11:46 AM
I'm interested in more opportunities to network with my fellow Mashable attendees.

I started a custom software development company (Custom Software by Preston) a few years ago. Mainly we improve business processes through developing web based software (using .Net, ColdFusion, Ruby on Rails, Java, you name it!). Let me know if you want to chat before the event!

Thanks,

Brett Miller
[masked]
www.customsoftwarebypreston.com
Office [masked]
Posted by Brett Miller July 25, 2010 at 1:12 AM
Bring your business card to the event on Wednesday for a chance to win a copy of "#TwitterWorks - The Book" which is authored by Phil Gerbyshak, Joe Sorge and Scott Baitinger:
http://www.meetup.com/Masha...
Posted by Todor Krecu July 13, 2010 at 7:43 AM
Eat, Drink and be Social in Chicago on Bastille Day with Mashable fans: http://www.meetup.com/Masha...
Posted by Todor Krecu July 9, 2010 at 7:44 AM
The World Celebrates Social Media Day [PHOTO & VIDEO]:
http://mashable.com/2010/07...
Posted by Todor Krecu July 4, 2010 at 9:17 AM
I was scrapin' and brawlin' and having a blast! Todor put my pictures on his blog http://chicago-social-marke...
@joseavillalobos
Posted by Jose Villalobos July 2, 2010 at 9:39 PM
Great hanging with you last tonight! And I look forward to meeting more of you as we voyage along. thanks to Tom for putting it all together. I didn't get a chance to talk to many of you so please say hello and let me know what you're up to via @chriscatania or livefixblog.com
Posted by Chris Catania July 1, 2010 at 9:42 AM
Since I wasn't able to do much networking (quite a crowd in such a small space), wanted to let everyone know about the Red Cross' Mission: Red experience auction in September.

For more info, visit http://www.facebook.com/Mis...
Posted by Gordon D July 1, 2010 at 8:48 AM
Tom organized a great event! This is a link to some of the photos taken by Jose Villalobos (@joseavillalobos):
http://chicago-social-marke...

If anyone else has photos from the event please add them to the album.
Posted by Todor Krecu July 1, 2010 at 5:33 AM
It was great meeting everyone tonight. Follow me @joshpolitico
Posted by Josh Shpayher June 30, 2010 at 10:55 PM
Thanks to everyone who came out for a great time. You're all terrific!
Posted by Tom Besore June 30, 2010 at 10:36 PM
Great Crowd Tonight! Had an awesome time seeing old friends and meeting new ones. If we're not already following each other, I'm @nduhoski, Social Media Consultant.
Posted by Nicole Duhoski June 30, 2010 at 10:21 PM
Great Crowd Tonight! Had an awesome time seeing old friends and meeting new ones. If we're not already following each other, I'm @nduhoski, Social Media Consultant.
Posted by Nicole Duhoski June 30, 2010 at 10:20 PM
Have a Great Time Everyone!! Love You!

http://twitter.com/LoriMore...
Posted by Lori Moreno June 30, 2010 at 8:10 PM
No dog sitter, no dice...hope everyone had a great time.
Posted by Jessica Masterson June 30, 2010 at 8:09 PM
At Iron Mike's No Open Bar, No Pass Around Food = Mashable Fail ! ! !
Posted by Amy Jacbson June 30, 2010 at 7:46 PM
Is the Pole Dancer Kelly Olexa going to be here ? Wheres the women that loves to date married men ?
Posted by Amy Jacbson June 30, 2010 at 7:43 PM
Word is that Da Coach will be here tonight!
Posted by Tom Besore June 30, 2010 at 5:49 PM
I'm coming from the NW Subs - taking public transportation. So I'm already headed to the train station with hubby in tow.

See u soon
Posted by Monique Terrell June 30, 2010 at 4:43 PM
Ovetta - I'm actually on the SW side; planning to use public transportation.
Posted by Gordon D June 30, 2010 at 4:30 PM
Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight! Always looking to network with/connect small businesses, nonprofits and social media professionals.

Let's connect on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mjca...
Posted by Mark J. Carter June 30, 2010 at 4:21 PM
Ovetta,

You're not the only south sider! But you have to be strategic when parking. Park your car anywhere within a one mile radius of Ditkas that allows metered street parking -- typically somewhere west of Michigan Ave. near Clark Avenue, and walk over or take public transpo. Much cheaper than one of those overpriced garages.
Posted by Sylvia June 30, 2010 at 4:08 PM
@junowallet will be there. we are the first mobile gift card app in the iphone & droid app stores. A free download for free promotional gift cards! What's not to like about that?
Posted by Will Glass (the Drink Deck guy) June 30, 2010 at 3:36 PM
Ovetta: You may luck out and find parking [and that truly is luck] but you might consider parking in the south loop [meter parking] or river north and taking a bus/a nice long walk there. Even valet at Ditka's [if it exists] is probably cheaper than the parking garages.
Posted by Lisa G June 30, 2010 at 3:33 PM
Wouldn't mind carpooling though to take the ding out of parking fees. :)
Posted by Ovetta Sampson June 30, 2010 at 3:02 PM
I'm probably the only one in this group who lives on the (truly) South Side of Chicago it would take me forever on PT to get to Ditka's. :)
Posted by Ovetta Sampson June 30, 2010 at 3:02 PM
Take public transportation. ;-)
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 30, 2010 at 2:56 PM
Hello all! Just wondering is there parking nearby?
Posted by Ovetta Sampson June 30, 2010 at 2:47 PM
@windycitysocial here!!! Excited to meet-up with such a great crowd. We host monthly fundraisers where 100% of the door goes to a different charity each month.

We're also just announced our 2nd annual Social Media Masters' Awesome content and great crowd. You can find out more at: http://www.windycitysocial....

See you all tonight!
Posted by Hope June 30, 2010 at 1:00 PM
Tom, Thank you for your continued support of Team Gyp-Sea and the Chicago Leukemia Cup. Linda
http://il.lcr.llsevent.org/...
Posted by Linda Zager June 30, 2010 at 12:09 PM
Looks like I'll be able to make it to the Chicago meetup after all.
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 30, 2010 at 10:15 AM
Looks like I'll be able to make it to the Chicago meetup after all.
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 30, 2010 at 10:14 AM
I was all about this until I had meetings and work pop up. Sucks I can't make it, but work comes first. Have fun everyone! -- @ebreakdown
Posted by Leif June 30, 2010 at 9:40 AM
I'll be doing some live video streaming by smartphone on the Qik.com platform. If anyone else is interested, feel free to experiment!
Posted by Tom Besore June 30, 2010 at 9:35 AM
My partner Jim and I will see you guys tonight. We are Rib Bone creators of meaty content for a hungry digital world. Looking forward to some good conversation.
Posted by Andy Spyrison June 30, 2010 at 8:33 AM
Im @tomdahm. Im currently freelancing graphic/web design and consulting in the internet marketing field.
Posted by tomdahm June 30, 2010 at 1:49 AM
I wish I could attend Chicago-will be in Wheaton at Mashable event out there...make sure you follow me @jwillie
Posted by Jeff Willinger June 29, 2010 at 11:16 PM
Hi! I'm Tanya. I am in Chicago for my summer internship, working on social media strategy for one of the national retailers. Looking forward to meet everyone tomorrow! @hertantya
Posted by Tanya Tetserawati June 29, 2010 at 10:28 PM
i am a marketing & communications professional currently freelancing as a Social Media Analyst. Look forward to seeing you all tomorrow! I invite you to connect with me on Twitter @AWomansWork, Facebook/AWomanswork, or LinkedIn. Best, Jessica Masterson
Posted by Jessica Masterson June 29, 2010 at 9:51 PM
I'll be honest, I dont work for any marketing firm in Chicago or have any business cards to hand out. I just love social media and Mashable. This stuff fascinates me! Looking to meet some cool new people. See you tomorrow!
Posted by Jim Stengele June 29, 2010 at 9:26 PM
I'll be honest, I dont work for any marketing firm in Chicago or have any business cards to hand out. I just love social media and Mashable. This stuff fascinates me! Looking to meet some cool new people. See you tomorrow!
Posted by Jim Stengele June 29, 2010 at 9:26 PM
I'll be there tomorrow from the Where I've Been team! :)

Cheers!
Katy (@whereivebeen)
Community Manager / Social Media Strategist
http://www.whereivebeen.com
Posted by whereivebeen June 29, 2010 at 5:15 PM
Hi there,
I'm Michelle, social media manager for Kolcraft (baby gear industry). Looking forward to meeting everyone tomorrow. @MichelleHalm
Posted by Michelle Halm June 29, 2010 at 4:54 PM
Feel free to connect with me on Facebook or twitter @tombesore.

I also created @chicagomashable on twitter to post checkins and updates from this event.
Posted by Tom Besore June 29, 2010 at 3:43 PM
Michelle - I will be there :-) you can find me on twitter @moniqueterrell

Everybody, lets have a follow frenzy!!!
Posted by Monique Terrell June 29, 2010 at 3:24 PM
http://twitter.com/ADMAVEN here hoping to make it!
Posted by Nick Kinports June 29, 2010 at 1:05 PM
Monique - hope to see you there :) I'm @iMediaMichelle in case you happen to be on Twitter. Hoping to foster a Social Business revolution in the travel industry!
Posted by Michelle June 29, 2010 at 12:13 PM
I may get there a little later. Have an appointment earlier in the evening. Looking forward to meeting everyone
Posted by Rene McMahon June 28, 2010 at 2:39 PM
Will try to make it but, like Ricky, I have a conflict that night. @dseville
Posted by Doug Seville June 28, 2010 at 1:07 PM
Hi and looking forward to meeting everyone! My name is Julie. My company, One Plus One Events (http://www.oneplusoneevents...), specializes in customized, clue-based scavenger hunts for team building, company/client/networking events and for marketing of retail shopping areas. We are also open to other applications...just ask! You can follow us on twitter @1Plus1Events
Posted by Julie June 28, 2010 at 12:26 PM
Boo :( Rickey! You should follow her anyway @messagemasseuse.

Also want to mention my other twitter @thriftista & event calendar at http://www.networkinchicago... :)
Posted by Lisa G June 28, 2010 at 12:09 PM
If I've already intro'd myself, just ignore this. The event sounds terrific but I've got another commitment that night. I'll be there for the next one cause I've heard great things about your meetups!
Posted by rickey gold June 28, 2010 at 12:02 PM
Hello....!.... EFAIR4U On-Line Business Social Network. We are pleased to invite any interested partners from the countries located on our portal: http://www.efair4u.com/Flas... to enable mutually the businessmen from their countries to feature at efair4u. The interested parties for obtaining the information on the franchise acquiring for a specific country may contact us at: franchise[at]efair4u.com http://www.efair4u.com
Posted by Nebojsa June 28, 2010 at 10:09 AM
hey everyone, comedian just moved to Chicago from Cleveland hope I can make it out to meet everyone! If I'm allowed, I'll slang some jokes before or after John Vincent's crooning. I heard he's a modern day Robert Goulet.
Posted by Ramon Rivas II June 27, 2010 at 11:15 AM
Hi. I'm looking for a freelancer that can help our small start up with Social Media and content for our social game. contact me at [masked]
Posted by Praveen Mathew June 25, 2010 at 3:08 PM
Hi! I'm @interactiveAmy (also known as Amy Ravit Korin). I have a social media consultancy specializing in social media strategy and campaign execution, and I publish a Chicago Social Media Networking Calendar on my site, www.interactiveAmy.com. For me, everyday is Social Media Day, can't wait to celebrate with you!
Posted by Amy Korin June 25, 2010 at 9:56 AM
Hello. I'm Monica; artist, curator, audio/visual tech, mentor and educator. New to social media but learning quick. Check me out on Twitter @MonicaRt312 or linkedin http://www.linkedin.com/in/...
Posted by Monica Ryan June 24, 2010 at 9:59 AM
I'm a consultant who also implements social networking strategies for small businesses & non-profits. To follow/friend me, check out my website at http://visuals4u.com and mention this Mashable meetup.
- La'Shon
Posted by LaShon June 23, 2010 at 6:30 PM
Hi all! My name is Stacy Jill Calvert and my wifey, Melissa and I run http://www.QueerlyWed.com, a wedding vendor directory/planning guide for same-sex couples. We tweet at @queerlywedweb and I am at @stacyjill
Posted by Stacy Jill Calvert June 23, 2010 at 6:24 PM
Hello everyone, my name is Nick, and I'm a software developer at Blueye, here in Chicago. I'm also the developer of Mestream (BETA), for Android phones, which let's you broadcast live video to other users on their phones or the web. Follow us @blueyecreative, or check out http://mestream.net.
Posted by Nicholas Aiello June 23, 2010 at 4:56 PM
Hi all!

My name is Jonathan Stein and I am the creative director for recording artist JQ. I'm currently studying marketing and entrepreneurship at Indiana University, and I'm a big social media enthusiast. I love to connect with others so please add me on fb or twitter. http://twitter.com/JMstein
Posted by Jonathan Stein June 23, 2010 at 4:45 PM
Hello all! I'm Sylvia -- a freelance content strategist. Storytelling on all platforms is my specialty, and I'm really interested in branded entertainment. You can find me on Twitter at @Rwriteur
Posted by Sylvia June 23, 2010 at 4:15 PM
Hi, my name is Paul, and I currently attend school in Boston, but I'm in town for my summer internship. For the summer I am trying to establish the Social Marketing Strategy for my employer.
You can catch me on twitter @p_o_rios
-Paul Rios
Posted by P.o. Rios June 23, 2010 at 3:48 PM
Looking forward to this - I'm a freelance print & web designer as well as budding Twitter community builder for an array of clients.

I am at http://www.gizmo-design.com but also @gizmodesign and @thriftista.
Posted by Lisa G June 23, 2010 at 2:20 PM
Hello all! What does it say a about me that this event will be the highlight of my week? Can't wait. Fell free to check me out before the event: www.facebook/ovettas, www.twitter.com/writingprincess or http://www.linkedin.com/in/...
See ya'll there!
Posted by Ovetta Sampson June 23, 2010 at 1:02 PM
Hi Everybody,

I'm looking forward to hanging with you all! Feel free to say hello or connect with me before the event via @chriscatania or http://www.linkedin.com/in/... ;)
Posted by Chris Catania June 23, 2010 at 12:24 PM
Howdy group- I'm @brandonzeman and have that username on most social sites. I work for Lakeshore Branding, a small internet marketing company in Chicago. We're big supporters of the Chicago tech and social communites. We're organizing Startup Weekend, a great event that brings some of the best minds in tech, design and entrepreneurship together. It's this weekend, and we'd love to have anyone interested attend. http://chicago.startupweeke... Hope to see some of you there and at the meetup.
Posted by Brandon Zeman June 23, 2010 at 12:21 PM
I'm at attorney working on a social media wiki of sorts that I hope to be able to debut at the meetup for feedback. I'm looking forward to it. Follow me @joshpolitico
Posted by Josh Shpayher June 23, 2010 at 12:09 PM
Feel free to connect with me on Twitter @tombesore or http://www.linkedin.com/in/...

This event is still a week away and already I've met some terrific people! Please feel free to post a comment to introduce yourself, point us to your twitter page, your Linkedin profile, or just to say hello.
Posted by Tom Besore June 23, 2010 at 12:03 PM
I'm a comics blogger/podcaster/Twitter dude...and I'm thinking of launching a second blog. I like meetups, like social media, and so definitely am going to attend.

Plus, it's MIKE DITKA'S RESTAURANT. That in itself mandates attendance.
Posted by Gordon D June 22, 2010 at 9:10 AM
hi everyone!! Looking forward to seeing friends and meeting new ones!

If you are looking for something to do on Tuesday, June 29th, I'm hosting a fundraiser on EPIC's AMAZING Rooftop!

$10 cash at the door goes directly to Big Love Little Hearts
and includes first sponsored cocktail.

http://junepwap.eventbrite....
Posted by Hope June 18, 2010 at 12:18 PM
Roughly how much should I expect to spend?
Posted by Julia Ohaver June 18, 2010 at 12:11 PM
I've recently been called a "Social Media Fiend" and a "Twitter Queen, so I better make this!
Posted by Theresa Carter June 18, 2010 at 9:36 AM
Like Michelle, I just relocated to the Chicago area and look forward to meeting some local peeps.
Posted by Monique Terrell June 18, 2010 at 8:56 AM
Ditka's restaurant? Yes! I'll be there!
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 17, 2010 at 5:26 PM
See you there @gooddaymonsters
Posted by Jeff Canzona June 17, 2010 at 5:14 PM
ooo Sable looks amazing!!
Posted by Molly June 17, 2010 at 4:58 PM
Just officially moved to CHI and looking forward to hanging with CHI tweeps.
Posted by Michelle June 17, 2010 at 3:58 PM
How about Sable (http://www.sablechicago.com...)? It's like the Violet Hour in Wicker Park but it is downtown at 505 N. State. I talked to the manager and he said he'd be willing to offer deals on food for the evening.
Posted by suzanne June 17, 2010 at 11:58 AM
I will be there. Just moved back from being a global citizen and would look to hook up with Chi-town social media folk.
Posted by Ovetta Sampson June 17, 2010 at 11:42 AM
Suggestion for a venue - how about the rooftop at the Conrad?
Posted by Qiana June 17, 2010 at 10:37 AM
Count me in!
Posted by Qiana June 17, 2010 at 10:37 AM
I'm down!
Posted by Mhirra Bansil Yung June 17, 2010 at 10:33 AM
Working on getting another hotel with a patio. I'll let you know @applegirl
Posted by suzanne June 16, 2010 at 2:47 PM
roof is booked. I'm going to look into a few other places.
Posted by Hope June 16, 2010 at 11:48 AM
k, I'm reaching out to my contact at Roof. Stay tuned and let us know if you have any other recommendations. :0)
Posted by Hope June 16, 2010 at 11:27 AM
you all up for meeting a bit earlier? I'm thinking Roof @ 6:30 or 7:30
Posted by Hope June 16, 2010 at 11:06 AM
Where is ITA?
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 16, 2010 at 10:52 AM
Parking is $20 at Navy Pier and Bus is a bit of a hassle. I have a bunch of contacts at venues closer to el/bus. LMK if you need a hand.

Looking forward to seeing everyone. Should be a great time.
Posted by Hope June 14, 2010 at 11:33 PM
I like meeting at Navy Pier.
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 14, 2010 at 9:42 PM
I'm interested in Chicago. DOC Winebar is a great place on Clark. Let me know if you need a contact there. They are great to work with.
Posted by Christie June 14, 2010 at 8:15 PM
give me a ring Besore. I can give you a hand.
Posted by Hope June 14, 2010 at 3:23 PM
I guess I am in charge of finding a spot! How about Harry Caray's Navy Pier and we enjoy the fireworks after or as part of the Meetup?

Any other suggestions are welcome! I'll post a location this week after I hear from a few people.
Posted by Tom Besore June 14, 2010 at 2:07 PM
I don't know... Who chooses the venue?
Posted by Julia Ohaver June 14, 2010 at 9:57 AM
Where is this gonna be?
Posted by Jose Villalobos June 13, 2010 at 10:27 PM