Beach Pipper Painting

 This is a painting was "completed" a few months ago. For some reason painting never seem completely completed until they are on your wall. Its a hobby but they listed here in case anyone is interested.

11"X14" 
Beach Pipper
Purchase eBay

The Allegory of the Clan: Building a Better Society Through Better Choices

The Allegory of the Clan is a continuing philosophical thought experiment inspired in part by the Allegory of the Cave, where each new level of understanding brings greater awareness, reflection, and ultimately enlightenment. The purpose is not to focus on any one event but to explore how individual choices, institutional values, and collective behaviors influence the long-term direction of society.

In this story, rumors, corruption, intimidation, retaliation against whistleblowers and witnesses, and other harmful behaviors become normalized, financially rewarded, and promoted. Yet despite efforts to conceal wrongdoing, one fundamental reality remains: over time, awareness of harmful behavior creates pressure for accountability and improvement. Lasting progress often begins when people are willing to honestly examine the consequences of the behaviors they encourage.

The deeper lesson is that societies shape their future through the behaviors they encourage and the values they choose to promote. When misconduct is normalized or incentivized, it can weaken trust, reduce social cohesion, and ultimately diminish both economic and social outcomes. Progress is strengthened when integrity, fairness, accountability, and respect for others are reinforced rather than undermined.

Throughout history, societies have established constitutions, bills of rights, ethical principles, and public institutions to help orient people toward shared goals and the common good. These frameworks are intended to strengthen cooperation, protect individual rights, and encourage long-term prosperity. While economic and social outcomes are often discussed separately, they are closely interconnected, with each influencing the health and resilience of the other.

The study below reinforces this broader idea by showing that hate and hostility have consequences that extend far beyond their immediate targets. Their effects can erode trust, increase social division, and weaken collective well-being. Rather than tolerating, rewarding, or promoting harmful conduct, long-term progress is more likely when societies encourage accountability, continuous improvement, and mutual respect. Equally important is recognizing and promoting positive prosocial actions—behaviors that strengthen cooperation, compassion, and civic responsibility—and supporting those who genuinely serve the public with integrity and dedication. By encouraging constructive behavior and reinforcing both institutions and individuals that contribute to the common good, societies improve the present while building a healthier and more resilient foundation for future generations.

 Exposure to Hate in Online and Traditional Media: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Impact on Individuals and Communities

• This systematic review and meta-analysis examined research on how exposure to hate through online platforms and traditional media affects individuals and communities, synthesizing evidence from multiple empirical studies.
• The review found that exposure to hate is associated with negative psychological outcomes, including increased fear, anxiety, emotional distress, and reduced feelings of safety among targeted individuals and groups.
• Evidence suggests that repeated exposure to hateful content can contribute to social polarization, prejudice, discrimination, and weakened trust and cohesion within communities, extending the impact beyond direct victims.
• Online environments can amplify the reach and frequency of hateful content through rapid dissemination, anonymity, and algorithm-driven exposure, making digital platforms a significant channel for harmful messaging.
• The authors conclude that reducing exposure to hate requires coordinated efforts involving policymakers, educators, technology companies, and community organizations through prevention strategies, media literacy, effective moderation, and evidence-based interventions.

Madriaza, P., Hassan, G., Brouillette-Alarie, S., Mounchingam, A. N., Durocher-Corfa, L., Borokhovski, E., Pickup, D., & Paillé, S. (2025). Exposure to hate in online and traditional media: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of this exposure on individuals and communities. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 21(1), e70018. https://doi.org/10.1002/cl2.70018

Local Beaches Offer More Than Scenic Views—They Create Economic Value

Gladstone Beach

Recent discussions about Airbnb rentals have highlighted the importance of local amenities, making new research on the economic value of beaches especially relevant to Delta County. Escanaba and Gladstone are fortunate to have two exceptional public beaches that offer more than beautiful waterfront views. Both communities provide lifeguards during the swimming season, a feature that has become increasingly rare. Many public beaches across Michigan and throughout the United States are "swim at your own risk," making the presence of trained lifeguards an added benefit for families and visitors seeking a safe place to enjoy the water.

This is a competitive advantage that could be emphasized more in local tourism and economic development efforts. Safe, clean, and well-maintained beaches help attract visitors while enhancing the quality of life for area residents (One might think of places like San Diego where beaches are a big part of their footprint. While their beaches are open most of the year our local beaches are seasonal but relates to regional tourist visits.).

(Illustrative Only)

A wild beach lounger
in his natural habitat.

Do not feed! Unless
it comes from one
of the nearby restaurants.

Research also shows that beaches contribute measurable economic value to nearby properties, including vacation rentals. Since most homes and Airbnb properties in Escanaba and Gladstone are located within a short drive of one of these waterfront destinations, proximity to the beach becomes a valuable selling point. Recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, walking trails, and waterfront parks further increase the appeal of the area.

The quality of the beach itself also matters. Fine sand, clean water, accessibility, maintenance, and available amenities all influence visitor experiences. Gladstone's beach features groomed sand, a concession stand, and family-friendly facilities, while Escanaba offers an expansive shoreline, Ludington Park, a public boat launch, nearby fishing opportunities, and other recreational amenities that attract residents and tourists alike.

Escanaba Beach

As communities continue exploring ways to strengthen tourism and encourage investment, these natural assets deserve recognition. Protecting beaches, maintaining waterfront parks, and investing in recreational infrastructure not only improves environmental quality and community well-being but also supports local businesses, tourism, and property values. In many ways, the shoreline is more than a scenic backdrop—it is an economic asset that benefits the entire community. 

The Economic Value of Coastal Amenities: How Beach Characteristics Influence Airbnb Rental Prices

• The study examines how different beach characteristics influence Airbnb rental prices, demonstrating that coastal amenities provide measurable economic value to nearby properties.
• Beach quality factors such as sand type, beach width, accessibility, and waterfront frontage significantly affect rental prices, with higher-quality beaches generally commanding premium rates.

• 

  A kid's imagination. 
  You can't put a price
  tag on it. There is a
  hard wall in this fort, 
  support poles,
  bridges, etc. 

  Using a hedonic pricing model, the researchers estimated the implicit monetary value of individual beach attributes, helping quantify the economic benefits of natural coastal resources.
• The findings suggest that investments in beach preservation, accessibility, and environmental quality can generate economic returns through increased tourism demand and higher short-term rental values.
• The research highlights the importance of incorporating environmental amenities into tourism planning and public policy, demonstrating that protecting coastal ecosystems also supports local economic development.

Boto-García, D., & Leoni, V. (2023). The economic value of coastal amenities: Evidence from beach capitalization effects in peer-to-peer markets. Environmental and Resource Economics, 84(2), 529–557. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10640-022-00735-5

PMI June 2026: Manufacturing Continues to Expand, but Employment Remains a Challenge

(Illustrative Only)

Representing a couple
working in a small town 
downtown shop 
similar to Ludington Street 
in Escanaba. As an 
illustrative example,
this couple moved to the area
invested in a small town shop
that produces custom 
repair and products. 
Their speciality 
is horse saddles and 
high end riding boots
but will high end
purses and other 
leather products.
In this example, 
they export regionally
and at times
overseas. 

They expect
to move some
of their line from
custom to
production because
of the high demand. 
They needed a place
to try out designs
and expand. 

The Institute for Supply Management's June 2026 Manufacturing PMI registered 53.3%, signaling continued expansion in the U.S. manufacturing sector (Wood and paper products did not grow.). A PMI reading somewhere above 47-50 indicates growth, making this another positive month for an industry that remains an important driver of the nation's economy.

The report showed improvement in several areas, including new export orders and inventories. Other key indicators, such as new orders, production, and supplier deliveries, also remained in expansion territory, although growth moderated slightly compared with previous months.

One area that continues to lag is manufacturing employment, which remained in contraction. While companies are producing more goods, hiring has not kept pace with overall industry growth.

The report highlights both opportunities and challenges for manufacturers. Continued investment in innovation and workforce development will be essential to maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly complex global marketplace. Human capital remains one of the nation's greatest assets, and organizations that invest in employee skills, encourage collaboration, and create opportunities for new ideas are often better positioned to improve productivity and develop innovative products and services.

As manufacturers look ahead, expanding participation in decision-making and fostering a culture of continuous improvement may help generate the innovation needed for sustained growth. A stronger manufacturing sector, supported by a skilled workforce and a steady pipeline of new ideas, can enhance productivity, strengthen exports, and contribute to long-term economic prosperity. (Side note: Keep in mind there are general trends as they relate to concentration of wealth and decision making influence so this could be a data point in the understanding of that. Maybe-Maybe not but keep an eye on it as we try and understand the lay of the land to further foster positive development. At this point we just don't know yet. May have no influence.)

June 2026 ISM Manufacturing PMI Shows Continued Expansion Despite Slower Growth

• The ISM Manufacturing PMI registered 53.3% in June 2026, indicating the manufacturing sector expanded for the sixth consecutive month, although growth slowed slightly from May's 54.0%. A reading above 50 signals expansion.
• New orders remained strong at 56.0%, marking a sixth straight month of expansion, while production also continued to grow despite moderating from the previous month.
• Employment improved but remained just below the expansion threshold at 49.7%, suggesting hiring conditions stabilized even though manufacturers continued to face workforce challenges.
• Input cost pressures eased noticeably as the Prices Index declined, providing some relief from earlier inflationary pressures, though supplier deliveries continued to indicate ongoing supply chain constraints.
• Survey respondents expressed cautious optimism. While geopolitical uncertainty and tariffs remained concerns, most manufacturers expected continued economic expansion supported by healthy demand and improving business conditions.

Institute for Supply Management. (2026, July 1). June 2026 ISM manufacturing PMI report. https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/reports/ism-pmi-reports/pmi/june/

Fireworks and Fourth of July in Escanaba and Gladstone

A few photos from the Fourth of July! The town was bustling with activity as both locals and visitors enjoyed a beautiful summer day. Warm temperatures, a refreshing breeze, and water that felt almost like bath temperature made it perfect for spending time outdoors. Food trucks lined the parks in Gladstone and Escanaba, adding to the festive atmosphere as families and friends celebrated the holiday together. In the video it looks like you can see Escanaba and Gladstone (At least we think its Gladstone but they look closer so could be just a house.). 

 

Connecting the Great Lakes: Shipping, Sustainability, and Regional Growth

Escanaba Historic Lighthouse
Past this there
is deep water, commercial,
and tourist ship docking
possibilities.

The past of shipping can 
help us understand
future opportunities.

Photography is a hobby
so if you are interested
in any of my pictures
send me a message to the right.
Some are gallery worthy
while others are up 
to the beholder. :)
This one is debatable whether
it should be in the gallery
but I kept it for
now just in case
it gets any interest.
I can print most pictures up to
poster size for $50
Frame or Unframed. 50% for charity
and 50% for me.
Send me a message to the right
or my email.
You may check out My Gallery
and Art Page

Thinking about ways to improve shipping on the Great Lakes is really about creating more value—not only for waterfront communities, but for the broader economy. The study below explores opportunities to better connect the Great Lakes with inland waterways, creating more efficient transportation networks for moving goods and materials. Better integration of these water systems could also encourage thoughtful waterfront redevelopment and expand economic opportunities.

Any discussion of expanding waterways must also recognize the environmental risks. However, if projects are carefully designed, scientifically informed, and responsibly managed, the long-term benefits can outweigh many of the costs. In some cases, restoration and development can work together by improving water quality, restoring habitats, and strengthening the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. Rather than pursuing development for its own sake, the goal should be to create projects that enhance both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.

This perspective is especially relevant for communities such as Escanaba and Delta County, Michigan. While the local population may not justify extensive inland waterway expansion, the region has characteristics that could support a larger role as a transportation and distribution hub. Its potential deep-water capacity, connections to major highways, rail access, airport, and strategic location within the Upper Peninsula provide a foundation for future logistics and supply chain opportunities.

Studies like this encourage communities to think strategically about how things like transportation infrastructure, environmental stewardship, tourism, commercial fishing, and economic development can complement one another. Similary to assembling a puzzle, each new piece of research provides a better understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges. Over time, that broader perspective can help communities make informed decisions that strengthen their economies while preserving and enhancing the natural resources that make the Great Lakes region unique.

Expanding Cargo Opportunities Between the Great Lakes and Inland Waterways

You may be interested in this 
hobby painting. 
It is of an
orange lighthouse 
sunset.

• The American Great Lakes Ports Association (AGLPA), in partnership with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation and several Lake Michigan ports, launched a comprehensive market study to identify opportunities for expanding cargo movement between the Great Lakes and the U.S. inland waterways.
• Although the Great Lakes and inland waterways collectively transport nearly 700 million tons of cargo annually, only a small share currently moves between the two systems, indicating significant untapped freight potential.
• Researchers will evaluate market demand, promising cargo types, and the infrastructure and operational improvements needed to make river-to-lake shipping more efficient and commercially viable.
• Expanding waterborne transportation could strengthen U.S. supply chains, reduce highway congestion, lower transportation emissions, create jobs, and support industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, steelmaking, and energy.
• The study will also develop strategies for improving transloading between barges and Great Lakes vessels, helping ports better integrate regional freight networks while enhancing long-term economic competitiveness.

American Great Lakes Ports Association. (2026, February 3). New study examines expanding cargo between Great Lakes and inland waterways. https://www.greatlakesports.org/new-study-examines-expanding-cargo-between-great-lakes-and-inland-waterways/

Happy Fourth of July from Academic Capital