Coding, Prizes, and Community: A Preview of the Raspberry Jam with Brett White
Joe Justice here and I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you! I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Brett White at the Providence Insurance Agency’s location in South Charleston about an event that’s got me buzzing with excitement: the 6th Annual Raspberry Jam happening this Saturday, March 16th, at the University of Charleston.
Brett is the mastermind behind this fantastic event, and let me tell you, it’s shaping up to be the biggest one yet. Every year, the Raspberry Jam brings together a diverse range of folks eager to dive into the world of computer science. And guess what? It’s all free of charge, thanks to the generous support of sponsors who believe in making tech accessible to everyone.
Now, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, let me break it down for you. At the Raspberry Jam, you’ll have the chance to explore the fascinating world of coding, particularly Python. If you’ve never dipped your toes into the waters of programming, Python is a fantastic place to start. It’s user-friendly and versatile, with applications ranging from web development to artificial intelligence.
But that’s not all. The star of the show is none other than the Raspberry Pi. What’s that, you ask? Well, back in 2012, it started as a humble $35 computer the size of a credit card. Fast forward to today, and the Raspberry Pi has evolved into a powerful tool with a myriad of uses. Think of it as a tiny but mighty computer that you can tinker with, learn from, and even win as a prize at the Jam!
And speaking of prizes, there’s a whole lineup of goodies waiting to be claimed by lucky attendees. From Raspberry Pi 5s to Arduino clones and even micro computers perfect for retro gaming, there’s something for everyone. But here’s the catch: you’ve got to be present to win, so mark your calendars and make sure to join us this Saturday.
Now, you might be scratching your head, wondering how these little circuit boards can pack such a punch. Well, they’re what we call single board computers (SBCs), with everything you need—graphics, CPU, RAM—packed into one sleek package. Plus, with features like PCI support and built-in Wi-Fi, the possibilities are endless.
But here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a tech whiz to dive in and start experimenting. Whether you’re a seasoned coder or a curious newcomer, the Raspberry Jam is the perfect place to learn, play, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. And who knows? You might just walk away with a newfound passion for computer science.
As we gear up for the big day, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s supported this incredible journey. Together, we’re not just hosting an event—we’re building a community, one Raspberry Pi at a time. So come join us at the 6th Annual Raspberry Jam this Saturday, and let’s hustle hard, hustle smart, and hustle with a smile.