People enjoying themselves at a VanPyZ hosted BBQ
September 2, 2008 - Brett Cannon: First looks at Python 2.6 and Python 3.0
Python core developer Brett Cannon will give an intro on new features in Python 2.6 and Python 3.0, and how to transition your code for 3.0. These are both expected to be in the Release Candidate stage, so come learn how you can help to make the next final release of Python a solid one.
Time: 7-8:30 PM
Location: Bentall 5 Conference Room (access from ground floor, outside, in the passageway between Burrard and Hornby, along Bentall 5 and the YWCA
May 6, 2008 - First looks at Google App Engine
Google App Engine is Google's attempt to make cloud computing a reality. With App Engine, developers can upload Python Web applications and have them run on Google infrastructure. "For free" you get code and data replication, failover and nearly infinite scalability (given that you adhere to certain programming rules). On the other hand, the current release of App Engine is very limited in its functionality and quotas and long-term features/pricing are unknown. At this talk we'll drill down and discuss what's right with App Engine, what's wrong with it and how it is likely to evolve.