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

Tipping the Scales: The Power of Independent Voices (Hypothetical Feather Party)

Politics is a natural part of life from before ancient Greece and Mesopotamia, and people have every right to hold opinions—whether similar to or different from those around them. Yet today, politics has become increasingly partisan and some believe toxic. You are either on one side or the other, and neither side necessarily reflects the full range of public opinion (If you listen to people without promoting your beliefs they will share theirs and you can learn. Listen first and judge later.). Focusing more closely on objective decision-making and the needs of current and future generations might help shift this dynamic. Could a third party help?

Representing people
sharing their inner beliefs.

Let’s consider an example. Within political parties, members are often expected to vote strictly along party lines, even when they believe the opposing side has a reasonable point or a valuable addition to a bill. But decisions must be made for everyone in alignment with deep duties, which means we should avoid the extremes on either side. Good people are leaving politics behind entirely and we need them. Out of frustration with polarization, many people may be becoming more open-minded to a third party, and this shift is worth exploring philosophically.

About a year ago, I came up with an idea called the “Hypothetical Feather Party.” Its purpose wasn’t to dominate politics but to think of ways to help such as tip votes and create a middle pathway in political discussions and decisions. This party would not be strictly conservative or liberal, nor would it base its decisions on those frameworks (outside the narrative). Instead, it would evaluate issues as objectively as possible, using scientific reasoning and practical analysis aligned with local needs and the long-term strategic health of the nation.

Here’s a second example where a third party may help.  Over the past few decades, we’ve seen a significant concentration of wealth and an increasing influence of large corporations. While major corporations offer many benefits, a balance between small and large enterprise is essential for sustained innovation. People still need opportunities, hope, and the belief that if they start a business or introduce a new idea, they have a genuine chance to succeed. Excessive economic concentration undermines that possibility. The average person's trust is declining and they may feel left out (...at least that is what I hear from people but you may have your opinion.).

Let us also think about a third example. Extreme partisanship impacts the way people perceive each other and how they make decisions using institutional power. Hyperpolitics can lead to misjudging others not based on their merit but perceived differences, can give cover for mistreatment of the "other"/out group (any "ism" can collectivize under the wrong pressures), misuse of public authority/institutional position for ideological gain, and might even violate some of the most basic values if various perspectives are not considered. A third party steps outside of common narratives and perhaps a more of an objective perspective (Much like a arbitor that is not trying to seek party gain but support for certain central values. You might have a better example than me. ) 

So what might a third party look like? Imagine a group not defined by rigid voting blocs but by a loose affiliation of independent voters committed to representing younger generations and expanding their opportunities based on shared central values. You don’t vote for an ideology—you vote for the quality of decision-making, for candidates with steady judgment who choose what benefits the greatest number of people. Such a party may preserve important social contracts (i.e. freedoms of religion, speech, etc.) and values passed down through generations. It would aim to be the “voice of reason,” offering space for those who feel pressured to conform to one ideology or another—even when doing so may not help society.

In essence, such a party would introduce a useful third viewpoint—one that doesn’t force its agenda but votes its conscience. Campaign donations would come with no implied expectations, only trust in the candidate’s ability to make sound decisions. With even 15% of the voting population, such a group may be able to meaningfully tip outcomes or block poor legislation regardless of traditional conservative or liberal leaning positions. In today’s partisan gridlock, a thoughtful third party could “grease the wheels” by bringing an objective perspective. Independent voters often do this already, grounded not in highly curated party messaging but in their core values and beliefs. They could become more organized.

Representing a politician
with a cold. 
Maybe some homecooked
soup and a heartfelt
conversation with 
family (the people) can help.

Historically, third parties have struggled because in part of the overwhelming power of money, campaign donations, and entrenched interests. Ironically, these same forces have contributed to the polarized—and sometimes toxic—political atmosphere we see today, where special interests often outweigh the voices of ordinary people. Decision making could be impacted by gridlock yes and nos where maybes might work better. A loosely connected party, free from these pressures, might be the cure for our political sniffles. Its loyalty would lie in strengthening the nation, preserving economic and social health for future generations, and maintaining essential shared values.

What do you think about the values, strengths, challenges, and opportunities for a loosely connected third party? I call it the Hypothetical Feather Party, but the name really isn’t what matters. Next time, vote Hypothetical Feather Party! In other words, vote for people who vote the issues—not the politics. Good idea or bad idea? Feel free to share your thoughts. 

Consider this article, 

Americans See Need for Third Party, but Offer Soft Support

When Narratives Justify Wrongdoing: Understanding Corruption’s Roots

Corruption is something society should never tolerate, as it carries a wide range of costs and consequences across different situations. Much like a common cold, corruption spreads quickly among people who are tempted by the same pressures and desires—particularly the need for belonging and the desire to be respected within certain circles. These motivations often drive individuals toward corruption for personal gain, and at times this behavior blends with the psychology of hate.

Representing the darker
self- perceptions of entitlement
that leads to
corruption and hate.

(Hate can come from any person, race, religion or
background if they choose that path.

Notice the background. Kind of
cool.)

"The corruption of the best
things gives rise to the worst."
 - David Hume

While psychological theories often discuss the darker aspects of corruption and hate, they rarely connect the two, even though both share a distorted sense of self. When someone takes from another person or from society illicitly, they place their own desires above the greater good. Likewise, when someone harbors hatred toward entire groups, it reveals a belief that their own needs, perceptions, and social networks outweigh the rights and dignity of others.

Hate and corruption thrive within narratives that justify inappropriate actions sometimes directly against certain codified values. When people internalize these narratives—about themselves or others—they begin to make compromises. It often looks like this: although the stated purpose of a law is to protect society from corruption, someone might convince themselves that a certain group is less worthy of fair treatment, and therefore feel justified in bending or breaking the rules to uphold their own value system.

This is a distorted lens, and individuals may not fully recognize it. Yet it is rooted in how they view themselves and how they weigh their own needs against the needs of others. Narcissists, criminals, and those with dark Machiavellian traits can easily exploit these weaknesses, leading to actions that are both harmful and deeply destructive. Only after the damage is done—after time has passed and new people replace the old—do we often realize the full extent of the wrongdoing. Rarely do get to do it in real time to study it.

However, all of this can be avoided, in any place or time, if we reflect seriously on what is essential for societal progress and the preservation of human integrity. Whether we look to oaths, institutions, moral or religious teachings, ethics, or strategic principles, we find that society is built upon foundational values that must be protected, strengthened, and upheld.

Hate and corruption each carry two distinct harms: the wrongful act itself and the effort to shield or justify that act. Strong and resilient people, institutions, and leaders understand this and work to create environments where destructive behaviors become less likely to take root. If they aren't doing that then they are not doing their duty to the broader stakeholders of society.

Those who fail to value moral conscience or a true ethical compass are unlikely to foster goals that benefit everyone. Encouraging, protecting, or normalizing hate undermines any society. Instead, we must aim to build efficient and resilient systems by reducing corruption, holding bad actors accountable, and promoting unity, fairness, and indivizibility—conditions that maximize human potential and support the free exchange of ideas that drives development.

You may find the referenced study on corruption particularly interesting, as it explores why people are more likely to engage in corrupt behavior when it becomes normalized. 

How the Perception of Corruption Shapes the Willingness to Bribe: Evidence From An Online Experiment