All, wanted to immediately share the news today from Microsoft regarding SQL Server: This just in from the MVP/MS Newsroom.  I'm sure you'll be hearing about it from sources far and wide, but getting the word out to my readers and followers here on the PearlKnows blog

Microsoft announced that SQL Server 2012 has released to manufacturing (RTM). Customers and partners can download an evaluation of the product today and can expect general availability to begin on April 1.

Microsoft also disclosed that it will release a new, limited preview of an Apache Hadoop-based service for Microsoft Windows Azure in the first half of 2012. The Apache Hadoop-based service helps you to glean simple, actionable insights from complex data sets hosted in the cloud by optimizing connectivity with SQL Server 2012 and tools such as Excel, PowerPivot, and Power View. Customers interested in signing up for the latest preview should visit this page. 

           I also wanted remind you about tomorrow’s SQL Server 2012 virtual launch event. Ted Kummert and Quentin Clark will kick off the ceremonies via a pre-recorded keynote at 8 a.m. Following the keynote, you can view a number of video presentations about SQL Server 2012 throughout the day. These presentations will feature Microsoft employees such as David Campbell and SQL Server 2012 customers such as Dave Mariani of Klout.    

For more context and information on this news, check out Ted Kummert’s blog post and visit the SQL Server News Center page.

Let's spread the news to the #SQLCommunity and #SQLFamily on Blogs, LinkedIN, and Twitter!  That is all.