Purpose, Teamwork, and the Challenge of Firefighing (Attracting Younger Firefighters)

It takes time to learn how fire trucks operate and how to move water efficiently. Over the years, seasoned firefighters develop countless tips and techniques, and most are more than willing to share that knowledge with others. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not the best on the trucks, but I can operate them and pump water when needed. Others, however, have done it so often that they know exactly how to maximize flow under any conditions.

In some situations, engines can deliver up to 2,000 gallons per minute, which is an extremely high capacity. Achieving that kind of output requires strong water supply from hydrants or alternative sources and the right intake and outtake pressures. Drop tanks, rivers, and even lakes are sometimes used. The more water you can put on a fire, the faster it can be controlled, which makes mastering these skills vitally important.

One of the most rewarding parts of being in the fire service is the challenge and the benefits it provides to others. Unfortunately, the national trend is concerning. Knowledge of firefighting passes from older to younger firefighters and it is important to get the young involved. We have nearly half young men and women so that is a trend breaker. People are sharing knowledge, training, and encouraging a sense of belonging.

Many departments struggle to attract young firefighters (especially volunteers). Costs are rising, people have less free time, and the training required is extensive—most of it unpaid. With all the competing needs and life distrations those who get themselves involved are the cream of the crop. Some of the best society can bring forward through self-selection. Why Young People Are Not Joining Fire Departments?

If you are interested in supporting a department that has strong community backing and is bucking this trend by engaging younger members, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. There is much we can learn from departments that succeed in attracting and retaining volunteers. A shared sense of purpose and teamwork makes all the difference. Send a message to the right and I will point you in the right direction. Updating equipment is nearly always beneficial to improve capacity.

Cross-Country Skiing: Powered by Poor Planning (The Wood Pecker Encounter)

Today’s plan was downhill skiing at Pine Mountain. That plan was very optimistic.

After almost being pecked
Joe made a break for it!
Realized he didn't
have enough wax
on his skis. 
Thank goodness
this little guy only wanted
to peck wood.
Woodpeckers of MI
Burnt more calories!

After staying out a bit too late last night dominating a very competitive shuffleboard game, I pivoted to cross-country skiing instead. We had a light dusting of snow, and honestly, that’s one of the best things about living here—the outdoors are always just minutes from your front door.

The loop took me about 50 minutes, mostly because I realized halfway through that these skis have absolutely no wax on them. Rookie move. I should have checked beforehand, but hey, the extra workout was appreciated. Next time I’ll stop by one of our local hardware or sporting goods stores—assuming I can’t magically find wax hiding in the garage.

A word of caution: cross-country skiing uses a very different skill set than downhill skiing. I discovered this while sliding down a hill and landing squarely on my butt. Science.

Beyond the exercise, the real reason I get outside is nature itself. At one point, a little woodpecker decided to hang out and fly around me. I only managed to get a short video, but moments like that are exactly what make these outings special.

After I get back from visiting California (where apparently it is not cold like Michigan), I’m thinking about combining skiing or snowshoeing with some hunting. There are plenty of rural trails that likely have game, and it’s a great excuse to get exercise, take photos, and maybe bring dinner home.

If you’re curious, I’ve included some resources below for cross-country skiing in our area. Between that, snowmobile trails, ice fishing, and plenty of other outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of fun around here. And the best part? You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pretty great lifestyle. 

More Calories are Burned Crosscountry Skiing versus Downhill Skiing. 

Visit Escanaba Winter Silence Support

Cross Country Skiing the UP

Delta County Michigan in the Upper Peninsula Experiences Growth: Numbers and Tourism Tell Half the Economic Story

Let us discuss this interesting article from our local Escanaba Daily Press (A pretty good local place to advertise for local things), highlighted by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, and how the community has grown on many different levels over the past few years. The area has seen increased influence and growth across the U.P., reversing trends experienced by many other small U.P. communities—and likely many small communities nationally. While there are many ways to interpret the economic reasons behind this shift, one useful theoretical perspective is worth considering.

Charles and Mariam 
are thinking about starting
a business and are calculating
their ROI. They realize
that the infrastructure, sense of community, 
activities, downtown building affordability
and lifestyle tip the 
scales in their calculations.
They think Delta County would
be a great place
to start a business and a family. 
They are pursuing their happiness.
(Incalculable value, eat your
heart out Keynes and Schumpeter!)

People have natural motivations
and bringing that out in an
economic system/environment
makes a big difference. 
The Entrepreneurs Heart

From an economic standpoint, social and economic interactions are closely connected. On the social side, this includes tourism, events, social clubs, and recreational opportunities. On the infrastructure side, it includes improvements such as T-1 internet, roads, pavilions, parks, and other public investments that help connect people and share information/intellectual resources. One might reasonably ask whether strengthening social infrastructure can support economic development that relies on similar foundational systems. If so, this relationship may help identify which investments are likely to generate the greatest overall impact—at least in theory, and readers can draw their own conclusions.

Another important factor is the formation of economic clusters that can result in tandem with social development. When people think of clusters, they often imagine large, well-known examples such as Silicon Valley or other industry-specific hubs. However, smaller local clusters—especially when they interact with neighboring local clusters—can also create meaningful synergy. These clusters do not need to be large; they simply need to be effective within their environment. That synergy can lead to positive outcomes that are not always predictable but are significant for long-term growth.

The region also maintains strong production capabilities, including metals manufacturing and stamping, shipbuilding capacity, skilled-trades education, and wood products such as Billerud. Supporting these industries are key infrastructure assets: T-1 data lines, roads, water, electricity, rail, port facilities, the airport, etc.. It is worth considering how softer assets—tourism, fine arts, beaches, and recreational opportunities—enhance the performance and overall attractiveness of these harder industrial and infrastructure clusters. While they may initially seem as though they are separate because economists and sociologists love to slice and dice they are not necessarily that different (These are definitions based on scientific lines while modern science includes integration of fields/knowledge.).  As an example economics by its nature is the study of individual choice on a macro scale. That wouldn't exclude the social environment that impacts those choices would it or we just don't measure it?

Tourism, investment, and manufacturing together provide a noteworthy example. Growth has contributed to new cruise ship visits, increased marina traffic, greater regional awareness, and expanded social media marketing. This, in turn, supports both industrial investment and small “mom-and-pop” businesses, helps retain local residents, and attracts skilled talent to the area. Tourism’s influence extends to downtown business development and housing, maximizing the return on infrastructure investments through increased density and generating spillover benefits across other sectors. Industry, tourism, and entrepreneurship interact to create a unique, interconnected system in any location experiencing similar growth. If these relationships and spillovers can be mapped, they can also be intentionally strengthened. 

(Yikes! A touch too theoretical! It is ok to disagree and bring forward different ideas because it is just an exploration of possibilities. (Multi Clusters and SubFactors) Different people might interpret it differently so it is good to listen to a variety of opinions. Try and answer these questions, Why do you think the area is creating such a comeback? What does that have to do with positive and good governance? What might that have to do with a Sense of Community and interest in finding ways to enhance the economy and lives? Just a few things to ponder.....🤔)

The broader goal for some communities like this is to build upward momentum while hedging against market volatility. Each industry supports the other so that as changes in the market occur their is a natural adjustment to local economic systems/mechanics that find homoeostasis again. In other words, adaptable hedged industries. Successfully, that means keeping local people employed at strong wages, enhancing quality of life through social and cultural activities, strengthening the local tax base around shared public goals, and fostering new business, professional, and entrepreneurial opportunities for the next generation to create regeneration, adaptation, and innovation (This would be more of an organically formed clusters versus more vertical or structured cluster. Each has their advantages and disadvantages but for small communities organic clusters might lead to longer term health not reliant on a single industry.).

From a bird’s-eye view, the area appears to be moving in an upward development direction. This is one reason it represents an attractive investment environment. If you have a business idea—whether starting a store or building a facility—you may want to reach out to the organization referenced below or to other local and regional government offices that can help point you in the right direction.

Master Plan and Rec Plan: Delta County Commissioners Meeting (12/15/2025)

It is important to stay informed about local governance and the growth prospects of the county and its governing bodies. The county continues to move forward and grow, and it appears to be doing well in bringing new solutions and ideas to the table. Investors value access to information and opportunities to invest in communities that have strong infrastructure and workforce like this area.

It would be encouraging to see some form of manufacturing invest in the area to complement our existing lumber production and further diversify the local economy.

A few issues were raised, including the need for additional county attorneys following a recent resignation. The county may need to contract with a nonprofit organization while also encouraging more attorneys to step forward and live in the area. 

A couple of things that include the recreation plan and the master plan that are available to fill out. You can review the current Master Plan at Master Plan 2019.

Summary of Video from YouTube:

I have not seen minutes and a summary but this one can be done on YouTube for free. 

The Delta County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on December 16, 2025, covering various topics from administrative updates to new business proposals. Surveys are on the Planning Commission Site
The meeting commenced with a prayer (0:26) and the Pledge of Allegiance (0:42), followed by a roll call of commissioners (0:56). The minutes from the previous meeting (1:15) and the current agenda (1:46) were approved, with additions to the agenda including finance committee meetings and new business items such as the parks fund balance request, dispatch CAD contract, airport train proposal, and the MIDC contract (1:52-2:33).

Key Reports and Updates:

• The Administrator's Report (3:19) highlighted that the five-year "rec. plan" is open for public comment, and a survey is available for the new master plan. The fiscal year 2024 audit draft was received and is under review (4:11).
• The Hannaville Indian Community granted $50,000 to Delta County (4:30) for the non-motorized bike path connection between Escanaba and Gladstone, to be used for legal fees, architectural design, or property purchase (5:08).
• Commissioners were urged to review legislative updates from MAC (5:35), which include topics on MIDC, PO service, the sheriff's department, and prepaid impatient health plans RFP.
• Attorney Sarah McGregor is assisting with the MIDC transition (6:02) after the resignation of the lead attorney, and discussions are ongoing with Iron County regarding a memorandum of understanding (6:21).
• The Finance Committee meeting minutes (7:33) were discussed and accepted (8:42), with key topics including the parks and recreation request for additional funds due to gravel prices (7:51) and updates on the CAD contract and airport HVAC system (8:12-8:30).

Decisions on Unfinished Business:

• The FOIA appeal number 25-268 was denied (9:03).
• The Marquette County inmate housing contract (9:28) was accepted after legal review (9:58).
• The airport Me Hunt sign contract (10:14) for stone removal equipment building was approved, contingent on FAA design plan approval (10:43).

New Business Highlights:

• Payment of bills totaling $2,669,541.27 (11:38) was approved (12:01).
• The airport marketing plan (12:21) with Morgan Murphy Media was approved (13:03).
• The 2026 remonumentation grant application (13:23) was accepted (14:06).
• The 2025 remarketing invitation completion report (14:21) was placed on file (14:36).
• The Michigan State University (MSU) memorandum of agreement FY26 (14:46) was accepted (15:22).
• The retirement of L. Stannic Belt (15:43) and the request for a lump sum payout and filling of the juvenile diversion director position were approved (16:22).
• The transfer of Z. Villainov (16:38) to road patrol and the request to fill the corrections position were approved (17:31).
• A request for donation for the foreclosure sale case Michael Pong versus Isabella County (17:39) was discussed, and the board allocated $4,000 towards attorney fees from the delinquent tax fund (21:06).
• The proposed MAC Workman's Comp Committee policy (21:24) was discussed extensively, particularly regarding the rotation of the board assignment and transparency of compensation, but ultimately did not pass (31:43).
• Informational items included listing resolutions on the county's website (31:48), a plan for ADA compliance for board packets (33:37), and discussions around a 24-hour rule on board packets (34:51) to ensure public access to information before meetings, aiming for Monday at noon packet release (39:42). A 10-day notice for potential changes to the rules of procedure was noted (41:00).
• The Opioid Task Force's recommendation to deny a mini-grant application (41:37) that did not fit the statutory parameters was approved (42:59).
• A parks fund balance request (43:09) for an additional $7,000 for water tanks and gravel was approved (43:44.
• The dispatch UP CAD contract (43:55) was presented, seeking board approval for the dispatch director to enter into a collaborative agreement for a new CAD system, which would open potential for state funding (44:50).

The Disease of Corruption and Hate and the Duty to Community to Vote Your Conscious

Corruption and hate are a disease within society, and wherever they exist they leave a wake of victims. Often, people are aware that corruption is present, but fear—rooted in self-interest or retaliation—prevents them from reporting it. As a result, these behaviors persist for long periods of time. Lives are damaged, victims are created, individuals harmed, minorities (any out-group) dehumanized, economies decline, and freedoms eroded. Initial decision makers failed in their duties and everyday they failed to adjust is a testimony to their unstated values. They fail because certain values may not be part of their decision making matrix. In networks where corruption and hate are normalized, none of this is treated as a primary concern. But that isn't the whole story.....

Representing a modern
philosopher standing for
the next generation and their
needs.  Discussing
the lessons learned over
the centuries.

"The soul is dyed the color
 of its thoughts.
Think only on those things that are in
line with your principles..."
 – Heraclitus

In other words, if you have
a true north view of societal values
you will encourage others to
have those same true
north values and
that creates collective
moral conscious.
Societies are based on
moral precepts. 

The good news in this hypothetical, philosophical, and theoretical learning story is that the people and good officials eventually stood up where a clan-oriented officials failed and neglected their duties. That failure stemmed from the promotion of distorted ideologies of segregation and exclusion, along with the incentivization of insular friend or other networks through clan preferencing courts. It was the people and their supporting officials—through reporting wrongdoing and collectively peacefully thwarting corruption and hate—who created the conditions for a new beginning, marked by greener pastures and a brighter future.

Groups engaged in hate and corruption thrive on spreading rumors and deliberately targeting the most vulnerable. Often, their targets are those who file official reports, as those reports are improperly shared with perpetrators. This allows abusers to further harass and intimidate victims into silence. Collective reporting led to overwhelming the mechanisms used to hide dysfunction. Keeping the corruption undiscovered and ongoing. It was desired that those who caused the greatest harm were rewarded or protected, while victims were largely left to cope and flip the bill of others choices.

With moral decision making, such failures would never occur, as they directly violate oaths and social contracts. However, not everyone abides by those principles or feels an obligation to serve the broader public good. Instead, some misuse the power and trust placed in them to pursue outcomes that benefit only themselves or their allies (Using power to diminish good moral conscious). The general will of the people being the mechanisms that can create further checks on wrongdoing. It is a path forward.

The next time you vote, focus on selecting the best and brightest rather than the most motivated or connected that seem to at times distort decision-making with extreme partisanship. Worry less about party labels and more about character, integrity, and competence. As a community (s), we must choose leaders from within our communities who are capable, ethical, and fair—not merely the most connected or self-serving. The future is made each day and each decision so let us ensure those who can further the collective good are in the running. Everything is a choice, let us choose our societal ideals. 

This piece was a little interesting. You can read a little of it and sort of ponder its value in understanding corruption.

Causes of corruption: History, geography and government

*Since this is for philosophical discussion you may change around the elements any way you want and come to different conclusions. 

Old Farms, New Purpose: The Case for Horses in the UP (Equestrian Industry Stats)

 While many say a dog is man’s best friend, the horse could easily be added to that list. Horses have an extraordinarily long history with people, and horseback riding remains deeply woven into societies and economies around the world. It contributes significantly to recreation, tourism, and sport. According to the article referenced below, the equine industry in the United States contributes approximately $144 billion to the economy and supports about 1.7 million jobs.

Horse riding in
the UP. A hunt
club would be cool.
Abundance of trails.

Working with horses takes time, energy, and commitment. It often takes years to become proficient, and most people who enter equestrian sports begin with lessons—for safety reasons and to better understand horse behavior. While there are different techniques and disciplines—such as polo, barrel racing, jumping, dressage, pleasure riding, and others—they all share common fundamentals. Above all, riders must feel comfortable, balanced, and connected with the horse.

Rural economies and long-abandoned farms may offer strong opportunities for raising and training horses. While California has a well-established equine industry, I often think about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan—particularly Delta County—as a promising place for this kind of work. Land is relatively affordable, and many older farms are underutilized, making them suitable for investment, whether in horses, farming, or a hybrid of both.

Recently, I spent time practicing and training in the saddle. I’ve been riding for many years, and there’s always something new to learn. Sometimes I play polo (I didn't say well); other times I ride purely for enjoyment. I’ve owned horses before, trained a few, and even sold one for more than I paid for it—though still likely less than the total cost of boarding, care, and medical expenses that come with responsible horse ownership. It’s something I’d consider doing again.

Horseback riding also offers meaningful physical and social benefits. Equestrian communities tend to be close-knit. People travel together, attend shows and clinics, exchange horses, gear, and tack, and share knowledge gained over years of experience. Physically, riding develops balance, coordination, and body awareness. Staying connected to the horse—at any speed, or even with a nervous or reactive animal—is essential. In more demanding sports like polo or barrel racing, that balance becomes even more critical. A rider’s posture and movement directly influence the horse’s behavior, making body mechanics a key part of communication.

The study linked below explores the scope and impact of the equine industry in the United States and provides useful insight into its economic and cultural significance.

The Economic Impact of the Equine Industry US

Camp Cooking: Smoked Herring with Eggs

If you’re spending time at the gym, it’s worth paying close attention to the quality of the food you eat. Over the years, I’ve learned that much of fitness progress comes down to food quality, overall intake, and understanding the macronutrients you’re consuming. There’s room for pizza or a drink now and then, but for the most part, your meals should support your goals.

While it is convenient
to buy smoked fish/meat
it is entirely possible to
do it yourself. 
One just needs a to hang fish/meat
on a rack or branch,
cover with tarp like a teepee
or hut to collect the
smoke and then just 
wait 5+ hours or more.

Smoking Meat Over Fire

You can also catch and cook/not smoke
 on the ice if you want. Ice fishing.

This morning, I made eggs with smoked salmon. I had some salmon in the refrigerator from a few days ago, along with eggs, and it seemed like a good way to use what I already had. Most home cooking isn’t particularly difficult unless you’re getting into bread-making or more complex dishes. Generally, cooking is simple and depends on the ingredients you have on hand—or, in some cases, what you can catch locally.

While I buy my eggs from the grocery store, I often find myself wondering whether I should get chickens again. I’ve owned them before, and they produce excellent eggs. We also have a long-standing tradition of smoking fish around here. While I used herring this time, it’s entirely possible to catch and smoke other types of fish as well (Mine was bought from the store. I'm lazy sometimes.).

Since smoked herring is already cured, it only needs to be added near the end of cooking to warm it through. If you have vegetables on hand, they’re easy to toss in too. I usually start with a simple base and then adjust based on taste, nutrition, and practicality.

This meal is packed with protein and quality nutrients. For example, three eggs paired with about three ounces of smoked herring comes in at roughly 450 calories and around 50 grams of protein. Adding vegetables increases its nutritional value, and a bit of cheese can work well too—depending on your taste and preferences.

If you’d like a more structured, step-by-step recipe to follow, there are plenty of good ones available online, and I’ve linked one as an example.

Smoked Herring with Eggs Recipe

I'm a licensed fitness trainer and yoga instructor and have engaged in sports and such most of my life so feel free to reach out if you need some help virtually. A basic dietary plan, tips, tricks, methods, etc. Send message to the right.