It was bound to happen, a launch event for the upcoming release of SQL Server 2008 R2.  This is a great thing because it means we’ll be able to play with the cool new toys in production soon and start getting our client’s upgraded.  I do wonder though if there are talking dolphins in these oceans of data, but that’s a topic for another blog.  If you didn’t read the logo above, the last sentence is probably quite off.

I digress though, so… the event is happening on May 11 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and will be done as a joint event between PASS and Microsoft.  Below are some of the details for the event, but the most important detail is that you need to register here.

AGENDA

Registration
8:00am – 9:00am
Welcome & Introductions
9:00am – 9:15am

Keynote Presentation:

Data Platform Vision & SQL Server 2008 R2 Introduction
9:15am – 10:00 am

SQL Server 2008 R2 Overview:

Trusted & Scalable Platform

Managed Self-Service BI

IT & Developer Efficiency
10:00am – 11:30am

Figured since I helped write the meeting announcement and newsletter for PASSMN this month that I’d just copy most of the details. Since last month we’ve moved from our old host to a new host, so the RSVP/registration process has changed a bit. Hopefully, there aren’t any hurdles but if so please contact me and I’ll help anyone that needs to get registered.

Location: 8300 Norman Center Drive, 9th Floor, Bloomington, MN  55437
Date: January 19, 2010
Time: 3:00-5:30

Please click here for meeting details and to RSVP.

SQL Azure

Sarita Garg, United Health Group

This session will answer some of the following questions about new state of the art technology  SQL Azure from Microsoft

• What is SQL Azure?
• Why to use it?
• How does it work?
• How the pricing and licensing will work?
• Role of DBAs, Developers with SQL Azure
• Future of SQL Azure

SQL Server 2008 R2

Jin Cho and Lara Rubbelke, Microsoft

Some of the details are still being flushed out on this presentations, but this will be covering the items below with some demos of these features.

• Overview/Highlight of SQL Server 2008 R2 (new features)
• PowerPivot – Excel Add-in, deployment to SharePoint, IT Management

Other News

Live Meeting

• Beginning with the January 2010 meeting, you will now be able to join monthly meetings virtually through Live Meeting. This is a great opportunity to stay connected that has been provided to us by PASS.

PASS Summit 2010

• Registration for PASS Summit 2010 is now open. Register for only $995 until Jan 15. Tap into your 2009 or 2010 training budgets to take advantage of the lowest rate for PASS Summit.