A couple months ago, one of our local Microsoft Evangelists asked me if I would do a TechNet Radio interview about the North Texas SQL Server User Group. I’m on the board of directors for the group as the Director of Logistics and Communication, and he wanted the point of view from a user group leader. I was more than happy to do it for two reasons.
First, I love the SQL community and our strong and vibrant user group. We are about to host our third SQLSaturday in 12 months this weekend, we are having an awesome pre-con the Friday prior, and have petitioned to get SQLRally 2012 here in the Dallas area. It is a very exciting and busy time for us!
My second reason is John Weston (Blog|Twitter). John is one of Microsoft’s local evangelists for the DFW area and surrounding states. What does an evangelist do? Think Oral Roberts, but they are champions for Microsoft products and don’t swindle money from you. Their role is get the word out about Microsoft products whether it be an update to an existing product or a new product. Part of that mission is to support local community groups in getting the resources they need.
I’ve worked with other evangelists and people in Microsoft with regards to some user group needs, and none of them have been more willing and helpful than John. We had a facilities related issue that had gone on for months with responses that were either ignored or just unwilling to provide us with what we needed. One conversation with John and it was fixed before the next meeting.
Thanks John!
Here is the interview for your viewing pleasure, and make sure to click the links above for all the exciting things the North Texas SQL Server User Group is doing.