Environment

Join our vibrant volunteer community at Wildlings Forest School Singapore, **Dempsey Hill**, where we come together on the **2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays of every month** to nurture our gardens and regenerate our forest trails that support our unique learning environment. #### Why Join? * It’s absolutely free! * Gain hands-on knowledge from our passionate team as we share resources and expertise. * Enjoy fresh produce and the fruits of your labour. * Help restore and enhance our forest trails, making them safe, sustainable, and magical for all who explore them. * Support environmental education by shaping the natural spaces where children thrive. * Beautify and enrich Wildlings to create a vibrant habitat for wildlife biodiversity. * Promote eco-conscious living by engaging in meaningful, sustainable practices. #### Who Can Participate? * Adults and students aged 16 and above. Young people aged 12–15 may join with an accompanying adult. * Local residents and community members. * Anyone passionate about nature, wellness, or sustainability. * Parents of Wildlings Forest School students (Hornbills and Eagles groups; Sunbirds are a little too young for this one!). * Aspiring Forest School Leaders and outdoor educators. * Nature enthusiasts and hobbyists from all walks of life. #### What Does Each Session Offer? * **Warm Welcome**: Start your morning by sampling fresh produce straight from our gardens. * **Interactive Learning**: Begin with a thematic talk, then explore the gardens and forest trails through a guided walk and observation session. * **Hands-On Work**: Get involved with physical gardening tasks, trail conservation efforts, and ongoing sustainability projects. * **Group Reflections**: Wrap up with thoughtful group reflections and a friendly farewell.

We're thrilled to invite you to an evening focused on the practical, real-world use of Apache Iceberg and the growing ecosystem around it. Hosted by VeloDB, Starburst, and Confluent at the CACIB offices in Singapore. Whether you're running Iceberg in production, exploring new architectures, or looking to connect with others solving similar data challenges, this is a great opportunity to learn and collaborate over snacks and drinks! **Agenda** * 18:30–19:00 Food, Drinks & Networking * 19:00–19:05 Welcome! * 19:05–19:35 **Unlocking Modern Data Lakes with Starburst, Iceberg & Ozone** * 19:35-20:05 **Why Apache Iceberg Matters for Your Data** * 20:05-20:35 **From Iceberg to AI: Accelerating Lakehouse Analytics and Hybrid Retrieval with Apache Doris** * 20:35–21:00 Networking **Session 1** **Unlocking Modern Data Lakes with Starburst, Iceberg & Ozone** Siva Periyasamy, Head of Data Engineering and Data Platform, OCBC Bank Siva Periyasamy is the Head of Data Engineering and Data Platform at OCBC Bank, bringing over 25 years of experience in the banking industry with deep expertise in data and analytics. Since joining OCBC in 2005, Siva has played a pivotal role in the bank’s data transformation journey, leading a team of data engineers, enabling them to create machine learning models and manage big data platforms. Siva oversees OCBC’s data platform and specifically Starburst, supporting the bank’s broader machine learning and AI initiatives. His leadership has been instrumental in enabling data-driven innovation across the organization. **Session 2** **Why Apache Iceberg Matters for Your Data** Shelvia Hotama, Senior Solutions Engineer, Confluent If you’re hearing about Apache Iceberg for the first time, think of it as a smarter way to manage large analytics tables on your data lake. It helps keep your data organized, reliable, and fast to query, without tying you to a single engine or vendor. In this session, we’ll break down what Iceberg is in plain language, show how it’s different from older table formats, and walk through real examples of how it makes everyday data work easier. We’ll talk about things like safe updates, changing table schemas without pain, and “time travel” queries so you can see how your data looked in the past. **Session 3** **From Iceberg to AI: Accelerating Lakehouse Analytics and Hybrid Retrieval with Apache Doris** Matt Yi, Apache Doris PMC Member & Tech VP at VeloDB The Lakehouse architecture, powered by open table formats such as Apache Iceberg, has become the foundation for modern analytics and AI workloads. However, efficiently serving diverse query patterns, ranging from large-scale analytical SQL to text and vector retrieval, remains a key challenge. In this talk, we introduce how Apache Doris enhances the Iceberg-based Lakehouse with high-performance query acceleration and materialized views, enabling faster and more cost-efficient analytics directly on open data. Building on this foundation, we explore Doris for AI: a unified engine that provides seamless access to structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data through hybrid search and analytics. Doris combines analytical queries, full-text search, and vector search in a single system, making it easier to support retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and other AI-driven applications on Lakehouse data. Finally, we share Doris’s roadmap toward deeper integration with open table formats. This includes plans for managed Iceberg tables and bringing native inverted and vector indexing capabilities directly to Iceberg data, enabling zero-copy, high-performance analytical and retrieval workloads. The session outlines how Doris aims to bridge analytics and AI on open data, turning the Lakehouse into a truly multi-modal data foundation. **How to find us** [Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JXJGHQeX5oTiBfgw9) Mapletree Business City Blk 20 West 20 Pasir Panjang Road Singapore, 117439 , Level 13

**You’ve built a career—but are you building something that truly matters?** If you’ve ever wondered whether your skills could be used for something more meaningful, you’re not alone. Join us for an evening of professional networking and knowledge sharing focused on meaningful work and venture building. Connect with like-minded professionals, engage in meaningful conversations, and discover opportunities to contribute to a more sustainable future. This meetup is the perfect platform to expand your network, exchange ideas, and learn the secrets behind venture building. Let’s explore how your experience can help build a better future—alongside others who are turning that same restlessness into real impact. [Note: Do get a drink or food from the venue to support them]

We’ll meet at Nana Thai (01-21, Far East Plaza, Orchard) for dinner. We will discuss all things Thailand—travel, music, Netflix shows, and, of course, food. A long time ago, there was a place called the Golden Mile. It was an unpretentious shopping complex where a diverse range of people gathered —backpackers heading to Malaysia, seasoned Thailand hands reminiscing their youthful adventures at tiny Isaan karaoke shops, students looking for affordable parties, amulet hunters seeking super powers, and Thai food lovers. When the complex eventually closed, its occupants dispersed across the city. We tracing some of these Thai establishments.

Hello everyone! Join us for an IN PERSON Apache Iceberg™ meetup on Jan 22nd from 6:30pm, hosted by Credit Agricole CIB in Singapore! **📍 Venue:** Mapletree Business City Blk 20 West 20 Pasir Panjang Road Singapore, 117439 , Level 13 \*\*\* **🗓 Agenda:** * 18:30pm-19:00pm: Food, Drinks & Networking * 19:00pm-19:05pm: Welcome! * 19:05pm-19:35pm: Siva Periyasamy, Head of Data Engineering and Data Platform, OCBC Bank * 19:35pm-20:05pm: Shelvia Hotama, Senior Solutions Engineer, Confluent * 20:05pm-20:35pm: Matt Yi, Tech VP, VeloDB * 20:35pm-21:00pm: Networking \*\*\* **💡 Speaker:** Siva Periyasamy, Head of Data Engineering and Data Platform, OCBC Bank **Talk:** Unlocking Modern Data Lakes with Starburst, Iceberg & Ozone **Abstract:** TBC \-\-\-\-\- **💡 Speaker:** Shelvia Hotama, Senior Solutions Engineer, Confluent **Talk:** Why Apache Iceberg Matters for Your Data **Abstract:** If you’re hearing about **Apache Iceberg** for the first time, think of it as a smarter way to manage large analytics tables on your data lake. It helps keep your data organized, reliable, and fast to query, without tying you to a single engine or vendor. In this session, we’ll break down what Iceberg is in plain language, show how it’s different from older table formats, and walk through real examples of how it makes everyday data work easier. We’ll talk about things like safe updates, changing table schemas without pain, and “time travel” queries so you can see how your data looked in the past. \-\-\-\-\- **💡 Speaker:** Matt Yi, Tech VP, VeloDB **Talk:** From Iceberg to AI: Accelerating Lakehouse Analytics and Hybrid Retrieval with Apache Doris **Abstract:** The Lakehouse architecture, powered by open table formats such as Apache Iceberg, has become the foundation for modern analytics and AI workloads. However, efficiently serving diverse query patterns, ranging from large-scale analytical SQL to text and vector retrieval, remains a key challenge. In this talk, we introduce how Apache Doris enhances the Iceberg-based Lakehouse with high-performance query acceleration and materialized views, enabling faster and more cost-efficient analytics directly on open data. Building on this foundation, we explore Doris for AI: a unified engine that provides seamless access to structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data through hybrid search and analytics. Doris combines analytical queries, full-text search, and vector search in a single system, making it easier to support retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and other AI-driven applications on Lakehouse data. Finally, we share Doris’s roadmap toward deeper integration with open table formats. This includes plans for managed Iceberg tables and bringing native inverted and vector indexing capabilities directly to Iceberg data, enabling zero-copy, high-performance analytical and retrieval workloads. The session outlines how Doris aims to bridge analytics and AI on open data, turning the Lakehouse into a truly multi-modal data foundation. \*\*\* ***DISCLAIMER*** BY ATTENDING THIS EVENT IN PERSON, you acknowledge that risk includes possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases including COVID-19, and accept responsibility for this, if it occurs. As the classroom is a mask-on setting, please be reminded that masks should still be worn at all times unless actively eating or drinking NOTE: We are unable to cater for any attendees under the age of 18. \*\*\* If you would like to speak or host our next event please let us know! [community@confluent.io](mailto:community@confluent.io)

We're thrilled to invite you to an evening focused on the practical, real-world use of Apache Iceberg and the growing ecosystem around it. Hosted by [Starburst](https://www.starburst.io/blog/iceberg-v3/), [Confluent](https://www.confluent.io/), and [VeloDB](https://www.velodb.io/) at the [CACIB](https://www.ca-cib.com/en) offices in Singapore. Join us to discuss and learn how modern analytics is being built on top of Apache Iceberg with technologies like [Trino ](https://trino.io/)and Apache Kafka and Flink. Whether you're running Iceberg in production, exploring new architectures, or looking to connect with others solving similar data challenges, this is a great opportunity to learn and collaborate over snacks and drinks! **Agenda** * 18:30pm-19:00pm: Food, Drinks & Networking * 19:00pm-19:05pm: Welcome! * 19:05pm-19:35pm: Siva Periyasamy, Head of Data Engineering and Data Platform, OCBC Bank * 19:35pm-20:05pm: Shelvia Hotama, Senior Solutions Engineer, Confluent * 20:05pm-20:35pm: Matt Yi, Tech VP, VeloDB * 20:35pm-21:00pm: Networking **Seats are limited — please RSVP to secure your spot.** \-\-\-\-\- [Join the Community newsletter ](https://www.starburst.io/info/newsletter/?utm_medium=event&utm_source=meetup&utm_campaign=APAC-FY26-Q4-CM-Singapore-Meetup&utm_content=meetup)and get Chance to win a very cool T shirt> [Explore the role that Apache Iceberg is playing in analytics and AI >](https://www.starburst.io/blog/apache-iceberg/)

Join us for SG Agentic Nights, a monthly meetup series spotlighting real-world AI implementation stories and community-driven learning — right here in Singapore. Each month, we bring together practitioners, builders, and curious minds to explore how AI is being applied across industries. Whether you're experimenting with agentic AI, deploying intelligent systems, or just starting your journey, this is your space to learn, connect, and grow. What to Expect: Talks by Practitioners - Learn from experts working on real AI implementation projects in Singapore and beyond. Community Q&A - Bring your questions and get direct insights from speakers and peers. Networking & Collaboration - Meet fellow AI enthusiasts, developers, and organizers shaping the local AI ecosystem. To attend this event please register here: [Agentic Nights](https://konfhub.com/sg-gai-jan-2026-meetup) **Registration Mandatory!**

***Ready for sign-up!*** Question? [WhatsApp organizer](http://wa.link/j2at9z) ➡️ Pay to secure a slot Min. 8 pax to confirm. This is a wonderful hiking area located in the heart of the Johor rainforest. These 2 lagoons of Seri Alam offer stunning scenery, dense jungles and birdlife galore. Lots of spots to capture Instagram-worthy spots along the trail, including panoramic vistas of the quarries. You can’t miss the opportunity to explore an abandoned granite quarry in Johor, which offers an eerily beautiful post-apocalyptic scene for photographs. Venture a bit further, and a gorgeous blue/green lake reveals itself within this mini canyon. Hiking to the Seri Alam Blue and Green Lake is worth considering for several compelling reasons: 🌊 1. **Unique Twin Lakes (Blue & Green)** * The Blue Lake has a surreal turquoise colour due to mineral deposits. * The Green Lake contrasts with a deep emerald tone. Both are former quarry sites turned scenic lakes — a rare natural transformation. 🥾 2. **Beginner-Friendly Hike** The hike is relatively manageable, making it accessible to beginners and families. However, proper hiking footwear is still recommended. 🏞️ 3. **Beautiful Nature and Photo Ops** Surrounded by lush forest, the area offers great panoramic views. Ideal for photography, especially during early mornings or golden hour. Wildlife and flora are abundant — great for nature lovers. 🚫 4. **Off-the-Beaten-Path** Not overly commercialised or crowded like the more famous Malaysian trails. A quiet escape into nature just outside Johor Bahru. ⚠️ 5. **A Bit of Adventure** Some trails may involve minor climbs or navigating slightly overgrown paths. Adds a small sense of adventure without being dangerous (weather-dependent). **Cost, SGD** Min 8 pax to confirm. Max 28 **8 pax and above: $ 98** **Inclusive :** * 2-way Air-Con Coach, \*Minivan if less than 22 pax\* * Pickup & Return from/at Marsiling station * Licensed local guides with Walkie talkie [1 to 7 hikers ratio] * SANL Founder, TS Chua * Fresh fruits, piping hot coffee & Tea [wide selection] during lunch time at the summit * Entrance Fees **Exclusive :** * Travel Insurance (highly recommended) * All personal expenses & lunch * All others not mentioned above 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 * **6.30 am Pickup from Marsiling** * Cross Custom * Enjoy a local, authentic breakfast & pack lunch [BYO] * Meet at the trailhead & start Hike * Lunch with fresh fruit, piping hot coffee and tea provided * End hike & shower [RM5] at a sports complex * If time permits - cafes! * Drive to Johor's famous Sunday Night Market - Permas * Return to Marsiling \~ 9.30 pm Zoom Travel International Pte Ltd STB license TA# 02902

Hi Everyone, With Covid19 happening, there is still a limited participants for group events of up to 8 pax happening, so this just to keep the virtual skating together going. The Challenge is to skate as much as you can during this pandemic each week. And see how we rank on leaderboard of Strava. The ranking is arranged by most distances skated each week. Do join us through on Strava App below: Leaderboard updates on a weekly basis and resets every week (Mon to Sun) Join us at https://www.strava.com/clubs/freewheelers_sg (Kindly note that with specifically the Strava app, it is unable to cater for Inline skating option, so you will have list your tracking via run or ride for your ranking to show up in leaderboard. And this is the main challenge majority of skaters will be using.) Feel feel to contact Janice on Meetup if you need help with the apps to join us on these virtual skating challenges. You can also ask Janice for link to join a telegram group where impromptu small group skating events are frequently organized if you are looking for skating buddies. Special Note: Heard feedback from some Iphone users that trouble getting apps FOC. All these apps should be free. Please make sure you download the FREE VERSION. And please download the app, before you join via Challenge Links as the Challenge Links lead Iphone users to paid versions I think. Android Phones should be automatic directed to free version. IPHONE DOWNLOAD LINKS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/strava-run-ride-swim/id426826309

**Get ready for a night of delicious hotpot, new friendships, and a taste of Chongqing’s fiery food culture!** 🫕🔥 We’re bringing together travellers, food lovers, and curious explorers for a fun, cosy hotpot dinner — inspired by our upcoming adventure to **Chongqing, the world’s hotpot capital**. Whether you’re already planning your next getaway or simply love a great meal with great company, this dinner is the perfect chance to relax, eat, and meet like-minded people. **CHONGQING QUIZ** We will be having a really fun short quiz around anything and everything concerning Chongqing. ***ONE LUCKY WINNER will get a FREE Dinner on us!*** ### ⭐ **What to Expect:** 🫕 A hearty hotpot dinner (self-paid) 🔥 Learn the unique flavours & traditions of authentic Chongqing hotpot ✈️ A casual sharing about our upcoming 3Playtopia trip to Chongqing 🤝 Meet fellow travellers who love exploring new destinations 📸 A fun, social evening with warm vibes and lively conversations ### ⭐ **Who Should Join:** • Anyone who loves hotpot • Solo travellers looking to meet new people • Foodies curious about Chongqing • Friends planning their next overseas adventure • Anyone who just wants a fun, relaxing evening out There’s **no obligation to join the tour** — just come enjoy the food and the company! If our Chongqing itinerary catches your interest, feel free to ask questions or sign up after the session. Please note: This is paid dinner, it's roughly **$30 per pax** for the hotpot. Come hungry, come curious, and let’s enjoy a fiery Chongqing-inspired night together! 🌶️✨

How to Evaluate Funds Beyond Past Performance? With so many managed funds available, choosing one can feel overwhelming. Most investors rely on past returns, star ratings, or brand names — yet many still end up disappointed when markets change. This session breaks down what truly makes a managed fund strong and gives you a clear, practical framework to evaluate funds with confidence — regardless of market conditions. What We’ll Cover 1️⃣ Understanding Managed Funds * What a managed fund really does * Active management: when it adds value (and when it doesn’t) * Common myths about fund performance 2️⃣ Core Traits of a Strong Managed Fund * Fund manager skill vs luck * Investment philosophy and process * Consistency across market cycles * Risk management and downside protection 3️⃣ Performance That Actually Matters * Why past performance alone is misleading * Volatility, drawdowns, and risk-adjusted returns (explained simply) * How strong funds behave during market stress 4️⃣ Costs, Structure & Alignment * Fees and hidden costs * Portfolio turnover and tax efficiency * How to assess if a fund is investor-friendly 5️⃣ Fit Within Your Portfolio * How a strong fund complements (not duplicates) your holdings * Diversification vs over-diversification * Matching funds to your goals and time horizon 6️⃣ Common Investor Mistakes * Chasing last year’s winners * Switching funds too frequently * Confusing complexity with quality Who Should Attend * Investors currently holding managed funds * Beginners who want to invest more confidently * Anyone considering unit trusts or mutual funds * Those seeking clarity without jargon No technical background required. Format * Educational & discussion-based * Practical examples (Singapore context) * Open Q&A No hard selling. No product pitching. The focus is education and long-term decision-making. About the Host Smart Money SG, a community dedicated to helping everyday Singaporeans make smarter financial decisions through clear, practical education.

What trips will be presented? See attached photos below ## Discover Korea: Hike, Explore & Fun lucky draw! 🇰🇷 **Hosted by SANL \| Proudly Sponsored by the Korean Tourism Organisation** **Is S. Korea worth your time for adventure or nature? Why not listen to the expert?** ### 🌄 Ready for Your Next Great Adventure? If you love the outdoors, hiking, and discovering new cultures, this event is for you! South Korea is a hiker’s paradise, with over **70% of the country covered in mountains** and **20 national parks** waiting to be explored. Hiking isn’t just a hobby there—it’s a way of life! ### 🧭 What to Expect at This Session Join us at **Korea Plaza** to: * Learn about our **expert-led hiking and active holidays** in Korea * **Get first-hand info on our exciting 2026 trip plans!** * Discover why Korea is perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers * Meet fellow adventurers and get inspired for your next trip ### 📍 Event Details 📅 **Date & Time**: ***23 Jan 2026 @ 18:30 pm*** 📍 **Location**: **KOREA PLAZA @ Samsung Hub #01-02** 3 Church Street, #01-02 Samsung Hub, Singapore 049483 \*Korea Plaza is managed by the **Korean Tourism Organization** 🚶 Just a 4-minute walk from Raffles Place MRT (Exit F) 📌 [Click here for GPS directions](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cs3pqFqDRiNscCqC7) ### 📝 Registration **Registration is FREE but required.** 👉 Registration is OPEN for a limited number 🔹 *One form per attendee (members & friends too)* ### 🔍 Transparency You Can Trust All our trip details—including what’s included and excluded—are **listed and available 24/7**. 😄 No need to WhatsApp us for info—we don’t collect contacts unnecessarily. ✅ All trips are operated by an **STB-licensed travel agent** and supported by the **Korean Tourism Organisation**. ### 🎒 Why Travel With Us? Since 2017, we’ve been crafting unforgettable hiking and cultural adventures in Korea. Our trips include: 1. 🚍 **Private Licensed Tourist Coaches** 2. 🧭 **Certified Local Guides** 3. 🍲 **All Meals Included** (restaurant quality!) *** **Let’s hit the trail together—see you at Korea Plaza!** 🌿🥾

🏓 **Pickleball Session @ Punggol** 🏓 📅 **25 Jan 2026 (Sunday)** ⏰ **10am – 12pm** 📍 **Play! Pickle Punggol** 🏟️ 6 Sheltered Courts, 1 Half Court, 1 Outdoor Court 📌 10 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828836 We’re planning a fun, beginner-friendly pickleball session — good sweat, good vibes, and a great way to meet new people! 💪😄 Paddle & Ball will be provided. 👉 **Interested to join?** Do come to the waitlist, will contact you prior joining us for this event.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Let’s meetup at Cafe Istanbul for the last day of Restaurant Week. You get three courses for $30. This is the menu: https://614now.com/rw-menu/cafeistanbul-easton

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.

**Join Us for Brunch at Portia’s Cafe!** 🌿 Come meet fellow vegan friends and enjoy a delicious brunch with the Columbus Vegan Meetup! We’ll be gathering at **[The Cozy](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/12hqnx2x0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9lPzVmI6SAxXs48kDHS9NMbgQqdYPegYIAQgFEAI)** (located right next door to Portia’s Cafe) to sample a 100% vegan and gluten-free menu featuring savory wraps, breakfast favorites, hearty soups, and decadent desserts. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a community that shares your values while supporting a local, family-owned staple in our city. * **When:** Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM * **Where:** the Cozy (next to Portia’s Cafe) * **Address:** 4428 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 We can’t wait to see you there!

## Details \#\# Learn Infrastructure\-as\-Code \(the FUN Way\) — Through Minecraft 🎮☁️ **Joint Meetup: DevOps Columbus - Azure CBUS - Columbus HashiCorp User Group** What if learning Terraform and Infrastructure-as-Code didn’t feel like a whitepaper… but more like a game? Join us for a joint DevOps Columbus, Azure CBUS and Columbus HashiCorp User Group meetup where **Mark Tinderholt** \(Principal Architect\, Microsoft Azure \| HashiCorp Ambassador \| “The Azure Terraformer”\) shows how **Minecraft** can be used as a surprisingly powerful way to understand real-world Infrastructure-as-Code concepts. In this session, Mark will demonstrate how Terraform and Azure can be used to provision, configure, and manage Minecraft servers—while teaching the same patterns you’d use for production cloud infrastructure. \#\#\# What we’ll cover * Infrastructure-as-Code fundamentals using **Terraform** * Provisioning real infrastructure on **Azure** * Applying **IaC best practices** (immutability, repeatability, versioning) * How playful environments like Minecraft make complex concepts *click* * Why learning through experimentation beats click-ops every time \#\#\# Who should attend * Developers, platform engineers, and cloud engineers * Terraform users (new or experienced) * Anyone curious about Infrastructure-as-Code but tired of boring examples * Minecraft fans who want to see it used in a totally unexpected way No prior Minecraft experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn infrastructure the fun way. Come for the blocks, stay for the Terraform. 🧱➡️📐

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

🎉 You’re Invited! 🍩 Join Columbus Vegan Meetup for a fun community gathering at Monster Baby Donuts, a vegan, peanut & gluten-free, local family-owned business that just opened their new storefront! They started as a beloved food truck, and now they have a permanent location. 📍 700 Bryden Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 🗓 Saturday, January 31 ⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Come enjoy amazing donuts, meet other vegans, and help grow our community with people who share your values. It’s a great opportunity to connect, support a local vegan business, and have a good time. 🥪🥗 The shop also has ready-to-go sandwiches and salads. 🚗 Ample parking in the back. Everyone is welcome — see you there! 🌱💚