By Dave Yochum. Have you heard of Chat GPT? It’s the Artificial Intelligence (AI) phenom that is writing college term papers, resumes and custom cover letters, solving tricky math problems and even telling fresh, original jokes.
I figure AI will soon replace me, so I decided to establish a ChatGPT account and ask some questions.
Sorry this is long but it’s exactly how I asked the questions and exactly how ChatGPT responded, verbatim. I think I got it to mess up a couple of times, but, all in all, it was pretty amazing.
How can I spend the weekend in Cornelius NC?
ChatGPT: Cornelius, NC is a beautiful lakeside town located in Mecklenburg County. There are plenty of things to do over the weekend in Cornelius, NC. Here are some suggestions:
Visit Lake Norman: Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, and Cornelius has several public access points to the lake. You can go boating, fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding.
Visit the Cornelius Arts Center: The Cornelius Arts Center offers a variety of art classes and workshops for adults and children. You can explore your creativity and take home a masterpiece!
Explore Jetton Park: Jetton Park is a 104-acre park on Lake Norman that offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a beach area.
Visit the Latta Plantation Nature Preserve: The Latta Plantation Nature Preserve is a 1,343-acre preserve that includes hiking and horseback riding trails, fishing and canoeing opportunities, and a historic home to explore.
Visit local breweries: Cornelius has several local breweries, including D9 Brewing Company, Eleven Lakes Brewing, and Primal Brewery. You can enjoy a variety of craft beers and food trucks. 
Visit the farmers’ market: The Cornelius Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from May to September. You can purchase fresh produce, artisanal bread, honey, and other local products.
Visit the Robbins Park and Greenway: The Robbins Park and Greenway offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including a playground, walking trails, and a dog park.
These are just a few suggestions for spending the weekend in Cornelius, NC. There are plenty of other activities and attractions to explore in this charming town!
Nice job. Thank you.
ChatGPT: You’re welcome! I’m glad I could help. If you have any other questions or need more information, feel free to ask!
My 1991 Yugo has 350,000 miles on it. What kind of transportation is reasonable these days? It doesn’t have to be a car.
High mileage Yugo may be for sale
Congratulations on getting so much mileage out of your 1991 Yugo! It sounds like you’re in the market for a new mode of transportation. There are many options available depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some suggestions:
Public transportation: Depending on where you live, public transportation may be a viable option. You can save money on gas and car maintenance by using buses, trains, subways, or light rails to get around. Public transportation can also be a greener option, reducing your carbon footprint.
Bicycle: If you live in a bike-friendly city, a bicycle could be a great option for transportation. Biking is a great way to get exercise and reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll need to invest in a good quality bike and safety gear, but the long-term cost savings can be significant.
Electric scooter: Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular for short-distance commuting. They are lightweight, compact, and can be easily stored. Many models can travel up to 20 mph and have a range of up to 20 miles on a single charge.
Car sharing: If you don’t need a car every day, car sharing services like Zipcar or Turo could be a good option. You can rent a car by the hour or day, and many companies offer a variety of models to choose from.
Electric or hybrid car: If you’re looking to replace your Yugo with another car, you might consider an electric or hybrid model. These vehicles are becoming more affordable and can save you money on gas and maintenance in the long run. They also have a lower environmental impact than traditional gas-powered vehicles.
These are just a few options for transportation. It’s important to consider your needs, budget, and environmental impact when making your decision. Good luck!
That was really helpful, thank you.
ChatGPT: You’re welcome! I’m glad I could help. If you have any other questions or need more information, feel free to ask!
What’s the shortest route to get from the corner of Jetton Road and W. Catawba Ave. in Cornelius NC to the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main St. in Cornelius NC?
ChatGPT: The shortest driving route from the corner of Jetton Road and W. Catawba Ave. to the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main St. in Cornelius, NC is approximately 1.7 miles and takes about 5 minutes without traffic. Here are the step-by-step directions: 
Head south on Jetton Rd toward W. Catawba Ave.
Turn right onto W. Catawba Ave.
Turn left onto S. Main St.
Turn right onto Washam Potts Rd.
You have reached the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main St.
Note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.
Thank you. Is there another option heading east on W. Catawba? (Heading west is backed up.)
ChatGPT: Yes, there is another option heading east on W. Catawba Ave. to get to the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main St. Here are the directions:
Head east on W. Catawba Ave.
Turn left onto One Norman Blvd (this is the first left turn after you pass the Wells Fargo Bank on the right).
Turn right onto Washam Potts Rd.
You have reached the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main St.
This route is approximately 2.2 miles and takes about 6-7 minutes without traffic. However, traffic conditions can impact travel times.
I can tell ChatGPT hasn’t read any of the stories we’ve written about the Cain Center for the Arts nor is it aware of the actual name and location of the Davidson Farmers Market or that there’s no dog park in Robbins Park (there is one in Ramsey Creek Park). The Yugo is considered the worst car ever made and one would never make it to 100,000 miles, let alone 350,000 miles, but maybe Chat GPT is naturally (?) optimistic. Finally, heading east on W. Catawba to One Norman is not going to get you to the corner of Washam Potts and S. Main any time soon.
My job may be safe for a couple more weeks.
Click here for 11 things you can do with ChatGPT.
