Clan or Constitution? The Choice of a Lifetime (Hypothetical Thought Experiment)

When people reflect on the importance of laws, they generally do so with the intention of building a better society. However, at times the spirit of the law can differ from its technical application—especially within closed, clan-based systems. It becomes easier to justify compromise when the victims are viewed as outsiders, whether by race, religion, politics, or any other distinction. What may seem like a minor deviation from fairness can actually mark a step toward clannism—a system of loyalty that undermines constitutional principles and broader societal values.

This thought experiment is intended to explore how hate and corruption can intertwine, distorting justice and creating victims in systems that lack appropriate checks and balances. In such environments, loyalty to one’s social groups often supersedes commitment to the true purpose of law. When poor decisions harm individuals, there is often little appetite to correct them—leaving injustices buried until they are rediscovered much later.

Those who believe in the higher purpose of institutions and laws advocate for fidelity to the social contract, emphasizing that legal principles are essential to a strong functioning society. Yet, without formal mechanisms to uphold integrity, such ideals can be dismissed as mere wishful thinking. Wise leaders understand the rationale behind laws and resist using distorted interpretations to justify the unjustifiable, especially when doing so contradicts foundational documents like the Constitution (or others).

In this example, perpetrators were allegedly coached to inflict maximum harm and were granted immunity before engaging in misbehaviors. Despite the known corrosive effects of corruption through employment and social networks, there was greater concern for protecting friends, clan members, and in-group allies than for doing what was right. Victims and whistleblowers were openly retaliated against, false rumors used to dehumanized, false testimony and courts became tools for in-group enrichment with no recourse for victims (Once that happens the system is closed unless a higher legal and moral authority emerges.).

Courts may have ultimately held the victims responsible, driven by internal clan pressures and a tendency to mistreat vulnerable individuals—though such behavior does not reflect the majority of ethical professionals who deserve our respect (Most are very good people protecting the rest of us). The upolding of different laws for different kinds of people should always be rare (not based in merit or purpose). Each person involved faces a moral choice. Those choices shape the character of decision-makers and define whether their allegiance lies with clannish interests or with constitutional values. 

The higher principles being of less importance in our example. The Camel/Elephant in passing an Eye of the Needle saying comes forward (In a more philosophical spiritual than religious lens because there are broad principles that apply across religions and cultures. "In God we Trust" is placed in every courtroom to remind us of that higher moral order. Many have made a choice of a lifetime long before they contemplated the essentials of the issue based on prior patterns of thinking. i.e. other victims. Believing and Beliefs-Underpinnings)

As referenced in When Corruption Is Entrenched, such systems are:

1. Perpetrated by networks that

2. Operate according to stable, institutionalized norms and practices

3. Serve political or social functions, whether by design or dysfunction.

*This is a philosophical thought experiment for learning purposes so take with a grain of salt. We will write in a positive ending but must first explore the dark side of corruption unfettered. You are free to post your opinion as long as they are well thought out. 

 

Cat-Man-Do's Hosts Muscle on Mainstreet Event for Local K9s

Cat-Man-Do's hosts the Muscle on Main Street event to raise funds for the Escanaba Public Safety K9 Unit—Cigo and Enzo. But the event does more than support a good cause. It helps make Escanaba a fun place to visit, celebrate, volunteer, and build a sense of community.

As I walked through the car show, I was impressed—some people clearly put a tremendous amount of time and care into their vehicles. Mine won’t turn out nearly as polished, but I’ve capped my budget at $2,000 and am relying on my own labor and effort. Maybe someday I can get it in a show like this.

If your in town consider visiting Cat-Man-Dos I recoment the sliders. Look at these beauties!

 

American Veterans: Who Are They?

American veterans are individuals who have served their nation in the military and continue to play a vital role in strengthening their communities and the country. They come from diverse backgrounds and have made the courageous choice to serve—something many others may not do—because they believe in the core principles of the nation. Their service is an act of self-sacrifice, which is why they hold such an esteemed place in society.

Who are the Veterans?

The following information was taken in bullet point from Who Are American Veterans?(2023).

• According to Title 38 of the United States Code, a veteran is defined as:
  “A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.”

• In 2023, veterans made up 6.1% of the adult American population, totaling approximately 15.8 million individuals.

• Racial and ethnic composition of veterans:

  • 74.1% White

  • 12.6% Black

  • 8.6% Hispanic or Latino

• Age demographics (2023):

• 49.0% of veterans were aged 65 or older

• 27.9% were aged 75 or older

*Part of a project.

Land and the Moral Cost of Corruption (Hypothetical Thought Experiment on Hate and Corruption)

Land is an attractive commodity for anyone seeking to diversify and balance their portfolio. Beyond its economic value, it carries social significance—tied to perceptions of wealth, status, and power. As a tangible and coveted asset, people are often willing to compromise their values to obtain it. At its core, corruption is precisely that: a compromise of integrity in favor of wealth or perceived gain.

Often, the desire to appear “special” through outward displays of wealth seeps into one’s mindset, reinforcing a delusion rooted in socially constructed values. To counter this, whistleblowers occasionally emerge to advocate for a higher moral order. However, these individuals are frequently met with retaliation, as their revelations threaten entrenched dysfunctions and collective illusions.

We’ve used a hypothetical philosophical thought experiment to highlight how clan-based systems tend to reward unethical behaviors. These systems prioritize loyalty to the group over respect for the purpose of law. Prestige, power, and internal cohesion are preserved at the cost of justice and accountability.

The most troubling aspect isn't merely that individuals engage in illicit acts for personal gain—it’s that others willfully participate in or enable these actions to reinforce their own distorted perceptions of superiority, even at the expense of others. When victims come forward and communities publicly challenge corruption, the moral backbone of the system may sometimes be too weak to address the wrongdoing. In such cases, victims are left without recourse, and social contracts are broken without consequence.

A higher moral order would not only install checks and balances as a sign of a healthy society but also foster greater respect for shared values, oaths, and foundational artifacts—such as the Constitution as an example. Institutional trust depends on serving the interests of all people, and the integrity of leadership is central to the long-term social and economic success of communities.

Improper land procurement and other corrupt acts often arise from a mix of official authority, social connections, and flawed self-perceptions. Corruption, in any form, is a reflection of how individuals perceive themselves and their need to assert status through wealth. When you challenge these false perceptions—or corruption itself—you risk becoming a target of retaliation and deeply irrational behavior.

An interesting article on Curbing Land Corruption

*This is based in a hypothetical thought experiment on hate and corruption for learning so take with a grain of salt. It is meant to be philosophical by nature to explore such topics. 

Working on the Hunker Junker Restoration Auto Project

The Hunker Junker Restoration: “Gupster Gangsta Wagon” / “Gup’s Gas Guzzling Get-Around Go-Cart”
(Still thinking of a good name 🤔)

Took the panels off and 
fixed the latch and speaker.
Put it back together cleaner
than it came.

The restoration project is coming along nicely, and I expect it to take about a year to complete. So far, I’ve tackled a number of repairs and upgrades: windows, door locks, tire stems, speakers, HVAC blower, windshield washer pump, exhaust patch, windshield wipers, and a high-mileage oil change—all done.

Next on the list: install brighter headlights, paint the hood, deep-clean the upholstery, hand-clean the engine (a great chance to inspect things closely), and grease all the necessary components.

Fortunately, I’ve got access to a garage, which lets me work on it piece by piece alongside other projects like home repairs and various hobbies. As I get older, I find I need fewer things—but I care more about how I spend my time. It’s less about impressing others and more about simplifying life and building my own little EscaCabo oasis.

---

Car Restoration Goals

I’ve been reading up on different levels of car restoration. For me, the goal is to make the car both reliable for daily driving and attractive enough for local car shows. I picked it up for just $1,000, and so far I’ve spent about $600 more on taxes, electronics, lighting, painting supplies, misc. My plan is to cap the investment at around $2,000 beyond the purchase price.

The real win? The resale value for an average-condition car like this is already much higher—so the project has actually appreciated in value (most cars lose value). This experience has even made me reconsider ever buying a new car again. Between high monthly payments and insurance costs, it might be better to rent for long trips and keep a well-maintained ride like this for everyday use.

Ideal Classic Car Restoration Levels

Escanaba City Council Meeting (June 5th, 2025)-Master Plans, Labor Day Beer, Northtown Party, 411, Softball and Librarians!

Escanaba is a vibrant and thriving gem located just beyond the bay and slightly to the north on the Great Lakes. As a town undergoing a remarkable reemergence, those who’ve been paying attention have witnessed a transformational change over the past few years. With Escanaba, Gladstone, and Delta County beginning to formalize a shared vision, their coordinated efforts are poised to maximize regional opportunities.

Today, Escanaba is increasingly known as a fun, investment-friendly, digital nomad leaning and entrepreneurial community—unique when compared to almost any other town in the country (and perhaps even the world).

The Great Lakes and the waterfront charm of both Escanaba and Gladstone offer distinct advantages. In addition to major infrastructure updates—such as enhanced T1 internet lines, improved roads, and upgraded utilities—there has been growing interest in both industrial development and vacation-related investments. 

For those interested in thoughtful development, the "Smart Growth for Waterfront Communities" guide is well worth a read. Smart Growth for Water Front Communities

A Few Notes:

Escanaba City Council Meeting (June 5th, 2026). You can read and watch other meetings at Escanaba City Council Meetings

Planning Commission & Master Plan – Ongoing discussions about future growth and community planning.

Workers’ Compensation – Reviewed and discussed updates to current policies.

Labor Day Parade & Beer Tent – A festive tradition returns!

RNN Block Party – Celebration in full swing—yippie!

Northtown Block Party – North Towners know how to party! 🥳

Social District Applications – New applications reviewed to boost local vibrancy.

Energy Waste Reduction Program - Daily Press-City Prepares for New Electric and 2025 Energy Waste Reduction

Police Equipment Updates – Ensuring our force is well-equipped.

411 Reporting System – A potential crime-reduction tool. Creating a trend-based complaint log could help identify and address recurring issues. [411 Tip Article]

Public Safety Recruitment – Officers are working hard to fight drug-related crime. If you’re qualified and interested in helping the community, check out [Escanaba Open Positions]. More good men and women are needed.

Librarian & Board Openings – You never know what adventures await when you become one of the "Librarians"! Openings also available on the Historic, Housing, and Planning Commission boards.

Escanaba Softball – Congratulations to the team for making it to the semi-finals! (According to a news article I think they won regional. Congrats!)

Food, Fitness, and Finding Balance

 

Mediterranean
 Food

Food and water are essentials for all of us, and exercise plays a key role in strengthening both our muscles and cardiovascular system. When you combine nutritious, high-quality food with a well-rounded fitness routine—including strength training, stretching, and cardio—you can make significant strides toward better overall health.

Since eating habits are often the biggest factor in weight gain and obesity, that’s the focus of this post.

I spent a couple of months eating more or less whatever I wanted, just to observe the effects. The results were clear: I gained weight quickly. But when I switched to healthier alternatives—more salads and clean options—I noticed the weight began to drop. Pairing that with a moderate fitness routine made a noticeable difference.

When I was more disciplined, working out vigorously and carefully watching my food intake, the results were even more dramatic: improved muscle tone and a slimmer waistline.

That said, it can be tough to maintain an athlete-level routine if your goal is simply to live healthfully while still enjoying life. I’ve been part of the “gym rat” club many times, but now I focus on sustainable habits that support long-term wellness.

Here’s what I aim for:

• Plenty of vegetables and fiber

• Clean meats and fish

• Lower-calorie options

• Smaller portions

• Fruits and water

• Medium to complex carbohydrates

• High-protein foods

• Antioxidants

• An exercise routine that improves overall fitness without increasing the risk of injury

I’ve engaged in fitness training off and on over the years and hold a license in the field. If you’re interested in fitness coaching—either in-person (limited location) or virtual—feel free to reach out in the contact.form to the right.