The Value of Scuba Diving Tourism and the Spear Fishing Idea

(Illustrative Only)

Got to keep the 
secret spots secret. 

I saw 7 large
bass. 

I could almost 
pet them. 

Escanaba Fishing

It's been a while since I've done any serious scuba diving. I've done a little shore diving here and there, but after my buddy's boat decided it wanted an early retirement, our shipwreck-diving adventures pretty much came to an end. We used to be out there all the time.

I still have all my dive gear, though, and I figured, "I'm not letting hundreds of dollars' worth of equipment become expensive garage decorations." So I've started exploring some local spots to see what's hiding under the water.

The other day I hauled all my gear down to the beach. The weather was perfect, but the water was murky enough that I couldn't see much. While I was there, I realized my tank wasn't fitting quite right, so I ordered new tank straps.

Problem solved...or so I thought.

I went back out, and the new straps worked perfectly. Then I realized, "You know what this adventure needs? An underwater camera." I couldn't find my old one, so I picked up a new one that was surprisingly affordable. I'll put a link below if anyone's interested.

While I'm waiting for the camera to arrive, I figured I'd get some exercise. Since I've been lifeguarding lately, I thought I'd throw on my wetsuit, fins, and snorkel and do some lap swimming in the lake.

I got everything on, took about three kicks...

...and SNAP!

The Great Lakes Fishery

One of my fin straps broke. Apparently, dive gear doesn't appreciate sitting in a garage for a year and a half. So now I'm ordering replacement fin straps too. I'll put an example below of the ones I'm looking at because dive shops around here are about as common as tropical reefs in Michigan.

At that point I gave up on the fins, tossed them onto the beach, and just went snorkeling.

And that's when things got interesting.

I found a new spot with some absolutely huge bass hanging out along the rocks. Nobody seems to be fishing there, and these fish were incredibly relaxed. I actually reached out and touched a couple of them before they casually drifted a foot or two away...then stopped and let me swim right back up beside them.

Either they thought I was another fish or they were judging my swimming technique.

That got me thinking...what if I took a simple bamboo pole, tied a line to it, put some bait on the hook, and lowered it right in front of their noses while filming everything with the underwater camera? That could make for some pretty cool footage.

Then I mentioned all this to a friend who's thinking about starting a commercial fishing business. He said, "You know, with a fishing license you can legally spearfish."

Well...that sent me down another rabbit hole.

I've already got some old hunting arrows and gear that I can probably adapt a pole and then I realized that frog-fish spears are pretty cheap in the $20 to $30 range.  No need to invent things. 

There's something a lot more exciting about actually seeing the fish before you catch it than sitting in a boat staring at a bobber while reading the news on my Kindle.

So now the plan is simple: wait for the camera, wait for the new fin straps, get back in the water, and see what large bass and trout are swimming around down there. (Side note: if you already have a fishing license in Michigan you can get a spear fishing license free.)

Until then.....

Every time I fix one piece of equipment, another one reminds me it's been on vacation in my garage.

Stay tuned. This could either become an underwater adventure series...or a very expensive lesson in replacing old dive gear one piece at a time. I'm a certified diver but dont get out enough.

A Few Products I Found I Might Need or Upgrade:

Theis is similar to the style I currently have so I could replace them. Fin Straps, Adjustable Rubber Fin Flippers Strap Swimming Diving Dive Accessories(L)

I was thinking of checking out these quick release ones. Scuba Choice Universal Diving Fin Straps with Quick Release Buckles – Adjustable Silicone & Neoprene, Durable Fit for Most Fins - Ideal for Freediving & Snorkeling (Pair - Black)

The camera I got is cheap but for the depth I normally dive and for the many times I lost the camera this will work fine for now. Action Camera 1080P Sports Camera 16GB Memory Card Action Cam 131ft Underwater Waterproof with 2 X Batteries with Accessories Kit Suitable for Helmet, Bicycle, etc.

Tried these out. They work pretty good and I have an extra. 2Pack Scuba Tank Holder, Universal Dive BCD Tank Cylinder Adjustable Band Webbing Belt Strap with ABS Cam Buckles and Anti-Slip Pad for Underwater Diving/Snorkeling/Freediving

Perhaps something like this might work Frog Gigging Pole,2 to 3Ft Fishing Gig Gaff with Barbed 5-Prong Harpoon Stainless Steels Flounder Gig Extension Pole Long Handle with Spong Handle Hunting Bullfrog Spears Fish Hook (44in)

Global Economic Impact of Scuba Dive Tourism

• The study provides the first global estimate of the economic impact of scuba dive tourism, finding that the industry generates between $8.5 billion and $20.4 billion annually while supporting approximately 9–14 million diving tourists and up to 124,000 jobs worldwide.
• Researchers identified more than 11,500 dive operators across 170 countries and found that about 80% of employees are local residents, demonstrating the industry's strong contribution to local economies and community livelihoods.
• Survey results showed that most dive operators actively support marine conservation initiatives and view healthy marine ecosystems as essential to their businesses, reinforcing the connection between ecotourism and sustainable ocean management.
• Although scuba diving generates substantial economic benefits, the authors acknowledge limitations in the estimates due to incomplete global data, differences among regions, and conservative assumptions regarding tourist spending and operator participation.
• The authors recommend greater integration of scuba diving into Blue Economy policies, improved monitoring of the industry, and stronger collaboration among governments, local communities, and dive organizations to promote sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

Schuhbauer, A., Favoretto, F., Wang, T., Aburto-Oropeza, O., Sala, E., Millage, K. D., Cabral, R. B., Sumaila, U. R., Hsu, A., Lucrezi, S., Tighsazzadeh, M. N., Plascencia de La Cruz, M., & Cisneros-Montemayor, A. M. (2025). Global economic impact of scuba dive tourism. Cell Reports Sustainability, 2, 100435. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crsus.2025.100435

2026 Talent Trends Report from SHRM

The job market remains challenging for certain high-demand, specialized skills. Like any market, employment is driven by supply and demand. When we invest in developing human capital here at home, businesses can fill positions locally, wages have greater potential to rise, and more money stays circulating within the local economy. The same principle applies to supporting small businesses.

According to SHRM's 2026 Talent Trends Report, nearly 70% of HR professionals continue to have difficulty recruiting full-time employees. While there are signs that the labor market has begun to slow in some areas, many organizations are still struggling to find qualified talent.

As a result, employers are shifting away from relying solely on traditional hiring practices. Many are placing greater emphasis on developing existing employees, promoting internal mobility, expanding job responsibilities, and investing in continuous learning. In addition to technical expertise, organizations are increasingly valuing critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and other transferable skills.

Take a few minutes to read the summary below, and if you're interested, the full report. Understanding current labor market trends can help organizations optimize their recruitment, retention, and workforce development strategies.

SHRM 2026 Talent Trends Report: Data-Driven Insights for the Future of Work

• Nearly 70% of HR professionals reported continued difficulty recruiting full-time employees, with more than half saying hiring has become even more challenging than a year earlier.
• Organizations are shifting from traditional hiring approaches to skills-based talent strategies by emphasizing internal mobility, employee development, and workforce agility to address persistent talent shortages.
• Skills gaps remain a major concern, particularly in systems and resource management competencies such as decision-making, complex problem-solving, and time management.
• Learning and development initiatives—including job rotation, apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship programs—are identified as effective ways to prepare employees for hard-to-fill positions, although some remain underutilized.
• Based on responses from more than 2,000 HR professionals, the report concludes that organizations investing in continuous learning, technology, and inclusive talent practices will be better positioned to build resilient, future-ready workforces.

Society for Human Resource Management. (2026, April 27). SHRM unveils 2026 talent trends report: Data-driven insights for the future of work. https://www.shrm.org/about/press-room/shrm-unveils-2026-talent-trends-report--data-driven-insights-for

Quack, Laugh, Repeat: Duck Variations in Rehearsal for Next Week's Opening (Players de Noc)

Illustrative Only

You may want to read
about pollution and ducks.

We're almost at showtime! Next Friday, Duck Variations takes the stage, and you won't want to miss it.

The production features about 14 directors, each putting their own creative spin on a different section of the play. Think of it as one longer story told through 14 different imaginations. Some scenes have superheroes, some go in completely unexpected directions, and every director brings a unique artistic style.

My scene focuses on a conversation between an older person and a younger person. The younger character arrives with plenty of opinions... and enough words for both of them. Every time the older character tries to speak, they're politely—and not so politely—interrupted. If you've ever been in a family dinner conversation, you may find it strangely familiar.

A cross generational connection over important issues.

The scene also touches on environmental issues, exploring how pollution affects ducks and the natural world while highlighting the different perspectives that generations bring to the discussion. It's meant to be thoughtful, with a few laughs along the way.

Rehearsals are going well. We're about halfway to being performance-ready. Everyone knows their lines and blocking. Now comes the easy part: repeating everything about a thousand more times until it looks effortless. That's the magic of theater—the audience sees two minutes of perfection, but they don't see the many hours that made it happen.

And here's one more fun rumor floating around backstage: word is that it is possible that a TV station may cover the performance event. We'll believe it when the cameras show up—but it would certainly make for an exciting opening night. Until it happens its just a rumor....

July 17 – Performance!

Bonifis Art Center

6:30 PM and 8 PM shows. 

700 1st Ave S, Escanaba, MI 49829
(Side Door Parking Lot)

Free to the Community!

See you at the theater!

If you want to keep up on whats going on or support your local theater Players de Noc FB

Contributors to Duck Variation #10:

This is the section I'm directing. 

The Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 1088-Practice room space. 

Amvets Post #123-Lamination of scripts and resources.

Escanaba Polo Mallet Co.-Donation of pizza and snacks.

Mastering the Art of Theater Directing: Essential Skills of Directing Theater

• Theater directing requires a combination of artistic vision, leadership, communication, and organizational skills to transform a script into a compelling stage production.
• Effective directors begin with a thorough analysis of the script, developing a clear interpretation of the story, themes, characters, and overall production concept.

• 

  Illustrative Only

  Successful productions depend on strong collaboration between the director, actors, designers, and technical crew, with the director coordinating all creative elements into a unified vision.
• Directors guide rehearsals by providing constructive feedback, refining performances, planning blocking, and helping actors develop authentic and emotionally engaging characters.
• Continuous learning, adaptability, and practical experience are essential for theater directors to refine their craft and effectively respond to the creative and logistical challenges of each production.

New International Performing Arts Institute. (n.d.). Mastering the art of theater directing: Essential skills of directing theater. https://www.nipai.org/post/mastering-the-art-of-theater-directing-essential-skills-of-directing-theater

From Stable to Main Street: How Horses Support Local Economies

(Illustrative Only)

Joe wonders what the value
of horse riding might
be in Delta County
with its supply of small,
hobby, and organic farms.

(Sidenote: Thinking
of how to calculate value 
from equestrian activities
ranging from ranches to 
feed. San Diego CA
has an equestrian industry
and Delta County MI
has an equestrian industry
but both don't appear
to have available numbers.
I did find this on 
CA Equestrian
and 
MI Horse Economics

Equestrian sports and horseback riding have long been a passion for people of all ages. Whether someone plays polo, enjoys trail riding, competes in show jumping, or participates in dressage, horse owners often spend several days each week riding, training, grooming, and caring for their horses. Even here in Delta County, many equestrians are active three or four days a week, creating not only skilled partnerships with their horses but also strong friendships and a close-knit community centered around equestrian activities.

The benefits extend well beyond recreation. Horseback riding is a physically demanding activity that improves balance, coordination, core strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. The daily responsibilities of caring for horses also encourage an active lifestyle and a strong sense of discipline and commitment (I'm a licensed fitness and yoga trainer so send me a message to the right if you need some help. There are exercises that improve performance for horse riding and other sports. 30 minute virtual sessions $50.).

Equestrian activities also contribute to the local economy. Horse owners purchase feed, equipment, veterinary services, farrier services, trailers, fuel, and other supplies while supporting local businesses throughout the year. When communities host horse shows, trail rides, polo matches, horse jumping, clinics, or other equestrian events, they attract participants and visitors who spend money on lodging, restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment. These events help strengthen the local economy while increasing the area's visibility as a destination for tourism and future investment.

Horse riding, therefore, is about much more than spending time in the saddle. It strengthens communities, supports local businesses, promotes healthy lifestyles, and enhances quality of life. For communities like Delta County, encouraging equestrian activities can help create an attractive environment for both residents and visitors while contributing to long-term economic and community development.

Local News: 

An example of the type
of farms in the area.

I can print most sizes up to poster
size for $50 with free shipping.
 If interested send an
email to muradabel@gmail.com
or a message to the right.
Other Items in Gallery

My photography hobby. 

10 Arabian Horses Loose in Rapid River

Equestrian Sport: The Hidden Economic Engine

• The article argues that equestrian sport is one of the world's most significant yet underrecognized economic contributors, generating substantial economic activity through tourism, participant spending, and long-term investment.
• The 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, reportedly generated more than $536 million in GDP, supported nearly 5,000 jobs, and produced over 210,000 hotel nights during its 13-week season.
• Unlike short-duration sporting events, equestrian competitions create sustained economic benefits by attracting riders, support teams, spectators, and seasonal visitors over several months.
• Horse ownership requires significant annual investment, including boarding, veterinary care, feed, transportation, training, equipment, and competition expenses, creating demand across many industries.
• The article contends that equestrian participants generally spend substantially more over their lifetimes than participants in many other recreational sports.
• Economic benefits extend beyond competitions by supporting veterinarians, farriers, feed suppliers, hotels, restaurants, retailers, transportation providers, and agricultural businesses.
• Despite its economic importance, equestrian sport receives relatively limited mainstream media coverage compared with sports such as Formula 1, football, or tennis.
• The author suggests that expanding media rights, digital streaming, and storytelling could significantly increase sponsorship opportunities, audience growth, and commercial investment.
• The article highlights the global scale of the equine industry, noting its significant contributions to the economies of the United States, Europe, Ireland, and emerging equestrian markets in the Middle East and Asia.
• The overall conclusion is that equestrian sport should be recognized not as a niche activity but as a major global industry with lasting economic, tourism, and employment impacts.

Bjerkan, C. (2025, September 10). Equestrian sport: The hidden economic engine. EQuerry Co. https://www.equerryco.com/blog/equestrian-sport-the-hidden-economic-engine

Escanaba City Council Meeting (July 2nd, 2026): Arborists and Remote Control Reception

There were a few interesting things that came up in this meeting. Many cities are suffering with budgets but Escanaba seems to be making some thoughtful choices and is not filling a vacancy as a foreman but is certifying a city arborist (Definition of City Arborist). Trees are see as having significant economic ecological and quality of life benefits (Mental health, cooler spaces, higher property values, physical health, etc.). They have also been known to appeal to people who currently live within a town but also may want to move or possibly even invest in a particular town (Urban Forests as Infrastructure). One thing this town has a lot of is a nice green natural environment which supports the healthy local lifestyle (This may also be a conntributive additive factor, among other factors, of why the town is on an upswing. While we often only measure the bigger stuff things overlooked like greenscape can also have an influence.)

(Illustrative Only)
When nature is 
integrated into our
lives.
Tree Jobs Around Escanaba

In summary, the Escanaba City Council approved several ordinances and spending requests during its meeting, while also discussing staffing, infrastructure upgrades and the sale of industrial park property. Escanaba July 7th, 2026 Agenda

(Any corrections just send a message to the right.)

Tree Board Ordinance (Summary of Transcripts)

The council voted 3-1 to adopt the original version of Ordinance 1319, which maintains a nine-member Tree Board that includes three community residents and requires quarterly meetings.

Council members discussed an amended version that would have reduced the board to seven members and required only two meetings each year. Several members said quarterly meetings provide greater public accountability and allow the board to address residents' concerns in a more timely and scientific manner.

Council members also noted that the ordinance can be amended in the future if changes become necessary.

(Illustrative Only)

Charlie the Chipmunk 
has been using his 
VR headset with
trees for a long time
to engage in gaming
forums. 
He wonders if one
were to plant a
few more trees and
connect them to the 
garage door opener
if they would solve 
the remote control reception
issue and foster
new tree uses. 🙃
Charlie goes
nuts about trees!
Tree Antennas

City Arborist Plan

The council unanimously declined a proposed three-year interlocal agreement with the Delta Conservation District for arborist consulting services.

Instead, the city will pursue training and certifying an existing Public Works employee as an in-house arborist. Officials said the employee would be available full time while continuing to perform other city responsibilities, including winter road maintenance.

The position will be funded through an existing vacant senior foreman budget line, creating an overall budget savings. Council members also said city policy will prohibit the employee from using city equipment or resources for outside arborist work.

Water Plant Upgrade

The council unanimously approved a $5,477 contract with Master Electric to install 120-volt electrical service for sample pumps at the city's water treatment plant.

Officials said the upgrade will allow the department to purchase standard replacement pumps costing about $380 each instead of specialized units that cost approximately $5,000.

Wastewater Garage Doors

Council members also unanimously approved a $1,512.70 agreement with Delta Door Company to improve remote-control reception for five garage doors at the wastewater treatment plant.

The work includes installing external antennas on the doors. During discussion, one council member suggested adjusting the remote controls' internal set screws to improve signal range before or during installation.

Industrial Park Property

The council reviewed a request from Souhill Sanitation to purchase a 1.58-acre parcel in Whitetail Industrial Park that has remained vacant since 2000.

The company offered $23,000 for the property. City officials noted that a recent land value study estimated the parcel at approximately $26,000, while a formal appraisal valued it at $31,600. Future estimates place the property's value between $28,000 and $30,000 by 2027.

Council members discussed making a counteroffer of $26,000 or negotiating a compromise price. Several members said they would like to see the long-vacant property developed while also ensuring taxpayers receive fair market value for the land.

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