Seaside Beach Acrylic Painting

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Seaside Beach
810"

Economic Growth Picks Up in First Quarter of 2026

The U.S. economy posted stronger growth during the first quarter of 2026, with gross domestic product (GDP) increasing compared with previous estimates. The report showed imports declined, while exports, government spending, and several other components of the economy contributed to overall growth.

Economists often examine these underlying factors to better understand what is driving changes in GDP. Because economic indicators can shift from quarter to quarter, many analysts will continue watching future reports to determine whether this marks the beginning of a longer-term trend or reflects short-term economic conditions.

For now, the increase in GDP is generally viewed as a positive sign, suggesting continued economic expansion and resilience. As additional data become available, economists and business leaders will gain a clearer picture of the direction of the U.S. economy.

A couple of other articles I read:

If you read widely you will begin to understand what some of the possible explanations are. 

• US first-quarter GDP revised sharply higher; but consumer spending nearly stalls
• Q1 2026, Third Estimate | Released June 25, 2026
• US economy grew at 2.1% in first quarter
• U.S. GDP Q1 2026 final estimate revised up to 2.1%

GDP (Third Estimate), Industries, Corporate Profits, State GDP, and State Personal Income, 1st Quarter 2026

• Real U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 2.1% in the first quarter of 2026, an upward revision from the previous estimate of 1.6%, reflecting stronger economic growth than initially reported.
• Economic growth was supported by increases in business investment, exports, government spending, and consumer spending, while higher imports partially offset overall GDP growth because imports are subtracted from GDP calculations.
• Corporate profits increased during the first quarter, although the pace slowed compared with the previous quarter, indicating continued business profitability amid moderating economic conditions.
• State-level economic performance was broadly positive, with real GDP increasing in 46 states and the District of Columbia. Washington recorded the fastest growth, while South Dakota experienced the largest decline.
• Personal income rose by $222.6 billion (3.4% annual rate) during the quarter, increasing in 49 states and the District of Columbia, reflecting continued gains in household earnings across most of the country.

U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. (2026, June 25). GDP (third estimate), industries, corporate profits, state GDP, and state personal income, 1st quarter 2026. https://www.bea.gov/news/2026/gdp-third-estimate-industries-corporate-profits-state-gdp-and-state-personal-income-1st

Expectations of Model Victims in Hate and Corruption

 As we continue exploring the Allegory of the Clan—a modern adaptation of the Allegory of the Cave—we move toward a deeper understanding of how prejudice, bias, and systemic injustice can persist across generations. The purpose of this hypothetical learning story is not to single out any particular group or event, but rather to examine how harmful aspects of systems can develop, become normalized, and continue unless they are recognized and corrected.

In this hypothetical scenario, a religious or racial minority is systematically targeted and treated as though its members are less valuable than others. Different rules are applied to them, and those who witness wrongdoing or attempt to report it as whistleblowers experience retaliation. Instead of doing the right thing, responsibility is shifted onto the victims while those responsible for causing the harm receive favorable treatment or protection. Within the story, these outcomes appear to be reinforced by corruption, personal interests, and financial incentives.

Let us also consider that the majority of good people and officials that serve with integrity want to do the right thing and seek to draw the greatest amount of support and trust in society but there are persistant poor actors that undermine that openly violating some important social contracts and foundational values. In the end of the story the misbehaviors were corrected but the desire to dump it on the victims through narratives, retaliation lists, and general coorinated mistreatment clear and willful thereby encouraging more future victims. 

Relating this scenario to the research discussed below, imagine that the targeted individuals are peaceful by nature and have a history of supporting important values others have rejected. They do not seek confrontation, yet they are subjected to discrimination, mistreatment, and even threats of violence. Despite this, the hypothetical justice system continued to dismiss their concerns, assigning little value to their experiences and failing to provide meaningful remedies. As a result, the original victims experience additional harm, and new victims are created through lack of diligence in core values.

This hypothetical illustrates how some people may rely on stereotypes, heuristics, or preconceived assumptions when making judgments about victims, offenders, and responsibility. When institutions fail to examine evidence objectively or challenge their own biases, injustice can become self-perpetuating. The issue is not about punishing individuals for its own sake. Rather, it is about identifying systemic failures, repairing harm where possible, and building institutions that are more just, accountable, and equitable. The outcome is a testimony to the inner unwritten values hidden from public conscious.

Within the learning story, many individuals recognize that wrongdoing is occurring and voice concerns. However, their complaints are largely ignored, dismissed, or met with retaliation. This reinforces the importance of creating environments where ethical concerns can be raised without fear and where institutions remain committed to correcting wrongdoing instead of protecting harmful practices. In our story there is correction but it wasn't because people were necessarily moral or believed in the values they professed. 

Elect the best and brightest and not the most connected. 

*This is a hypothethical learning thought experiment so take with a grain of salt and come to any conclusion you desire. 

Prototypes of Hate and Expectations of the Model Victim

• The study examined how people in North America mentally picture hate crimes, hate crime offenders, and hate crime victims, and how these perceptions influence judgments of responsibility and blame.
• Researchers found that the typical hate crime prototype involved a lower-status White male offender expressing explicit prejudice, committing interpersonal violence while using slurs or verbal abuse against a member of a marginalized group.
• Participants generally expected victims of hate crimes to remain passive during the incident. When victims resisted or did not match this "model victim" prototype, observers were more likely to assign them greater blame.
• The findings suggest that public stereotypes about hate crimes can shape legal and social judgments, potentially influencing perceptions of victim credibility and offender responsibility.
• The authors recommend increasing awareness of the wide variety of hate crime experiences to reduce bias in criminal justice processes and improve fairness toward victims whose experiences do not fit common stereotypes.

Erentzen, C., & Schuller, R. A. (2024). Prototypes of hate and expectations of the model victim. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 39(13–14), 3282–3307. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605241229720

Considering Personalities When Designing Your Executive Team

 When designing your executive team, think beyond technical expertise and consider the personalities and management styles that will best support your organization's long-term strategy. If your company is forward-looking and innovation-driven, research suggests that it is beneficial to include individuals who are entrepreneurial, innovative, and comfortable taking calculated risks. These leaders often help organizations identify opportunities, adapt to change, and drive continuous improvement.

At the same time, an effective executive team should not consist entirely of risk-takers. Different management styles each provide unique strengths. Some leaders are more conservative and excel at maintaining stability, protecting organizational resources, and carefully evaluating decisions. Others are reactive, responding effectively to challenges as they arise, while proactive leaders anticipate future opportunities and problems before they occur.

The goal is to create a balanced leadership team. For example, innovative leaders can push the organization forward, while more cautious leaders provide valuable oversight by slowing decisions when additional analysis is needed. Problem-solving leaders help the organization respond effectively when unexpected situations arise. Providing team members with the authority to challenge decisions and apply appropriate "brakes" when necessary can strengthen strategic decision-making and reduce unnecessary risk.

There is no universal formula for the ideal mix of management personalities. One organization may benefit from a 40-40-20 distribution, while another may require a 60-20-20 balance, depending on its industry, strategy, and risk tolerance. The important point is to intentionally consider the composition of the executive team rather than assuming all high performers will contribute equally in every leadership role.

Ultimately, diversity in thinking, personality, and management style can become a significant competitive advantage. Even highly talented individuals may struggle if their natural management style does not align with the responsibilities of a particular leadership position or the strategic direction of the organization. Building an executive team with complementary personalities and perspectives increases the organization's ability to innovate, manage risk, solve problems, and achieve long-term success.

Management Styles

• The article examines management styles across all organizational levels, arguing that effective management extends beyond executive leadership and influences organizational performance at every level.
• It identifies four primary management styles: conservative, reactive, proactive, and predictive, each representing a different approach to decision-making and organizational change.
• Conservative management emphasizes maintaining stability, preserving established practices, minimizing risk, and ensuring operational consistency.
• Reactive management focuses on responding to problems and environmental changes after they occur, prioritizing adaptability and short-term problem solving.
• Proactive and predictive management encourage anticipating future challenges and opportunities through planning, innovation, data analysis, and forecasting to improve long-term organizational success.

Aslan, M., & Sönmez, S. (2025). Management styles. Journal of Theoretical & Empirical Research on Management, 4, 1–18. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/394253613_Management_Styles

Lifeguarding on the Beach, Statewide Shortage of Guards, and Summer Vacation Destinations in Michigan

(Illustrative Only)

The phrase of the day was
"Kids, feet first down the slide".
:)

 Lifeguards play a vital role in protecting people from drowning, yet many communities are facing a shortage of qualified lifeguards. One of the reasons I will work a few hours each week, and occasionally fill in, is because of the significant need for trained personnel.

Becoming a lifeguard is not easy. The training is demanding, and not everyone successfully completes it. In many communities, the required training is unpaid because budgets are limited. Lifeguards must meet physical fitness standards, learn emergency medical skills, and be prepared to respond quickly in stressful situations.

The job itself can also be challenging. During my first outdoor shift, the day began warm and pleasant, but by the afternoon the weather had become cooler and windier. As the conditions changed, many beachgoers packed up and left. Throughout the shift, however, the responsibility remained the same: continuously scanning the water, watching for signs of distress, and remaining vigilant. Lifeguarding requires constant attention and dedication.

That experience gave me an even greater appreciation for the work lifeguards do. Not every community has the financial resources to support beach safety programs, yet providing lifeguards helps protect both residents and visitors. Safe, well-maintained beaches also make communities more attractive destinations for tourism. That also means more revenue for businesses and taxes contributing to a cycle 

(Illustrative Only)

(As a side thought one could advertise they have lifeguards in their communities since most beaches don't have them. If you were a family and all other things equal could be a tipping point. Including beaches in summer marketing strategies relates to another type of demographic. The demographic that brings their families and if they have a good time move there, start a business, buy a house, etc. They may also vacation there year after year which is also great.)

Escanaba and Gladstone continue to grow as popular tourist destinations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Both communities offer beautiful public beaches located next to their marinas. Gladstone features concession stands and a well-maintained park, while Escanaba also offers a scenic waterfront park and occasionally hosts concession vendors. Ice cream trucks come often. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, walking, and many other recreational activities, making the beaches just one part of a broader outdoor experience.

One of the most rewarding moments during my first shift came when a couple of children approached and asked why I liked being a lifeguard. I told them that I enjoy watching kids and families have fun while knowing they are doing so in a safe environment. As my shift ended and another lifeguard relieved me, I encouraged the children to ask her the same question so they could hear another perspective. It was a reminder that even young children are curious about the people who watch over them and why they choose to serve.

Overall, my first experience as a lifeguard was very positive. It reinforced the importance of the profession and the valuable role lifeguards play in keeping our beaches safe for everyone.

Tackling the Lifeguard Shortage Crisis

• Lifeguards play a critical role in preventing drownings and enforcing water safety by monitoring swimmers, responding to emergencies, and promoting safe behavior at pools, beaches, and water parks.
• The nationwide lifeguard shortage has been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced certification opportunities, low wages, seasonal employment, and the demanding nature of the job, causing many aquatic facilities to reduce hours or temporarily close.
• Staffing shortages increase safety risks by reducing surveillance coverage and delaying emergency response times, potentially leading to more preventable water-related accidents.
• The article recommends expanding access to lifeguard training, offering competitive pay and benefits, increasing public awareness of lifeguarding careers, and providing mentorship and ongoing professional development to improve recruitment and retention.
• Communities, schools, local governments, and aquatic facilities can help address the shortage by supporting certification programs, developing local recruitment pipelines, and creating more flexible training opportunities for future lifeguards.

American Lifeguard Association. (n.d.). Tackling the lifeguard shortage crisis. https://americanlifeguardassociation.com/tackling-the-lifeguard-shortage-crisis/

The History of Great Lakes Lighthouses (Art Photography)

 

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Visualizing the picture on the wall.

Lighthouses have played an essential role in navigation for centuries. Even before the construction of permanent lighthouses in the 1800s, people lit fires along shorelines to help guide ships safely to their destinations. As maritime commerce expanded, lighthouses became critical infrastructure—not only in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, but along coastlines around the world, from the Great Lakes to California and beyond.

Although the era of the traditional lighthouse keeper has largely passed, modern lighthouses, navigation lights, and electronic aids continue to guide ships safely through busy waterways. Before these systems were widely established, vessels frequently struck rocky shorelines, reefs, and islands. This was especially true on the Great Lakes, where changing weather, limited visibility, and vast stretches of open water made navigation extremely dangerous.

Here in Delta County, shipwrecks remain an important part of local history. I used to enjoy shipwreck diving, and I'd like to do it again someday. Many people continue searching for famous lost vessels, including the legendary Griffin and stories of Civil War-era gold that may have been lost beneath the Great Lakes. Whether those legends are ever proven or not, the shipwrecks themselves remind us of how challenging navigation once was.

The broader lesson is how technological innovation transforms commerce. Lighthouses dramatically improved maritime safety, reduced shipping losses, and made trade more reliable. Today, we are experiencing another period of rapid technological advancement. While the technologies themselves are far more sophisticated, the process remains familiar: new innovations are developed, adopted, and eventually become essential infrastructure that supports economic growth and everyday life.

As you explore the history of Great Lakes lighthouses, consider not only their architectural beauty but also their tremendous contribution to commerce, transportation, and regional development.

And if you happen to like the artwork featured in this presentation, feel free to purchase a print—it would make a great addition to your wall. Thank you for watching.

History of Michigan Lighthouses

• Michigan's first lighthouse, the Fort Gratiot Light, was built in 1825 on Lake Huron, marking the beginning of a lighthouse system that expanded over the next 170 years to support safe navigation and commercial shipping throughout the Great Lakes.

• 

  
  

  Marquette MI.

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  Responsibility for America's lighthouses evolved from the U.S. Treasury's Fifth Auditor to the Lighthouse Board in 1852, the Bureau of Lighthouses in 1910, and finally the U.S. Coast Guard in 1939, reflecting improvements in management, technology, and navigational safety.
• Lighthouse design advanced from small towers attached to keepers' homes to tall brick and steel towers, with specialized offshore structures built on reefs and shoals to improve safety in hazardous Great Lakes waters.
• Technological innovations, including the adoption of the Fresnel lens, kerosene lighting, electricity, and automated systems, significantly increased lighthouse effectiveness while reducing the need for resident lighthouse keepers.
• By 1983, Michigan's last staffed lighthouse had been automated, and today the U.S. Coast Guard maintains the state's remaining lighthouses and other navigational aids through periodic inspections and maintenance.

Central Michigan University. (n.d.). History of Michigan lighthouses. Clarke Historical Library. https://www.cmich.edu/research/clarke-historical-library/explore-collection/explore-online/michigan-material/lighthouses/history-of-michigan-lighthouses

Amvets Golf Outing at Woody's: Consistency and Fitness Helps in Golf

Golf is often as much about consistency as it is about power. The other day, we participated in AMVETS' local golf outing at Woody's Run Golf Course, where approximately five teams competed in a friendly tournament. We teed off around 10:30 a.m. and wrapped up around 2:30 p.m. It was a great day of golf, camaraderie, and good-natured competition.

The winning team was Team Sunshine, led by the golfer affectionately known as "Sunshine," someone I occasionally golf with. My team, Team Studly Awesome, finished fourth out of the five teams. While our placement wasn't what we had hoped for, we still had an enjoyable day on the course.

One of the interesting conversations during the outing centered on the golf swing. Many golfers, especially beginners, try to hit the ball as hard as possible. While that approach can occasionally produce a long drive, it often sends the ball into the rough or the trees. Several experienced golfers argued that developing a smooth, controlled, and repeatable swing is far more important than simply swinging harder.

Research supports this perspective. Lower-body strength, balance, and efficient swing mechanics contribute significantly to club head speed and driving distance. As golfers develop a consistent swing and make solid contact with the ball, accuracy improves, and distance often increases naturally over time. Rather than forcing power, golfers benefit from building sound mechanics first and then gradually adding speed as their technique becomes more efficient.

The lesson from the day was simple: keeping the ball in the fairway with a repeatable swing generally leads to lower scores and better long-term improvement than trying to overpower every shot. In golf, consistency often beats raw power.

I'm a certified fitness trainer and yoga instructure so if you need a little virtual help send me a message to the right. 

The Scores:

Team Sunshine 42

Team Cowboy 43

Team Kenny South Park 44

Team Studly Awesome 50

Team Orange Crush 56

Physical Determinants of Golf Swing Performance: A Review

• The review found that physical attributes such as lower-body strength, muscular power, balance, and muscle-tendon stiffness are strongly associated with increased club head speed and greater carry distance, both of which are key indicators of golf performance.
• Lower-body strength and explosive power appear to have a greater influence on swing performance than flexibility alone, suggesting that resistance and power training should be priorities for golfers seeking more distance.
• Good balance improves weight transfer and stability throughout the golf swing, allowing golfers to generate force more efficiently while maintaining control during different swing phases.
• Flexibility remains beneficial because it increases range of motion and contributes to a larger "X-factor" (the separation between shoulder and hip rotation), although its contribution to club head speed is generally less significant than strength and power.
• The authors concluded that comprehensive strength and conditioning programs—including resistance training, power exercises, and sport-specific warm-ups—can improve golf swing performance, though additional research is needed to isolate which training methods produce the greatest benefits.

Sheehan, W. B., Bower, R. G., & Watsford, M. L. (2022). Physical determinants of golf swing performance: A review. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(1), 289–297. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003411