I was going (and still want to) join the Ottawa (Canada) chapter, but sadly, they don't seem very active. I think they have 6 to 8 meetings a year.

A guy I know have been there a few times. He told me people are very nice, it is informal (eating pizza) and relaxing. He liked the talks but didn't much about them. But at least, he wanted to go back, so it can't be that bad.

I hope it helped a bit... i am interested to in what people have to say about them. OWASP do great stuff and I like their web site!

For the NY, NJ chapter would be worth it. That chapter tends to get the most speakers which means you're likely to learn a lot more than the smaller chapters. I've attended OWASP meetings in a few places, the last being in Hartford. I just barely have time to go anymore.

1) Its a great way to network
2) Great way to see how to make (or how NOT to make) presentations
3) Somewhere along the way you can learn some really cool stuff
4) Supermodels attend.

Alright so number 4 is a lie. I just maintain a supermodel desktop image and pretend they do.