I downloaded the ChatGPT app onto my phone. I talked to more people about how – if – they used it. I was advised to check out Copilot on my computer, too, and compare responses between the two. 

As of this writing, the government shutdown has just ended. One contentious impasse involved potential reductions to Medicare and Medicaid. Another issue is depletion of health insurance availability.  Much has been said about the fear of small, rural hospitals having to close as a result of these changes. A less-mentioned effect is, “Not only that, but you won’t have an ambulance to take you to wherever the nearest open one is.”

In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, I always like to think about the ways that I can give back to my community. During the holidays when spending is already tight, it can be especially hard to come up with additional funds to donate to worthy causes, but I think it would behoove us all to remember that we don’t always have to hand over money in order to make a difference. I’ve rounded up some local organizations where you can donate your money, time, or other goods in order to make a difference in your community.