Business Analytics

SQL Server 2025 delivers a major round of improvements across performance, security, manageability, and hybrid connectivity, and this session gives you a practical, no‑nonsense tour of what matters most. We’ll cover enhancements to the core engine, query processing, storage, and availability that benefit DBAs and developers regardless of where SQL Server runs. You’ll see how SQL Server 2025 aligns with Azure SQL’s roadmap while still supporting strong on‑premises and VM‑based deployments. We’ll highlight new management, monitoring, and troubleshooting capabilities designed to simplify operations and reduce firefighting. AI‑powered features exist in this release, but the focus here is on the foundational improvements you can use immediately. Whether you’re modernizing, maintaining, or planning your next upgrade cycle, this session will help you understand what’s new and how to prepare your environment and your team.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Step into 2026 with intention, clarity, and a creative practice designed to help you see yourself more clearly. In this special Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore confidence as something you can curate - through the choices you make, the qualities you amplify, and the story you choose to step into. We’ll start with a short guided reflection to surface the traits, habits, and energies you want to nurture in the coming year. Then, using collage materials selected specifically for this workshop, you’ll translate those insights into a visual composition that represents the version of yourself you’re ready to grow toward. This isn’t about resolutions or perfection. It’s about crafting a grounded, imaginative vision of your next chapter - one that feels honest, energizing, and fully yours. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself (and a friend) and a willingness to explore what confidence can look like for you in 2026. **Featured Partner: Columbus Collage Collective** The Columbus Collage Collective was started in August of 2023 by Emily Morgan (aka Lovely But Dead) and Douglas Cuckler (aka Wonder Doug) as a place for collage enthusiasts to gather and create art together. The collective has since become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to hold free or low-cost collage events across central Ohio. The CCC welcomes all artists of all backgrounds and skill levels and encourages folks to take this time to step away from everyday existence and create art with people who share a love for this dynamic art form. All materials—magazines, scissors, craft knives, glue, paper, cardboard, and more—are provided, so there's no need to bring anything at all (though you're welcome to bring a friend or a favorite tool if you'd like!). We also encourage folks to take home magazines and materials from our events to support continued creativity! Find us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/](https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/) Register or sign up for the newsletter at [https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/](https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/) **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

**New Dojo Location!** **Draft Day Columbus** 1130 Dublin Road Columbus, OH 43215 We're going to try a new dojo location for a few weeks and see how it works Dojos are informal Python group study sessions where everyone interested in Python gathers to learn about Python, help others with Python, or just hang out. Everyone is welcome from Python beginners to experts. Bringing a laptop is encouraged (we'll have extension cords and power strips). If there's something you want to learn leave a comment on this invite so we can plan ahead. We're looking for topic suggestions and people interested in presenting at our monthly meetings. To this end we've set up a survey form at [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc)

## 🏓 Winter Singles Pickleball League \| Ages 20s\, 30s & 40s **Hosted by DateColumbus** **[Registration Through Eventbrite - Click Here!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Looking to meet new people OFF the dating apps this winter? Join us for an **8-week Singles Pickleball League** designed to help you connect, move, laugh, and meet other active Columbus singles — IRL. **📅 Thursdays, January 8 – February 26** 🎟 $160 (PLUS FEES) **⏰ 6:30–8:30 PM** **📍 Paddle Taps \| 535 Lakeview Plaza Blvd\, Worthington\, OH 43085** *** ## 🏓 What to Expect * 💬 A fun, easygoing way to meet singles in their **20s, 30s & 40s** * 🎾 **Beginner-friendly!** Instructors onsite for the first 30 minutes of Weeks 1–3 * 🔄 **Open Play Format** Rotate courts + partners often = tons of chances to connect Winners stay one round, then rotate * 🍻 Food + drinks available at Paddle Taps’ full bar and restaurant * 🏓 Paddles available each week — or bring your own * 💬 Eat, drink, mingle before/after games * ⏳ Runs every Thursday for 8 weeks Whether you’re experienced or brand new, you’ll fit right in — this league is all about connection, not competition. *** ## ⭐ IMPORTANT — READ THIS ⭐ **This is a PAID event. Meetup RSVP does NOT count as registration.** You **must purchase a ticket on Eventbrite** to participate. [👉 ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[DateColumbus Winter Singles Pickleball League LINK HERE!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Spots always fill fast — grab yours early!

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

We’ll be reading Brigands and Breadknives by Travis Baldtree this month! We recommend readingading “Bookshops and Bonedust” and “Legends and Lattes” before reading Brigands and Breadknives.

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Let’s meet for dinner at the Rossi, In the short north. The plan is to have dinner and then head over to Good Night John Boy around 9 pm for drinks and dancing. Please only RSVP if you are having dinner so that I have a head count for the restaurant. If you want to only join us for John Night John Boy, you don’t have to RSVP, you can write a comment under the event. This is the menu for the restaurant: https://rossikitchenandbar.com/dinner

**Doing KPIs Right: a KEY to Analytics (and AI!) Impact!** On the one hand, KPIs are such a Business 101 concept that it may seem a little silly to dedicate an entire session to the topic. On the other hand, KPIs get handled so poorly so often that a case could be made that this meetup could just be one of the most impactful sessions of the entire year! We’re starting off the year at a new location: [COhatch Upper Arlington](https://www.cohatch.com/locations/columbus/upper-arlington/) but with a familiar speaker, Tim Wilson! We’ll be back at Rev1 in February, when the speaker will presumably not be Tim. Tim will make the case that effectively measuring performance of projects, campaigns, and initiatives (and even meetups!) should be a foundation for any data analytics program. Topics covered will include: the “two magic questions” of performance measurement, how to help business partners distinguish between outcomes and outputs, and effective tactics for collaboratively establishing KPI targets. He will also stick his neck out by demonstrating some of these techniques in real-time by measuring whether his talk lives up to the promise of this description! All CBUSDAW events are free thanks to our 2026 Sponsors: Clarivoy, Conductrics, What Box Consulting Group, and Piwik PRO. Check out [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com) for more information.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

**Course Overview:** For project management professionals, the PMP certification is a widely accepted credential. It attests to their proficiency in project management and leadership. Obtaining PMP certification indicates proficiency in project management techniques and a dedication to best practices. It raises earning potential, creates new chances, and improves career prospects. The Project Management Institute (PMI) administers the PMP certification, which necessitates passing a demanding exam, proving experience, and fulfilling professional development criteria. **Training Overview:** This in-depth PMP® course is carefully crafted to provide professionals with the information, tools, and techniques needed to lead projects in a wide range of industries. Updated according to the most recent PMBOK® Guide and PMI standards, the course addresses fundamental project management areas such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing a project. Attendees will receive hands-on practice through live case studies, interactive training, and exam techniques so that they are well-equipped to take the PMP certification exam. The training is also in compliance with the PMI 35 contact hour requirement and is conducted by certified trainers with real-world industry experience. [https://www.icertglobal.com/course/pmp-certification-training/Classroom/5/3644](https://www.icertglobal.com/course/pmp-certification-training/Classroom/5/3644) Take your career to the next level with our **intensive PMP® Bootcamp**, designed to help you lead projects with confidence and earn your PMP credential quickly and efficiently. · Hands-on training in project planning, execution, monitoring & closure · In-depth understanding of PMI frameworks and the PMBOK® Guide **·** Proven strategies to **clear the PMP exam on your first try** · Guidance from expert trainers with 15+ years of industry experience **Key Features of PMP Certification** · **4 Days In-Person Training:** Intensive classroom sessions with expert-led instruction, hands-on activities, and full PMP® exam coverage. · **PMBOK® Guide 7th Edition-Based Training:** Aligned with the latest PMI standards, focusing on principles, performance domains, and real-world project applications. · **90 Days of E-Learning Access:** Get unlimited access to recorded sessions, study materials, and practice exams for 90 days to reinforce your learning at your own pace. · **PMI Application Assistance:** Get step-by-step guidance to complete and submit your PMP® exam application accurately and confidently. · **35 Hours of Classroom and Online Instructor-Led Live Training:** Comprehensive, real-time training delivered by certified instructors in both in-person and virtual formats. · **Approved Course Materials:** Study with PMI-authorized and industry-recognized materials aligned with the latest PMP® exam content outline. · **Money-Back Guarantee:** Enroll with confidence—get a refund if you don’t pass the PMP® exam under our specified terms and conditions. · **Exam-Based Mock Tests:** Practice with full-length, PMP®-style mock exams designed to simulate the real test environment and boost your confidence. **Benefits of PMP Certification:** · **Global Recognition:** PMP is a universally respected credential recognized across industries worldwide. · **Higher Salary Potential:** PMP-certified professionals earn up to 20% more than non-certified peers. · **Career Advancement:** Opens doors to leadership roles and high-impact project opportunities. · **Validated Skills:** Proves your ability to manage projects efficiently using industry-standard best practices. · **Stronger Networking:** Connect with a global community of project managers and PMI members. **What will you learn?** * **Project Management Frameworks:** Understand PMI’s approach and the PMBOK® Guide (7th Edition) * **Project Lifecycle & Processes:** Master initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing phases * **Agile & Hybrid Methodologies:** Apply adaptive project practices used in modern industries * **Team Leadership & Communication**: Learn stakeholder engagement, team dynamics, and conflict resolution * **Risk, Time & Cost Management:** Effectively manage project constraints and ensure delivery success * **PMP® Exam Strategy:** Gain test-taking techniques, practice with mock exams, and get exam-ready tips **Our Pass Guarantee: Your Success is Our Priority:** We’re committed to your success—our training, tools, and support are designed to help you pass the PMP® exam with confidence. **Why Choose Our Program? Learn from Industry Leaders. Succeed with Confidence.** · Led by certified experts with 15+ years of experience · PMI-authorized training aligned with the latest PMBOK® Guide · Proven track record of high first-attempt pass rates · Practical case studies and real-world project insights · Dedicated support from registration to certification However, basic understanding and knowledge about quality aspect and quality control will prove to be useful. Other course you might be interested: CAPM \| PMP \|LSSGB \| LSSBB \| LSSGB & LSSBB \| ITIL \| CBAP \| PMI\-ACP \| Big Data \| DevOps \| Data Science \| CSM If you are interested, please let me know so that I can send you special discounted price along with the customized registration link which will help you to enroll it easily. **Other Training Courses:** CAPM \| LSSGB \| LSSBB \| LSSGB&LSSBB\| CSM \| PMI\-ACP \| CCBA \| CEH \| DevOps If you have any more queries regarding PMP training and certification write an email to : [alex.wood@icertglobal.org](mailto:alex.wood@icertglobal.org) [https://www.icertglobal.com/](https://www.icertglobal.com/) Email: [alex.wood@icertglobal.org](http://alex.wood@icertglobal.org/) Phone: 713-287-1187

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Spare Me 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/249zqb6d Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!

At Evolve Synergy Sessions, you'll be part of a supportive mastermind where we share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and inspire one another to take bold steps in our businesses. Grow your network, gain fresh perspectives, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who are committed to success. Whether you’re looking to move the needle in your business or simply need a space to connect and recharge, this is the perfect place to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. [Add Event to Calendar](https://evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com/) \*\* Please note, we will be arriving around 8:15a for open networking! Get there early and get connected! Contact Alexis Morley at [alexis.morley@edwardjones.com](mailto:alexis.morley@edwardjones.com) or Terri Lawson at [terri.lawson@e-merge.com](mailto:terri.lawson@e-merge.com) for more information.

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.