The Health and Economic Benefits of Producing and Selling Local Food-Supply Chain Resilience

Local food is vital, and it’s becoming increasingly important. The challenge is finding good statistics on just how much of our food supply actually comes from local sources. I looked around, and while I wasn’t going to spend 40 hours digging through every possible report—because eventually you have to come up for air—I did want to get a general idea. The data suggests that only around 3% of U.S. agricultural sales come through local food markets. That number is both interesting and a little concerning.

(Illustrative Only)

Joe's horse
is good on gas,
only needs to go 5 miles to
be in the country, 
and many times he
sells much of his stuff
on the way. 
....and he built
his house.
Yep in the plan. 

COVID-19 gave us a real-world reminder of how vulnerable distribution systems can become. When people started worrying about grocery shortages and supply chain disruptions, it highlighted the importance of having multiple sources of food. A healthy balance—just throwing out a number—might be something like 50% of food coming from local and regional sources and 50% coming through larger national distribution channels. That type of diversity could make our food system more resilient if a disease outbreak, transportation problem, or other disruption affected one part of the country.

Local food also matters because it keeps money circulating in rural communities. We have many rural areas with unused farmland and declining populations, yet we have not always created the policies needed to help smaller producers compete. A small farmer trying to compete with massive agricultural operations faces a difficult challenge. Local stores can help bridge that gap. Here in Escanaba, businesses like Elmer’s, Escanaba Farmer's Market, Gladstones Farmer's Market and other retailers that bring local products onto their shelves are helping build that connection between producers and consumers.

There is also a health component. Food that is grown locally often travels a shorter distance, which can mean fresher products and better nutritional value. Large-scale food production and processing can sometimes reduce nutrients through harvesting practices, storage, and processing methods. When you know where your food comes from—and you know someone down the road grew it—it changes your relationship with what you eat. Compare that with grabbing a bag of chips from the shelf; convenient, yes, but probably not something anyone would put on a nutrition poster.

Over the past few years, I’ve been trying to eat healthier because I understand the importance of reducing unnecessary additives and improving overall nutrition. With my fitness trainer and yoga instructor certifications, I’ve become more interested in how food connects to health. If anyone wants some virtual fitness help, send me a message and we can set something up. muradabel@gmail.com

Supporting local food systems is about more than vegetables at a farmers market. It’s about creating opportunities that bring younger generations back to agriculture, strengthen rural economies, and improve food security.

I’ve been experimenting with this idea myself. As I get closer to retirement, I’ve considered buying a small piece of land—maybe a couple of acres, maybe 10 or 20 depending on what makes sense (and my tiny budget)—and growing some of my own food. Right now, I’m testing things out with potatoes, onions, and carrots. One thing I’ve learned: when you grow organically, you don’t always get those massive yields you see from industrial farming. My potatoes aren’t winning any county fair competitions for size yet! But the tradeoff is that you’re working with the soil naturally and producing something you know exactly where it came from.

For a small local operation, you don’t need to compete with massive farms producing thousands of acres. You can focus on quality, community, and healthier food. It’s an experiment for now, and it may or may not become a future project, but it’s interesting to think about how small-scale agriculture could play a bigger role in strengthening our communities.

You may find the following two studies of interest. The last one is from 2017.

Health Benefits of Eating Locally

• Eating locally often means purchasing food produced within approximately 100–250 miles, supporting local farmers while strengthening regional food systems and rural economies.
• Fresh local produce is typically harvested closer to the time of sale, allowing fruits and vegetables to ripen naturally and retain more nutrients, flavor, and quality.
• Shorter supply chains reduce food handling and transportation, which may decrease the risk of contamination and lessen the need for preservatives and extensive packaging.
• Buying locally encourages healthier eating by increasing access to fresh, minimally processed foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber while reducing reliance on highly processed foods.
• Supporting local food systems also promotes community engagement through farmers markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and home gardening, while contributing to environmental sustainability and local economic development.

McCurdy, M. (2022, May 17). Health benefits of eating locally. University of New Hampshire Extension. https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2022/05/health-benefits-eating-locally

Local Food Sales Continue to Grow Through a Variety of Marketing Channels

• Local food sales represent a small but growing segment of the U.S. agricultural system. Sales of local edible farm products increased from $8.7 billion in 2015 to $11.8 billion in 2017, representing about 3% of total U.S. agricultural sales.
• Local food producers use multiple marketing channels, including farmers markets, farm stands, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, hospitals, wholesalers, and regional distributors.
• In 2015, the largest share of local food sales came through intermediate markets and institutions (39%), followed by direct-to-consumer sales (34%) and retail channels (27%).
• Growth in local food markets has increasingly shifted beyond farmers markets toward restaurants, grocery stores, institutions, and other intermediated channels that allow producers to reach larger customer bases.
• Local food systems contribute to rural economic development by providing income opportunities for farmers, supporting beginning and small-scale producers, and strengthening connections between producers and consumers.

Martinez, S. (2021, October 4). Local food sales continue to grow through a variety of marketing channels. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service. https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2021/october/local-food-sales-continue-to-grow-through-a-variety-of-marketing-channels

Employment in July 2026-Mixed but With Concerns (A Few Ideas on Improving Jobs and Communities)

The July 2026 Employment Situation Summary presents a mixed picture. There are some encouraging signs, but there are also trends that deserve our attention.

The labor market has cooled somewhat, and wage growth remains modest. Another concern is that some people are leaving the labor force altogether. That's an opportunity we shouldn't overlook (Remember in theory the concept of engagement, transactions, and efficiency. The Economy of Needs). We can strengthen our human capital by investing in workforce development, creating more jobs, and encouraging entrepreneurship. 

One of the best ways to support communities and local employment is by supporting small businesses and revitalizing our downtowns. Small businesses have long been an important source of job creation and innovation, but a healthy economy requires balance. We need strong small, medium-sized, and large businesses working together rather than focusing too heavily on the top (Hedging American Start-Ups)

I've been working on an article that explores why investing in local communities matters. Rebuilding downtown districts, attracting entrepreneurs, and helping new businesses grow can create jobs (Local Downtown Entrepreneurs), increase wages, and strengthen local economies for years to come.

There is also good news in the report. Manufacturing continues to add jobs, and that's an encouraging sign because manufacturing creates products, supports exports, and generates economic activity across many related industries.

Health care also continues to grow, which reflects the needs of an aging population. While health care is an essential industry and a major employer, long-term economic growth also depends on sectors that create new products, expand exports, and drive innovation. Manufacturing, technology, entrepreneurship, and other productive industries all play important roles in building broad-based prosperity.

At the same time, many families continue to struggle with the rising cost of health care. Medical advances have produced remarkable new treatments and technologies, but affordability remains a challenge for many Americans. As health care costs continue to increase, policymakers and industry leaders will need to explore ways to improve efficiency, encourage competition, and make quality care more affordable without sacrificing innovation.

Overall, the report reminds us that a strong economy isn't built on a single industry. It comes from investing in people, encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting businesses of every size (Be thoughtful about policies and who benefits.), and creating opportunities that allow communities to grow. If we continue moving in that direction, we can strengthen employment, raise wages, and build a more resilient economy for the future.

Employment Situation Summary (July 2026)

• Total nonfarm payroll employment declined by 23,000 jobs in July, marking an unexpected slowdown in the labor market after previous months' employment gains were revised downward.
• The unemployment rate edged down to 4.1%, largely because fewer people participated in the labor force rather than due to stronger hiring.
• Employment gains occurred in construction, manufacturing, and health care, while local government education, leisure and hospitality, retail trade, and financial activities experienced notable job losses.
• Average hourly earnings increased modestly over the year, with wage growth slowing to approximately 3.2%, suggesting continued moderation in labor cost pressures.
• The weaker-than-expected employment report reduced expectations of additional near-term Federal Reserve interest rate increases, as markets interpreted the data as evidence of a cooling labor market.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2026, August 7). Employment Situation Summary (July 2026). U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm

Fish Jumping Acrylic Painting

 A number of years ago, I started painting simply because I love the ocean. Give me water, beaches, waves, boats—anything with a shoreline—and I'm happy. Naturally, that's what ended up on my canvas.

Now, let's be honest: I'm not the world's greatest painter. There isn't a committee as far as I know somewhere debating whether I'm the next Picasso. But art is in the eye of the beholder. Some people love a particular style, and some people wonder what on earth the artist was thinking. That's part of the fun.

Fortunately, a few people actually like my paintings, and every once in a while someone even buys one. Since it's just a hobby, I don't charge much. I enjoy creating them, experimenting, and hopefully getting a little better each time.

Of course, not every experiment is a masterpiece. I painted this tropical beach scene, and something just felt...empty. A friend looked at it and said, "You know what it needs? Some fish or dolphins in the middle." I figured, "Why not?" So I added a few fish. They're not exactly marine biology textbook material, but they do make the painting feel more alive. It's the first time I've tried this type of tropical style, so I'm calling it a successful experiment—even if the fish are still working on their modeling careers.

If you're interested, it's listed on eBay for about $80, but if you buy it directly from me, it's $75 with free shipping. I also donate a portion of the proceeds, so your purchase helps support a good cause.

And if you think it's overpriced...make me an offer! Right now, these paintings are just leaning against the wall waiting for someone to adopt them. I'd much rather they hang in someone's home than become very expensive firewood.

Who knows? Maybe someday they'll be worth millions. More likely they'll be worth...well...about what you paid for them. But every famous artist started somewhere, right? Today it's "local beach painter." Tomorrow? Tiny Picasso. Or at least "Picasso-ish."

Jumping Fish Painting eBay

$5 Discount Direct Purchase

or Make an Offer
muradabel@gmail.com

The National Concerns of Young People According to Poll-Hypothetical Feather Party

 Every generation inherits the responsibility of building a better future. Throughout history, societies have progressed because each generation has worked to create greater opportunities for the next. That process requires constant learning, adaptation, and a willingness to improve our institutions as new challenges emerge. The more young people engage, the faster the system adapts upward.

Surveys of younger Americans suggest they are deeply concerned about issues such as affordability, economic opportunity, trust in institutions, government accountability, foreign aid-conflict, and the long-term direction of the country. These concerns deserve thoughtful attention because today's young people will soon become tomorrow's leaders, workers, entrepreneurs, educators, and public servants.

The good news is that America has an incredible capacity for innovation and renewal. Across the country, communities are starting the process of revitalizing downtowns through encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting local businesses, expanding recreation, investing in education, creating opportunities for young people, and strengthening civic engagement. These local successes demonstrate that positive change is possible when people work together toward common goals. We can make change.

As organizations grow larger, it can become more difficult for leadership to remain closely connected to the everyday experiences of citizens (If they are concentrated into the elite we have a problem of true represenation.). That is why healthy democracies rely on continuous feedback, transparency, accountability, and civic participation (Why we protect freedom of speech; or at least should.) Like any successful organization, our public institutions should regularly evaluate what is working, correct what is not, and continually strive to serve the public more effectively.

Many of the ideas explored throughout this blog are presented as thought experiments rather than policy prescriptions. For example, the hypothetical "Feather Party" explores the concept of placing greater emphasis on the long-term interests of future generations. Similarly, "The Allegory of the Clan," modeled after Plato's Allegory of the Cave, examines how corruption, favoritism, and the breakdown of accountability can weaken democratic institutions when checks and balances fail. These thought experiments are intended to encourage discussion about civic responsibility, institutional improvement, and ethical leadership.

It is equally important to recognize the many strengths that already exist. Millions of Americans volunteer, mentor young people, start businesses, teach, serve their communities, and work every day to improve the lives of others. These positive efforts deserve recognition and continued support because they strengthen both our communities and our democracy. Some are starting to voice their truer opinons knowing that not doing so means there are no opportunities for improvement (men and women of integrity who take risks for supporting the nation's root values.). 

Ultimately, improving our system is a shared responsibility that extends beyond political parties. Progress comes from citizens who stay informed, participate in their communities, engage respectfully with others, and hold institutions accountable to high ethical standards (We are struggling with this a little.). Every election provides an opportunity to evaluate candidates based on their integrity, qualifications, competence, and commitment to serving the public.

Young Americans, in particular, have an important role to play. By becoming informed, voting, volunteering, participating in public discussions, and contributing new ideas, they help ensure that our democracy continues to evolve and meet the needs of future generations. Every generation has the opportunity to leave the country stronger than it found it, and that begins with active citizenship, thoughtful leadership, and a shared commitment to continual improvement. 

Be involved in the strengthening of your nation, create a sense of community, develop yourself, and to what is right for others and yourself. Be the best person you can be and thoughtful about who you vote for. If you don't know who to vote for then vote independent to draw in more ideas and new people who are not as highly top down vetted. We can make healthy change if each does their part. 

Thomas Jefferson famously declared that "the earth belongs in usufruct to the living". It means that the next generation shouldn't have to inheret the problems, issues and poor choices of the prior generation. This is why we should strive for the health of the next generation. Your time to lead is coming soon and you must then begin to think of the generation after you. It is a philosophical idea that preceeded Jefferson on the rights of each generation.

Harvard Youth Poll, 52nd Edition (Spring 2026): Young Americans Face Economic Pressure and Declining Trust

• Economic concerns remain the dominant issue for young Americans, with rising costs of living, financial insecurity, and affordability continuing to shape attitudes and future expectations.
• Trust in government and national institutions has fallen to historic lows. Only a small share of respondents believe the country is headed in the right direction, and confidence in political leadership remains weak across parties.
• Young adults expressed growing concern about global instability and personal safety, reflecting broader anxiety about international conflicts and domestic uncertainty.
• Dissatisfaction with both major political parties continues to increase, suggesting many young voters feel neither party adequately represents their priorities or addresses their concerns.
• Despite widespread political frustration, the survey indicates that young Americans remain engaged with public issues, emphasizing economic opportunity, responsive leadership, and meaningful policy solutions.

Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics. (2026, April 23). Harvard Youth Poll: 52nd edition (Spring 2026). https://iop.harvard.edu/youth-poll/52nd-edition-spring-2026

Cost of Living, Inflation, Economy, and Jobs as Most Important to Americans According to Poll

Understanding what concerns Americans is helpful because it provides insight into the issues that affect their daily lives. It's not surprising that inflation and the cost of living rank among the top concerns. While the economy and jobs are important, they can feel more abstract. In contrast, higher grocery bills, housing costs, and everyday expenses are felt immediately.

For many people, if their paycheck isn't keeping up with rising prices, affordability becomes their biggest concern. These are challenges they experience every day, making them more urgent than broader policy debates.

The survey reflects this pattern. Inflation, the cost of living, the economy, and jobs are the highest priorities because they directly affect household finances. After those basic economic needs are considered, attention shifts to other domestic and foreign policy issues. In general, people tend to prioritize the issues that have the greatest impact on their everyday lives before focusing on broader national or international concerns (In theory).

New Marquette Law School Poll: Inflation and Cost of Living Remain Americans' Top Concern

• Inflation and the cost of living remain the nation's top concern, surpassing all other policy issues.
• The economy and jobs rank second, reflecting continued concern about financial stability, employment, and economic growth.
• Other issues, including immigration, health care, crime, housing affordability, and education, are viewed as important but generally rank below economic concerns.
• The survey found more negative views of U.S. support for Israel among younger Americans than among older age groups.
• Americans remain cautious about artificial intelligence, with relatively low levels of trust in AI technologies.
• Overall, economic conditions continue to dominate public opinion and are likely to remain central factors shaping political attitudes and voting preferences.
• The findings suggest that policymakers and candidates will continue to face pressure to reduce inflation, improve affordability, strengthen economic opportunities, and address important international issues.

Marquette University. (2026, August). New Marquette Law School Poll national survey finds inflation and cost of living the most important issue; economy next most important. https://today.marquette.edu/2026/08/new-marquette-law-school-poll-national-survey-finds-inflation-and-cost-of-living-the-most-important-issue-economy-next-most-important/

US Productivity Q2, 2026-Preliminary

Becoming more productive is generally good news. Productivity growth slightly outpaced inflation, which is a positive sign for the economy. Overall, the report suggests businesses are becoming more efficient, although I'd still like to see both wages and productivity grow even faster. Efficiency should also reduce costs if the system was fully efficient (Perhaps the difference is part of the profit margin. Sticky on the the labor end and sticky on the product end so it might be average workers that are getting squeezed in income and cost of living. Maybe not.).

With advances in technology and artificial intelligence, you might expect a larger boost in productivity, much like the internet transformed how we work decades ago. Of course, productivity depends on how it's measured, so it's important to understand the methodology behind the numbers.

The key takeaway is to stay informed, follow the long-term trends, and watch what's happening in the broader economy. Hourly compensation increased slightly, remaining just ahead of inflation, while productivity continued to improve. As businesses continue adopting new technologies and AI, there is potential for even greater efficiency and productivity gains in the years ahead.

U.S. Productivity and Costs, Second Quarter 2026 (Preliminary)

• Nonfarm business labor productivity increased at an annualized rate of 1.4% during the second quarter of 2026, reflecting stronger output growth relative to hours worked.
• Business output rose 1.7%, while hours worked increased only 0.3%, indicating that firms produced more goods and services with relatively little additional labor input.
• Unit labor costs increased 1.3%, suggesting that productivity gains helped moderate labor cost pressures despite continued increases in employee compensation.
• Hourly compensation increased 2.7% during the quarter and 3.7% over the past year, while productivity improved 2.2% compared with the same quarter one year earlier.
• The report indicates continued improvements in business efficiency, with productivity gains potentially supporting economic growth while helping contain inflationary pressures from labor costs.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2026, August 6). Productivity and costs—Second quarter 2026, preliminary. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/prod2.nr0.htm

Fixing the Window Switch and the Love of Money: Hunker Junker Chronicles

 Recently we (people) got into one of those classic conversations about old cars.

Illustrative Only

My driver's side window switch had been acting up for months. Every now and then the window wouldn't roll up, but I'd pop the switch out, wiggle it around, snap it back in, and—presto—it worked again. I kept telling myself, "I should order a new switch." Like many projects on an old car, that sentence stayed on my to-do list for a while.

Then I went to practice dance with the dance team I'm in. When I went in, the window decided it was on strike. After a few failed negotiations, I finally ordered the replacement switch.

Naturally, by the time I walked back outside...the old switch was working perfectly again.

Old cars have a great sense of humor.

A few days later the new switch arrived. I swapped over one little silver clip from the old one, snapped everything together, and now it works perfectly. Another tiny victory for old-car ownership.

Some friends asked, "Why are you driving that old thing? Just buy a new car."

I laughed.

That's not really the point.

Sure, I could buy another car, but this one runs ok, it's becoming more reliable, and it's got personality. It reminds me of my gramps. Everywhere I go people wave, smile, or stop to talk about it. Nobody walks across a parking lot to admire another gray crossover that looks like every other gray crossover.

Mine has stories.

I'm slowly fixing it up mechanically before worrying too much about the bodywork. I'd rather know it's dependable than simply shiny.

The conversation eventually drifted from cars to money. I've known people who judged success by appearances—nice clothes, expensive cars, flashy lifestyles. Sometimes they didn't actually have much money; they just looked like they did. Image became more important than substance.

I don't want to live that way.

Money matters. We all need it. But I don't want my happiness—or my self-worth—to depend on what other people think of me.

One friend laughed and said, "You should run for office."

My logic seemed to make a little more sense the more I explained it.

I told him I appreciated the compliment, but I don't think that's where life is taking me. I care about good ideas, strong communities, and treating people fairly, but I don't want to say whatever people want to hear just to gain influence or power. If it becomes a necessity some day that may change. 

As we talked, I realized the old car was really just a metaphor.

The study below discusses how an excessive love of money can lead people to objectify others—to see people as tools instead of human beings. That's a dangerous way to live because people become stepping stones instead of neighbors, coworkers, friends, or family. Study after study show that once you achieve a comfortable level of money the joy is in relationships. 

At the end of the day, none of us gets to take our money, titles, or shiny new cars with us. We're all traveling the same road, and eventually we're all headed to the same destination.

So drive the old car if it makes you smile.

Buy the new one if that's what you truly enjoy.

Wear the fancy watch if you like watches. Mine is a cheap one under $15 (For dive watches either go super expensive or go super cheap where they glue them together. A trick I learned from surfers.)

Just don't measure people by what they own or what they can do for you. I'm surfing and diving and most people are not so its just a choice.

There may not be one perfect way to live life, but there is a right way to treat people—with dignity, respect, and kindness.

Besides...my old car finally rolls the window up every single time. That's worth celebrating. I feel a little good about fixing that problem. Different worlds and lives for different people. As long as you can fit in multiple worlds then you understand the social side of society.

The Love of Money Results in Objectification

• The study examined whether a strong desire for money influences how people perceive and treat others, finding that a greater love of money is associated with increased objectification.
• Across four studies, individuals who highly valued money were more likely to view relationships in instrumental terms, focusing on how useful others could be rather than their personal qualities.
• Temporarily activating feelings of wealth or increasing motivation for money made participants more likely to favor people for their usefulness and to attribute fewer mental and emotional capacities to others.
• The researchers found that objectification partially explained why money-related thinking could contribute to unethical or immoral behavior by reducing empathy toward other people and even animals.
• The findings suggest that while money is an essential economic tool, an excessive focus on money can weaken interpersonal relationships by encouraging people to treat others as means to an end rather than as individuals with thoughts, feelings, and intrinsic value.

Wang, X., & Krumhuber, E. G. (2017). The love of money results in objectification. British Journal of Social Psychology, 56(2), 354–372. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjso.12158