Support Veterans Through the Wounded Warrior Project

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Support your veterans.

Veterans put themselves at risk in service to others, and many return home with lasting injuries. The Wounded Warrior Project has supported over one million warriors, caregivers, and family members, helping ensure they are not forgotten. 

These men and women took on great risk to protect our freedoms, and the impact of their service often continues long after they return—sometimes for years or even decades. Injuries may be visible or unseen, but all deserve recognition and care. 

If you want to support veterans, consider contributing to this cause through a one-time donation or a monthly gift of any amount.

Wounded Warrior Project Main

The other day I met a veteran rowing and he was a supporter and volunteer of this organization. I indicated I would post something about them. 

Wounded Warrior Project San Diego

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Mediocre Labor Market Conditions (Jack Starts His Own Business)

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Labor market is mediocre
so this person
started to think of options.

Jack works as a carpenter
and realized while hiking 
the Bay de Noc Grand Island
National Trail that
he could make custom cups 
for people and restraurants. 
The best ideas often come
in nature. He is thinking of
partnering with a shop
on Ludington Street to
sell his products because
he is a small operator,
doesn't want a store, but
wants to provide a commission
sale for stores. A win for
them who don't have to
pay for inventory. 

Labor market expectations appear moderate—neither strong nor weak—mirroring trends seen in other economic indicators. Many businesses are taking a cautious, wait-and-see approach, which may slow hiring and workforce development. Ongoing geopolitical uncertainties could also influence future employment decisions, though the full impact remains unclear.

Current data suggest that about 45–46% of individuals believe they could find a new job if they lost one, while the perceived risk of job loss is around 14.4%. This indicates a level of underlying concern about job security. 

At the same time, household financial outlooks have weakened slightly, with more people expecting this year to be less favorable than the last. Confidence in career advancement is also limited, reflecting a relatively stagnant environment where both workers and employers are hesitant to make major moves.

Overall, this uncertainty affects decision-making at both the individual and organizational levels. As conditions remain unclear, it will be important to monitor additional economic indicators to better understand where the labor market is headed. Movement on strategic initiaves and hiring may be slower than usual over the mid term. 

Let us wait and see....

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor Market Experiences and Transitions Summary

• The Survey of Consumer Expectations (SCE) follows about 1,300 U.S. households over time to track job experiences, employment transitions, and expectations about the labor market.
• Data indicate mixed labor market sentiment, with the probability of finding a job after losing one around 45.9%, while the perceived likelihood of job loss is about 14.4%.
• Expected earnings growth remains relatively modest, typically in the range of about 2.5% to 2.7%, with differences across income levels.
• Confidence in job mobility has fluctuated, including declines in voluntary quitting and changes in expectations about finding new employment.
• Household financial outlooks have weakened, with more individuals expecting their financial situation to worsen compared to the previous year.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York. (2026). Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor market experiences and transitions. https://www.newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/sce/labor#/experiences-transitions1

Advanced Monthly Retail and Food Services March 2026 (Business Can Raise Value)

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A few business
owners in Delta 
County consider
meeting once a month
to explore
ways in which 
they can pair their
products and services
to raise value, 
increase sales/purchases,
and export that value
 regionally
and internationally. 

Consumer purchases and behaviors impact the overall economy. The advance report indicates a 3.7% increase that appears to be a reasonable upward trend. It indicates the economy is not particularly that weak nor is it particularly that strong in relation to other market markers. 

Advance Monthly Retail and Food Services Sales (MARTS) March 2026 Report Summary with Key Statistics

• The Advance Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MARTS), produced by the U.S. Census Bureau, provides early monthly estimates of retail and food service sales across the United States.
• The survey is based on a probability sample of about 4,700–4,800 firms, representing more than 3 million retail and food service businesses nationwide.
• February 2026 retail and food service sales totaled approximately $738.4 billion, reflecting a 0.6% increase from January 2026 and a 3.7% increase year-over-year.
• Over the period December 2025 through February 2026, total sales increased 3.1% compared to the same period one year earlier.
• Retail trade sales alone rose 0.6% month-over-month and 3.5% year-over-year, showing steady growth in core retail sectors.
• Nonstore (online) retailers increased about 7.5% year-over-year, while food services and drinking places increased about 5.2%, indicating continued strength in e-commerce and dining.
• Monthly estimates are calculated using a link relative estimator and are seasonally adjusted to account for holidays and trading-day differences.
• Advance estimates are preliminary and typically revised by about 0.2 percentage points as more complete data become available through the Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MRTS).

U.S. Census Bureau. (2026). Advance monthly retail and food services sales (MARTS) report. https://www.census.gov/retail/marts/www/marts_current.pdf

Entitlement in Hate: An example of language and hate (The Story of the Clan)

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Just because you are not
consciously aware of
your language patterns, or 
the broader patterns of your 
environment doesn't mean
they don't exist. Subconsciously
many of us understand the
expectations of hate and
their social roots. 

Do you promote a higher 
moral order? What is
the impact on society if 
we do not?

True Feelings and Patterns

Hate acts like a disease in society, dividing people and weakening shared values and institutions. It is often used to elevate one group by putting others down, eroding trust, respect, and unity. Those who spread hate often ignore the broader impact on the community, focusing only on their own beliefs while benefiting—sometimes significantly—from division, especially where there are few checks and balances. Worse, weak alignment to true north values that damages long-term health for short-term gain. Such hate can be uncovered through patterned language.

Consider a sometimes common scenario: someone enters a social setting meant for recreation and begins loudly expressing strong political views (Not normal in this situation). Their tone is angry, and their language dehumanizes others. They show little awareness—or concern—for the group’s purpose or the discomfort they create. Even if others remain polite, their behavior can alienate people (A partial purpose of such behaviors.). Eyes look away, conversations quiet, and tension builds, while the speaker may take a sense of satisfaction in dominating the space (Also related to how they view their importance in relation to others.). In groups where diverse perspectives exist and politics was never the focus, this kind of disruption stands out. It often reflects deeper patterns—entitlement, a belief that only one perspective matters above others, the prior social support for such distorted beliefs and a tendency to project those views onto others. Everyone should be inconvenienced so they can vent their bigotries openly and foster their dark cause. 

Language can reveal what people truly believe, even when it is not stated directly. Without awareness or experience, these patterns can be easy to miss, but they often point to a narrow worldview shaped by like-minded circles rather than diverse perspectives (As a side note if you are aware of your patterns you can change your pattern and your thinking). In some cases, the tone and rhetoric suggest a willingness to justify harm toward those they have discarded as having value. An indication they would be open to collectivize hate in this society (Some think that is impossible. However, there are sometimes a minority of judges, politicians and people in authority that clearly make decisions to foster and reward collective hate that undermine our central rights and sacrafices. There are few to no checks or balances for their bad behaviors. It may be illegal but that becomes subjective on who is helped and who is harmed. They feel little to no responsbility for others outside their circles. Such people were never qualified for leadership positions nor do they respect the purpose of the institution. They damage us from the inside.). The patterns seem to encourage violations of rights, oaths, and purpose. Others may stay silent—not out of agreement, but to avoid conflict or intentional discomfort—allowing harmful ideas to go unchallenged (By design and often a rejection of foundational beliefs. We can call these people 'sell outs' to our societal cause and values. They actively undermine generational striving.). In contrast there are polite ways to question, change the subject or reorient toward group purpose.

As a society, we should reflect on who we elevate into positions of influence: those who unite and respect others, or those who divide and dehumanize. Foundational values rooted in fairness, dignity, and mutual respect stand in direct contrast to hate, which pulls us backward. the more those who support collectivize hate move to the top the foundations begin to crack and the entire system gets weaker. Leadership and character should be measured not just by social connection, tough talk, special interest, or political parties but by the ability to foster respect, uphold shared values, and bring people together. If they don't believe in what makes us unique as a people then they have a parasitic relationship to our society by gaining for themselves. Think beyond the limited dynamics and narratives presented that seem to rub against a higher moral conscious. The wrong choices often harm society because distorted patterns of thinking more times then not lead to erroneous decisions that impact people as a whole. Sometimes whole societies. History has shown the long-term outcomes of warping sytems to protect hate and failing to correct the wrongdoing of such hate. The natural system indicates that when you seek to harm others you also harm yourself (Same for individuals or groups). 

The future depends on thoughtful choices—how we select leaders, how money shapes influence, and how silence can enable harm. When hate becomes normalized in somes language and actions, it signals a drift away from core principles (A rejection of what is sacred). Words matter. They reflect values, shape behavior, and ultimately influence the kind of society we create. If you listen to most people they care about their society and the future but a few clearly have their own interests in mind. Read history to understand the acceptance of the unacceptable and its long-term impact on society (It is almost always negative and we may see trust declining.). Economic and social health interrelate. That starts with walking the talk in our beliefs that foster proof in pudding outcomes. Time will answer all questions. 

"Day by day, what you choose, what you think and what you do is who you become"

Heraclitus

*The Story of the Clan is a philosophical thought experiment designed to explore a default in justice and hate. Take with a grain of salt, mix up the elements, and come to any conclusion you desire. It is only that you thought about it that counts. 

Exploring Hate Speech Dynamics: Emotional, Linguistic, and Psycholinguistic Characteristics

• The article examines how hate speech on social media is shaped by emotional tone, linguistic patterns, and underlying psycholinguistic processes.
• It finds that hate speech often relies on strong negative emotions (e.g., anger, fear) to amplify engagement and spread more rapidly online.
• Linguistic features such as derogatory language, simplification, and repetition are commonly used to reinforce group divisions and stereotypes.
• Psycholinguistic analysis shows that hate speech can influence perception and cognition, shaping how individuals interpret social groups and information.
• The study highlights the broader societal impact, noting that unchecked hate speech contributes to polarization, conflict, and risks to democratic stability.

Exploring hate speech dynamics: The emotional, linguistic, and psycholinguistic characteristics. (2025). Journal of Communication, 75(1), 123–145. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306457325000214

 

Photos of San Diego Bay: The pricing of photography.

Below are a few photos I took around San Diego over the past week. They’re not all perfect, but I found them interesting enough to share. I’m still figuring out pricing, so if something catches your eye, I can print and frame it for you. Just let me know which photo you like and what size you’re looking for, and I’ll send over a price. I’m also open to offers and happy to work something out.

I usually keep about half of what I make to cover expenses and donate the rest to various charities, so a good portion of your purchase goes toward a meaningful cause. If you enjoy nautical and beach themes, you’ll probably find something that resonates with you, though I experiment with other styles as well. F

You can check out my page Photo, Paiting, and Artwork Page

Understanding Fine Art Photography Prices and Market Value

• Prices depend on factors such as the photographer’s reputation, print size, materials, and production techniques
• Established artists and those with strong exhibition histories command significantly higher prices than emerging photographers
• Limited editions increase value by creating scarcity, making fewer prints more desirable
• Galleries and auctions influence pricing through commissions, exposure, and market demand
• Buyers should research artists, verify authenticity, and consider both emotional and investment value before purchasing

Une Image Pour Rêver. (n.d.). Fine art photography prices: Understanding and evaluating the market. https://www.une-image-pour-rever.fr/en/fine-art-photography-prices-understanding-and-evaluating-the-market/

Tropical Boats at Night

HMS Revise

Afternoon Beaches and Seagull

San Diego Bay 1

San Diego Bay 2

Escanaba City Council Meeting (April 16, 2026): Bucking the Fiscal Trends, Attracting Investment and Creating a Thriving UP Community

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Hats off to bucking the 
fiscal trends, attracting
investment and creating
a thriving UP community. 

Joe thinks of 
Perpetual Sustainable 
Systems, 

Forcasting the Market,

Economic Social and
Environmental Resistence

Escanaba continues to grow and develop, attracting investment and strengthening its financial position. That is commendable in a market that is investment lukewarm. This shows the city is bucking the trends when compared to broader trends. According to the report by Truth in Accounting 2025, 54 of the 75 largest U.S. cities do not have enough money to pay their bills, reflecting widespread fiscal stress. 😬(This is why you elect the best and brightest).

Escanaba, however, appears to be moving in a different direction. The city is improving its financial condition, drawing new investments, and seeing signs of local economic momentum. Downtown startups are emerging, tourism is increasing, crime appears to be declining, household incomes are rising, pension liabilities are decreasing, and infrastructure investment is growing. Overall, the city presents itself as open for business.

Progress like this does not happen by chance. It reflects a shared vision, a strong sense of community, and a deliberate effort to position the city strategically within the broader market. By reconnecting to economic opportunities, Escanaba is attracting further development that benefits residents and creates new possibilities—some of which may serve as a model for other communities. 💁

While the future is always uncertain, credit is due to those contributing to this progress. It is also a reminder to consider what each of us can do to support our own cities, neighbors, and communities.

The Video is unavailable but you can find information at April 16th, 2026 Escanaba City Council Meeting

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People building their
future together. 

"No Man is an Island"
John Donne

The Power of Community

A Flea and an Island

City Council Meeting Agenda April 16, 2026 Summary

• The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.
• Council members will consider setting May 7, 2026, as the date for a fourth public hearing regarding the proposed FY2026-27 City Budget.
• The city is seen as having an upward mobile financial position and strenghthen long term prospects. A result of strategic planning and appropriate use of resource to encourage growth.
• Approval is sought for a bid from Sticky Fingers for food and drink concessions at Ludington Park for the 2026 season.
• The council will review a bid from Stenberg Brothers, Inc. for sanitation services for the 2026-2027 season.
• Administration is requesting approval to purchase a Pierce 100-foot aerial platform ladder truck for public safety at an estimated cost of $1,925,000.00.
• There will be a first reading of Ordinance No. 1319, which aims to amend the Code of Ordinances to establish the Escanaba Tree Advisory Board.
• The agenda includes several annual chemical bids for water and wastewater treatment, involving suppliers such as Hawkins, Inc., Chemtrade Chemical US, LLC, and Brenntag Great Lakes, LLC.
• Engineering services from Dixon Engineering are requested for maintenance on both the north and south water towers, with costs not to exceed $66,200.00 and $63,675.00 respectively.
• A proposal to hire Oberstar, Inc. for a sanitary manhole replacement at 7th Avenue South and South 15th Street for $112,000.00 is up for approval.
• Professional services from C2AE are requested for a risk and resiliency assessment of the drinking water system and an updated DWSRF Project Plan.
• The Downtown Development Authority is requesting the use of public space for the Ludington Street Cruise on May 29 and 30, 2026.
• Council members will discuss next steps in the City Manager selection process following an interview conducted on April 8, 2026.
• Public Works Department employees will be recognized for their dedication and hard work during the winter season.
• The meeting will include an Arbor Day Proclamation for April 24, 2026.

City of Escanaba. (2026). City Council meeting agenda: April 16, 2026. https://www.escanaba.org/meetings/recent

Financial State of the Cities 2025

• Provides a comprehensive analysis of the fiscal health of the 75 largest U.S. cities using audited financial reports and pension data
• Finds that 54 of the 75 cities do not have enough money to pay their bills, indicating widespread fiscal stress
• Highlights that many cities meet balanced-budget requirements in appearance but fail to account for long-term obligations like pensions and retiree healthcare
• Identifies a key issue as the shifting of costs to future taxpayers by underfunding pension and benefit obligations
• Uses the concept of “taxpayer burden” to estimate how much each taxpayer would need to contribute to cover city debts
• Grades cities based on financial condition, with many receiving low grades due to high debt and insufficient assets
• Emphasizes that unfunded pension liabilities are a major driver of city debt and financial imbalance
• Suggests that current accounting and budgeting practices can obscure the true financial condition of cities
• Aims to improve transparency so taxpayers and policymakers can make more informed financial decisions

Truth in Accounting. (2025). Financial state of the cities 2025. https://www.truthinaccounting.org/library/doclib/Financial-State-of-the-Cities-2025.pdf

Graduate Student Resilience: Developing Human Capital by Reducing Barriers

Attending graduate school or pursuing a doctorate is a significant rite of passage that requires sustained effort and commitment. Success is not just about grades—although many programs overemphasize them—but about the quality of learning, persistence, and the ability to accept feedback, adapt, and grow. Whether in school or beyond, it is valuable to listen to informed perspectives, reflect on feedback, and apply it to improve over time.

Graduate students face a range of challenges. These include financial pressures, balancing work and personal responsibilities, and navigating demanding academic environments. For underrepresented groups, these challenges can be even greater, with increased exposure to microaggressions and reduced access to academic and professional opportunities. When these barriers go unaddressed, they result in lost potential and wasted human capital.

At a broader level, increasing the number of education and human capital are essential for national competitiveness, particularly as global innovation continues to rise. Addressing barriers in graduate education is not just an individual concern but a collective one. When institutions support all students effectively and create inclusive environments, they strengthen long-term outcomes across industries and the economy. The social impact of a well-educated population—especially those with advanced skills—is substantial, contributing to innovation, economic growth, and overall societal progress.

Graduate Student Resilience: Influential Success Factors in U.S. Graduate Education

• Graduate education provides career and personal advancement opportunities, yet many students face structural and psychological challenges that impact persistence and success.
• The study analyzed survey data from 648 graduate students across 23 U.S. universities, offering a broad and diverse sample.
• Mentorship quality was a key predictor of success, with students reporting stronger academic outcomes when they had consistent faculty support.
• Imposter feelings were common, with a notable proportion of students reporting frequent self-doubt that negatively affected confidence and performance.
• Financial stress was a significant barrier, with many students indicating that limited funding impacted their ability to remain enrolled or fully engage in their programs.
• Underrepresented groups reported higher instances of microaggressions and reduced access to academic and professional opportunities.
• Peer support and resilience were positively associated with persistence, highlighting the importance of social networks in graduate education.
• The study concludes that institutional support systems, including mentoring, funding, and mental health resources, play a critical role in improving student outcomes.

Collier, K. M., & Blanchard, M. R. (2024). Graduate student resilience: Exploring influential success factors in U.S. graduate education through survey analysis. Trends in Higher Education, 3(3), 637–680. https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu3030037