Hi XXXXXXX,
So excited about a MaptimeXXX chapter! Welcome aboard.
Beth and Alan and Lyzi are CC'd on this email -- they can also help to get you onboarded. We're currently still working on getting good resources out to new chapters, but for now, we have a few things we can get you set up with. First, here's a doc we've been working on with some info. That'll help you to get started. (It involves making a Twitter account! :D) Also, here's a blog post Lyzi wrote about why Maptime exists that might help to guide your events.
Here's some more advice and thoughts, specifically with regards to venues:
Portland has monthly meetings at the EsriPDX space. MaptimeOAK doesn't have a consistent space yet. MaptimeSF meets every week at Stamen's offices. Consistent spaces are good, but it's more important that meetings happen at least once per month. Stay in constant communication with folks who might b