Working on My Car – A Fun and Practical Hobby (Phase 1 Complete)

Working on my car has become a fun hobby for me because I get to see the direct results of my work. About a week ago, I bought the car from a friend for $1,000 and decided to fix it up. The work has ranged from electrical repairs to bodywork. For the price I paid, it's a great winter car that helps save wear and tear on my primary vehicle.

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Plugged it in and it worked. 
Trouble shooting and 
finding the part were the most 
difficult.

Phase 1: Making It Roadworthy
The goal for Phase 1 was to get the car safe and legal to drive. While there are still some cosmetic issues, it's now fully roadworthy and can be used as a daily driver.

Completed Work:

• Replaced the window washer pump

• Fixed or replaced all burnt-out lights

• Installed new wipers

• Started prepping the body for painting (rust removal and base preparation)

• Replaced the HVAC component (possibly the last new one available in the country! I found two used ones. The only other place might be calling junk yards.)

• Extended tire air stems (Don't need to take off hubcaps anymore.)

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To-Do List:

• High-mileage oil change and new air filter

• Repair or replace decorative lights

• Paint the body: I can't strip the old paint, so I've been using a wire brush. Since the paint doesn’t come off completely, I’ll be using it as a base and applying finishing glaze to smooth it out.

• Replace the landau top

• Deep clean the interior

• Fix or replace the door knob

• Replace the speaker in the passenger door

• Possible steering pump issue but will need to wait to see.

While hobbies are hobbies they do have some benefit. Why Hobbies Are Good for You?

Firefighting Radio Techniques

Clear and concise communication is essential for successful field operations. I recently completed radio training, where I learned various methods for using radios, responding effectively, and coordinating team activities. While some of the material was familiar, ongoing learning is important to ensure smooth teamwork and coordination.

I also came across an interesting and worthwhile resource on radio communication.

Voice Radio Communications Guide

*This is part of a project that I'm working on to raise resources and awareness of firefighters. In our nation we are relying heavily on volunteer firefighting so enhancing skills and abilities is important. 

Why the Constitution is as Important Now as it Was in the Beginning (Hypothetical Thought Experiment on Hate and Corruption)

People once came to a relatively unknown land in search of freedom from mistreatment. They were pioneers—hopeful individuals seeking to shape their own destinies. The principles they upheld are just as vital today as they were when the framers embedded protections, values, and beliefs into our founding documents.

When socially agreed-upon values are undermined by hate and corruption, we should be deeply concerned.

To understand the risks of complacency and the dangers of losing sight of what we pledge allegiance to, it's important to consider the threat of irrelevance. If the shared assumptions that once held us together no longer resonate, society begins to unravel. Think about it: if you don’t understand the weight of these values, perhaps you should not serve in a leadership role.

Like many oaths, the Constitution can be taken for granted. When people no longer recognize its value to society, they may dismiss it as irrelevant to their personal or social goals—often driven by selfish motives. This can lead to compromises that aren't theirs to make: bending the rules to help friends, covering up wrongdoing, or misusing power to harm others. These actions may seem small at first but can have devastating long-term consequences.

Let’s consider a hypothetical learning example to illustrate the consequences of ignoring these values (Learning purposes only.). In this scenario, hate and corruption were well known. People were intentionally harmed and misapplicaiton of the law encouraged intentionally mistreatment. Official reports were ignored. More victims came forward. Perpetrators were protected and rewarded inappropriate by extreme court prejudice, while victims were denied justice. To shirk the Constitution for one's desires became a popular social affair. 

These misbehaviors occurred within closed systems—groups where people with similar backgrounds judged others' worth through narrow lenses. Authority was misused to erode constitutional values for the sake of pleasing in-group members. Though the victims varied in race, religion, politics, or social status, the intent was clear: to target and dehumanize. The specific group isn't the point (although some might be mistreated more than others)—the principle is. The law should be both a technical structure and a moral guide.

Unchecked corruption and the erosion of empathy pose dangerous, unpredictable risks to society.

Those who stand for justice are those who believe in these oaths. The lips and heart move versus the lips alone. Those who enable hate and corruption have become complacent and, in doing so, undermine the institutions that protect us all. In this hypothetical, the persecuted may represent true American ideals more faithfully than those who misused their power. This truth can only be seen when we judge people by merit and character.

America is not merely a place—it is a value system built on fairness, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness. We must never forget that.

Failing to understand and uphold these principles means not only more victims in the future but also a collapse of the democratic foundation we rely on. Genuine belief in these values must come from within, not from outward displays of patriotism. We owe it to our founding generations and to the generations yet to come to protect and honor the Constitution.

Hate and corruption have no place at the American table.

Presenting one of our most essential social contracts:

The Constitution of the United States

*This is a hypothetical philosophical thought experiment intended to provoke reflection and learning. Take it with a grain of salt—but take its principles seriously.

Global Leadership Forecast 2025 DDI: Leadership, Skills Stress, Retention, and CEOs

Reading reports like the one below is valuable for understanding the challenges companies around the world are currently facing. This particular report is comprehensive, drawing on responses from 2,185 human resource professionals and 10,796 leaders across 2,014 organizations in 50 countries and 24 industries.

Key Insights from the Report:

• Declining Trust in Managers: Leaders report lower levels of trust in their managers. Areas for improvement include listening, empathy, giving and receiving feedback, sharing ideas, and challenging outdated practices.

• Skepticism Toward AI: Both leaders and frontline managers show varying levels of trust in AI, leading to some resistance to its adoption.

• Leadership Stress: Stress among leaders continues to be a significant issue.

• Diverging Sense of Purpose: While C-suite leaders report an increasing sense of purpose, frontline employees are feeling a decline in purpose.

• Talent Concerns: CEOs identify talent retention and attraction, along with economic uncertainty, as pressing challenges.

• Skills Gaps: There is a growing need to better understand and develop critical skills within organizations.

• Leadership Turnover: The departure rate of high-potential leaders is on the rise.

• Strategic Capability: Many leaders lack the necessary skills for strategic planning and managing change.

• Coaching & Development: There is a strong need for better coaching and leadership development programs.

Implications for Higher Education

This report highlights the increasing need for higher education institutions to equip graduates with the skills that align with evolving business demands. For instance, a unique industry-competency model I/others have been developing focuses on building stronger alignment between educational outcomes and industry needs—addressing many of the trends identified in this report.

FEMA-Fire Fighting Safety and Prevention Grant: Research Results

Researchers and scientists play a crucial role in developing and refining practices that improve safety and efficiency in firefighting. Staying informed about the latest research helps fire departments and individual firefighters update their practices, ensuring better outcomes in the field.

For those interested in contributing to or learning more about relevant research, the following information outlines some key resources:

FEMA-Fire Fighting Safety and Prevention Grant: Research Results

The research funded by this grant falls into the following categories:

1. Clinical Studies

2. Technology and Product Development

3. Preliminary Studies

4. Early Career Investigator Research

R&D Abstracts

You can also find a detailed summary of these research results in the right-hand column.

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This project aims to raise awareness about volunteer firefighting and the ongoing efforts to improve practices. If you're interested in supporting a local fire department, feel free to reach out for donation details. Donations are tax-deductible.

Wise Writing with ChatGPT: Use in Research

The use of ChatGPT in writing is becoming a frequent topic of conversation. In a recent group discussion, we concluded that while ChatGPT offers intriguing possibilities, it also comes with significant pitfalls. Since we’re still in the early stages of this technology, we’re likely to see dramatic changes over the next decade—especially with developments like self-writing code (Sarah Connor would probably be chain-smoking over this one!).

The strengths and limitations of ChatGPT become particularly evident when it's applied to creative work and scientific inquiry.

Here are a few scenarios where I might use it:

1. As a preliminary source generator: ChatGPT can be helpful in getting a general overview of a topic and pointing you toward areas for further research. Its value lies in offering leads, but it's crucial to verify the information, seek out alternative perspectives, and be aware that its summaries can sometimes be inaccurate or overly blended.

2. To enhance the quality of writing: AI can help polish grammar, structure, and clarity. However, relying too heavily on it can dull your creative voice. Free-form writing without AI is often where truly original ideas and breakthroughs emerge.

3. To get a broad understanding of secondary topics: If I need a general grasp of a subject outside my main area of focus, ChatGPT can be a time-saver. It allows me to gain basic context without diving into exhaustive research—useful when a deep dive isn’t necessary.

That said, caution is essential. Many people have compromised their credibility by over-relying on AI-generated content without verifying sources or understanding the material. Ultimately, the work should still be your own. Use tools like ChatGPT for foundational understanding or to refine your writing—but not as a substitute for original thought and proper research.

Does Corruption undermine Human Rights and the Rule of Law? (Hypothetical Thought Experiment)

The long running thought experiment of unchecked corruption continues as we delve into understanding and finding ways to hinder the negative influence of corruption and the creation of future victims. Much of the problem is not the law but the application of law. In our hypothetical thought experiment example, we find that there is law and "law". In closed clan-based systems law might be applied to help enrich one's friends and also applied to harm those who in-group members may see as second-class citizens. In this case it was well known they were engaged it coordinated harm to help their friends and decision makers knew it.

Justice, human rights, and good moral conduct is openly mocked within some social networks that have embedded themselves in key positions. There were no mechanisms to report wrongdoing and those who do their social duty and report are quickly and often violently targeted. Victims had no recourse and people accepted hate and corruption as the unofficial law of the land (i.e. using secretive courts to target whistleblowers, victims, and reward perpetrators. Coaching people to enrich off hate). 

In the end we are going to write a positive example of learning and adaptation but will continue to explore the darker side of human nature. The law has become subjective to the clan network and just saying "no I didn't" despite the number of victims is enough to be a type of social "fact". Perpetrators bragged openly about the crimes they committed, and it was well known among corrupted officials these behaviors were ongoing. There was also a history of dark triad traits and analysis helped show statistical disparity (in theory). 

Here is a study that helps us understand from a philosophical standpoint. From an economic perspective, corruption pulls at the roots of social and economic exchange. Since those who engage in it or profit off of corruption are unlikely to stop themselves (as we have seen in history of hate) all systems need a level of checks and balances. Without that, one does not truly have effective rule of law (Law becomes a subjective tool and the philosophical purpose of law to society discarded)

This is an example for learning purposes, and we will create any ending to the learning story we want. 

Corruption undermines human rights and the rule of law

*This is a hypothetical thought experiment for learning purpose and should be taken with a grain of salt for philosophical model development. 

Challenges Facing Higher Education in 2025

Life is full of change and some of that change should be expected in higher education as well as many other institutions. Because industry is radically changing, we will naturally find not only the curriculum changing but also the way in which it is received and delivered. To stay on top of the human capital game one will want to connect people to updated knowledge. 

In general, I look for industry relevancy, quality, effectiveness, price, student engagement/interest, self-development, self-knowledge, and leadership capacity. Higher education will continue to adapt but mostly there will be cultural changes that will occur of which many will be good and a few not so great. 

I thought this were two interesting pieces on higher education,

Challenges of Higher Education 2025

The 12 Challenges Facing Higher Education in 2025

Escanaba Krusin Classics Was Loads of Fun!-Gangsta Wagon!

This was the last year of the Krusin Klassics and we are all sad. 😢Lines and lines of cars showed up and we got to watch each of them pass. Northtown people were sitting far away from Ludington all the way down to Chenier’s with cardboard signs that read "peel out" (Ummmmm I just waved because my car might break down if I try that! 😬).  The point is much of the community came out and there are dances and events all night.

Krusin Classics

Escanaba and Gladstone are those towns that people just love! We have great events, excellent park, beach, music dancing, waterskiing, affordable private clubs and a tourist vibe. If you are an industrial capitalist, you can find some excellent businesses to invest in and if you are entrepreneurial there are affordable buildings downtown to launch your enterprise.

A couple of people asked if I was going to put my new "Gupster Gangsta Wagon" in the parade but since I just got it and am still working on it, I did not yet feel it was ready. (The name we are working on because it is meant to be fun and honor a very cool guy. So far the name seems leading. Alternative might be G-Man Gansta Wagon. 🤔) 

FYI the best place to sit in town is either Eagles with its patio and delicious broasted chicken or Cat-Man-Dos with their patio iconic locality.

Enjoy the pictures. :)

Pink Ladies

My Project Car: Automotive Restoration Market and Entrepreneurship

Think new paint job, 
get everything working, 
low rider hydraulics,
new landeau top,
halogen lights under car
bull horns on front. :)

Over the years I have restored a couple of cars. Some were simply maintained for driving and others more of a project. Once I did very well with a Porsche 944 and then someone ran into it and that beauty was totaled. My most recent project is a 1985 Buick Riviera I picked up off a friend for $1K. It got me thinking about the automotive restoration market. 

Luxury and Vitage Car Restoration Market

Older and luxury cars are in an upward swing market with a growth rate of over 11% from 2022 to 2030. Automotive Restoration Market. That growth means it could be one of those opportunities again for a start-up business downtown. A top-quality mechanic that wants to do custom restore work may find regional interest. Fun Run may be over but the restoration market will continue on!

Possible Downtown Opportunity

First, let me say when we talk of an auto mechanic downtown, we are not talking of a dirty yard with junk everywhere. Instead, let us think about boutique custom shop with everything inside the building. Entrance for custom cars from the alley and the Ludington Street widow display/sale of finished cars. 

Utilizing the same older buildings, theming it out so it looks 1920's in the front thereby adding to the overall decor. It is also a place where people walking down the street are going to stop and look at some of the unique vehicles.

There are a couple of older buildings of this size around for cheap. It was just an entrepreneurial thought. Passing...passing....quickly steal the idea...it's there....right in public...a free idea. You can search for a building, check zoning, online right now!😐 If not there, I'm sure there are other great places around.

My Hunker Junker

Picked up a car and took a mental note of what needed work. Door locks, window control, HVAC blower resistor, windshield pump, and muffler. Painting needs to be redone, new landeau top will need to be installed and muffler work. 

The car was between fair and just under average condition but considering I could drive that $1K car around in the winter and save the miles and salt on my other car I thought it was overall a good choice. The worst case is I resell it for $1k to a kid down the street. If I fix it up and sell it for more or just keep it...that is all great!

It didn't take but a few days to fix the washer pump, muffler, order a window switch and the HVAC resistor (Window switch change didn't work but I realized after playing with it long enough it was lose so I tightened the component in the back and whalla! All the windows work well!).  Yep....hunker junker!

Veteran Household Demographics in America

 A display on the veteran household demographics in America.  The original Rand Display. This is part of a something I'm working on but I thought you might enjoy.

The Importance of Understanding and Supporting Judicial Integrity (Hypothetical Thought Experiment)

It is important to further understand what is the highest functioning systems a society can create through positive and negative feedback that fosters a supported moral order (Devil's Advocate). We have been using a hypothetical thought experiment about corruption that ran unchecked for years and some of the damage it can cause when appropriate checks-and-balances are not present. In order to reverse trends of declining trust there are some things we can do, but we should first understand the key aspects of underlining mechanisms of hate and corruption (comingled factors that lead to effective lawlessness on an actualized level). The longer term impact on economic and social development can be profound if fundamentals of human exchange from an institutional perspective are wobly or not supported.

(In our example there was declining population and poor economic peformance. Detroit was a similar example until corruption was challenged. There are microtransactions that can be studied for patterns and those can lead to understanding wider distorted processes. Likewise, such microtransactions can be used to frame economics and possibly improve economic resilience through alignment of systems to enhance performance. Theoretically anyway.).

The Example:

The hypothetical philosophical example for learning purposes highlights how someone wanted something, spread hate based rumors, utilized their employment and personal networks, etc. to obtain wealth and damage others. Some of the poor behaviors contained social motivations (the ego), some through deep hate (intentional dehumanization), some through mental health (dark triad traits), and some through corruption (unfair protections and preferences in the courts). Because of there were close affiliations with a number of tainted officials (not representing the vast majority) some likewise engaged in extreme aggression to cleanse/force out what they saw as not "local" (...local more focused on ethnocentric in-group and not on locality or longevity. i.e. Native Americans and others not seen as "local" despite predating European settlement.). 

Whisteblowers came forward and were quickly retaliated against, children and the sick put at risk, vets mistreated, reports of sexual exploitation (of age and underage), lost money, nepotism, etc. and some court officials aware of some of the misbehaviors (Similar indicents occured in the deep South where the courts became tools for harming others. i.e. land grabs. In this example there was wider knowledge of misbehaviors.). The justice system initially failed the community because of a distorted lens that could not shake their bigotries or single vantage point perspectives. The victims intentionally had fundamental rights invalidated and general disdain toward correcting issues that were at their root inappropriate, dangerous and illegal (Possibly indicating the court struggled with understanding their purpose as an institution. Religion, social networks, race, locality, etc. should not cloud judgement.), willingly dehumanized others and put into a second class citizenship status (two different worlds of life). One person is one person but many people indicates structural and cultural concerns (i.e. organizational culture).

(Keep in mind this is a learning example so take with a grain of salt. It is meant to get you to think and one of the ways to do that is to delve into the emotions that come with wrongdoing because they are encoded neurologically through these biological mechanisms. Most people would have a natural avoidance of the risks of uncertainty that comes through wrongdoing or violating social contracts so this is a good place to think about perceptions and  normalization of corruption and hate. At some point emotion and logic will be tied together to be parsimonious. Emotions, Learning, Memory, Logic)

The Moral and Legal Failures:

Remember, that nations are built on certain principles but not all people believe in those principles as much as they should or could (the people who disbelieve can wrap themselves in all types of outward socially attracting symbolic displays they want but can still be prone to failing when they are most needed.). True patriots stand for oaths and they do so at great personal risks so they can fulfill their promises (...even when many others sold out national values quickly.). Some of us may know there is a Constitution but have not yet read it. Perhaps we are aware of the sacrifices of so many of our fathers and mothers (ancestors) before us but believe the benefits applies to only us, whatever our kind may be, or our perceptions (even if with extreme arrogance that harms others). Now imagine there are no backstops and nothing else within the system to uphold the law. It was well known that misbehaviors occured, coaching perpetrators how to do the most harm, conflicts of interest, protection of misbehaviors and a mockery of the purpose of law. The biggest crimes not by petty theives but well polished tainted officials who invalidated generations of values to help their friends and ethnocentric misperceptions (It's just an example, there are other lawful mechanisms for tackling a corrupted network but they do not always function fully.).

The Long Term Consequences:

The long term consequences to trust are profound as people become aware of the mistreatment of some and the enrichment of others in clan influenced and seemingly closed system courts (It is an example but its wider applicability is still unknown.). In our learning example, it was found that not only were major rights violated but that whistleblowers were reasonably accurate and those who we pay to protect society failed to protect current and future victims (not representing the majority). In any organization one must walk the talk and that is no different for systems as well. Their ultimate stakeholder are the general will of the people but sometimes other factors get involved and the pressures and perceptions of the time create new stakeholders (i.e. the clan, or a party, or an ethnocentric perception). Trust in Courts Declines

Things We Can Do:

First, because people manage these systems we should not be electing judges and people in positions of authority on social networks, ideologies, race/religion or politics. Enhancing the system and strengthening it requires thoughtful insight that may not come from those socialized within a particular field, associate with those who can financially afford to go into those fields, and sometimes view the world the social and professional len's they have built over a lifetime (fish in fish bowl concept. Benefits of Interdisciplinary Research) Judges should be elected on merit and their ability to interpret the laws as applied to all citizens of equal values (Law is an instrument but Philosophy should be the guide). When they hold extreme bias and have provided years of blind eye protections to criminal elements due to social connections and misperceptions of "local" then we have an issue (i.e. like a review of all cases indicate clear bias in outcomes.). Second, let us consider more formal checks and balances when issues arise where corruption and bias seem to be present so as to review decisions. That would include investigations into consistent poor outcomes or systemic mistreatment of non-locals. Third, when we think abound our systems and their trust level we should seek to improve where we can in order to maintain the root trust society needs succeed in the long run (No real way of faking it. History is a cycle and society works on adaptive patterns. We adapt to environmental change and we thrive and if we do not we begin to decline. Simple enough concept repeated over and over in the history books.). There are clear differences between those who believe and those game our beliefs and giving benefit to the later could be a foreshadowing of the possibilities to come. The technicalities and misapplication/gamemanship of law being seen as more important than their purpose. Furthering community and national development is important.
 

A Few Resources:

Research and Reduction in Corruption 

Courts Corruption and Independence

UN Corruption and Human Rights

US Courts Preserving Public Trust

The Positives:

As with all hypthetical thought experience what we have learned is also important. We are going to write in a positive end but let us start looking at the positive things. 

-Greater awareness of how systems can be easily misused when individuals and/or groups engage in corruption. 

-First assumptions are rarely beneficial unless given some logical reflection

-Looking through various perspectives leads to geater insight into the totality of a problem. 

-Begrudgingly the system begins to adjust due to necessity creating positive change and potentially reversing the trends of declining trust. 

-Corruption seems to have an impact on overall social and economic health. There appears to be an association between challenging/removing corruption and increased community engagement, economic performance, and social development. This could be a sign that creating efficiency, effectiveness and moral purpose can be aligned. 

*This is a hypothetical philosophical learning example designed to explore how hate and corruption can impact economic and social outcomes. The connection between corruption and mismanagement is clear but also should look at safeguard against corruption by looking at some of the potential causes and how that corruption may function. Since this is a learning example for discussion purposes feel free to leave a comment. We will write a positive ending so don't take anything as definitive by nature. Where education and awareness arise, there is often improvement in systems; except in the worst situation and that is a choice.

Global Golf Club Industry Increases: Small Business Opportunities

Who doesn't love golf (There are a few out there.)? Small towns often think of ways to revitalize their downtowns and one of the best ways to do that is through small business. For example, one might wonder if a small custom golf club shop would do well in a small town like Escanaba?

Considering that golf clubs can be a custom boutique store with high exportability and reasonable profit margin it makes sense to have a workshop and small storefront. There are probably other opportunities for similar custom type businesses that with luck could grow into bigger operations. You have to start somewhere!

First, let us discuss the golf club industry. According to Golf Club Global Market Report golf club industry was $7.76 billion in 2024 and increased to $8.02 billion in 2025 increasing 3.4%. One might interpret this as an industry that is still expanding.

We might also consider that custom shops create their own following so one doesn't need to compete with the big boys. Niche businesses often do well in entrepreneurial localities because of their low relative start-up costs and owner-operator creativity.  

Finding ways to attract small businesses through policy, grants, and other collaborative efforts can help. Getting the word out is half the battle!

(I know how to make mallets, but I suspect with composite metals it is a different process. I don't know much of how these are built but am now curious because I think I could make one for myself. Not really sure if I have the motivation.)

The Fire Science Innovations through Research and Education (FIRE) Program

Firefighter and firefighting research are important to improve fire suppression/avoidance and maximize human capital for the highest results. As budgets get smaller, qualifying firefighters more difficult and the nation switches to a more volunteer force (approximately 2/3rds) we find that research can help ease some of that burden. The US National Science Foundation offers opportunities for research support and funding. Research and Education (FIRE) The more information firefighter departments learn, the more effective they will become. 

To advance convergent research and education in wildland fire science, FIRE proposals should demonstrate strengths in one or more of the following areas (quoted):

(1) new advances in data collection, storage, and sharing relevant to wildland fire dynamics, including Earth observations;

(2) new modeling and computational approaches to understand wildland fire (including artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches);

(3) new understanding of the cross-scale interactions of wildland fire across local, regional and global extents;

(4) new insights into community adaptation and governance relevant to wildland fire;

(5) new approaches to reduce the vulnerability of built infrastructure, natural fuels, and social systems to wildland fire; and

(6) engagement of a variety of community members and stakeholders to promote a forward-looking approach to wildland fire science.

*This is part of a project on firefighting resources and encouragement of donations. If you are interested in donating to a great fire department send me a message to the right. Jaws, grass truck, fans, etc. Non-profit and tax deductible.

Delta County Board of Commissioners Meeting (5/20/2025): Engagement, Meetings, Attorneys, and Airport

Delta County continues to diligently move toward its goals through updating its path, obtaining records, adjusting processes to enhance financial outcomes, adjust contracts, and encourage high participation. What one may find interesting is that more people are engaged in local governance compared to most townships. That is the same for Escanaba and as far as my understanding allows Gladstone as well. That is a good sign that people are active citizens, and the area has begun to reap additional rewards.

Bullet Points:

-Subsidy for airport.

-More people wearing suits. Styling!

-Master Planning

-Meetings to be recorded and uploaded.

-Request for documents with cost for copying from county attorneys. Daily Press Delta County Attorney Woes (A very nice well written paper that is good for local advertising.)

-FOIA

-$175K money lost through PFC services contract. PFC account.

-Termination of contract

-Good things to come with the airport.

-High engagement more than other counties in survey feedback by the public. A sign that people are very interested and involved in local government.

 

Future Use of AI and Integration as a Decision-Making Tool: Academia and Business

The world has moved into a largely digital existence where infrastructure, innovation, and human capital are important considerations of growth. AI can be a useful tool in business and therefore should be encouraged in training/education in a way that enhances productivity but also makes sure people don't fall into the trap of not exploring information beyond AI generated answers (A type of group think).

As more people rely on AI, the more we must learn about it. AI is expected to increase productivity $4.4 trillion and 92% of companies plan on using AI in the workplace over the next 5 years. The report by McKinsey Digital offers information on the use of AI, its growth, what industries are using, etc Superagency in the workplace: Empowering people to unlock AI’s full potential

There are some benefits to AI in education/training and business. A metanalysis of 51 studies found that ChatGPT can be a benefit to learning when used well. One can use ChatGPT within their training/education because it is a growing tool used by business managers, leaders, and others to increase productivity.

The effect of ChatGPT on students’ learning performance, learning perception, and higher-order thinking: insights from a meta-analysis

The conversation would not be complete unless we discuss how information is framed through AI and search engines and lowers the variety of information generated. That means that new discoveries and groundbreaking innovation in decision making or science will require understanding AI and willfully seeking to expand knowledge beyond AI's presented/returned information.

Risks of AI Use in Decision Making

Tips for Use:

• AI can help brainstorm but may limit the total creative new discovery.
• AI is good for historical information and Internet searching. Use for first search strategies to understand a situation on a basic level.
• While AI provides a starting point it is important for people to do their own resources, writing their own knowledge, and citing sources appropriately.
• AI is likely to continue to grow so learning how to use it in education and business helps improve productivity.
• Beware that data pulled in specific ways may limit what is understood so ensure you are understanding the details, the alternatives, and some of the theoretical underpinnings.

Wang, J., Fan, W. The effect of ChatGPT on students’ learning performance, learning perception, and higher-order thinking: insights from a meta-analysis. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 12, 621 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-025-04787-y

Dew Drop Hosts Music Saturdays During the Summer

The Dew Drop Restaurant has been a must-stop destination in Gladstone for a long time. The summer months are finally here, and they have put together a music line up every Saturday from 6 to 9 pm. This is tourism season in the local area so you will find a broad selection of activities ranging from water skiing to hiking. The evening action also gets a little pep in their step. 

If you are familiar with Gladstone Michigan one can spend the day on the beach, in the park, and out fishing and then come back to grab a something to eat while listening to some music. 

Definately will order again!

Today I went with a friend and ordered a chicken ceasar salad. Sat around and listened to the tunes and watched the dancing (I was hoping to have them play at one of our local veterans clubs). 

The Dew Drop is also known for its really good food with casual dining. They are located in a very beautiful Gladstone downtown which focuses on boutique experiences. The brewery, coffee shop, new bar and pristine cleanliness makes it a good place for a getaway relaxing night out.

The Dew Drop Restaurant 

The Dew Drop Google Map

Rapid River Hosts Memorial Day Parade

Rapid River hosts the Memorial Day Parade Google Map Rapid River

Why Should Executives Learn to Write Well?

As one moves upward within an organization, they must learn to influence more people. Executives can't micromanage every finite aspect of an organization so they will naturally rely on others. This is where the concept of leadership comes forward through influence. The higher one moves, the better they need to be to influence groups of others through various communication skills. In the modern world much of our communication is going to be written. 

Forms of Writing in Executive Positions:

-Emails

-Memos

-Formal business letters

-Reports

-PowerPoints/Presentations

-Meeting minutes

-Notes

Why Leaders Should Add Writing To Their Leadership Toolkit In 2025

Remember and Honor Memorial Day Tribute

Memorial Day is the day to remember those who have gone before to preserve our freedoms today. We should not give up on those freedoms, manipulate those freedoms, or disregard those freedoms for convenience. Our future is based on our beliefs and actions today. True patriotism is around principles and values. The next time you pledge or make an oath ensure you understand the deeper meaning of the words.