A while back I wrote an editorial about how I believed the data community would easily continue after the PASS organization was no more. I'm pleased as punch to be able to report that I was right. Not because I enjoy being right (I do, who doesn't), but because I care very much for the individuals that make up this community. There's so much good news out there, but let me share just a few bits and pieces.

First up, and I think this is huge, Microsoft has stepped up and created a whole new community effort. It's called Azure Data Community and you can read about it at the link. The idea is pretty simple. Sign up with your local user group. Meet the basic criteria they have laid out (which is very easy). Get a bunch of benefits including MeetUp Pro. That's just stupendous stuff. I'd like to express my personal thanks to Microsoft for putting this together.

Next, the community itself isn't waiting for anyone to do stuff for them. Instead, they're doing things for themselves. One example is the new event called Data Saturdays. A few people got together and put this up. There are already events getting scheduled. It's the perfect example of what community is all about.

Finally, Redgate software hasn't been standing still. We just published all the PASS Pro courses that were formerly behind at a pay wall. Now, those who paid for it, have access to what they paid for. However, those who didn't pay for it, also have access. The presenters and speakers gave full permission. So this is yet another community benefit that has grown naturally.

While I know that all this doesn't entirely replace what was lost along with PASS, it's proof positive that the community is just going to keep going, regardless. Thank you everyone. Keep it going.