The Power of the Garden for Communities

People often think of gardening as just a hobby, but it’s much more than that. Gardens, flowers, shrubs, and other greenery improve the quality of neighborhoods and daily life. They help clean the environment, boost economic and tourism value, encourage healthy eating, enhance food supply diversity, and have even been linked to reductions in crime.

Humans are naturally drawn to nature and feel more at ease in green spaces. A friend of mine has a beautiful flower garden that’s even featured on a local garden tour—pretty cool, if you ask me.

A little research on gardening Research on the Benefits of Gardening in Neighborhoods/Communities

Attracting The Entrepreneur to Your Downtown: Do Motivations and Values Count?

Starting and fostering business development is a key driver of economic growth. A healthy economy depends on a steady stream of new businesses forming, while older, overly complex ones may naturally decline—making way for more agile and efficient ventures. At the center of this cycle is the entrepreneur—the engine of innovation and economic renewal. These individuals invest their ideas, time, and resources to launch new enterprises and reshape markets.

Entrepreneurs are driven by a range of motivations. While financial gain is often a factor, many are inspired by deeper goals—such as revitalizing local communities, addressing social challenges, or advancing meaningful causes. Recognizing and understanding these motivations is essential to encouraging more people to pursue entrepreneurship.

(I often think of how this might apply to a town like Escanaba who has a downtown with significant investment potential. The lifestyle is top quality, there are strong support networks, an active DDA, distribution center coming in, rail, roads, and even a port. Finding ways of bringing in businesses that create products and services for locals and the wider market can help.)

Tapping into these drivers through marketing, advertising, public policy, and economic incentives can help attract entrepreneurial talent to communities and support local innovators in turning their ideas into reality.

According to the study referenced below, entrepreneurs are frequently motivated by values such as universalism and benevolence—not just traditional goals like achievement and power. This suggests that purpose-driven messaging and support systems may be especially effective in nurturing the next generation of business leaders.

What motivates start-up entrepreneurs? Exploring the role of human values in success

Industry Cluster Innovation Through Collaboration

  Industry Cluster Innovation Through Collaboration

Murad Abel, DBA

June 12th, 2025

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Keywords: Economics, Clusters, Innovation, Industry

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Abstract
Technological innovation is transforming economies at unprecedented speeds, reshaping industries, and redefining national growth trajectories. Central to this transformation are economic clusters—geographic concentrations of interconnected businesses, institutions, and networks—which serve as engines of innovation, productivity, and regional development. These clusters enable collaboration among academia, government, and private industry, fostering environments conducive to the rapid development of next-generation products and services. Drawing on theories such as Schumpeter’s Creative Destruction, this paper explores how innovation-driven clusters support economic resilience, quality of life enhancements, and human capital development. It emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, data networks, and inclusive strategies in sustaining global leadership in innovation. Despite persistent barriers—such as resource limitations and technological adoption gaps—clusters offer scalable solutions through coordinated stakeholder efforts, startup integration, and cross-sector collaboration. The paper concludes that a hybrid approach to cluster formation, blending intentional design with organic growth, holds the greatest promise for advancing regional economies and addressing 21st-century challenges through shared innovation ecosystems.

Industry Cluster Innovation Through Collaboration

Some clusters could innovate 
industries and technology.
Focused and Structured

Technological change is accelerating at a pace unimaginable to our grandparents and great-grandparents. Advances in computing power and emerging technologies have reshaped our environment, making rapid innovation a critical driver of national growth. The development of new products and services not only influences economic health but also renews interest in expanding research and knowledge. This, in turn, encourages companies to bring cutting-edge offerings to market.

Economic clusters—regions where businesses, research institutions, and networks converge—play a vital role in fostering innovation. By enhancing connectivity and collaboration, these clusters create enriched environments that support the development of next-generation products and services. While improved GDP at local, state, national, and regional levels is one key benefit, such clusters also offer significant opportunities to enhance Quality of Life (QOL) and support long-term human capital development.

Technology Innovations

Technological innovation often drives broad economic growth within industries and regions (Thi & Do, 2024). When tied to infrastructure—such as railroads or the Internet—these advancements can deliver widespread benefits, especially for those who leverage resources effectively. For instance, the strength of data networks and fiber infrastructure, combined with advancements in artificial intelligence, significantly influence national growth prospects. As of this writing, the U.S. ranks among the top three countries on the Advanced Innovation Index 2024 (Dutta et al., 2024). However, maintaining this position requires intentional efforts to foster innovation through a more inclusive and networked approach.

Creating innovative environments accelerates the development of new products and services. In some cases, paradigm-shifting discoveries—such as breakthroughs in energy, AI, infrastructure, or materials—can rapidly transform multiple industries. With the right conditions, innovation clusters can give rise to entirely new sectors.

Joseph Schumpeter described this phenomenon as Creative Destruction—a natural economic process where old structures are continuously dismantled and replaced by new ones. As he wrote in Capitalism, Socialism, and Democracy (1942):

“The opening up of new markets, foreign or domestic, and the organizational development from the craft shop to such concerns as U.S. Steel illustrate the same process of industrial mutation—if I may use that biological term—that incessantly revolutionizes the economic structure from within, incessantly destroying the old one, incessantly creating a new one. This process of Creative Destruction is the essential fact about capitalism.” (p. 83)

Economic clusters offer governments a practical way to support innovation, economic development, and quality of life improvements. These clusters—often formed through partnerships among industry, academia, government, and communities—serve as microcosms of economic progress, enabling stakeholders to collaborate and mutually benefit.

Fostering clusters of related industries helps catalyze these natural processes. According to Porter (1998), such clusters are inherently innovative and contribute to economic resilience. They do so by forming networks of complementary businesses that boost efficiency and competitiveness—advantages that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Economic Growth Environments

Some clusters can create community
social and economic resilience.
Organic and semi-structured

Economies are complex systems that, when functioning effectively, generate value for both industries and the communities in which they operate. Technological advancement has long served as a catalyst for economic growth and has improved the quality of everyday life. The development of new technologies depends on a region's physical assets combined with human capital, which together create innovative advantages.

Industry clusters—geographic concentrations of interconnected companies, suppliers, and institutions—have been shown to foster innovation, improve efficiency, and increase productivity, enabling firms to compete at both national and global levels (Porter, 1998). Due to their significant financial and supply chain impacts, fostering innovation through clusters is increasingly viewed as a strategic avenue for economic development. For economies aiming to compete globally, the ability to produce cutting-edge technologies and engage in advanced manufacturing is essential to enhancing value and resource attraction.

More than fifteen years of research into industrial clusters suggests that rapid innovation arises from the interaction of multiple interrelated factors. These factors can be isolated, studied, and optimized to further accelerate cluster formation and effectiveness. Ideally, clusters should be purposefully developed to strengthen community resilience, address critical industry challenges, or advance sector-specific research. Centering cluster development around clear objectives can improve coordination and collective impact.

Collaboration among key stakeholders—including industry, academia, government, and local communities—can create robust economic ecosystems. These systems harness unique regional advantages, such as data assets, coordinated resource use, branding, process innovation, and management infrastructure, to foster scientific progress and address market or societal challenges (Tanaka & Lopez, 2024).

However, barriers frequently impede the adoption of new technologies within manufacturing sectors (Rached et al., 2022). Removing these obstacles is critical for promoting innovation and enhancing industrial competitiveness through technological advancement (Zou, 2024). Common barriers include lack of technical knowledge, high labor and installation costs, inadequate government support, limited resources, and insufficient infrastructure (Rashed, Bagum, & Haque, 2022).

Well-designed economic clusters aim to minimize these barriers by fostering environments that support industrial growth. Such environments ensure access to necessary infrastructure, promote skilled labor development, facilitate research and development initiatives, offer tax incentives, strengthen digital connectivity, and enhance overall quality of life. These factors collectively create fertile ground for industry development, resulting in mutual growth and problem-solving capacity within targeted sectors.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Collaboration is essential to building strong economic clusters due to the significant investment of time and resources required to develop their foundational elements. In some cases, clusters form organically, while in others, they emerge from strategic efforts to fill industry gaps or stimulate innovation. When key stakeholders identify critical bottlenecks to industry development, they often come together to address these challenges, aiming to drive regional economic growth by advancing business innovation (Pulido-Gomez, de Jong & Rivkin, 2025).

Clusters operate as interconnected systems, linking labor, education, firms, and networks to form viable, dynamic ecosystems (Konig, 2023). These connections enhance resource efficiency and add depth to the local business environment. Companies that effectively leverage cluster resources tend to adapt and grow more rapidly within competitive markets (Handoyo et al., 2023). This accelerated growth contributes to regional gross domestic product, strengthening the broader economy (Pyo & Choi, 2025).

Start-ups play a critical role in these ecosystems by acting as sources of innovative capital for larger firms (Giglio et al., 2025). Clusters create fertile ground for the launch and scaling of start-ups, providing the support and conditions needed to foster radical innovation. Such innovation often arises under specific environmental pressures that trigger a reordering of industries. For instance, the development of AI followed a Schumpeterian model of Creative Destruction, where new technologies replaced outdated ones and reshaped entire sectors (Ramazan, Tuluce & Aykac, 2024).

The potential to spur innovation across multiple industries is one of the most transformative outcomes of successful clusters. A single invention can influence several sectors through ripple effects across the supply chain. Cross-industry collaboration, particularly where inter-industry networks overlap, can amplify innovation (Shi & Xiao, 2024). Ultimately, building clusters is about cultivating environments that are not only capable of inventing new products and technologies but also of generating entirely new technological trajectories that were previously unimaginable.

Conclusion

The development of clusters can be driven by local and regional stakeholders to promote both social and economic growth. Clusters support higher levels of industry innovation by fostering shared goals, collaboration in research and development, resource sharing, and knowledge spillovers. When designed for industry advancement, they leverage common infrastructure and expertise to drive innovation. Alternatively, organically formed clusters can enhance economic resilience by connecting diverse industries around shared competencies and resources. A hybrid approach—combining elements of both intentional and organic development—may offer the greatest potential, maximizing local assets across social and economic dimensions.

The Choppy Lighthouse Painting: Painting and Craft Industry Insights

For those who enjoy dabbling in art, you might find this piece interesting. I’ll admit, I’m my own worst critic—so go easy on me! Painting is something I truly enjoy, and from time to time, I even sell a piece. Most of what I create, though, I either give away or use the proceeds to buy more supplies or cover other small expenses. I’d call it a cottage hobby—maybe some of you can relate. 

Take a look at the article and see what you think. Painting and Drawing Craft Industry Insights

Acrylic The Choppy Lighthouse painting in The Wooded Pathway Gallery.

The Story of the Clan: The Value of Education and Insight (Philosophical Thought Experiment)

The Story of the Clan presents a moral question that cannot be easily resolved by law alone—it must first be examined through the lens of philosophy. This is a learning story, one that explores how to protect democratic institutions from decay. It is a modern fable, featuring characters who make decisions from insulated perspectives, reminiscent of Plato’s Parable of the Cave. The consequences of their actions reach deeply into the socio-economic lives of ordinary people, and only when corruption is confronted does economic and civic restoration begin to thrive. Embedded throughout the story are philosophical questions, hypothetical models, and scientific reasoning to illuminate its deeper insights.

A single indivisible people
Liberty and justice for all!

(This, I believe, is a strong foundation for a story. It presents narrative as a vehicle for deeper teaching. Stories should be tools to strengthen society—by fostering thoughtful, principled ways of thinking and nurturing healthier outcomes. We learn through stories, and they teach us how to respond to corruption and bias not with cynicism, but with kindness, encouragement, and truth. We all share a responsibility to make the world a better place. The minority of people who would or do engage in corruption and/or hate are not immune from their responsibilities.)

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Continuing on...

The Clan, as they are known, is a group of individuals whose behavior borders on cult-like. While groups like this occasionally arise, what makes the Clan distinct is that many of its members influence formal outcomes. Over time, their decision-making has been shaped by a narrow socialization process—infused with biased overtones—and an unwavering belief in their own superiority. So deep is this conviction that some describe their mindset as one of “better than thou.”

With this sense of entitlement came the power to invent harmful narratives. Some Clan members fabricated stories, spread rumors, and lied—often to impress one another or to control others. What might seem like shallow, immature behavior became something much darker when collectivized, coordinated, and backed by influence. In this way, The Story of the Clan becomes a lesson about the danger of elevating the most connected over the most capable—the entitled over the ethical.

Official positions were co-opted for unofficial purposes. Favoritism became part of the fabric of decision making. Anyone who opposed the Clan's misbehaviors was added to a “target list”—individuals to be forced out, defamed, and denied opportunities. Character assassination was only one tactic and tool of the trade. The true danger lay in the willful, organized nature of their actions. The harm extended not only to past victims but to future ones, creating a legacy of misguidance. Some of the layers of the system started to default.

And yet, this story does not end in defeat.

The power wielded by the Clan was immense—enough to convince some that justice had no future. Judges who open protected people who bragged about acting violently, misused their official positions to target people, and showed a disdain for our laws of the nation and for their purpose. Human and civil rights mocked publically. A few decision makers rendered decisions based not on law but on social ties and their own personal bigoted perspectives. They knew what they were doing were crimes and the words that could describe that coordination move beyond misdeed. One could reasonably imagine backroom deals, quiet favors, and collusion—acts designed to protect and enrich fellow loosly affiliated Clan members. While that does not represent the majority in this case it represents how it might be difficult to have justice where justice makers have skewed their purpose resulting in long-term harm such as when trust, pride and other indicators show decline. Reversing that trend will be difficult if decision makers fail to align their values to the needs of the people.

Except…

A small seed of doubt began to grow. A quiet awareness stirred in the minds of some decision makers, challenging long-held assumptions. For those raised within black-and-white thinking, this was no easy shift. Yet some began to wonder: Have I allowed injustice to flourish because I failed to see the value in others? Perhaps the groups entire worldview had been built on a false anchor—an inherited sense of entitlement rooted in ignorance and isolation. Their eyes crack open into a squint.

Like fish in a bowl unable to see the ocean, they failed to recognize that entitlement has no place in a just society. Our future depends not on who we know, but on who we are. We thrive when we uplift the best and brightest—those with integrity, vision, and skill. We falter when we empower the entitled, the dishonest, and those who struggle to have higher order reasoning over those with genuine merit.

But the true power of a learning story lies in its ability to inspire change. Gradually, officials and the people partnered as they began to see a wider perspective. Some officials, recognizing the danger, stepped forward to reclaim the original mission of their institutions. They encouraged others, spoke out, and began to rebuild trust in a genuine way (Through commitment and not just words). They had a deep respect for others value and saw themselves as a single people. Social networks once used to spread fear and hate were repurposed into engines of reform. The will of the people and the needs of the community were placed above personal loyalty and group allegiance. (It is helpful to have a positive ending because good should always prevail over the wrong in a moral world with moral conscious.)

The Story of the Clan reveals a timeless truth: clan-based systems are a threat to community and to democracy. They are symptoms of decay and/or continuing development (Depends on which way you want to see it. Glass half full or empty) The more we tolerate them, the more they grow. The more they are normalized, the more they undermine democratic integrity. These groups flourish in the space between the philosophical ideal/purpose of the law and its at times flawed application.

This story urges leaders to reflect deeply on their purpose, to align themselves with a moral compass—a compass that can only be found through philosophy. In the end, education and insight are not luxuries. They are prerequisites before liberty.

“We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.” Plato

(The story seems to be forming up pretty well. We might consider alternative endings that readers can sort of pick based on their own personalities and desires that mirror their inner values, moral conscious, and moral compass. Of course each would have advantages and disadvantages. Let us put that on the back burner to explore later....)

*Keep in mind this is a philosophical, theoretical, hypothetical thought experiment for learning purposes so take with a grain of salt. Feel free to disagree or provide alternative thoughts or ideas. 

Music Mondays in Escanaba: Spending Your Summer Days Wisely

Music Mondays
Ludington Park

Have you ever visited a place where time slows down and enjoyment rises? Escanaba, a small town on the shores of the Great Lakes, is quickly becoming an attractive destination for vacationers and visitors alike (also investors). With digital nomad rentals, beaches, hiking and biking trails, live music, events, and much more, there's always something happening.

One of the highlights of Escanaba life is Music Mondays.

I heard through the grapevine that around 2,800 people attended the latest event. That might seem like a high number, considering the town has a population of over 10,000 and attracts tourists from all over, it's not too surprising. People are really embracing the local activities—from car shows to live music (yes, free music!).

The band Stonewall performed, and they’re a local favorite. Not only are they a talented group, but they're also deeply involved in the community and often support local clubs and events. If you're organizing something in the area, it might be worth reaching out to them. You can find them on Facebook under "Stonewall."

They played a variety of crowd favorites, and the energy was fantastic.

If your intersted in knowing more about Music Mondays check out Music Monday Schedule Travel

Each day is a moment to live anew. Consider how you spend your summer days. One place is with family and friends at Music Mondays. The memories can last a lifetime. “Time is a sort of river of passing events, which, as it flows, carries us along with it.” - Seneca

Supporting Military Veterans in Higher Education

A few key factors set military veterans apart from other college students: their military experience, sworn oaths, and disciplined approach to life. These students possess knowledge and insight that many others may never have the opportunity to gain. The military often becomes a defining part of their identity, and maintaining a connection to that identity can help them successfully navigate the higher education process.

In many ways, the military is similar to a boarding institution—fully immersive and all-encompassing. The socialization and institutional structure of the military deeply influence how veterans perceive and understand the world. This lived experience provides a foundation for a kind of knowledge that cannot easily be replicated without undergoing a similar process.

Higher education, likewise, is an institution that shapes identity through shared perspectives and values. While its socialization process differs from the military, both emphasize self-development, learning, and knowledge acquisition.

The lessons learned in military service are often more profound and experiential than those gained solely through academic study. Unlike traditional students, veterans have had to tap into their inner resilience and strength in real-world, high-stakes environments. These lessons can serve as a powerful framework for building occupational and academic knowledge.

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A Few Things Educators Can Do to Support Veteran Students:

1. Foster Connection:
   Create events and activities that allow veteran students to socialize and share experiences with one another. Clubs, support groups, and veteran-focused events help build community and reduce isolation.

2. Value Military Perspectives in Coursework:
   Recognize that veterans may reflect on course material through the lens of their military experience. For example, a logistics discussion might draw on military supply chain knowledge rather than corporate examples.

3. Promote Cross-Cultural Understanding:
   Encourage activities where veterans can educate non-military students about military life, while also helping veterans connect their experience to civilian applications.

4. Design Inclusive Assignments:
   Create assignments that are adaptable across sectors—military, for-profit, and non-profit. Topics like strategic planning or leadership can be approached from all three angles.

5. Develop Pro-Veteran Policies and Staffing:
   Specialized staff and recruitment efforts can help implement policies that support military and veteran students.

6. Offer Mentorship Support:
   Pair veterans with a dedicated mentor or advisor to assist with navigating enrollment, housing, course registration, and other institutional complexities.

7. Include Veterans in Decision-Making:
   Consider military and veteran students as a vital part of the student body when crafting campus-wide policies and decisions.

8. Provide Flexibility:
   Allow flexibility for students with deployment responsibilities or other military-related commitments.

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The study below further illustrates the importance of supporting military-connected students and offers evidence-based strategies for enhancing their success in higher education.

A Psychosociocultural Exploration of SSM/V Well-Being in Higher Education: The Role of Mattering, Dedicated SSM/V Space, and Combat Deployment