Artificial Intelligence and the year ahead at Friends
Editor’s Note: The Friends of Boca Grande just released their 2024-25 Happenings booklet, in mail soon.
On the cover is a talk with Heidi McKee on Artificial Intelligence. As an experiment, the Beacon “asked” the two biggest AI services, Chat GPT and Grok (from Elon Musk’s X.com) to write a 250 to 300 word promotional brief. Below are the two versions. Note that the Grok version did not follow the “rule” and went over the word count, but offered a much more colorful version. Elon for the win, on the story, Chat GPT for headline, we think?
AI, Jazz, and Abraham Lincoln Walk into a Community Center:
BY CHAT GPT
The Friends of Boca Grande Community Center has just released its highly anticipated 2024-25 edition of the “Happenings” program and magazine, offering a packed schedule of events for the season. This annual booklet is the go-to guide for locals and visitors alike, showcasing an impressive range of lectures, concerts, films, and excursions, all designed to enrich the island community.
This year’s cover highlights a special talk with Heidi McKee on March 12, 2025, where she’ll explore the “Real World Benefits of Artificial Intelligence.” Other exciting events include historian Michael Burlingame’s presentation on his latest work about Abraham Lincoln, and a lecture from Douglas Bradburn, the president of Mount Vernon. Douglas Brinkley will also be discussing his book Silent Spring Revolution, focusing on the environmental movement.
Music lovers are in for a treat with the “All That Jazz” program, featuring jazz vocalist and pianist Tony DeSare. Additionally, Greg Page will offer insight into the future of global agriculture, rounding out a diverse and educational season.
Most events will take place at the Boca Grande Community Center, providing an intimate setting for attendees to engage with speakers and performers.
Boca Grande’s Brainy Bonanza
BY X.COM GROC
In the quaint, sun-drenched town of Boca Grande, the air buzzed with anticipation as the Friends of Boca Grande Community Center unveiled the much-awaited 2024-25 edition of “Happenings.” This annual booklet, a treasure trove of cultural and educational events, promised another season rich with intellectual and artistic delights.
The cover, vibrant and inviting, showcased an image of Heidi McKee, set to discuss “The Real World Benefits of Artificial Intelligence” on March 12, 2025. This talk promised to bridge the gap between technology’s future and its immediate impacts on daily life, sparking curiosity among both tech enthusiasts and skeptics.
Inside, the pages were a mosaic of enlightenment. History buffs eagerly circled the date for Michael Burlingame’s deep dive into the life of Abraham Lincoln, offering fresh insights into one of America’s most revered figures. Similarly, Douglas Bradburn, president of Mount Vernon, was scheduled to share untold stories from George Washington’s estate, enriching the historical narrative.
Environmentalists and literature lovers alike marked their calendars for Douglas Brinkley’s exploration of “Silent Spring Revolution,” revisiting Rachel Carson’s impact through a modern lens. Music aficionados, meanwhile, were thrilled by the “All That Jazz” evening featuring the suave Tony DeSare, promising an evening of soulful tunes and sophisticated melodies.
For those with a global perspective, Greg Page’s session on “Global Agriculture” was not to be missed, discussing sustainable practices and the future of food security worldwide.
These events, primarily hosted at the Boca Grande Community Center, not only promised education and entertainment but also fostered a sense of community. The “Happenings” booklet, available at friendsofbocagrande.org, was more than a schedule; it was an invitation to engage, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of human knowledge and creativity. As the season approached, the townsfolk of Boca Grande prepared to immerse themselves in a cultural journey, each event a step towards broadening horizons and deepening connections.
Garland Pollard is editor of the Beacon. Email letters and comments to editor@bocabeacon.com.
