This summer I attended numerous meetings and events throughout Butler, Polk, Seward and York counties. In addition to attending county fairs, local parades, and festivals, I held a series of “coffees and conversations” at our amazing and excellent coffee shops across District 24. If you haven’t been to these places you are absolutely missing out!
At these very well-attended coffees and conversations, concerns about how new and emerging technologies are impacting our lives, especially the lives of our children, were the dominant topic of conversation. Artificial intelligence (AI), the data centers required to run AI, and electronic bikes and scooters were the items most discussed. There were many well-founded concerns raised about all of these technologies. Many ideas and suggestions were shared on how to address the concerns raised. As many questions as ideas also emerged from these conversations.
Ultimately, the sheer fact that so many people in our communities took time out of their busy schedules to gather and discuss these important topics gives me great hope that while we might not have the answer today, we will get there. Communication is the key to unlocking solutions. While we’ve become increasingly reliant upon technology to communicate, these events served to remind us all that the best way to communicate is in-person. It also definitely enhances the conversation having a cup of good coffee in one hand and a homemade cinnamon roll in the other (the original emojis!).
I sincerely want to thank everyone who was able to attend these events. I plan to host more of them in the future, including some during a weekend or two to allow more folks to attend. As always, do not hesitate to call or email me with any questions, concerns, or suggestions.
As always, if I can be of assistance to you in any way, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff members – Matt and Katie – are available to assist you with your needs and they pass along messages, so if you’d like a call back, please let them know!
Email: jana.hughes@leg.ne.gov
Phone: 402-471-2756
Facebook: Senator Jana Hughes
