A blog that explores life and society. Mostly pieces on business, economics, arts and other interests. A place to showcase activities and explore ideas.
The job market remains challenging for certain high-demand, specialized skills. Like any market, employment is driven by supply and demand. When we invest in developing human capital here at home, businesses can fill positions locally, wages have greater potential to rise, and more money stays circulating within the local economy. The same principle applies to supporting small businesses.
According to SHRM's 2026 Talent Trends Report, nearly 70% of HR professionals continue to have difficulty recruiting full-time employees. While there are signs that the labor market has begun to slow in some areas, many organizations are still struggling to find qualified talent.
As a result, employers are shifting away from relying solely on traditional hiring practices. Many are placing greater emphasis on developing existing employees, promoting internal mobility, expanding job responsibilities, and investing in continuous learning. In addition to technical expertise, organizations are increasingly valuing critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and other transferable skills.
Take a few minutes to read the summary below, and if you're interested, the full report. Understanding current labor market trends can help organizations optimize their recruitment, retention, and workforce development strategies.
SHRM 2026 Talent Trends Report: Data-Driven Insights for the Future of Work
Nearly 70% of HR professionals reported continued difficulty recruiting full-time employees, with more than half saying hiring has become even more challenging than a year earlier.
Organizations are shifting from traditional hiring approaches to skills-based talent strategies by emphasizing internal mobility, employee development, and workforce agility to address persistent talent shortages.
Skills gaps remain a major concern, particularly in systems and resource management competencies such as decision-making, complex problem-solving, and time management.
Learning and development initiatives—including job rotation, apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship programs—are identified as effective ways to prepare employees for hard-to-fill positions, although some remain underutilized.
Based on responses from more than 2,000 HR professionals, the report concludes that organizations investing in continuous learning, technology, and inclusive talent practices will be better positioned to build resilient, future-ready workforces.
We're almost at showtime! Next Friday, Duck Variations takes the stage, and you won't want to miss it.
The production features about 14 directors, each putting their own creative spin on a different section of the play. Think of it as one longer story told through 14 different imaginations. Some scenes have superheroes, some go in completely unexpected directions, and every director brings a unique artistic style.
My scene focuses on a conversation between an older person and a younger person. The younger character arrives with plenty of opinions... and enough words for both of them. Every time the older character tries to speak, they're politely—and not so politely—interrupted. If you've ever been in a family dinner conversation, you may find it strangely familiar.
A cross generational connection over important issues.
The scene also touches on environmental issues, exploring how pollution affects ducks and the natural world while highlighting the different perspectives that generations bring to the discussion. It's meant to be thoughtful, with a few laughs along the way.
Rehearsals are going well. We're about halfway to being performance-ready. Everyone knows their lines and blocking. Now comes the easy part: repeating everything about a thousand more times until it looks effortless. That's the magic of theater—the audience sees two minutes of perfection, but they don't see the many hours that made it happen.
And here's one more fun rumor floating around backstage: word is that it is possible that a TV station may cover the performance event. We'll believe it when the cameras show up—but it would certainly make for an exciting opening night. Until it happens its just a rumor....
Mastering the Art of Theater Directing: Essential Skills of Directing Theater
Theater directing requires a combination of artistic vision, leadership, communication, and organizational skills to transform a script into a compelling stage production.
Effective directors begin with a thorough analysis of the script, developing a clear interpretation of the story, themes, characters, and overall production concept.
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Successful productions depend on strong collaboration between the director, actors, designers, and technical crew, with the director coordinating all creative elements into a unified vision.
Directors guide rehearsals by providing constructive feedback, refining performances, planning blocking, and helping actors develop authentic and emotionally engaging characters.
Continuous learning, adaptability, and practical experience are essential for theater directors to refine their craft and effectively respond to the creative and logistical challenges of each production.
Joe wonders what the value of horse riding might be in Delta County with its supply of small, hobby, and organic farms.
(Sidenote: Thinking of how to calculate value from equestrian activities ranging from ranches to feed. San Diego CA has an equestrian industry and Delta County MI has an equestrian industry but both don't appear to have available numbers. I did find this on CA Equestrian and MI Horse Economics
Equestrian sports and horseback riding have long been a passion for people of all ages. Whether someone plays polo, enjoys trail riding, competes in show jumping, or participates in dressage, horse owners often spend several days each week riding, training, grooming, and caring for their horses. Even here in Delta County, many equestrians are active three or four days a week, creating not only skilled partnerships with their horses but also strong friendships and a close-knit community centered around equestrian activities.
The benefits extend well beyond recreation. Horseback riding is a physically demanding activity that improves balance, coordination, core strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. The daily responsibilities of caring for horses also encourage an active lifestyle and a strong sense of discipline and commitment (I'm a licensed fitness and yoga trainer so send me a message to the right if you need some help. There are exercises that improve performance for horse riding and other sports. 30 minute virtual sessions $50.).
Equestrian activities also contribute to the local economy. Horse owners purchase feed, equipment, veterinary services, farrier services, trailers, fuel, and other supplies while supporting local businesses throughout the year. When communities host horse shows, trail rides, polo matches, horse jumping, clinics, or other equestrian events, they attract participants and visitors who spend money on lodging, restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment. These events help strengthen the local economy while increasing the area's visibility as a destination for tourism and future investment.
Horse riding, therefore, is about much more than spending time in the saddle. It strengthens communities, supports local businesses, promotes healthy lifestyles, and enhances quality of life. For communities like Delta County, encouraging equestrian activities can help create an attractive environment for both residents and visitors while contributing to long-term economic and community development.
Local News:
An example of the type of farms in the area.
I can print most sizes up to poster size for $50 with free shipping. If interested send an email to muradabel@gmail.com or a message to the right. Other Items in Gallery
The article argues that equestrian sport is one of the world's most significant yet underrecognized economic contributors, generating substantial economic activity through tourism, participant spending, and long-term investment.
The 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, reportedly generated more than $536 million in GDP, supported nearly 5,000 jobs, and produced over 210,000 hotel nights during its 13-week season.
Unlike short-duration sporting events, equestrian competitions create sustained economic benefits by attracting riders, support teams, spectators, and seasonal visitors over several months.
Horse ownership requires significant annual investment, including boarding, veterinary care, feed, transportation, training, equipment, and competition expenses, creating demand across many industries.
The article contends that equestrian participants generally spend substantially more over their lifetimes than participants in many other recreational sports.
Economic benefits extend beyond competitions by supporting veterinarians, farriers, feed suppliers, hotels, restaurants, retailers, transportation providers, and agricultural businesses.
Despite its economic importance, equestrian sport receives relatively limited mainstream media coverage compared with sports such as Formula 1, football, or tennis.
The author suggests that expanding media rights, digital streaming, and storytelling could significantly increase sponsorship opportunities, audience growth, and commercial investment.
The article highlights the global scale of the equine industry, noting its significant contributions to the economies of the United States, Europe, Ireland, and emerging equestrian markets in the Middle East and Asia.
The overall conclusion is that equestrian sport should be recognized not as a niche activity but as a major global industry with lasting economic, tourism, and employment impacts.
There were a few interesting things that came up in this meeting. Many cities are suffering with budgets but Escanaba seems to be making some thoughtful choices and is not filling a vacancy as a foreman but is certifying a city arborist (Definition of City Arborist). Trees are see as having significant economic ecological and quality of life benefits (Mental health, cooler spaces, higher property values, physical health, etc.). They have also been known to appeal to people who currently live within a town but also may want to move or possibly even invest in a particular town (Urban Forests as Infrastructure). One thing this town has a lot of is a nice green natural environment which supports the healthy local lifestyle (This may also be a conntributive additive factor, among other factors, of why the town is on an upswing. While we often only measure the bigger stuff things overlooked like greenscape can also have an influence.)
In summary, the Escanaba City Council approved several ordinances and spending requests during its meeting, while also discussing staffing, infrastructure upgrades and the sale of industrial park property. Escanaba July 7th, 2026 Agenda
(Any corrections just send a message to the right.)
Tree Board Ordinance (Summary of Transcripts)
The council voted 3-1 to adopt the original version of Ordinance 1319, which maintains a nine-member Tree Board that includes three community residents and requires quarterly meetings.
Council members discussed an amended version that would have reduced the board to seven members and required only two meetings each year. Several members said quarterly meetings provide greater public accountability and allow the board to address residents' concerns in a more timely and scientific manner.
Council members also noted that the ordinance can be amended in the future if changes become necessary.
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Charlie the Chipmunk has been using his VR headset with trees for a long time to engage in gaming forums. He wonders if one were to plant a few more trees and connect them to the garage door opener if they would solve the remote control reception issue and foster new tree uses. 🙃 Charlie goes nuts about trees! Tree Antennas
City Arborist Plan
The council unanimously declined a proposed three-year interlocal agreement with the Delta Conservation District for arborist consulting services.
Instead, the city will pursue training and certifying an existing Public Works employee as an in-house arborist. Officials said the employee would be available full time while continuing to perform other city responsibilities, including winter road maintenance.
The position will be funded through an existing vacant senior foreman budget line, creating an overall budget savings. Council members also said city policy will prohibit the employee from using city equipment or resources for outside arborist work.
Water Plant Upgrade
The council unanimously approved a $5,477 contract with Master Electric to install 120-volt electrical service for sample pumps at the city's water treatment plant.
Officials said the upgrade will allow the department to purchase standard replacement pumps costing about $380 each instead of specialized units that cost approximately $5,000.
Wastewater Garage Doors
Council members also unanimously approved a $1,512.70 agreement with Delta Door Company to improve remote-control reception for five garage doors at the wastewater treatment plant.
The work includes installing external antennas on the doors. During discussion, one council member suggested adjusting the remote controls' internal set screws to improve signal range before or during installation.
Industrial Park Property
The council reviewed a request from Souhill Sanitation to purchase a 1.58-acre parcel in Whitetail Industrial Park that has remained vacant since 2000.
The company offered $23,000 for the property. City officials noted that a recent land value study estimated the parcel at approximately $26,000, while a formal appraisal valued it at $31,600. Future estimates place the property's value between $28,000 and $30,000 by 2027.
Council members discussed making a counteroffer of $26,000 or negotiating a compromise price. Several members said they would like to see the long-vacant property developed while also ensuring taxpayers receive fair market value for the land.
This is a painting was "completed" a few months ago. For some reason painting never seem completely completed until they are on your wall. Its a hobby but they listed here in case anyone is interested.
The Allegory of the Clan is a continuing philosophical thought experiment inspired in part by the Allegory of the Cave, where each new level of understanding brings greater awareness, reflection, and ultimately enlightenment. The purpose is not to focus on any one event but to explore how individual choices, institutional values, and collective behaviors influence the long-term direction of society.
In this story, rumors, corruption, intimidation, retaliation against whistleblowers and witnesses, and other harmful behaviors become normalized, financially rewarded, and promoted. Yet despite efforts to conceal wrongdoing, one fundamental reality remains: over time, awareness of harmful behavior creates pressure for accountability and improvement. Lasting progress often begins when people are willing to honestly examine the consequences of the behaviors they encourage.
The deeper lesson is that societies shape their future through the behaviors they encourage and the values they choose to promote. When misconduct is normalized or incentivized, it can weaken trust, reduce social cohesion, and ultimately diminish both economic and social outcomes. Progress is strengthened when integrity, fairness, accountability, and respect for others are reinforced rather than undermined.
Throughout history, societies have established constitutions, bills of rights, ethical principles, and public institutions to help orient people toward shared goals and the common good. These frameworks are intended to strengthen cooperation, protect individual rights, and encourage long-term prosperity. While economic and social outcomes are often discussed separately, they are closely interconnected, with each influencing the health and resilience of the other.
The study below reinforces this broader idea by showing that hate and hostility have consequences that extend far beyond their immediate targets. Their effects can erode trust, increase social division, and weaken collective well-being. Rather than tolerating, rewarding, or promoting harmful conduct, long-term progress is more likely when societies encourage accountability, continuous improvement, and mutual respect. Equally important is recognizing and promoting positive prosocial actions—behaviors that strengthen cooperation, compassion, and civic responsibility—and supporting those who genuinely serve the public with integrity and dedication. By encouraging constructive behavior and reinforcing both institutions and individuals that contribute to the common good, societies improve the present while building a healthier and more resilient foundation for future generations.
Exposure to Hate in Online and Traditional Media: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Impact on Individuals and Communities
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined research on how exposure to hate through online platforms and traditional media affects individuals and communities, synthesizing evidence from multiple empirical studies.
The review found that exposure to hate is associated with negative psychological outcomes, including increased fear, anxiety, emotional distress, and reduced feelings of safety among targeted individuals and groups.
Evidence suggests that repeated exposure to hateful content can contribute to social polarization, prejudice, discrimination, and weakened trust and cohesion within communities, extending the impact beyond direct victims.
Online environments can amplify the reach and frequency of hateful content through rapid dissemination, anonymity, and algorithm-driven exposure, making digital platforms a significant channel for harmful messaging.
The authors conclude that reducing exposure to hate requires coordinated efforts involving policymakers, educators, technology companies, and community organizations through prevention strategies, media literacy, effective moderation, and evidence-based interventions.
Madriaza, P., Hassan, G., Brouillette-Alarie, S., Mounchingam, A. N., Durocher-Corfa, L., Borokhovski, E., Pickup, D., & Paillé, S. (2025). Exposure to hate in online and traditional media: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of this exposure on individuals and communities. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 21(1), e70018. https://doi.org/10.1002/cl2.70018
Recent discussions about Airbnb rentals have highlighted the importance of local amenities, making new research on the economic value of beaches especially relevant to Delta County. Escanaba and Gladstone are fortunate to have two exceptional public beaches that offer more than beautiful waterfront views. Both communities provide lifeguards during the swimming season, a feature that has become increasingly rare. Many public beaches across Michigan and throughout the United States are "swim at your own risk," making the presence of trained lifeguards an added benefit for families and visitors seeking a safe place to enjoy the water.
This is a competitive advantage that could be emphasized more in local tourism and economic development efforts. Safe, clean, and well-maintained beaches help attract visitors while enhancing the quality of life for area residents (One might think of places like San Diego where beaches are a big part of their footprint. While their beaches are open most of the year our local beaches are seasonal but relates to regional tourist visits.).
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A wild beach lounger in his natural habitat.
Do not feed! Unless it comes from one of the nearby restaurants.
Research also shows that beaches contribute measurable economic value to nearby properties, including vacation rentals. Since most homes and Airbnb properties in Escanaba and Gladstone are located within a short drive of one of these waterfront destinations, proximity to the beach becomes a valuable selling point. Recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, walking trails, and waterfront parks further increase the appeal of the area.
The quality of the beach itself also matters. Fine sand, clean water, accessibility, maintenance, and available amenities all influence visitor experiences. Gladstone's beach features groomed sand, a concession stand, and family-friendly facilities, while Escanaba offers an expansive shoreline, Ludington Park, a public boat launch, nearby fishing opportunities, and other recreational amenities that attract residents and tourists alike.
Escanaba Beach
As communities continue exploring ways to strengthen tourism and encourage investment, these natural assets deserve recognition. Protecting beaches, maintaining waterfront parks, and investing in recreational infrastructure not only improves environmental quality and community well-being but also supports local businesses, tourism, and property values. In many ways, the shoreline is more than a scenic backdrop—it is an economic asset that benefits the entire community.
The Economic Value of Coastal Amenities: How Beach Characteristics Influence Airbnb Rental Prices
The study examines how different beach characteristics influence Airbnb rental prices, demonstrating that coastal amenities provide measurable economic value to nearby properties.
Beach quality factors such as sand type, beach width, accessibility, and waterfront frontage significantly affect rental prices, with higher-quality beaches generally commanding premium rates.
A kid's imagination. You can't put a price tag on it. There is a hard wall in this fort, support poles, bridges, etc.
Using a hedonic pricing model, the researchers estimated the implicit monetary value of individual beach attributes, helping quantify the economic benefits of natural coastal resources.
The findings suggest that investments in beach preservation, accessibility, and environmental quality can generate economic returns through increased tourism demand and higher short-term rental values.
The research highlights the importance of incorporating environmental amenities into tourism planning and public policy, demonstrating that protecting coastal ecosystems also supports local economic development.
Boto-García, D., & Leoni, V. (2023). The economic value of coastal amenities: Evidence from beach capitalization effects in peer-to-peer markets. Environmental and Resource Economics, 84(2), 529–557. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10640-022-00735-5
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