Generative AI: What is it, and How Can It Help Me?

May 13, 2026

Phil Scarr, BA, MA, Former Enterprise Cloud Architect at LabCorp and GE Healthcare, 33 years of IT experience 

Generative AI is the technology behind tools that can write stories, create images, and even carry on conversations. In this presentation, we’ll take a lively look at what it can do—and where it falls flat. We’ll separate science fiction from reality, showing that while it may sound smart, it doesn’t actually think or understand anything. That doesn’t mean AI isn’t useful; it’s necessary to understand how to use it efficiently and effectively.

We’ll look at Large Language Models (LLMs) and how they play a part in the AI landscape.

We’ll also tackle the big question: is this the road to true artificial intelligence? Not quite. Unlike Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), generative AI is more like a talented mimic than a thinking mind.

Expect relatable explanations, real examples, and a few surprises along the way

Springing from Grief

April 8, 2026

Peggy Weber, RN, MSN, Certified Grief Educator

Grief changes everything—but it doesn’t have to be the end of growth, meaning, or even moments of laughter. In Springing from Grief, Peggy Weber offers a compassionate and refreshingly honest look at the grieving process. Blending professional insight with warmth, inspiration, and gentle humor, this talk explores how people can move through loss while gradually rediscovering resilience, connection, and purpose. Participants will leave with practical perspectives and renewed hope for navigating life after loss.

From this talk, you will:

• Understand the natural stages and emotional rhythms of grief.
• Learn practical ways to care for yourself while moving through loss.
• Discover how inspiration, perspective, and even humor can help open the door to healing and renewal.

Grief Cycle Handout from Presentation

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Fitchburg Economic Development Update

March11, 2026

• State of Fitchburg today
• Forward Fitchburg City in Motion, a place-based economic development strategy, including upcoming projects and areas of long-term development
• Fitchburg’s economic development toolkit to enhance infrastructure, foster small business growth, and attract investments
• Success stories of innovative partnerships
• Alignment of Dane County’s Regional Housing Strategies with Fitchburg’s Housing Plan, Initiatives, and Programs
• Fitchburg’s evolution to a full-service City

Download Mike’s presentation

Global Connections through Local Hosts both Domestic and International: The Power of Friendship Force

January 14, 2026

Jan Barbone, Outreach Coordinator

Discover how Friendship Force WI-Madison transforms travel into a powerful tool for cultural education through its unique model of reciprocally hosted homestays. In this inspiring talk, you’ll learn how the organization connects people from different countries, not as tourists, but as guests in each other’s homes—breaking down stereotypes, building lifelong friendships, and fostering true global understanding. Whether you’re passionate about intercultural exchange or curious about meaningful ways to explore the world, this speech will show how hospitality can be a bridge to peace.

You will:

• Learn how homestays create authentic cultural immersion beyond traditional tourism.
• Embrace the concept of reciprocal hosting and its impact on mutual respect and empathy.
• Discover how you can participate in or host an international exchange.
• Walk away with a renewed sense of how grassroots connection can shape global citizenship.

Behind the Counter: Making Sense of PBMs, Prescription Costs, and the new Fitchburg Family Clinic

November 12, 2025

Thad Schumacher, Pharmacist and Owner of Fitchburg Family Pharmacy

Curious about why your prescriptions cost so much, or why insurance covers some but not others? Thad Schumacher will explain how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) affect drug prices, and how you can cut costs. He will also outline the membership benefits of the new Fitchburg Family Clinic.

You’ll walk away with:

• A clear understanding of what PBMs are and how they influence your medication costs
• Practical ways to save on prescriptions and out-of-pocket expenses
• Information about Fitchburg Family Clinic’s primary and preventive healthcare services

Why Listen to Your Inner Critic? 3 Secrets to Unlock Your Blocks to Confidence and Success

October 8, 2025

Annie Notestein, MS, Dating & Relationship Coach; Self-Esteem & Confidence Coach

Every woman has an inner critic—that voice that whispers, “You’re not enough” or “You can’t do this.” But what if that voice isn’t here to hold you back, but to guide you toward your greatest breakthroughs? Annie Notestein will show you how to transform your inner critic from a source of doubt into a powerful ally.

You will discover:

• How to recognize your inner critic’s real purpose—and why it’s not your enemy.
• Three strategies to transform self-sabotage into self-confidence.
• A new perspective on personal growth—one rooted in self-trust, empowerment, and resilience.

Fighting Hunger in Turbulent Times

September 10, 2025

Marcia Kasieta, Business Director, Badger Prairie Needs Network

Food insecurity is real. Nearly 12% of Dane County residents are struggling. This September, during Hunger Action Month, Marcia Kasieta of the Badger Prairie Needs Network highlights how the facility fights poverty and tackles hunger and nutrition. Discover how you can be part of the solution.

You’ll learn:

• What the Network does and the people it supports
• The real impact of hunger in our community
• Easy, meaningful ways to get involved

Recommended Resources

• MIT AgeLab
• Innovation and Leadership in Healthy Aging, AARP
• Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging
• Healthy Aging, Medical News Today

Healing the Whole Person Through Acupuncture

July 9, 2025

Joseph Zirneskie, MD

Discover how acupuncture goes beyond symptom relief to support whole-person healing, promoting balance in the body, mind, and spirit. You’ll explore treatment details, acupuncture’s holistic health integration, and its power in managing stress, pain, fatigue, and other issues.

 What you’ll take away:

• A clear, easy-to-understand explanation of how acupuncture works and what it feels like
• Insight into how acupuncture can support your body’s natural healing
• An introduction to the mind-body connection
• Simple, practical techniques you can try at home—like acupressure points and breathing exercises—to support your own wellness