> it's kind of time consuming and I got the vibe that Techstars took my time a little too much for granted.
The Give First ethos applies here. If you approach TS with this mentality, you'll get more out of it.
> The promise of a great network (to both mentors and founders) is hard to live up to if you don't nurture that network.
I agree that, perhaps, there should be more, consistent events to bring the network together. For instance, in Seattle, we had regular mixers that were just at Startup Hall--swing by, grab a beer from the keg, and have a chat. Events pulling the network together don't have to be a heavy life.
But I think you also get out of it what you put into it: Again, give first, and follow up with folks and you'll get more out of it.