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Monday December 29th at 6PM we'll be meeting up dinner at the Pies & Pints at Easton. Feel free to bring guests. Sandwiches run about $15 and large pizzas run $20-30.

We will be having an open discussion of the book "the Soul of an Octopus" by Sy Montgomery. [this is the amazon link for this book](https://a.co/d/1bRn8h4)

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Start the new year with your local IxDA pals. Join members of the Central Ohio UX and design community for our monthly breakfast.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [5 Bean Coffee](https://5beancoffee.com/)!

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

The January Ohio North Database Training user group meeting will be held on **January 6th, 2025 at 5:00PM**. This will be a **HYBRID** event and we will be joined online by **Jason Romans**. You're welcome to come meet in-person at our meeting location, the offices of Improving at **[6000 Freedom Square Dr,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Unit 110,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Independence, OH 44131](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** [Teams Link ](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_N2Q3ODVjM2YtNDQ1NS00MDBjLWI5MzYtNDQ3YmFlZjkzMjAx%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b966f302-6b93-4686-9041-c084635642c5%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2278c760cb-657f-46aa-bd2f-7066d9403bdb%22%7d)if anyone needs it after RSVP-ing for in person. If you would like to subscribe to our email list outside of Meetup, we have changed platforms recently and you will need to register [here in Kit ](https://ohio-north-data-training.kit.com/b8f036f615)instead to receive emails. Agenda: **5:00 PM EST**: Online and in-person meeting begins with a social hour. This is an unstructured hour where you can join us to catch up and meet other group members before the session starts. There will be food brought in for in-person attendees. **6:00 PM EST**: Updates and announcements, followed by our feature presentation. See below for presentation details. **7:30 PM EST**: Optionally after the main presentations, the in-person crowd may go out for snacks and drinks at a local establishment. We hope to see you there! Session Abstract **Data on Fire: A Hands-On Intro to Spark in Fabric** Curious about Apache Spark but not sure where to start? This hands-on session introduces you to Spark in Microsoft Fabric Notebooks—a powerful and accessible way to process and analyze big data using familiar tools in the Microsoft ecosystem. We’ll break down key Spark concepts like distributed computing, DataFrames, and lazy evaluation, then show how they come to life inside Fabric’s notebook experience. You’ll see practical demos that cover loading, transforming, and analyzing large datasets—while leveraging Fabric’s modern data stack, including OneLake, Dataflows, and Pipelines. You’ll also learn how to choose between Spark and pure Python notebooks in Fabric, based on execution needs, data integration, and use case fit. Whether you're a SQL pro, BI developer, or data engineer, this session will give you the tools and confidence to start using Spark in your own projects—no cluster management required. \*Please note, that we will be using Microsoft Teams for the online portion of this meeting. You may want to join a few minutes early to ensure you do not have any issues. If you are attending in person, there are large TVs at the office, and you do not need to bring a laptop or use Teams.

**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

Our monthly PHP meetup. A virtual shindig courtesy of Zoom. Check back here for the details around 6:15 pm

**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)

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Come out to Improving for our monthly iOS and Mac meetings. This Month's Presentation: Nothing yet. (You should volunteer). What is Cocoaheads (http://cocoaheads.org/)? CocoaHeads is a group devoted to discussion of Apple Computer's Cocoa Framework for programming on MacOS X and iOS (including the iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch). During monthly meetings, members present on their projects and offer tutorials on various programming topics. What is BuckeyeCocoa (http://buckeyecocoa.org/)? BuckeyeCocoa is a group of Objective-C/Swift developers/enthusiasts. We host monthly Cocoaheads and near-weekly NSCoder meetings in Columbus, Ohio. The meetings are free to attend. Presentations! Presenters welcome! We are always in need of people willing to present material. Any Swift and/or Objective-C related topic is welcome. Times can be 5 minutes (i.e. lightning talks) to a maximum of 2 hours. Interested? Contact info is on the BuckeyeCocoa website. To volunteer for a presentation contact us at @BuckeyeCocoa on Twitter. Follow us on Twitter! @BuckeyeCocoa (https://twitter.com/#!/Buckeyecocoa/) For more information: http://buckeyecocoa.org/