Escanaba City Council Meeting (March 5th, 2026): Escanaba Yacht Club and City Manager Position

(Illustrative Only)
I'm just putting 
here to help visualize. 
You can look on their webpage
for their actual logo and information. 
Consider joining. 
EYC Webpage

A couple of primary ideas came out of the Escanaba City Council meeting. Two of the biggest topics were the hiring of a new city manager and the discussion surrounding the Escanaba Yacht Club (EYC).

City Manager Position

The current city manager, who is leaving, appears to have done a solid job for the city. From my perspective, there are no complaints. He seems to be a capable young professional who did what he needed to do while creating opportunities both for the city and for his own career. It is always encouraging to see talented people come into a community, contribute positively, and continue to grow professionally. While it would be ideal for communities to retain that talent long-term, the transition also creates an opportunity to bring in new skills and perspectives that may support the next phase of the city’s development.

As the city looks for a new manager, the council appears to be focusing on the right priorities. Housing is a major need, particularly downtown housing. In addition, the city needs to continue attracting startups and investment, especially businesses downtown as well as manufacturing and industrial development in the area. At the same time, it should continue building on the growth in tourism that Escanaba has experienced over the past few years. Interesting article on Hiring Executives -SHRM

Escanaba Yacht Club

The second major topic was the Escanaba Yacht Club and the discussion about the value it brings to the community. It was a productive conversation because it gave the yacht club an opportunity to highlight what it currently contributes as well as what it could potentially contribute in the future. Several ideas were discussed that could strengthen its role in the community. The conversation is what is important.

One idea that came to mind while reflecting on the discussion involves partnerships with the nearby Gladstone marina and sailing community. For example, the Escanaba Yacht Club has facilities that could potentially be used as classroom space for sailing or boating education. Courses could combine classroom instruction at the Escanaba Yacht Club with hands-on sailing experiences on larger private boats that volunteer to take people out, while also partnering with Gladstone for practical training using smaller boats from the boat house (Gladstone Sail School). In this way, both communities could benefit by working together and developing a stronger regional sailing and waterfront program (EYC Webpage and GYC Facebook).

(Illustrative Only)

For just a moment
the world stops.

Tourism sells experiences.
Strong communities
create experiences.
Positive affectivity 
and improved spending
can support businesses
on Ludington Street
that can foster 
investment, tourism,
and tax revenue.

Trajectory of American
Yacht Clubs

As a side note, I am considering joining the Escanaba Yacht Club. I'm already a member of the GYC . Membership reciprocity between clubs can be helpful when traveling, since many yacht clubs honor each other’s memberships. I also like hanging out with people. Local memberships are also relatively affordable around 100 ish compared with clubs in other regions, which can cost thousands of dollars to join.

Another idea is to strengthen the tourism and visual identity of the waterfront. Decorative flags or banners with the Escanaba Yacht Club logo could be placed along the east side of Ludington Street to help beautify the area and highlight the connection between downtown and the waterfront. When combined with the marina, beaches, and other downtown improvements, small visual enhancements such as flowers could help strengthen the attractiveness of several blocks of the downtown area.  A certain level of co-branding with the city in Great Lakes tourism and sailing venues (Ideally Escanaba, Gladstone, Delta County and businesses can create cobranding.) One even consider a monthly activity or sailing column in the local newspaper.  That could inturn lead to investment on that side of the city to enhance the investment that is already coming in.

Overall, when considering the value that yacht clubs can bring to a community, it can be helpful to think beyond traditional expectations and explore broader possibilities related to tourism, education, partnerships, investment, socialization and waterfront development.

Bullet Point Summary for March 5th, 2026 City Council Meeting Notes:

• City council uses a consent agenda to approve routine items together unless a council member or citizen asks for a separate discussion.

• The March 5, 2026 meeting agenda included approval of minutes from the February 19 and February 24 meetings, agenda adjustments, conflict of interest declarations, and public comments.

• A public hearing was scheduled to present the final report and close-out of a Community Development Block Grant awarded to LeverEdge Chiropractic PLLC.

• Council considered approving Resolution 26-04 to support a charitable gaming license request from New Life Community Center to allow large fundraising events.

• Council reviewed a request to approve a special event permit for the RRN Block Party on July 24, 2026, including closing the 100 block of South 11th Street and allowing alcohol sales under state and local rules.

• Administration requested approval to hire Pemble Concrete to redo epoxy flooring at the Public Works facility for $7,940.

• Council considered purchasing a playground from GameTime for West Side Park for $15,318.06.

• Council planned the first reading of Ordinance No. 1317 to amend winter parking restrictions, with the second reading and public hearing scheduled for March 19, 2026.

• Council scheduled discussion on next steps in the city manager hiring process after interviews held on February 24, 2026.

• At the February 19 meeting, council approved electrical safety training for water and wastewater staff up to $6,000.

• Council approved the purchase of a wastewater treatment plant mixer for $17,500.

• Council adopted a resolution allowing golf carts on certain city streets with restrictions such as 30 mph speed limits, daylight operation only, and licensed drivers age 16 or older.

• Council approved a $137,814 contract with Roy Ness Contracting for public safety locker room and bathroom upgrades.

• Public comments at the February 19 meeting focused on issues related to the Escanaba Yacht Club.

• A February 24 special meeting was held to interview candidates for the city manager position and discuss topics such as downtown development, housing, utility rates, inflation, and communication with residents.

Shared Morality May Help Reduce Hate and Corruption While Securing Our Future

(Illustrative Only
Eagle Eye, the Northern Star,
and Basic Societal Values.)

Representing the morality,
morals, codes, oaths and the very
purpose of our existence through
the generations. Some
have given up everything to do
the right thing and some
will always protect wrongdoing.
Who we choose to lead us
will determine our futures. 

Vote your conscious and be
your own person. 

 Let us continue exploring hate and corruption through the learning Story of the Clan. In the story, a group of people spread hateful rumors to benefit themselves socially and financially. Over time, the situation grew worse as some corrupt officials misused taxpayer resources to target people they disliked, including those with different political views or those who spoke out against corruption such as whistleblowers. This pattern continued for years. Eventually the situation had an opportunity to be corrected, but only after significant struggle to uphold shared values such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to pursue happiness. The victims upheld their oaths while a minority of officials undermined theirs (The clan courts gave good old boy free passes and struggled to understand the essence and purpose of law. Even confusing the prupose of the institution.). In practice, these values sometimes became subjective depending on who benefited and who was harmed, suggesting that the system still has room for improvement.

 ( Shhhh Don't say that too loudly. You could go on a list for extremist targeting. 😕🤷).

In the story, the turning point came from the many public officials who honored their oaths and acted with integrity became tired of open protection for corruption and the large group of victims this network created (This is proof most are good people and enhancing policing by removing bad apples is needed. Politicians and their hand picked "yes men" may give cover to criminal wrongdoing.). What nearly undermined the system, however, were a few corrupt individuals who abused power and targeted minorities and others in the community. Some were eventually caught engaging in wrongdoing, though a few received lenient outcomes, again highlighting weaknesses in the system.

An unwritten pattern seemed to emerge: quick to harm and slow to correct. Policies and procedures were originally designed to create protections, but they could be manipulated by individuals or groups with agendas. From a systems perspective, this suggests the need to review and improve policies so that they better serve the public good and prevent misuse. While they may mostly work ok someone with knowledge can navigate them indicating long-term corruption and many other unknown victims (False information and fake investigations).

The research below adds an interesting perspective. It suggests that groups organized around shared moral values are not necessarily the ones most likely to harm others. While people sometimes misuse religion or politics to justify harmful actions, the study indicates that shared moral beliefs alone do not automatically lead to hostility toward other groups. Perhaps one could say shared moral values strengthen the system (Some officials will struggle with why we say these oaths and make pledges.)

This raises an important philosophical question. What happens when societies anchor themselves in shared values such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the principles found in the Bill of Rights? Ideally, these values encourage people to support their own communities while still respecting the rights of others. Can it lead to greater economic and social growth as people improve interaction, movement of information, business dealings, social engagement, etc.? Or is cohesion a wasted idea only talked about by poets and dreamers?

From this perspective, when individuals or groups harm others, it may indicate a disconnect from those shared values. It raises questions about where loyalties lie—whether with the broader public good or with narrower interests such as personal networks, partisan loyalty, or the protection of corruption. Regardless of a person’s role—whether a judge, public official, a politician or private citizen—misusing systems of power suggests the need for continued reflection and striving for the next rung of development. 

Feel free to make your own opinion and that is fine as long as you took a minute to think about it and don't harm others. This hypothetical, philosophical, thought experiment is designed to encourage you think and delve into possibilities. It is you who must determine whether something deeper is sparked in your moral conscous. You will then be free to vote that conscious. 

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened." — Lao Tzu

Helping the ingroup versus harming the outgroup: Evidence from morality-based groups

• The study examines when preference for one’s own group leads to harming another group.

• Earlier research using real social groups suggested that groups based on shared moral beliefs may increase hostility toward outgroups.

• This study used artificial groups in three experiments to remove the effects of past conflict or polarization.

• Participants played the Intergroup Parochial and Universal Cooperation (IPUC) game, which allowed them to choose between helping themselves, helping their group, harming another group, or helping both groups.

• Results showed that morality-based groups displayed less selfish behavior and more cooperation overall.

• There was some increase in helping the ingroup, mainly because participants expected their own group members to cooperate.

• The study did not find evidence that morality-based group membership increased harm toward outgroups.

• The findings suggest that shared moral beliefs alone do not necessarily lead to hostility toward other groups.

Grigoryan, L., Seo, S., Simunovic, D., & Hofmann, W. (2022). Helping the ingroup versus harming the outgroup: Evidence from morality-based groups. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 103, 104436. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jesp.2022.104436

Technology and Human Influence in Executive Learning and Development

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"Listen whipper snappers"

Chuck starts.....

Chuck is knowledgeable of

businesses and shares the 

fundamentals of business

prior to technology 

and teaches executives 

how to integrate advanced

tech with fundamental 

human elements

that enhance both. 

A few executives are confused

as to how an old bib

wearing shepard

can teach them about 

managing global companies.

They snicker and discount

what he has to say.

Chuck just

engaged in lesson #1 

that not all things are 

as they seem and limitations

in perspective also limit

corporate innovation. 

Open your mind and you

can maximize the value

of technology, the value

of lives, and integrate

the human element.

Some of these

executives may someday

want to lauch tech

start-ups in places

 like Escanaba.

"Talent hits a target no

one else can hit;

Genius hits a target

no one else can see."

Arthur Schopenhauer

Related concepts

Intuition

Spinoza

Blank Spaces

Intuition

Philosophical Principles of 

Consciousness

Frontiers of Consciousness

Global Intelligence

Hegel

Unconscious Branding

Innovative Structures

Executive development can be approached in multiple ways, including competency models, which I’ve been working on. These models measure learning that prepares executives by aligning key concepts and skills with what’s needed to compete in today’s workplace. Others are exploring the use of technology, including coaching tools, to support executive development. Technology can enhance learning by offering insights and opportunities for reflection, but it cannot replace the active engagement of people. Human participation in the learning process is essential, and technology should always serve as a supplement rather than a substitute.

For example, chatbots—similar to customer service systems—can guide users through sequences of choices and provide feedback. While useful, they can also narrow learning because they follow predefined algorithms. Not everyone learns the same way, and variability in learning styles is a strength; it allows humans to adapt creatively to changing circumstances and solve complex problems. Traditional approaches often focus on memorization or regurgitation of knowledge, which is necessary as a foundation, but innovation often requires doing and learning in new ways—something algorithms may not support.

In short, technology can enhance executive development, but the human-to-human element remains critical. People bring reflection, connection, and motivation that extend beyond what algorithms can provide. The study below illustrates one approach to blending technology with human coaching, and it’s worth a read.

Coaching copilot: Blended form of an LLM-powered chatbot and a human coach to effectively support self-reflection for leadership growth

• Executive coaching is commonly used for leadership development and focuses on helping leaders reflect on their behaviors, decisions, and professional goals through guided conversations.

• The study examines how a large language model (LLM) chatbot can support leadership development by encouraging executives to engage in self-reflection between coaching sessions.

• Researchers developed a “coaching copilot” that combines chatbot interaction with traditional human coaching to provide continuous reflection and goal tracking.

• Findings indicate that AI tools can support leadership growth by prompting reflection and extending coaching conversations beyond scheduled meetings.

• The study concludes that AI works best as a supplement to human coaching rather than a replacement, as human coaches provide deeper insight, empathy, and contextual understanding.

Reference

Arakawa, R., & Yakura, H. (2024). Coaching copilot: Blended form of an LLM-powered chatbot and a human coach to effectively support self-reflection for leadership growth. In Proceedings of the 6th ACM Conference on Conversational User Interfaces (CUI ’24). Association for Computing Machinery. https://doi.org/10.1145/3640794.3665549

Scapegoating and Togetherness for Societal Problems-A philosophical perspective

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Billy the Goat is 
trying to help people
escape from the cave
before the darkness
consumes them.
Time answers 
all questions...

Enlightenment and
Allegory of the Cave

Scapegoating has appeared throughout history, often linked to economic or social problems. It usually involves blaming someone or a minority group, making them the “fall guys.” This can happen on a small scale, like in workplaces, families, or daily interactions, and on a larger scale, affecting entire societies. The consequences can be significant, as seen in Germany, where historical scapegoating left long-lasting scars. Enlightened leaders entrusted with preserving core values and societal contracts learn from history. They take the lessons to heart.

What often happens is that people shift blame from those truly responsible to an easily targeted group. For example, during an economic crisis, instead of addressing the root causes, some may blame a particular group, reinforcing perceptions of “us versus them” and creating out-groups. Even small acts of scapegoating can spiral into larger, more dangerous patterns if conditions are right.

From a broader perspective, history shows that those who bring people together—through empathy, shared values, and cooperation—tend to have a positive impact on society. In contrast, those who divide or exclude others create harm. Understanding scapegoating helps us reflect on what unites people and what drives them apart, and how togetherness can raise society to higher standards that benefit everyone.

You may be interested in the study below, 

Scapegoating of ethnic minorities: Experimental evidence.

• The study used a field experiment in Eastern Slovakia to test whether majority-group members punish innocent minority members more than majority members after being frustrated.

• Participants could impose costly punishment on a third person (the scapegoat) who did not cause the harm, with the scapegoat’s ethnicity randomly varied.

• Minority scapegoats (Roma) were punished more than twice as harshly as majority scapegoats when harm occurred, showing systematic scapegoating.

• The effect persisted even after controlling for participants’ characteristics and was not explained by statistical discrimination or responsibility attribution.

• Results show that frustration or perceived injustice can be channeled into discriminatory punishment of innocent out-group members, contributing to intergroup conflict.

Želinský, T., Roland, G., Cahlíková, J., Chytilová, J., & Bauer, M. (2021, October 1). Scapegoating of ethnic minorities: Experimental evidence. CEPR VoxEU. https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/scapegoating-ethnic-minorities-experimental-evidence?

Firefighting and PTSD Awareness-Organization in Marquette

Recently I was sitting with a friend who works in healthcare having a cool one, and we were talking about PTSD, not only among veterans but also among firefighters. In a strain of kharma, a couple of weeks ago I also attended a presentation about an organization that recently opened in the Upper Peninsula in Marquette, Michigan. The group focuses on supporting first responders and firefighters dealing with PTSD. The organization is called Frontline Strong Together, and they have opened a wellness center in Marquette.

I wanted to share some of that information because it is important to talk and write about these issues. I often write about firefighters, veterans, and related topics, and raising awareness helps people better understand the challenges first responders face. Firefighters and other emergency personnel regularly encounter accidents, trauma, and situations that most people rarely see. Working in these environments day after day can create significant emotional and psychological strain that many outside the profession may not fully understand.

The study included below is interesting because it shows a wide range in PTSD prevalence among firefighters, estimated between about 6.5 percent and 37 percent. One study of 131 firefighters found that about 8 percent showed PTSD symptoms, which is still a meaningful number considering how serious the condition can be.

I encourage you to explore some of the links below to learn more about the risks firefighters face and the prevalence of PTSD in the profession. 

*As a side note, I’m involved in theater and recently attended a directors’ workshop where there may be an opportunity to direct a future community based staged reading or production about firefighters and first responders. It’s still in the early stages of development such as finding a script and possibly submitting it for board approval, but the idea would be to offer an inside look at a firefighting family, address issues like PTSD, raise awareness, and possibly fundraise for a local fire department or related organization while also highlighting opportunities in volunteer firefighting. If the project moves forward there would likely be a small budget involved, so if you have any interest in being a sponsor, advertising, promoting or supporting the effort, feel free to send me a message in the comment box to the right and I can reach out if the idea receives approval and progresses. While it is in early stages of planning knowing it has interest to corporate sponsors and others can help in turning it into a "go". We can talk about it more.

Frontline Strong Together offers free mental health support to first responders

Frontline Strong Together

You may be interested in the study,

Prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in firefighters.

• Firefighters are frequently exposed to traumatic events such as serious injuries, deaths, and disasters, which increases the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

• Research has found that PTSD prevalence among firefighters varies widely across studies, ranging from about 6.5 percent to 37 percent.

• One study of 131 firefighters using the PTSD Checklist found about 8 percent showed PTSD symptoms based on the screening measure.

• When additional diagnostic criteria such as fear, helplessness, or functional impairment were considered, the estimated PTSD prevalence dropped to about 5 percent.

• Factors linked to higher PTSD symptoms included previous psychological treatment, earlier entry into firefighting, and strong emotional reactions during the firefighter’s worst traumatic event.

Del Ben, K. S., Scotti, J. R., Chen, Y., & Fortson, B. L. (2006). Prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in firefighters. Journal of Traumatic Stress. https://firstrespondercenter.org/document/prevalence-of-posttraumatic-stress-disorder-symptoms-in-firefighters/

The Executive Duck Pond-When Ducks Teach Leadership (Acrylic Painting 11"X14")

Leadership and training help organizations stay strong. Too often we focus only on hard skills because they’re easier to measure and easier to justify in a budget. Hard skills—like computer proficiency—are important, but the soft skills such as creativity that support personal development, judgment, and leadership are just as critical.

At the end of the day, every organization runs on people. If you imagine a small village building a dam to manage its water supply, you can picture what happens: the natural leaders start organizing things, the builders start building, and the folks who brought snacks somehow end up being the most popular. Everyone contributes their strengths.

That basic process hasn’t changed much over time. While art may be a hobby for some (and yes, this is technically a hobby), it can also strengthen long-term decision making. Creative work helps develop cognitive flexibility—the ability to see things from different perspectives, connect ideas that don’t seem related, and get to the essence of a problem. Plus, it’s cheaper than most corporate retreats.

This particular painting features ducks on a lake. I experimented with sketching basic shapes before painting, and in this case it seems to be working pretty well. There are a few things I’d probably change—mainly making it a little less messy—but for some reason I keep drifting back to this style. If I can refine it a bit, it might even become something unique.

So, if this painting inspires you, feel free to give it a new home. Otherwise, fair warning: it may end up in the fireplace in a few months during my annual “declutter with enthusiasm” phase. Adopt this orphan painting while you still can. 🦆🔥

Ducks on a Lake EBay

Creative arts and human flourishing: A thematic analysis of leaders engaging in a 21-day creative arts intervention.

• leaders who participated in a 21-day creative arts practice reported improved well-being, including more positive emotions, engagement, and sense of meaning

• creative arts helped leaders reduce stress and gain perspective, which supported clearer thinking and better decision making

• participants reported stronger relationships and teamwork with colleagues after engaging in creative activities

• leaders experienced increased resilience, focus, and productivity during demanding work periods

• the study suggests regular engagement in creative arts can support leadership effectiveness and overall human flourishing

Friberg, P. (2024). Creative arts and human flourishing: A thematic analysis of leaders engaging in a 21-day creative arts intervention. Journal of Positive Psychology Coaching. https://www.journal.theippc.com/article/120333-creative-arts-and-human-flourishing-a-thematic-analysis-of-leaders-engaging-in-a-21-day-creative-arts-intervention

Nations Built on the Principles of the Enlightenment: The Story of the Clan and Justice

(Illustrative Only)

A philosopher trying 
to teach judges and politicians
that the purpose of law and
the nation is founded in
the fundamentals of human
development and fair 
treatment. If they raise their moral
conscious they can rebuild trust. 
That trust is important
for everyone because all
people have value and
a nation is built on that
inherent human value.
Break that and you break the 
foundation. 
A couple taking notes because
they know the hard truth will help them, 
some checking their investment stocks
rolling their eyes at rights,
a few checking in with
their political leadership to
see what values they should
profess this week.

Unfortunately some feel
that only people within their
parties or most similar to them
should have basic rights. 
The problem with taking
partisan attorneys
and sticking them on
a bench to decide issues
and problems they will
never face themselves because
they are in the in-group. 
 They sometimes
will protect corruption
and hate while damaging
the future of many others.
Choose your judges
and politicians wisely.
They have responsibilities
to strengthen the system
and not just their pocketbooks
or pander to parties.

We have been here before
in history.

Ancient and Modern
Influences that shape
America's Founding.

Nations are built on principles, and those principles help define what is acceptable and unacceptable in decision making. In the United States, these principles are rooted in the Enlightenment and the belief in human dignity. That is why we have oaths of office, a Constitution, a Bill of Rights, and laws designed to protect freedom and equality. However, not every official consistently follows these ideals. Some may not fully reflect on these values or recognize the importance of protecting the founding principles behind them.

A philosophical learning story called The Story of the Clan helps explain how corruption can occur and how leaders can support Enlightenment values. When officials move away from these principles, it could appear through violations of human and civil rights, undermining free speech, or suppression of religious freedom.

Now let us imagine for mental exploration a worst case scenario...

In this learning philosophical thought experiment story, individuals were targeted, a few clan oriented court officials engaged in secretive practices, perpetrators were rewarded, and decisions placed children, the sick, elderly, vulnerable women, and veterans at risk. Human and civil rights were violated, decisions were driven by ideological extremism combined with the misuse of authority and public resources. Recourse for victims blocked. Some members within the network had a history of similar behavior and protected one another by offering “sweetheart” treatment when wrongdoing was exposed. In doing so, decision makers failed to support the many good, noble, and exceptional officials who serve the public and honor their oaths every day. We need more good officials and remove the bad apples but positive change is slow.

The learning story describes three possible paths. The first path is to continue down a corrupt and harmful road, hoping the wrongdoing is never exposed. Suppressing descent which becomes more expensive. The second path occurs when someone realizes they may have acted wrongly and attempts to act more ethically, but fails to implement meaningful reforms, protections, or accountability. Gross negligence. The third path is the “wait and see” path, where people sense something is wrong but are unsure how to respond. When the truth becomes clear, they work to correct the system, protect victims, hold people accountable, and rebuild trust. 

Simply saying “Don't get caught” is not an appropriate response when large swaths of society have serious concerns, trust is struggling, freedom metrics are weakening, and many believe improvements are needed—especially if the behaviors involved may be unlawful. Instead that narrative should be "How do we better serve The People".

Each path leads to very different outcomes for both leaders and society. The next time you vote, choose leaders based on character, competence, and commitment to public service—not simply alignment, popularity, influence, or wealth. A healthy society depends on placing the right people in positions of responsibility. In the end, we all share in the outcomes. 

You may be interested in the article below that discussed some aspects of dehumanization. 

De-dehumanization: Practicing humanity.

• Dehumanization occurs when people deny the shared humanity of others, which weakens empathy and makes violence or mistreatment more likely in conflicts and political situations.

• Research shows that dehumanizing language and attitudes increase the likelihood of conflict and abuse and make reconciliation and peace more difficult after violence occurs.

• The article argues that “de-dehumanization” requires actively practicing humanity—recognizing the dignity, value, and rights of every person even during war or political conflict.

• Humanitarian principles such as humanity, neutrality, and impartiality are important tools for resisting dehumanization and protecting people from abuse.

Deffenbaugh, N. (2024, June 27). De-dehumanization: Practicing humanity. International Committee of the Red Cross Humanitarian Law & Policy Blog. https://blogs.icrc.org/law-and-policy/2024/06/27/de-dehumanization-practicing-humanity/

*This is a philsophical learning story so take with a grain of salt. Because it is a thought experiment we can write in any positive outcome we desire. In this case we will write in a positive one. Come to any conclusion you desire.