Short Spurts of 10 Minutes Work Outs at The Office Can Help

Representing fitness at work.

Tod thought about
starting his dance keyboard
business on Ludington Street in
Escanaba. 

His invention is that you jump
on your keys while working 
and working out

Work-life balance in the
same space.

Next up trash can
curls........

When you have a job and a full list of responsibilities, it can be hard to make it to the gym consistently. I know this firsthand—I go through fitness cycles: I’ll get in great shape over a year, let it slide over a few months, then start all over again. One thing I’ve learned is that consistency matters more than perfection. Going to the gym can also be very time-consuming, and it’s not always realistic to expect people to fit in long workouts.

That’s why many people try to squeeze in exercise during lunch breaks or whenever they can find a few spare minutes. The good news is that short workouts—around 10 minutes—can still provide significant benefits. In some cases, they may even support better overall growth and development than infrequent longer sessions.

This is especially encouraging for those of us with regular jobs who work in offices or from home. Even without weights or equipment, stepping away from your chair for brief periods can be used for core work, yoga, self-defense drills, fencing, or any number of other activities—as long as you get your heart rate up.

Take a look at the report below and consider the benefits of workouts that last just 10 minutes. If you’d like help designing a simple routine or just need a little motivation, feel free to reach out with a message to the right. I have a fitness trainer, yoga trainer and have been involved in sports for much of my life, so I’m happy to share what I’ve learned.

10 Minute Workout Research

The American Job Market November 2025: Don't Quit Your Day Job!

Isaac understands the fluctuating 
nature of employment
so he is thinking of taking some 
classes, starting his side hustle,
and creating more opportunities
just in case. 

Isaac can make wood furniture, duck decoys,
farm, fishing, hunting guide, 
handy man, fishing poles,
so on and so forth. 

Growth in lower income and middle
income isn't keeping up with
the wealthy ranks. More
will need to be done.

The American job market appears relatively soft and continues to undergo adjustments and changes. This serves as a reminder that nothing is perfectly stable—conditions are often in flux. As a result, there will always be periods of transition, and as a society, we should prepare as best we can by continuously developing our skills and abilities. This is one of the reasons I’m an advocate for small businesses, side ventures, higher education/knowledge and personal development.

The report indicated that the United States shed 105,000 jobs in October and added 64,000. Job gains were seen in healthcare and social assistance, private education and health services, goods-producing industries, and construction. Declines occurred in leisure and hospitality, as well as transportation and warehousing (The undercurrrents).

The unemployment rate rose to 4.6% in November.

Staying up-to-date on your skills, exploring fields with positive growth trends, and finding ways to reduce expenses or increase income are all important strategies. While this may feel challenging—and while rapid technological adoption will likely bring further market changes—it’s difficult to know exactly where these shifts will ultimately land. However, by continuing to learn about emerging technologies and their impact on your industry, you can position yourself to be far better prepared for whatever comes next.

As always encourage the highest regard and decisions that lead to broader social and economic development.

December 16th, 2025 BEA Employment

Employment Situation Summary Table B. Establishment data, seasonally adjusted

It's a Wonderful Life Radio Casting (Free for the Community)

Recently, I was cast in It’s a Wonderful Life, a live radio show being performed for members of our community. The event is free to attend.

I’ll be playing the Head Angel, which should be especially fun.

This is a live reading with a fully cast ensemble, so it’s truly an honor to be part of the production. Fine arts play a meaningful role in how many of us live and connect in our community.

Come on down to enjoy the show—and if you’re able, please consider donating to support the theater.

Players de Noc December 19th, 2025 It's a Wonderful Life

Things You Didn't Know About It's a Wonderful Life

Guardians of the Guardians: Sacred Values in an Imperfect World

The Story of the Clan is a learning narrative—a thought experiment that asks what happens when justice trips and falls in the mud. In this story, initially there is no meaningful correction, no accountability, and no protection for victims. Corruption was not hidden; and was openly known and long tolerated. It survived because it was wrapped in clan loyalty, group advantage, and the quiet agreement to look the other way. It is also a story of triumph and realignment to a truer north star.

Representing a modern
philosopher discussing
how good people are
the guardians of guardians.

If you read history and philosophy
you will come to understand that 
certain values are sacred and 
central to symbolic processing
and cultural perceptions. They
influence societal trajectory.

Be good to each other, think about who
you support, and encourage
the highest standards of those
we place in entrusted positions.

We have responsibilities
beyond ourselves and 
personal gain.

The harm done in such a system cannot be measured in full. Lives are altered, trust is broken, and communities slowly weaken. Yet even in this dark setting, there is a turning point. Ethical officials, law enforcement officers, ordinary citizens, and victims themselves eventually begin to push back. Much of the corruption is exposed and overturned—though never entirely erased. What made it so difficult to confront was not just power, but bias: a deep discomfort with people seen as “outside” the in-group.

The lesson is a familiar one. Corruption carries a heavy social cost, and its effects linger long after the acts themselves. When sacred values are treated as optional, decision-making narrows. People of integrity and competence are pushed aside, replaced by those who are connected, loyal, or convenient. The same institutions draw public concern year after year, and yet real change is delayed, often because indifference feels easier than reform. Natural adaptation restricted by ideological overendulgence.

Corruption persists where checks-and-balances are weak or non-existent. Those who exploit systems know exactly when rules will not be enforced and when accountability is unlikely. In those moments, they act freely—creating victims, silencing dissent, gagging discussion, retaliating against whistleblowers and punishing those who defend principles that earlier generations strove to establish. Rights and responsibilities fade into the background. Decline follows. Growth returns only when people decide the cost of silence is too high.

This is not an ideal world—and neither is ours. We are imperfect people living in imperfect choices with imperfect factors (Perfection is a goal that can never truly be found but should be sought.) Still, history offers a clear pattern: when corrupted officials drift away from the purpose of their social contracts, economic and social decay follow. When corruption is confronted—when it is named, challenged, and corrected—growth tends to return. That growth spreads more evenly, strengthening communities rather than concentrating power within favored groups.

This is why integrity matters so deeply in public service. Courts, officials, and all who hold authority carry a responsibility not just to rules, but to shared values. Responsibilities lie in the purpose of law and not just its technical gaming (Too many lawyers and and not enough philosophers). There will always be those who seek personal gain through manipulation, partisanship, or extremism. A healthy society does not eliminate these forces entirely—but it refuses to normalize them. 

We should not overlook those who show up every day and do the right thing. These are the citizens and officials who believe in something greater than themselves. The strength of a society depends on choosing the capable over the connected, the principled over the partisan. Progress is built through habit—through repeated, ordinary acts of responsibility—not through chance. History reminds us that wise leadership can open periods of growth, dignity, and shared advancement.

As you reflect on this story and the study that follows, consider how corruption is ultimately weakened—not just by laws, but by a higher moral order/conscious. Each of us has a role in protecting the values that hold communities together. Small actions matter. How we treat one another, how we speak up, and how we participate are real measures of civic character. Your vote matters. It helps shape a system where people, promises, and contracts carry more weight than clans, bands and parties.

Every generation inherits unfinished work. Those before us carried the load as far as they could, and now it is ours. We may have moved the ball only a distance, and the next generation will face challenges of its own. Perhaps our responsibility is to leave them stronger institutions and clearer defined values that will put them in the best strategic place. There will always be those who try to bend aspects of systems for personal gain. Pro-social acts can be as small as helping out a neighbor and donating to some good cause. Many times it is as simple as a smile and a little understanding that fosters good will. Thoughtful people are guardians of guardians so think about what is most important.

This piece is interesting,

Social evolution leads to persistent corruption

*This is a philosophical thought experiment so take with a grain of salt and feel free to debate, disagree, or change the factors.

Art You Can Afford, Critique, or Spill Coffee On (Navigating a Positive Day)

 

Omar realizes
that if his art
is going to sell
it has to be unique in 
some way.
Stick figures might
not sell well.

Another art piece has emerged from the gallery and is now available for the modest sum of $40 on Etsy—or a bargain-basement $35 if you message me directly or use PayPal. As we all know, art is never really worth anything until it suddenly is, which explains why most artists are poor and most people who buy and sell art are mysteriously very confident.

This piece could make a wonderful gift for a relative you don’t particularly care for, or it might serve beautifully as a coffee coaster with an attitude. Either way, it’s versatile and it might resonate with you.

You might also choose to reflect on the brightness of each moment and ponder the navigation of a positive day (I thought that would appeal to the people who like good kharma, do yoga and buy art.). I realize that sounds like an in-depth critical analysis of what is, at its core, a time-based doodle. But if you’re seeking profound insight, consider this: if you wake up each day and think one positive thought—about yourself, the people around you, or something you appreciate—it tends to set the tone for everything that follows.

And while I don’t sell much art, here and there I’m grateful for the people who pause, smirk just a little, and briefly imagine taking this masterpiece home—placing it squarely in the living room where all guests are forced to admire it. A shining example of impressionist art that only those who “get Picasso” will truly understand the likeness.

Ha! 😄

Navigating a Positive Day Lighthouse Acrylic Painting

Glassdoor Report Highlights Worklife Trends 2026: Leadership, Forever Layoffs, and New Talent

According to economic research published by Glassdoor on employee work-life trends, several key points stood out. First, employees report feeling disconnected from leadership. Second, forever layoffs appear to be on the rise. Third, new graduates are generally being paid at a reasonable level. There are additional trends in the report, but those are best explored by reading it directly.

When your appreciated
enough to be layed off in 
little bunches! 🎕

It is the little things that
count! 💖🤗

Keep your CV up-to-date and 
keep learning. Consider
a side gig as well. 
You just never know and 
it is better to be prepared as 
much as possible. 
Been there before!

Leadership plays a critical role in guiding organizations, and there may be a broader trend in the survey's of general distrust. To know this more clearly one would need to pay attention to other surveys on trust in society, social trust, trust of institutions, trust of authority, etc. and just look for general similar trends. It may lead to more questions but you can see if this is isolated to workplace or has other factors involved.

There has also been an increase in layoffs, though so far it resembles a slow drip rather than a sudden wave. These have been dubbed "Forever Layoffs". Tracking this trend can help determine whether it reflects a natural recycling of jobs—where certain roles decline while others grow—or something related to the general economy. This is why it’s important to consider hiring trends alongside overall employment numbers.

Finally, the fact that graduates are finding jobs is an encouraging sign. A healthy economy needs fresh minds and new ideas entering the workforce. If we want to build strong human capital, putting these individuals to work modernizing and improving industries is essential. While it typically takes a few years for new graduates to gain enough experience to meaningfully influence their environments, their entry into the market is a positive step forward.

Glass Door Report Worklife 2026 Report

Firefighters Serving Their Community One Cold Candy Cane at a Time (The Requirements of Becoming a Firefighter)

We recently held a Candy Cane Drive where fire trucks drove around town collecting food for those in need (Donated to a local organization). Events like this not only support the homeless and food-insecure in our community, but also help raise awareness about firefighting and the positive role people play in keeping their communities safe. It also gives families a fun opportunity to come outside, see the trucks, and even watch them as they roll down the street with lights flashing honking their horns.

Representing a firefighter
handing out candy.

Joel noticed
a reindeer has been
eyeing this candy cane for
the last 2 miles! Since reindeer
don't have canned food
he figured he might just
let him have this one
on the house. 

At Gladstone Christmas
Tree lighting a few weeks ago
 Joel ate the reindeer kibble 
that Dew Drop handing out
 instead of giving it
to the reindeer.  😬
He thought about actually
giving the reindeer some
but it was so darn 
good!


Small Northern Towns Survival Tip:
 Never eat all the
reindeer's candy kibble. 

Walking miles in turnout gear may not sound like fun to everyone, but for those of us who love our communities and enjoy staying in decent shape, it’s right up our alley. The temperature was around 14 degrees F that evening, and after spending much of the day downhill skiing, I was just about thawed out on my drive back from Marquette Mountain when I pulled into the station—just in time as the trucks were heading out.

This year’s turnout seemed especially strong. People truly enjoy coming out, getting their candy cane, and donating food. In the end, what matters most are the small things we do for one another and the kindness we share. With costs rising and many people not earning more, efforts like this make a real difference. That kind of impact can’t be bought or sold. It doesn't come in bitcoin form. It is the real stuff human-to-human interaction. People helping each other.

Walking in temperatures around 13–14 degrees Fahrenheit does require physical stamina, and firefighting in general calls for a reasonable level of fitness. As firefighters get older, there are opportunities to take on roles such as driving and managing trucks or pumps. Still, hauling equipment and keeping pace with the crew means you’ll feel that cold air in your lungs no matter the age (When you can keep up with the young whipersnapers, age is only an arbitrary number. ha ha! I almost believed it for a second. 😏).

There are certain criteria for becoming a firefighter, and being in good physical shape is one of them. So keep hitting the gym and try to avoid too many heavy carbs. I hold a fitness trainer’s license, so if anyone is interested, feel free to send me a message. There are other requirements as well, which you can learn more about in the video below. One of the most important criteria, though, is simply showing up and helping out consistently.

We are trying to buy new equipment so if you have a few personal or corporate dollars you would like to give as a tax free donation let me know and I will point you in the right direction. 

Holiday Spending Up According to Naitional Retail Federation: Rethinking Holiday Spending and Its Economic Impact (Small Business)

Holidays tend to drive increased consumer spending, which can have a significant impact on the economy. For many companies—especially small businesses—the holiday season can determine whether they finish the year in the black or the red, since they often operate on very thin profit margins.

I encourage people to buy as much as they reasonably can from small businesses that create and sell their own products. Supporting small businesses strengthens our communities and helps foster the next generation of entrepreneurs. Research consistently shows that innovation and small businesses are closely linked, making this support beneficial to society as a whole.

A healthy economy also depends on balance—between large, medium, and small businesses. When the economy becomes too top-heavy, the playing field is distorted and competition suffers. On the other hand, if businesses are too small, they may lack the efficiencies needed to compete globally. Balance allows the economy to move through normal boom-and-bust cycles that ultimately drive long-term growth.

This holiday season, as you consider your spending habits, it’s worth noting that much of the increase appears tied to things such as sporting goods, clothing, digital products, and groceries. From November 1 to December 31, consumer spending reportedly rose by about 3.7% to 4.2% compared to 2024, with total spending exceeding one trillion dollars. Trend charts and spending breakdowns help put this growth into perspective.

As for me, I plan to be more selective about what I buy this year—focusing on purchases that genuinely enhance life and enjoyment, rather than simply trying to keep up with the Joneses. My Christmas gifts were already bought. However, from a metric standpoint this is a positive sign. I'm curious how much is going on credit card and how much comes from savings?

National Retail Federation November

Escanaba City Council Meeting(December 04, 2025): Railroad Ties, Low-Fat Chip Seal, Storm Water and Job Opening

Jared thinks good things are happening. 
Now he knows what happens
to all those chips that make it
past his beard and fall
on the ground. They seal the roads! 
It also explains why the roads
have so much salt on them
in the winter. :)

The city invested in its water systems
and there are new opportunities 
for entrepreneurs downtown.

The organic gluten free low 
carb chip road should be patented.
Innovation!

Watching towns grow and develop opens our minds to how these processes work and how people support their communities. As we observe this, we begin to realize that change is constant, yet it often continues moving in a constructive direction. We can see similar momentum at the county level, where leaders and residents are starting to shape a shared vision. While that vision may not be fully defined, there is a growing awareness of how individual choices affect one another, along with plenty of opportunity for stronger economic coordination.

Below are a few bullet points and an agenda for those who would like to dig deeper. Providing these agendas is important because it allows residents to access the same information city leaders use when making decisions.

We’ve also seen examples of people proposing new ideas—finding ways to save on road costs, rethinking development strategies, bringing businesses back to downtown, and showcasing community events, among others. Not all of these topics are covered in this particular meeting, but if you watch the meetings over time, clear themes begin to emerge, along with a better sense of the city’s direction and long-term vision.

I’ve included a few additional resources below that I found interesting while browsing online this morning over my daily cup of coffee. You can also read more about many of these ideas in our local favorite, The Daily Press (Also a good place to advertise. I got the electronic version for pretty cheap.).

December 4th, 2025 Agenda

-Some discussion on saving money through chip seal.

-Railroad tie processing location. 

-Electric Rates and solar pannels. 

-Storm and wastewater improvement.

-City Manager stepping down. He did a really good job so far and it would have been nice to keep him.

It’s worth considering whether these resources offer any real advantages. Sometimes they do, and sometimes they may not.

That said, our town already has much of what many industries look for, including a skilled workforce, a community college, a port, strong quality of life, reliable roads and rail, high-speed internet, a hospital, and—most importantly—great people who take pride in taking care of their community.

MEDC-Strategic Sites: Looks like you can list available industry sites.

Opportunity Zones: Looks like it has focus on development. A cluster could be a similar concept but very focused on building anchor industries that can influence the rest of the environment as it ramps up creating market resilience, adaptability, and higher market value.

Michigan Main Street: Looks like a framework for developing downtowns.

It Was a Dark Foggy Night: A photo and the global art market 2025!

The sunny day
border is not with the
picture but I used it 
here to show contrast.

I added this foggy bay photo to my gallery. If you happen to see it and think, “Yes, my living room needs a strong sense of impending mystery,” feel free to message me to the right. I can probably get you a full-resolution, poster-size print for around $35—because art should be affordable (or it is not that good).

I do photography and art mostly for fun and as an excuse to wander outdoors pretend I have done this many times before. These days, of course, magazines and newspapers can just generate images online without paying anyone, so the dream of being discovered and wildly overpaid remains safely hypothetical. Still, the art world seems to be doing just fine—strangely without my involvement.

This photo features a foggy bay and marina at night. It’s moody, eerie, and looks like the exact place where a insightful person would pause and question their life choices. I thought it was interesting enough to include in the gallery, so feel free to browse at your leisure and judge quietly. It seems my humor and sense of art is a little wry.

Foggy Sailing Harbor Photo

The Walking Path Gallery

Global Art Market 2025

How Philosophy Can Explore the Possibilities of 3rd Parties and Positive Reform?

We might explore the concept of partisanship and its impact on decision-making. Water cooler conversations that one can pick up on by listening to people hopes, fears and grievances. Many feel their concerns don't matter and no one is listening to what the everyday person needs (You have to make your own opinion here). Given the strong narratives that both major parties promote, it’s reasonable to wonder whether a third party could help ease gridlock and refocus attention on the needs of the average person. Maybe a good idea or maybe a bad idea....

Representing
the possibilities
of new ideas. 

A story can sometimes help highlight how positive change can help. The hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment titled The Story of the Clan was created to examine a worst-case scenario of justice failure due to extreme political views. In that scenario, decision-makers were trapped within partisan narratives and lost sight of what truly mattered to everyday people (Society builds institutions to ensure the protection of certain universal values.) Although the situation was eventually corrected, partisanship clearly influenced the outcome—something a “true north” moral compass would not have allowed.

The hypothetical Feather Party is another discussion tool, meant to conceptualize the idea of electing more independent thinkers who share a loose affiliation around core principles: scientific reasoning, ethical standards, foundational values, and a commitment to the next generation. One might wonder if that would encourage positive upward change. Membership in such a party wouldn’t require loyalty pledges or rigid voting blocks—only a commitment to vote based on principles. This approach might reduce the influence of straight-party voting and improve the quality of decision-making (Always seek to to be the best one can be when deciding issues for lots of people.).

There’s no right or wrong answer here, and the party is purely theoretical. But it raises the question: could such a model work? Or would it create new problems? Perhaps it could have both positive and negative effects on governance.

I thought the piece below was interesting and relevant to this discussion.

Corruption and Political Will

Oct. 2025 Hiring and Labor Turnover Report (John Decides to Custom Cut His Firewood)

John realizes he can't compete
with large corporations that 
others have argued obtain benefits
that small businesses won't have
because of proximity and campaign
contributions.
 Understanding his 
environment he decides to 
connect more with his
customers and business owners
to provide more customization.
He can compete by providing
much better service and truly
listening to customer needs.

Local gas stations
want one type and size,
people who use wood boilers have another,
fireplace has another, customers at
the Escanaba farmer's market
have their requests,
 and those who cook/smoke fish with
wood have still another.

Heck! Even Tom the Wood Widdler just 
past the Ford River Bridge has
his special requests! That is
way out there!

He knows
his wood and he knows his customers.
Through a survey he created
he learned that customers would
pay more for him to deliver.

Strategically he increased
his delivery capacity 
by sharing a mule with 
his small farmer neighbor.
Now he doesn't have to haul
his cart up hill both ways
like they did in the old days. 😏

Profits up 15%!

John learned by 
reading about economics 
and the global lumber market!

The more we understand our economic environment, the better decisions we can make for our businesses or the departments under our care. Reviewing hiring and separation trends across industries helps us see the fluidity and shifts taking place. Each metric captures only a small part of the picture, so the more we read, learn, and interpret, the better positioned we are to guide organizations toward long-term success. 

Looking at the numbers below, they seem fairly lukewarm—nothing particularly strong or weak. Low hiring paired with high discharges can signal a declining industry, while high hiring and low discharges may indicate growth and stronger talent retention. Overall, the current figures appear relatively neutral.

October 2025 Job Openings and Turnover

It’s important to consider which industries are expanding or contracting over the long term to understand broader adjustments. Natural fluctuations occur from month to month, so single data points rarely tell a complete story. Observing multi-month trends, along with staying informed about relevant news and events, provides a more holistic understanding of the market.

As we analyze industry changes, broader market shifts often begin to emerge. Always remember that any one metric is limited unless viewed alongside others. Metrics are imperfect—they don’t capture every nuance of the economy and rely on certain assumptions. That’s why sound judgment and strategic thinking remain essential in any major decision.

A few things I noticed:

• Mining and logging: Hiring and separations remain about the same.

• Manufacturing: Hiring is slightly down, and separations are also slightly down.

• Transportation, warehousing, and utilities: Hiring is up while separations are down.

• Federal government: Hiring is flat, and separations are down.

• Construction: Hiring is down, and separations are down.

How would you interpret the findings? Economists are often wrong so it is ok to be wrong. I see at the moment stability, low growth, with some shifting underlining trends. I'm not calculating or data crunching but just sort of putting my finger in the air to see which way it is blowing. To make a much more accurate spit ball projection would require a lot of digging and work so that isn't on my list in the next 15 minutes. 

Table A. Job openings, hires, and total separations by industry, seasonally adjusted

The Community Bartender: Cheers to lending an ear with a beer! (Listening as a Customer Service Skill!)

 From time to time, I jump behind the bar and volunteer at a couple of our local social and veterans’ clubs. It’s a lot of work, sure, but it’s also pretty enjoyable—mostly because you get to know the regulars and see firsthand how important these gathering places are for the community. The sense of being that people created when they come together for good causes and conversation.

Now, I don’t pretend to be the world’s greatest bartender. If you order something super fancy, I’ll probably break into a light sweat, glance at you like you just asked me to solve a physics equation, and then casually pull out my phone to Google the recipe like every responsible mixologist of the YouTube era.

I’ve also decided that drinks say a lot about personality. You’ve got your casual beer drinkers, your loyal whiskey folks, and then your martini sippers—who always look like they know something the rest of us don’t.

I got a couple of nice
gifts from the 
other barteners. 
During the holidays
it is the little 
gifts that count the most.

I must be doing something right, because they keep calling me back. Then again, it’s volunteer work, so the my skill level might be a little lower than at, say, a five-star resort. But I’ve learned that good conversation carries you a long way. Where I lack in cocktail wizardry, I make up for in human connection.

Everyone has a story, and everyone lives by their own themes. If you listen, smile, and ask a few questions, people will happily tell you what matters most to them. I’ve met some truly great people while bartending—proof that community knows how to create its own best members. Yes you must opt in to conversations.

In the end, bartending has taught me that sometimes all you need is a few minutes, a listening ear, and maybe a slightly lopsided drink to practice humble leadership. Cheers to lending an ear witha a beer!

I thought this study was a little interesting as it discussions bartending and how word of mouth is so important. If you are into business think of WOM as soft marketing that reaches further than traditional marketing. If my buddy tells me it is good, then it must be good! Please don't drop the peanut shells on the floor. Thank you.

Bartending Skills In Creating Customer Experience

From Military Drills to Game-Day Thrills: The Army–Navy Showdown

The Army–Navy game is coming up, and someone sent me one of those hype videos—so naturally I had to go find the Army spoof too and post that one as well. These games are all about fun, friendly rivalry, and good old-fashioned bragging rights.

Believe it or not, football actually served a purpose in military history. Early versions of the game were basically strategy drills—kind of like chess, if chess involved shoulder pads and people getting launched into the dirt. Modern football evolved after the world wars, and if you're curious, you can read more about that below.

Either way, sports are a great way to stay in shape and stay social. You don’t have to play football—there are plenty of options that don’t involve getting flattened—but you can always watch it from the safety of your couch.

And while I respect both branches, I’ll admit I’ve got a little more experience with the Navy… which probably explains why I’m better at navigating buffets than blitzes.

You can read War Football History

Rebuilding Trust: A Philosophical Look at Corruption and Collective Progress

Taking a holistic view of development means creating opportunities where none previously existed. When we look at society as an interconnected system, we see that business activity and social life together shape economic outcomes (Research works off simple measurements/metrics and thus complex relationships are a little harder to measure well. That doesn't mean those connections aren't there and can't be actually measured. The long tail of choices and outcomes. Sorry I digress....) Underlying any economy are core values and assumptions about how people should interact. Some of these values are almost sacred, and when they are intentionally violated, the effects on economic and social development can be significant. That is why a mistake can be improved upon but intentional mistakes fall into a much darker category. They can reach into dehumanization.

Respresenting a philosopher

discussing the importance

of institutional integrity.

Two pieces that seem

sort of interesting. It is more

of a philosophical perspective

vs. a religious one.

"Why do you look at the speck

of sawdust in your brother's eye

and pay no attention to the

plank in your own eye?" (Matthew 7:3)

Judges who alterned their

judgements should

pay a fine and be removed

Law § 5 of the Code of Hammurabi

To explore this, we’ve been using a philosophical, hypothetical thought experiment called The Story of the Clan. In this scenario, an inner group of actors in official and unofficial positions engaged in various forms of misconduct. Their decisions were influenced by self-interest, prejudice, personal gain, and other destructive “isms.” In protecting their own interests, they caused harm and shielded that harm using a clan-based court riff with conflicts of interests. For the sake of the thought experiment, we assume clear judicial misconduct—actions taken to financially reward poor behavior because of social ties and biased assumptions that have historically damaged society. Sometimes those behaviors are allowed to exist without checks and balances (It is not specific to any location.). There should be laws that govern intentional misconduct that are practical for preserving our legacies passed down to us from previous generations.

When misconduct occurs and goes uncorrected, it affects far more than the individuals involved (The more victims the more lasting damage to society. It's a number and impact issue that to see clearly you have to be able to watch its influence over victims lives, social cringing and the lost human capital.😬 Short sighted thinkers shortchange future generations.). It undermines the daily micro-transactions and expectations that depend on shared values. Research consistently shows more often then not that where corruption is high, economic growth is low. Studies also indicate that corruption harms social development and erodes cohesion (Are they necessarily separate or are they part of the same broader metric that can be used highlight potential corruption?). The intent of a third world perspective was clear through the isms lens.

Yet in this story, there was a silver lining. Community members, officers, and officials eventually rallied around their core oaths and professional standards. Unsung heroes of our time. Where people have done that in general, we have often seen growth and development. It is a type of system where positive and detracting factors influence each other. Through these social and economic mechanisms, they helped the community move toward a renewed sense of trust and collective purpose. Society benefited and that also has an impact that is not always easy to measure with simple metrics. Voting one's conscious helps protect against other social contract violators getting back into positions where they can harm others. The higher the position the more important integrity and merit based skill becomes important.

Judicial corruption, however, is uniquely challenging. Systems often contain built-in protections, lack certain levels of transparency (sometimes a good idea sometimes not) and people operate within entrenched narratives (This often happens with too many highly educated/socialized perspectives on the gamemanship of law but not the philosopher's keen eye for a true north.). As a result, intentional wrongdoing can be left for victims to resolve on their own because doing so is easier—or more convenient (Is it really?). The same thinking that created the problem is then allowed to become the solution. Risks can remain if there isn't enough commitment or understanding of institutional purpose (We need more philosophers and theorists in society to balance out decision making. The dangers inherent if certain central liberties are trampled to appease wrongdoing.)

Encouraging decision-making that aligns with shared values is essential for rebuilding trust. In our learning example, the right thing was ultimately done, and trust increased. It serves as a reminder to those we entrust with authority that their decisions must reflect the values we hold in common. They work for the future of our society and the will of the people. Their roles come with the responsibilities of a higher moral conscious and commitment to society's needs over other special interests and considerations (We should care less about their political perversions/persuasions and more about their quality as individuals because that is what counts when choices require thoughtful consideration.). That is their role, their duty, their sacred oath. Society is by its nature an organism of which we all play a part and those we entrust with authority should be the best and brightest as defined by merit in alignment with our values and artifacts (Good idea or bad idea? No judgement!). 

This article really goes into depth on the topic so you can consider browsing it, 

Off the Record-Judiciary Conduct

Sustainable Fitness: Small Habits That Make a Big Difference (Fish and Fitness)

 

Most of us have 
a little ways to go to
look like this. :)
Stay committed!

Once I got a good look at myself after doing some dance routines and getting a tiny bit of spotlight, I decided it was time to get back into my fitness routine. Like many of you, I do really well for six or seven months, get into great shape, and then get a little loose with my eating and pack on a few pounds. The key is finding something sustainable over the long term—good eating habits and consistent workout habits.

How much you work out depends on your fitness goals. Wanting to be at top-performance levels is different from simply being in good shape, but both require mindful eating and fueling your body with nutrients that support both physical and mental health. Fish and shrimp are excellent options to incorporate into your meals.

Fish is relatively low in calories, high in protein, and helps you reach your daily protein goals. For example, if you’re around 200 pounds—maybe not in terrible shape but still trying to lose a little weight and build muscle—fish can be a great lean protein source. It also provides omega-3s, which support brain health.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been getting back to the gym and returning to my routine. According to the calculators, I need around 3,000 calories a day, including roughly 140–150 grams of protein. Fruits and vegetables also play an important role, so I like to mix them with lean meats and add a little spice to keep things interesting.

I’m a licensed fitness trainer and yoga instructor and have been involved in various sports and activities throughout my life. If you want some help, feel free to reach out—we can work together virtually. And if you’re feeling unsure of your skills or fitness level, don’t worry. We all start from the same "need to improve" place. Consistency and the right habits make all the difference.

Not bad approximately 200K 6 oz of shrimp and 40 grams of protein.

Shrimp Nutritional Facts

A study you may want to read, 

Dietary Potein and Muscle Mass

The Exit Interview: Mayor Mike Duggan (Detroit Economic Club)

Representing a person
staying informed and
learning about society.

It was meant 
to be a touch philosophical and
rhetorical.

I came across an interesting discussion hosted by the Detroit Economics Club. Since this blog focuses more on economics than politics, the aim isn’t to promote any particular candidate. Instead, it’s simply to encourage people to listen to all perspectives and make the decisions they believe are best for both society and themselves. I found the conversation noteworthy because it highlighted some of the economic challenges the city once faced.

In general, I’m not a fan of politics and rarely comment on it but it does influence policy and business so one should be aware of how they influence each other. Being informed and thinking about the issues of the day is part of each of our responsibilities. Informed Decision Making Politics 

The Nutcracker’s Impact: Community, Culture, and Connection (Marquette)

Getting your dance
groove on for the holidays.
Life should be fun!

Nutcracker season is in full swing, and theaters are showcasing one of their holiday favorites. We recently wrapped up the production in Marquette, and it turned out exceptionally well. It was a true community event supported by a mix of professional and non-professional dancers—college performers, dance instructors, seasoned professionals, and even some dedicated parents.

As a long-standing tradition, it remains a major hit in the area. When I checked ticket sales a few days before the show, nearly every seat was taken. For months, these dancers worked diligently on their routines while also supporting kids from several different studios. (I made a couple of small mistakes which is normal over the course of your parts but the directors said they didn't see them. The audience wouldn't have known.:))

There are many reasons to support dance and community events like this. On a personal level, dance improves fitness, coordination, neural development, balance, and helps build meaningful friendships. Sociologically, it enhances socialization and emotional intelligence for both children and adults.

Dance plays an essential role in society by telling stories and strengthening community bonds. Its culture carries expressions and traditions from one generation to the next. While some may see limited direct returns, dance reaches deeper than simple metrics of ROI—it shapes lives, creates opportunities, and fosters a sense of belonging.

As a certified fitness and yoga instructor, I see dance as an important component of a well-rounded fitness routine. The skills developed through dance can be applied across many disciplines I participate in, such as boxing, self-defense, horseback riding, and diving. What we learn in one area often enhances our abilities in many others.

I recently auditioned for two more shows so I will see how that turns out. This is good fun and I always liked the arts. One is a radio show and the other is a musical. 

(Yikes! I was standing in the background and a little movement in a news piece😬 Back on diet and fitness routine! :)

Research on Dance as Socio-Emotional Competence

Community Voices and Local Decisions: What Delta County Gets Right (Commissioner Meeting 12/02/2025)

Representing a person pondering 

the possibilities.

"Every community is an association

of some kind and every community

is established with a view 

to some good"

-Aristotle

Recently, I watched another Delta County Commissioners meeting and learned more about the challenges they are currently working through—issues involving legal counsel, FOIA requests, and the relocation of a few camping sites. Every organization encounters difficulties from time to time, and the ones arising here appear to be actively addressed and resolved by people genuinely committed to serving their community.

What I appreciate most is the candid way they discuss sensitive topics and how they work together while genuinely listening to public input. These matters are not necessarily financial problems or service gaps but reflect other important community concerns. To fully understand them, you really have to follow the meetings over time and observe how the story evolves.

I also came across a short piece about the importance of listening to communities and stakeholders. This wasn’t specific to the meeting or the county, but it reminded me of how critical it is—through surveys or other methods—to understand what residents need and think. From what I can see, the commissioners here make a meaningful effort to do just that. In a time when many people feel disconnected from their local governments, that does not seem to be the issue in this community.

Local Challenges and Community Engagement

Take a moment to watch the video and learn a little more about how our local governance works in practice.

The Lessons From One of a Nation's First Philosopher, Humanitarian and Warrior

 Let us continue exploring the most effective ways to maximize human capital in any society. Talent can emerge from any race, religion, political view, geography or background. Those who become the most successful—and most capable of elevating society—share certain values and beliefs that, when combined with skills, knowledge, and a receptive environment, can generate profound benefits for everyone. In contrast, hate and corruption create rigid barriers that shut out people who could otherwise contribute positively to collective success.

A philosopher discussing
the need to row together
to the same destination.

While we may have been born
and raised in little islands
of social self-understanding
we should be judged not on the
specific island but on the willingness
to row together toward a 
a shared destination.

To examine these ideas, consider a philosophical, theoretical, and hypothetical learning thought experiment that illustrates a worst-case scenario: a complete justice default rooted in hate and corruption. This scenario, often referred to as “the story of the clan,” shows how destructive behaviors can take hold when selfishness and bigotry are allowed to spread unchecked. In this narrative, corrupt actors used what became known as a “clan court” to enrich allies, amplify prejudice, and retaliate against whistleblowers and victims who reported wrongdoing.

Yet even within this bleak scenario, there is a silver lining. Good officials, ethical officers, and community members guided by genuine moral conscience and shared oaths stepped forward. They recognized that something sacred was being undermined and chose to stand for principles greater than themselves. Through their courage, they created opportunities where none existed and planted a higher vision for society—one with deep and lasting roots. They each saw where they needed to go and worked together to row in that direction.

We are not born in a vacuum. How we treat people determines whether we draw them in or push them away. Those who engage in aggressive behaviors, manipulation, or cruelty are rarely the individuals we want in leadership roles, as they often carry traits associated with the dark triad and worldview distortions that divide rather than unite communities.

When we take time to learn about people—their backgrounds, struggles, hopes, and humanity—we discover how much we share. Human life is sacred, and societies throughout history have recognized this by building foundational principles that apply to all, emphasizing shared values rather than superficial differences. When self-interest and disdain drive decision-making, chaos and victimization inevitably follow. The pattern noticeable.

I often reflect on influential figures in history, not because they were perfect, but because their insights can be profoundly instructive. Consider, for example, the words of George Washington and the perceptual shift required to launch a new nation grounded in shared ideals and social contracts. People fought for those values, and they apply as much to the governed as to those who govern. The very idea of being “indivisible” demands inclusivity, shared purpose, and a commitment to what strengthens us all.

In 1790 Newport George Washington stated to a Hebrew congregation, the country “gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.”. These are profound words for the time and become even more profound today and for our future. Over the holidays let us reflect on what we all have in common no matter our religion, race, politics, perception, and occupations. We are in this ship together, it is our ship and belongs to no one else, so let us start rowing like a team and continue on our journey as a united people toward our over the horizon ideals passed from generation to generation.