If you don't know Dan Rua, know that he is a Venture Capitalist who invested in PayPerPost, an Orlando-based business. He's a Managing Partner of Inflexion Partners, "Florida's Venture Fund", and a part-time blogger. In addition to geeky stuff, he also posts about biotech and UF/Gainesville (his alma mater) quite often.

In light of John Rife's blog today about Central Florida's Early-stage Venture Needs, I got to thinking about how we can further encourage such an event. I'd like to nominate Dan to be on the planning committee for the first Florida Creatives Summit, which I would love to happen some time in the next 6-9 months, sooner if possible. He should definitely attend a Florida Creatives Happy Hour like the one on August 20th or Sept 17th. I'll accept BarCamp Orlando or BlogOrlando as well. Mostly, I'd like to speak to a real live VC guy from Florida.

Dan, I'd just like to have you as a contact more than over MyBlogLog. How's that sound?

Here are some events we're holding in the near future, but they happen each 3rd week of the month.

likemind.orl
Friday, August 17th
8:00 - 11:00 AM
B & S Daily Market
47 E Robinson St
Orlando, FL

Florida Creatives Happy Hour
Monday, August 20th
6:00 - 9:00 PM
Crooked Bayou
50 E Central Blvd
Orlando, FL