Cloud Foundry

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Jennings Java Artisan Coffee Roasters](https://www.jenningsjava.com/)!

Hey there Black Love Friends! We're back for the final week of our 2025 **Pre-Resolution Fitness Challenge!** this week we will be at Franklin Park Conservatiry! Every Sat for the rest of 2025 we will be hosting a new challenge at a new park where all fitness levels are welcomed. What a great way to get a jump start on those fitness resolutions and make some new connections in the process. Don't wait reserve your spot today!

This special holiday event will be AT GAMEARENA near the Gateway!!! Come with games if you like but also come just to chill and relax with new and old friends before we end the 2025 year. Snacks will be provided and working to get holiday drinks like last year if you would like partake more at the bar. Play game at the main venue or other games COGG members bring! \-\-\- **Usual In-Person Notes** \-\-\- **Attendees:** Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games the better! **Developers:** Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available. Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers. For this event, light snacks from the bar and water will be provided! Though you can purchase you own if you like at the bar: [https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu) Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out. 75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9) If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at info@[thecogg.com](http://thecogg.com/)!

Let's play various and sundry board games at [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/)! The brewery has extensive food options, a good amount of space, and a large (free) parking lot. The games I bring come from the following list, but feel free to bring some of your own as well! 1. *[Bang!](https://www.amazon.com/dV-Giochi-VINCI-Bang-4th/dp/B001RU7UNW)* 2. *[Chinatown](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IVF4ZH0)* 3. *[Codenames](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014Q1XX9S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 4. *[Coup](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDI4HX4?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)* 5. *[Deception](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019FPQZNG)* 6. *[Family Feud](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y5XD2HN)* 7. *[Just One](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W3PJTL2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 8. *[Mafia](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D97V536)* 9. [Mexican Train Dominoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EULZDM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title) 10. [Playing cards](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003E6Q8R6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1) 11. *[The Resistance](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008A2BA8G?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title) ([Hidden Agenda](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OVZ693W?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title))* 12. *[Secret Hitler](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JKD4HYC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 13. *[Sequence](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NLKHQ3Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 14. *[Settlers of Catan](https://www.amazon.com/CATAN-Board-Game-Discovery-Civilization/dp/B00U26V4VQ)* 15. *[So Clover!](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0941TJHXX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 16. *[Splendor: Marvel](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DG63MBG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 17. *[Telestrations](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0083J768O)* 18. *[Ticket to Ride](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0975277324/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 19. *[Tsuro](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002SQBB3O)* 20. *[Ultimate Werewolf](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MHWUJA0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 21. *[Uno](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P6MZPK3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)* 22. *[Wits & Wagers](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C916PWB)* 23. *[Yahtzee](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TLEMRKM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)*

**History** [Wildlights](https://www.columbuszoo.org/wildlights) began in 1988 as "Wildlight Wonderland," a smaller-scale effort to boost winter attendance at the [Columbus Zoo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/). Before the event started, December was a slow month for the zoo, with as few as 1,000 visitors in the first week. The inaugural display featured 100,000 to 150,000 white lights around the lake, successfully drawing 12,000 people and establishing a new holiday tradition. The event quickly grew in size and popularity, adding more lights and new attractions over the years. Early improvements included increasing the number of lights to 200,000 in the second year and adding animal-themed light sculptures. By 2006, the event fully transitioned to LED lights, paving the way for a massive expansion in the scale and creativity of the displays. This change allowed the zoo to grow its display to millions of colorful lights. The event has evolved to include themed animated shows, like the *Holiday Magic* light show over Conservation Lake, and new immersive experiences. Today, Wildlights attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each season, becoming a Central Ohio holiday staple. Each year, the event continues to add new attractions, like the 2024 *Yule Tide Boat Ride* on Dino Island. The modern version of Wildlights also incorporates special features to enhance the guest experience, such as meet-and-greets with holiday characters like Rudolph and sensory-friendly viewing nights. Throughout its history, Wildlights has continued to expand, adding new elements while creating a cherished winter tradition for the community. **Summary** Except for the [Congo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/congo-expedition) and [Africa](https://www.columbuszoo.org/heart-of-africa) regions, most of the Zoo is scheduled to be open and appointed with various Christmas decorations. The [Dinosaur Island Boat Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/dinosaur-island-boat-ride), [Zoo Train Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/north-america-train-ride), and [Grand Carousel](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/grand-carousel) are also supposed to be open and in a state of appropriate Yuletide cheer, weather permitting. [Gold members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) can ride the rides for free; otherwise, they're $3 or $4, depending on the ride and whether you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). S'mores and Frosted Nuts will be available at both [Wild Burger](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/wildburger) and the [Congo Food Court](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/congo-river-market-food-court). There's also supposed to be a new, "immersive" light display this year in [Adventure Cove](https://www.columbuszoo.org/adventure-cove). Perhaps the Zoo is trying to make everyone forget just how uncomfortable of a roller coaster the [Tidal Twist](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/tidal-twist) is. 😆 **Where we'll meet** If you've never been the Zoo before, they have "red" and "blue" parking lots that are really both equidistant from the main gate. I generally park in the red lot, but and time- and distance-wise, they're really the same. After you've parked, the Zoo has a security gate that you just walk through while they scan you for nuclear bombs and things like that. Then there's a second gate, inside the first security gate, where you'll either give them your ticket (which you can buy either [online](https://www.columbuszoo.org/hours-and-rates), or at one of the ticket windows on-site), or where they'll scan the membership [QR code](https://www.columbuszoo.org/digital-zoo-membership) on your phone if you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). Just inside this second entry gate is a big fountain with a large metal globe over it. We'll meet by this fountain. **Restrooms and water fountains** You can't walk five feet at the Zoo without bumping into another set of restrooms and water fountains. When kids need to pee, they need to pee, and the Columbus Zoo is a family-friendly place. The restrooms also all have paper towels and not those stupid hand dryers. When kids need to have their faces wiped, they need their faces wiped. There are even restrooms outside the second gate before you even officially enter the Zoo. I'm telling you, someone did some good planning on this place. **Tickets / pricing** Zoo entry is $26 for residents of Franklin County, and $36 otherwise. Parking is $10. If you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership), though, this is all free. **"Should I buy a membership?"** Probably. If you go even twice a year, the [membership](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) pays for itself. I will always run at least one event a year at the Columbus Zoo. This event will actually be my second at the Zoo for 2025. **After the presents are opened** After absorbing all the holiday cheer and electromagnetic radiation that the Zoo has to offer, we'll charge over to the positively rated [Nocterra Brewing](https://nocterrabrewing.com/powell-taproom/), which is about five minutes away from the Zoo. The brewery has a [food truck](https://nocterrabrewing.com/trail-magic-kitchen/) that has burgers, fries, chicken, pretzels, and grilled cheese. The actual address of the brewery is [41 Depot St, Powell, OH 43065](https://www.google.com/maps/place/41+Depot+St,+Powell,+OH+43065/@40.1596203,-83.0785105,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f2758d4778c9:0xf8991f589eac0291!8m2!3d40.1596203!4d-83.0785105!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3ytblz?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Come out and join us even if you can't make the Zoo (but feel appropriate guilt if you don't).

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

“Join us in your holiday PJs as we meet at 11:30 AM in front of Cheryl's Cookies at Easton! We’ll stroll, snap festive photos, and explore sweet shops. At 1:00 PM, we have a reservation at Rusty Bucket for lunch. Restrooms and elevators are accessible. Can’t wait to celebrate with you!” "This event is free to join—just cover your own purchases, treats, or lunch if you’d like!"

# **Band: Firefly Trace, caller Kenny Greer** Beginner lesson at 7:30, regular dancing begins at 8:00 **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** 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. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

Looking for a creative night out that isn’t boring or corporate? Come hang out at **The Arcane Foundry** for an open candle bar and a 3D print paint and sip! Choose something from our 3D-printed shelf — *think ceramic paint-and-sip, but way cooler and with custom models we print in-house.* Or head to the candle bar and pick your fragrances to pour your own **pillar candle or container candle**. Sip complimentary tea, enjoy bakery snacks, and **BYOB wine or beer** while you paint, pour, and make whatever the hell you feel like making. No experience needed — this is all vibes, fun, and meeting new people while creating something you’ll actually want to take home. Starting at a very low price of $10 **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).**

**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️** Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$15**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40 value!** Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together. **Choose one from Below:** * 20 Orc Warriors * 20 Empire Soldiers * 20 Dwarf Warriors * 20 Elf Spearmen Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**. My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession. During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form. Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations. **🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

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)

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter.y

The December 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.