Wild Fires Maybe Increasing Because of Climate Change According to NASA

The Forest Fire Painting
6X10' Acrylic

Wildfires are growing in frequency, intensity, and complexity alongside climate change. According to the website referenced below, there has been a noticeable increase in wildfires, which presents new challenges for communities, ecosystems, and emergency response systems. 

Key Points:

• Extreme wildfires have doubled globally

• Fire seasons are lasting longer

• Carbon dioxide emissions from fires are increasing

• Human activity remains the primary cause of wildfires

The website also includes charts and data on the size and intensity of recent fires, as well as links to NASA's real-time fire monitoring tools.

Wildfire and Climate Change-NASA

The Story of the Clan: Impact on Human Capital and System Performance (Philosophical Thought Experiment)

We’ve been using an example to explore how hate and corruption can impact communities. In this philosophical, theoretical, and hypothetical learning thought experiment, victims, witnesses, and others were targeted for the benefit of the perpetrators. Over time, some observers began to recognize the near-immunity of "The Clan" within local justice systems, as well as patterns of prior misconduct that went unchecked.

In our example, there are no effective safeguards in place because social networks and ideological biases have distorted the decision-making process. This can result in a “brain drain,” where the most talented individuals begin to disengage. As more people withdraw, both trust and organizational performance deteriorate. 

As the system weakens and corrupt officials promote coordinated misconduct, the need for change becomes increasingly urgent. Change should be welcomed when it aligns with and strengthens the organization’s core mission. Without proper checks and balances, however, the system has instead fostered and rewarded unethical behavior. 

(Remember this is just an example, The vast majority of officials do the right thing and act with integrity. We are exploring philosophically of what something might look like under a certain set of circumstances.)

It is critical to build high-functioning systems in which transactional relationships are rooted in clear expectations and shared assumptions. People must operate within a common framework of accountability and mutual respect. Hate and corruption erode the social fabric, and when these are reinforced by decision makers that turn a blind eye, the decline becomes broader and deeper.

We will eventually turn to the more positive side of our learning story. In the meantime, we should continue to reflect on how a toxic environment affects the performance of those who choose not to participate in the game of mistreating others. Corruption and hate are symptoms of deeper latent issues so they should be corrected when found. 

The reflection below underscores the high cost of corruption—particularly in its impact on attracting and retaining top-quality talent.

Corruption Drives Brain Drain

*This is a philosophical, theoretical, hypothetical learning thought experiment that is used to explore hate and corruption and its impact on our values and environment. Take with a grain of salt as we will write in a positive ending. 

How is the Interest Rate Set and What Does It Do?

The interest rate is a key economic tool frequently discussed by politicians, economists, bankers, and other decision-makers. It’s not an arbitrary figure—it reflects a calculated approach to managing the money supply and influencing economic activity.

One reason the interest rate is often described as a "brake" or "gas pedal" for the economy is because it directly affects the cost of borrowing. Push the gas too hard—lower rates too much—and you risk overheating the economy. Apply the brakes too firmly—raise rates too high—and you risk slowing things down too much. How the rate is set, by how much, and for how long are all central points of debate.

In general, lowering interest rates increases the money supply, making borrowing cheaper and usually accelerating economic activity. Raising rates restricts the money supply, making borrowing more expensive and slowing the economy.

Modern economic policy aims to find a “sweet spot” that supports steady, sustainable growth. Interest rates are determined by a group of experts—typically central bankers—who assess economic conditions and reach a consensus on the appropriate rate. The Federal Reserve Rate is chosen be the Federal Reserve Open Market Committe (FOMC).

You may want to look at the posted interest rates. Posted Interest Rates Federal Reserve

In depth article of Interest Rate

and 

How Do Interest Rates Work?

Orange Sunset and the Use of Scenic Backgrounds

This acrylic paint is available for sale.
Orange Sunset and Black Tree Line Lake

The art hobby continues to move forward. I’m not a particularly skilled artist, but I enjoy it as a way to slow down and connect with inner ideas and concepts. Innovation often comes from taking a moment to pause and engage in something that uses a different kind of process. A well-rounded person should nurture a balance of artistic, musical, physical, educational, and practical skills.

If I'm not that great I might as well play with no cost marketing options that I can use for other things and projects (i.e. business, charity, etc.). The Wooded Path Gallery and Orange Sunset and Black Tree Line Lake. 

I put it on this picture wall. Looks pretty good and I learned how to make my own scenery. The jpeg quality could be a little higher but its still a great ideas. 

It might look nice in your office
or cabin. 

Theater and Arts Sell Experiences: The Potential Value of Arts to San Diego and Escanaba Tourism

The arts play a vital role in developing individuals not only with knowledge but also with higher-level inner qualities such as empathy. They broaden our understanding of the external world while offering deep insight into the internal landscape of human experience. Every play, performance, or exhibit tells a story—often reflecting social concerns and their wider impact on communities.

The arts may be able to 
increase tangible value for tourism
and quality of life
if coordinated with whole trip experiences
of tourism. It may be one
way to increase attendance 
and raise total value for community
growth.

Yes, the arts feel good—but they also cost money. However, if we examine which venues complement each other, how the arts contribute to tourism, and their role in enhancing the overall vacation experience, a compelling case can be made for their financial value. Studies increasingly support this connection. Maximizing the arts’ social and economic value could help strengthen both local markets and community vitality.

Beyond their cultural importance, the arts can serve as a powerful driver of tourism by enriching visitor experiences and attracting those who seek out meaningful entertainment. When cultural events—such as the San Diego Opera or Players de Noc in Escanaba—are paired with other local attractions, they create a more engaging and memorable destination.

A well-curated overview of local events can significantly boost visitor satisfaction. When tourists are informed about nearby activities that match their interests, their overall experience improves—much like how a well-designed product leads to repeat customers. In the same way, the arts can turn first-time visitors into loyal return travelers.

You are selling memories through positive experiences and understanding a total system of tourism can help in enhancing value of The Arts.

While the arts contribute to societal growth, they also offer real, tangible benefits for tourism and community well-being. Vacations are fundamentally about experiences. Communities that coordinate their offerings and communicate them effectively may be able to deliver a richer, more satisfying experience—one that stands out from the competition. 

(Take a look at the Delta County Community Calendar. If your going to come visit then think of a number of things you can do during that trip.).

According to Arts and Tourism Fact Sheet 68% of tourism in the US has some relation to Art. It also provides some resources on cultural tourism. 

Both of these organizations are strong examples of theater in action. One from a larger market and another from a smaller market. Feel free to donate to the arts because it enhances the community in multiple ways.

San Diego Opera Legacy and Players de Noc Escanaba

Navigating Constant Change: The Executive Mindset in the Age of AI

CEOs adapting technology

Change is no longer a slow, occasional event—it’s constant, and it’s accelerating. Executives and CEOs, in particular, must stay agile, especially as technologies like AI continue to evolve and reshape industries.

Thinking back on my own experience, I remember a time when the Internet wasn’t a part of our daily lives. Now, we're in an era where technology changes rapidly—and that pace is only increasing.

This raises an important question: What kind of mindset should CEOs and executives adopt in response to this technological evolution?

Leaders need to stay current, distinguish between passing fads and meaningful innovations, and create strategies for continuously upskilling their workforce. Equally important is the ability to understand and manage the human side of change. The strongest CEOs are not only open to new ideas, but actively seek out ways to improve their organizations through thoughtful, tech-driven transformation.

The report below offers a deep dive into tech adoption, ROI, and data insights. It also explores the mindset shifts executives must embrace to lead effectively in this new landscape. It’s definitely worth a look.

Five Mindshift for Executives

12 Charming Towns in Michigan: The Value of Articles and Social Media Pieces in Economic Development

How Awareness Fuels Investment and Growth in Small Towns

Gladstone Lighthouse
 Photo Products

The ability to attract interest and visitors is essential for generating investment and increasing revenue for local businesses. But that momentum starts with awareness—people need to know what a town offers before they can consider visiting, investing, or relocating. That awareness only happens when people talk about a place, post about it on social media, write articles, and share experiences.

Take Escanaba, Michigan, for example. Becoming inceasingly known beyond the play and movie Escanaba in da Moonlight, it’s largely off the radar. Yet, this relatively unknown town has the potential to become a buzz-worthy destination for entrepreneurs, investors, vacationers, and remote workers alike. Escanaba—and neighboring Gladstone—offer a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and small-town charm that’s ripe for discovery.

From events and hiking trails to beaches, bars, restaurants, and local hotels, the area has everything needed to create memorable experiences. Local businesses are beginning to collaborate, sharing what they offer and building a unified sense of place. Articles like “12 Charming Towns to Visit in Michigan” give a glimpse of how powerful storytelling and exposure can be. And more content like this can amplify awareness and draw attention to the untapped potential of towns like Escanaba and Gladstone.

This type of recognition can lead to tangible economic interest. For example, companies like AMI’s Gladstone Braze and Power Coat LLC are considering relocating to the area—driven by factors like location, labor availability, tariffs, and logistics. A recent article in the Daily Press highlighted a building purchase tied to aggressive growth in auto parts manufacturing. These are signals that a region once overlooked is becoming attractive for industry and innovation.

The more people share their experiences—whether it’s a hike along the lake, a great meal downtown, a business they are starting, an investment opportunity they discovered, a new job they landed—the more positive consumer intention grows. That, in turn, leads to real economic activity and sustainable growth.

Escanaba and Gladstone both carry a positive vibe right now. Highlighting their mix of entrepreneurship, lifestyle, recreation, and natural beauty can make a meaningful difference. Digital nomads are already taking notice. The coffee shops have a few nerds with laptops, which is always a good sign.

Just one tip: if you’re planning a visit, skip the black socks with Bermuda shorts, and brush the sand off your feet before heading downtown. Then go enjoy some good food, local hospitality, and the hidden potential of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Role of Social Media Marketing Activities in Influencing Customer Intentions