Beyond the Fireground: Volunteer Service and the Mechanics of Fire Pump Operations

People have busy lives and plenty of responsibilities. Volunteer firefighting is one activity I enjoy because it does a lot of good—for others and for myself. Knowing you're contributing in a meaningful way provides a lift that goes beyond a cup of coffee. Of course, you won’t make every event or every call; we all have jobs, families, and other obligations. But it’s important to keep training and show up as often as you can.

Firefighting is a continuous learning process. You need to stay in good physical shape to carry equipment, pull hoses, and manage all the demands on scene. Many issues arise not from fire itself but from overexertion when people aren’t physically prepared. Still, most of firefighting is knowledge-based rather than pure strength.

That’s why I keep watching training videos, attending drills, and staying involved—so I know what to do when the moment comes. I suspect many others do the same. The video shared here is particularly helpful because it covers fire pump operations, which are essential for maintaining proper water flow and pressure. The more you understand about the trucks and equipment, the faster and more effectively you can use them, especially when unexpected issues arise.

If you’ve ever considered joining a fire department, I encourage you to give it a try. Most of the people I’ve met are genuinely dedicated to the community, and over time a real sense of teamwork and purpose develops. And if you have corporate dollars you’d like to contribute to a deserving department, feel free to message me—I can point you in the right direction. It’s even a tax-deductible donation.

Thanks again for being an active participant in your community.

U.S. Entrepreneurial Activity Shows Increased High (Escanaba as an Investment and Stat-up Example)

Entrepreneurship plays a critical role in helping people build financial independence. While it can be challenging—requiring time, resources, and patience—businesses often flourish once entrepreneurs refine their processes, secure reliable suppliers, and establish consistent approaches that they can replicate and improve as they grow. Entrepreneurs are essential contributors to local revitalization, helping counteract the concentration of wealth and business ownership while breathing new life into downtowns and communities.

Representing a person with a custom 
product idea and
looking for a place
to start a business.

For this revitalization to occur, communities must create clear pathways for people to start businesses. The entire process—from idea development to launch—should be streamlined as much as beneficial, especially in areas aiming to attract downtown growth. Aspiring business owners need access to market information, regulatory guidance, business planning tools, and financing options such as loans, grants, and angel investors.

Since many young entrepreneurs lack this knowledge and may not know where to find the necessary resources, they benefit greatly from structured support. Designing step-by-step systems that help individuals develop ideas based on market needs significantly increases the likelihood of successful business creation. If you want to start at a business start at Page A kind of thing. Everyone points people there. 

Escanaba is a useful example. The city has seen notable investment and growth, becoming something of a U.P. hotspot compared to nearby towns of which some are experiencing decline. As interest in attracting new downtown businesses grows, opportunities emerge to address housing pressures by renovating existing units or developing new apartments and condos that enhance that downtown (tourists and residents love downtowns).

Like many communities, Escanaba is still refining its strategy, but it is moving in a positive direction as more businesses open. One effective approach is to consider the full journey of a young entrepreneur with a modest amount of startup capital and a promising idea or product—what information they need, who they should contact, and which steps they must take. A practical tool, such as a business-startup checklist on the town or Chamber of Commerce website, could offer clear guidance and key connections.

The statistics below offer helpful insight, so you may want to review them.

GEM Report: U.S. Entrepreneurial Activity Returns to Historic High

Here is a report for development and finance in Escanaba, 

Investment Development and Finance

You can consider a revolving loan fund,

Escanaba Revolving Loan Fund

There is also the Downtown Development Authority to review, 

DDA Escanaba

The Multiple Benefits of Dance for Fitness: (Get Tickets for the Nutcracker Ballet December 6th, 2025)

It is the holidays
and fine arts are 
a big part of our wilderness
life. 

Fitness doesn’t have to mean grueling hours in the gym. It can take many different forms—from hiking to dance and everything in between. This is where dance and community engagement may improve your fitness. Why spend hours on a treadmill when you can move, socialize, and support your community at the same time? Dance has been both exercise and cultural expression for as long as humanity has existed. Whether it’s a structured style or something more freeform, it gets the body moving. This year let us enjoy the holidays with the Nutcracker. 

Just about every year I’m in a show that involves some level of partner dancing (I was pretty busy with another show and work and life so my parts were just perfect and for the most part what I requested. These people are awesome! Known some for years.). They also have a need for guys with the ability to do lifts and be part of the performance. Sometimes I think about getting even more involved, because I’m actually not a bad dancer and connected just a touch to a dance company and know people at a couple of studios. 

If you’re interested, you might want to grab a ticket—both nights are almost sold out, and I expect the rest to go within a day or so (I only have a couple of parts Russian style but the show is really nice to watch.).

I stay active in the arts, and dance is one of the practices I return to often. It also helps me stay in shape so I would like to do more (Working hard to get back on the training cycle for fitness so expect more articles.). Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to dance and its role in fitness and community:

1. Cardio benefits similar to running, but without the repetitive movement.

2. Strength and muscle tone, especially for supporting your body through various positions—or lifting a partner.

3. Flexibility, coordination, and balance, much like yoga.

4. Cognitive benefits—dance supports brain development and neuroplasticity.

5. Community and social connection—I’ve met some great people through dance, including a few well-known performers (though I doubt they remember me!).

   

   This is the Kaufman Theater
   Double decker seating.
   Marquette
   We don't build things like this
   anymore.

6. A fitness boost—dance challenges your body in new ways, activating muscles and skills that promote overall growth.

7. A strong complement to other sports, such as kickboxing, polo, or rock climbing, which all rely on complex movement patterns. Martial artists who also engage in dance and yoga have some of the strongest most flexible kicks at different heights, angles and positions. 

If you don't know, I’m a certified yoga and fitness trainer and occasionally take virtual clients. Feel free to send me a message if you’re interested.

A few articles you may want to read, 

Research on Brain Increase with Dance

Dancing in Fitness

Evolutions and Function of Human Dance

Interesting paintings

and pictures on the ceiling.

Old world luxury.

The Nutcracker Ballet:  Clara's Journey Through the Enchanted Forest

“The Nutcracker Ballet: Clara’s Journey Through the Enchanted Forest - The beloved story of Clara and her Nutcracker, as they travel through the land of the Enchanted Forest. The classic holiday tradition, with ballet score by Tchaikovsky, is presented by local dancers and choreographers in the Marquette community.”

Date & Times: 
December 6, 2025 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Location: Kaufman Auditorium

Prices:
Adult:  $17 in advance, $19 at the door
NMU Students/Seniors:  $12 in advance, $14 at the door
Youth (18 & under):  $12 in advance, $14 at the door 

Purchase Tickets

From Darkness to Duty: A Thought Experiment on Ethics and Power

A philosopher thinking

of how knowledge (light) and reflection (mirror)

lead to better leadership.

"Bigotry is the sacred disease,

and self-conceit tells lies"

Heraclitus

Let us continue exploring an interesting concept: a hypothetical clan that harbored a group of corrupt actors who used their official positions to enrich themselves and spread hate. The clan based courts failed to protect, correct or uphold the essential purpose of law. This story is by its nature theoretical—a philosophical thought experiment meant to examine what a complete breakdown of justice might look like. In this scenario, corruption and hate were shielded for years within a clan-controlled court, leaving numerous victims without protection (...even worse the perpetrators would even mock the victims after horrendous acts.). Those above also became aware but were also unsure if they had responsibilities to society so they took the mantra "quick to harm and slow to correct".

In this example, a group of corrupted officials targeted children, allegedly sexually assaulted underage women, caused lasting harm to the community, used threats,  concerns over illicit gain off illegal activities, followed people home, placed whistleblowers on secretive watch lists, blocked investigations into misconduct, manipulated the sick and elderly for money, and operated without any meaningful oversight by the clan court. People who stood up were bullied into silence and leaving allowing the misbehaviors to continue. The basic assumptions that underpin healthy economic and social life simply did not exist in this learning scenario.

There were no functioning checks and balances at the times and places they were needed most. The damage the clan court allowed could never be justified under any moral framework, unless one had fallen deeply into ideological extremism and group nepotism. Stories like this are exploratory by nature—by examining the worst possibilities, we gain new perspectives and potential solutions where these demons may linger. 

This scenario is not tied to any political or social camp. It could apply to any people, anywhere, at any time. Corruption and hate have been with humankind since we first began coordinating our social and economic lives in early hunting-and-gathering societies. Philosophers and religious writers have warned us about these tendencies throughout history. Some leaders have learned from these lessons and codified liberties and freedoms into their founding principles—wise choices that protect universal values we should continue treating as sacrosanct. Some people undermine that intentionally.

Where darkness and disregard for inherited moral wisdom become the unwritten rule in certain circles, there is often still a silver lining. Squint your eyes just a little and you can see good that can come from recognizing and correcting the bad. Make sure your leaders are aware of their greater responsibilities or replace them with better people through voting. A touch of insight and reflection can lead to profound knowledge. In this story, it was not the clan-aligned members who upheld their oaths, but rather other officials and citizens who recognized right from wrong and understood their duty to a higher moral order and conscience. They stayed loyal to the people and to themselves.

Ultimately, this story is a positive one. It reminds us of our shared values and the dangers of allowing corruption and hate to run unchecked. And because every good story deserves a hopeful ending, the officials eventually corrected course, addressed the harm done to victims, recommitted themselves to justice, and put safeguards in place to ensure such abuses never ever ever happen again (Once one is aware continued negligence should be seen as willful. More victims would open more questions on commitments.). It was those who stood for their professed oaths and showed that good can overcome wrong. The seeds of good judgement and moral commitment found fertile soil and blossomed into new opportunities that would not have happened otherwise. Silver linings come in many forms.

The piece below discusses the challenges developing nations face with corruption in their courts. One can easily imagine how public trust declines when corruption becomes rampant. People should not feel higher or lower than others nor should they feel there are different laws and rules because they are all bound by the same. There may be many competing truths in any society, but one stands firm: the intent to cause unjust harm has no legitimacy under any interpretation of the law or its underlining moral precept. Integrity builds trust—manipulation destroys it.

Judicial Corruption in Developing Countries: Its Causes and Economic Consequences

How I Became the Neighborhood Electric Snow Blower Fairy (Accidentally)

With an electric snowblower
it is so quiet you can blow out
your neighbor and they wouldn't 
know it. Then they look outside
and are confused why their driveway is clear.
My neighor said they didn't 
even hear me.

The other day we got about five inches of snow, which is basically Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Go play with your expensive outdoor toys.” So I took the chance to try out my new electric snow blower. My old gas-powered one isn't consistent and needs pampering and nursing just to get an hour of good work out of it. After the grinding noises started, I finally admitted it was time to try something new. Metal on metal grinding is a good tip something internal is broken.

So I did some research, found an electric model that kind of resembles a real snowblower, and for $260 I thought, “Why not? Worst case, it becomes a very expensive yard ornament.”. Or I try and return it. 

How did it turn out?

Shockingly well.
It comes with two 24-volt batteries that slide in so smoothly you'd think they were auditioning for a commercial. Electric snowblowers don’t have many parts—so theoretically fewer chances for drama—but I was still nervous about power and battery life.

But this thing actually handled the snow like a champ. Not just the five inches on the driveway, but also the giant mountain of “bonus snow” the plow lovingly dumped right in front of my house. You know, that extra-dense stuff that feels like it’s mixed with concrete and spite.

The batteries got me through my entire driveway and sidewalk, plus almost my neighbor’s driveway (It died right at the end. The batteries look like they recharge in a couple of hours). I even bought two bigger batteries online for $60 as a set because apparently I’m preparing for a career as the neighborhood snow-removal fairy. Between all four batteries, I could probably snow-blow about five houses. My neighbors are going to love me… until they realize I’ll expect cookies.

My neighbor and I have a good system: if I beat him outside, I clear his snow; in the summer, he mows my lawn when I'm gone. I recently learned another neighbor’s snow blower died, so tomorrow after the gym I’ll clear their driveway too. Nobody deserves to drive through that plow sludge—it’s like trying to push your car through mashed potatoes.

Was it worth the money?
Yes. Absolutely.
Most storms dump five inches or less, and new gas snow blowers cost around $800. With the extra batteries, this thing is a solid deal.

What about the old snowblower?
Originally I planned to put it on Facebook with a “Free—please save me from myself” description.
BUT THEN…
Harbor Freight waved some shiny new $180 vertical-shaft engines in front of me. After watching a few YouTube tutorials, I became convinced I could perform an engine transplant like some kind of small-engine surgeon. So if the bolt pattern matches, I’m going to try swapping the engine. If it works, I might sell it or keep it under a tarp like a backup dragon in case we get a monstrous 10-inch storm the electric one can’t handle.

To be fair, my gas one didn’t handle deep, wet snow well either—but at least it complained loudly while failing.

We get a lot of snow here, and although I don’t mind shoveling sometimes, doing it when it’s freezing, you’re short on time, and your back is screaming “NOPE” is a special kind of misery.

So yes—this electric snow blower?

Worth every penny and then some. 

The Veteran Advantage: Skills, Strength, and Leadership for a Changing World

It is important to consider the needs of veterans as we move forward, recognizing the significant impact they have not only on their own lives after service but also on the broader economy. Research shows that veterans tend to be more entrepreneurial than many other groups, making them a valuable source of new ideas and startup talent. Their contributions extend far beyond their time in uniform, and many positive indicators reflect the strengths they bring to civilian life.

Veterans willingly accept the responsibilities of service and often continue contributing to their communities in meaningful ways afterward. The statistics below highlight how the education and experience gained in the military differ greatly from simply transitioning directly into executive roles. There is something profound about learning how large organizations function and how they influence society and the world.

Military service also provides an opportunity for deep personal development. You learn a great deal about yourself under conditions that are unlike anything found in college or civilian life. For those committed to long-term personal and professional growth, serving in the military can offer invaluable skills and perspective that prepare you for future leadership roles.

As General George S. Patton once said, “Always do everything you ask of those you command.” This principle of walking the talk in leadership remains as relevant in today’s organizations as it was in his time. Some interesting quotes, Military Leader Quotes for Managers

Key Statistics About U.S. Veterans

These key stats were taken directly/quoted from 2025 Veteran Stats Summary

• Veterans make up a declining share of the U.S. adult population: 6.1% in 2023, down from 11.7% in 2011.

• Post-9/11 veterans represent 28.1% of the veteran population and are younger and more diverse than earlier cohorts.

• Younger veterans face some of the highest burdens of mental health and substance use challenges, often exceeding rates seen among nonveterans.

• Alcohol-related issues are elevated across most age groups for veterans, including higher rates of binge drinking and alcohol use disorder.

• Post-9/11, bisexual, and racial/ethnic minority veterans show increased substance-related risks, including higher rates of binge drinking, marijuana use, and substance use disorders.

• Veterans and nonveterans have similar labor force participation rates, though veterans experience slightly lower unemployment.

• College enrollment remains lower among veterans; those who enroll are more likely to work while attending school.

• Veterans are more likely to be employed in public administration, manufacturing, transportation, and utilities, while nonveterans are more concentrated in education, health care, and food services.

• Veterans are nearly twice as likely as nonveterans to work in the public sector.

• Veterans are more likely to fall into higher income brackets, with nearly 30% earning $150,000 or more annually.

Investing with Purpose: Supporting Society and Communities (Farm Stock Example)

Investing, even on a small scale, is important for building wealth over time. It also serves another purpose. Markets are shaped largely by interest and expectations of return. There is investment that fuels industry growth, and there is investment in the stocks for financial return (Investment in activity or investment in stocks). How and where we invest has implications for whether money makes its way back into communities and what industries are fostered. Consider, for example, small and organic farming stocks (It could be just small farm, or small business, or other.).

A penny earned can be a penny invested.

Maybe we should start
thinking about investing
in communities again 
and getting young people
 back on farms and downtowns
chuck full of start-ups.

Escanaba is a small
town that has experienced 
multifaceted growth.
Investment can be used
to enhance community
 foundations.

I dabble in the market from time to time outside of retirement accounts. It isn’t a lot of money, but when my penny jar fills up, I cash it in and buy something that can generate a return rather than letting it sit and lose value. In my mind, I can either invest in stocks that create bubbles and quick returns, or I can invest in industries I’d like to see develop and grow. Life is short and I can't take money with me.

On a larger scale, where we invest collectively often determines which industries receive funding, and therefore which expand or decline. That isn’t always based on what benefits society, but on what yields the highest returns. This is part of the reason why so much money flows abroad while we struggle to create mechanisms that help people invest in their own hometowns, communities, and country (Some of this problem can be solved by better local investment mechanics and pathways.).

Recently, I went looking for stocks focused on small farmers and sustainable farming in the U.S. There are a few funds where you can invest any amount—from a couple dollars a share to hundreds or thousands. I buy these stocks mostly to explore ideas and understand how they work, so don’t take any stock-buying advice from me; those decisions are entirely yours.

I ended up investing in a fund—not because the name matters, but to see how the stocks in it might grow or decline. As a small experimental portfolio, it has grown about 120% since I started it. One company I chose produces local food greens in the U.S. and appeared to have strong practices. Its performance has been relatively flat despite achieving up to 19% revenue growth and reducing costs significantly. To me, a company that has revenue, continually lowers expenses, is U.S.-based, and focuses on sustainable practices is worth watching, even if it doesn’t attract much market attention. After all, investment can create entirely new markets when enough money moves in a certain direction.

In this case, my penny jar was worth about the cost of a nice dinner. Instead of spending it, I bought a few stocks so I could observe and learn from them.

The point here is simple: even small amounts matter. Invest to build wealth, think long-term, and invest in what aligns with your values, interests, and communities.

This article is interesting if you want to know more about small farms,

USDA Small Farms