There is so much hype right now about AI (Artificial Intelligence) so I thought I would have some fun with it. Sometimes, my brain goes blank, and I have trouble coming up with ideas for this column. So, I turned to AI for some help.
First, I asked for some information on Falcon, Colorado. The computer or whatever is behind AI sent me a 500 word essay talking about growth, commercial development and events. Here is an excerpt from the essay. “Community events and local initiatives are vital aspects of Falcon’s ongoing development. The area hosts various festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor recreational events that foster community spirit and enhance the quality of life for residents. The abundance of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces underscores the community’s focus on outdoor recreation and healthy living, which is highly valued in Colorado’s lifestyle.” Well, it sounds nice; however, it’s a little exaggerated (it did use the word, “area.”)
Then, I asked ChatBox (that’s my preferred AI) how AI is affecting the workforce in this country. Here is a partial answer: “It can enhance efficiency in industries like manufacturing, health care and finance, but may also displace certain roles, especially those involving repetitive work. Workers will need to adapt by developing skills in technology, data analysis and problem-solving. AI-driven changes could lead to job polarization, with growth in high-tech and low-skill jobs, while middle-skill positions decline. Overall, AI has the potential to boost economic growth and innovation, but it also emphasizes the importance of workforce re-skilling and thoughtful policies to manage transitions effectively.” At least it’s honest.
I wonder how it will affect the newspaper business — I’m sure it already has. All you need to do is put some bullet points in the “chatbox” and ask AI to write a certain amount of words related to the information. Take notes at a meeting, record an interview — set up an outline and give it to AI, and you have an article. If you Google something these days, the first thing you see is “AI Overview.”
I Googled how much money is spent on Father’s Day in the U.S. Thanks to AI Overview, I learned that in 2024, Americans spent $22.4 billion on Father’s Day (National Retail Federation). By the way, AI will also source the information, if you ask it (as all good reporters should).
Besides Father’s Day on June 15, other celebrations include June 19 or Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery after the official emancipation of enslaved people in Texas (June 19, 1865). We also celebrate the summer solstice on June 20. And, of course, there are numerous other random things recognized in June, from National Typewriter Day (what?) on June 23 to National Chocolate Pudding Day on June 26. It must be a fun job making all these days up for people to celebrate something.
Let’s celebrate this: It’s summer. I hope you enjoy our paper this month, which is full of photos and events and interesting stories. Thanks, too, to all of our advertisers and to our readers.
Happy Father’s Day to my husband and my sons-in-law — and all dads!
Have a good month, and we’ll see you in July.
Michelle
