The Michigan Department of Military and Veteran Affairs Website

I have been involved in a little project to help one of our local veteran organizations. That includes engagement and resources. I found this below. I figured it would be of interest for veteran readers. It will be used elseware.

The Michigan Department of Military and Veteran Affairs

The Michigan Department of Military and Veteran Affairs provides information on veterans in Michigan. that includes:

Michigan National Guard
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency
Michigan Veteran Homes
Michigan Youth Challenge Academy

There is information on latest news and events. For example in the events section you can find information on activities you can attend. One of interest is Escanaba 2025 More than a Uniform Art Exhibit

If your interested in the site look you can see it here.

Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Restoring Trust: Building Stronger Systems for a Just Society (The Hypothetical Story of the Clan)

Systems are built to support the essential purposes of society and to ensure a level playing field. Yet there has been a growing decline in trust in justice—a troubling trend. Institutions play a critical role in shaping the economy, governance, and the overall health of society. Strengthening these institutions can foster human capital, drive economic growth, and improve social well-being. The Story of the Clan can help us envision what a justice default looks like and how to improve systems for greater effectiveness and trust.

The Story of the Clan

The Story of the Clan is a hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment that examines what happens when justice fails. In this scenario, bigotry, corruption, and toxic social networks erode the system’s functioning. With no safeguards or protections in place, justice defaults entirely. Reports of wrongdoing are ignored, even as more victims come forward. Higher ideals such as human rights, freedom of speech, and religious liberty are abandoned in favor of lower-order outcomes. Dehumanizing rumors, financial extortion, and systemic corruption are tolerated—justified by political, racial, religious, or social biases. Victims are left without recourse, seemingly by design.

(Remember this story is for exploring a philosophical idea. Take with a grain of salt. The ending of the learning story will be a positive one of positive community support and adaptation to a higher moral conscious.).

Room for Improvement

Stories like this highlight the need for improvement in our philosophical learning thought experiment. But improvement requires both willingness and desire, and when individuals or groups benefit from corruption, hate, or misconduct, they are unlikely to change course. This undermines not only the needs of society but also the work of the vast majority of honorable officials who serve with integrity and strive to help their communities thrive every day, day in and day out. They are our heroes and should be encouraged and supported.

Any system can improve. Neither the belief that a system can “do no wrong” nor that it is “always wrong” reflects reality. Real progress requires mature leadership—leaders who understand that rigid ideologies and one-sided approaches have done little good, often deepening polarization. It also gives wiggle room to corruption. What is needed are rational decision-makers who can distinguish right from wrong and uphold the true purpose of any system. Choosing wisely who we place in positions of authority is essential, as the long-term impact of those choices profound.

Looking Forward

It is useful to examine resources, such as polling or research groups, that investigate public trust. While one cannot speak to the credibility of every source, such perspectives help us consider whether improvements in institutional functioning might benefit both society and the economy. This requires a wide lens: examining insights from diverse backgrounds, community reports, and measurable impacts on society. Crime rates, for instance, remain a concern, and part of the problem may lie in how we think about and address these issues. 

If we can build systems that are effective, honest, up to date, and community-oriented—while remaining true to our oaths and values—we will have accomplished something meaningful. Perhaps the impact socially and economically could create an upswing in societal engagement. The question remains: are we there yet? If we are that is fine but if we are not then how do we improve? Solving complex problems requires commitment to seeing the full problem and the full scope of potential solutions. Wait some time before coming to a conclusion. 

Trust in Justice Project

*As a hypothetical, philosophical, theoretical thought experiment one can change around the pieces and come to any conclusion they so desire. The only goal is to take a minute and think about it. If you have done that at a deeper level, versus jumping to a ready made conclusion someone else offered, you did your part.

Core CPI Rises: A Few Ideas and Keeping Things Local

Groceries

Core CPI rose 0.4%, driven primarily by higher energy and food costs. The table in the publication below highlights the factors pushing inflation upward, along with an explanation of the underlying logic. The BLS is a primary source for governmental data and analysis so it is a good source to look at.

In general, basic supplies and living expenses are rising. It may be wise to review your budget and carefully consider how you spend money. While reduced spending can create broader economic challenges, prioritizing financial stability is helpful for you as an individual.

Both debt and overspending pose risks. For now, one might consider focusing on covering essential needs and building a financial cushion. Since spending habits are often routine and unconscious, this may also be a good time to reevaluate and adjust them. 

Supporting local businesses and regional manufacturers can also help keep money circulating within the community. That means tax revenue, local jobs, and less sifting of money away from communities that will need revenue to maintain services (In Theory).

If you own a business and need to attract new customers, consider strategies such as increasing advertising, offering discounts to boost cash flow, bundling products, expanding hours, exploring alternative suppliers, or enhancing customer service to offset cost pressures. 

Consumer Price Index Summary Sept 11th 2025

Escanaba City Council Meeting (Sept. 4th, 2025): Housing and Development Opportunities

There is ongoing discussion about new housing developments. A developer is seeking to build houses on several properties, and there is also consideration of adding condominiums. The community has opportunities to provide input on these ideas. Once we hear from them one can make a decision and move forward whatever that may be. 

In general, I encourage new housing development, as it helps neighborhoods thrive and attracts more people to the city. As we move closer to downtown, I see an opportunity for additional condos and greater density to support local businesses and maintain a walkable urban core. Specifically on the 1st avenue where the houses are a little older and down toward the park. My childhood neighborhood that I wish I could find affordable housing in. I would love to walk to my favorite social clubs and the park. Add some stores and restraunts and it would be the best location in town. 

Of course, there is a gap between where we are today and where we want to be tomorrow. We are on that path in the past few years after decades of decline. Still, with new development, the arrival of families, and the growth of jobs, new pathways can emerge. Let us see what happens.

This also connects well to the broader goals of attraction, retention, and talent development.

Sept. 4th, 2025 Escanaba City Council Meeting

Market Research and Competitive Analysis: Tools for Small Business Success

Being a little funny here.
Escanaba and San Diego small business.
Surfboards and snow shoes.
Not a real shop. AI.

Researching the market before launching a new venture or investing in a new line can give companies a stronger chance to thrive. Small and medium-sized businesses play a vital role in driving economic growth, often serving as sources of innovation and future expansion. In fact, many large companies began as much smaller operations.

Market research is essential for ensuring that you deliver solutions customers actually need and that have room to grow. While no amount of data can perfectly predict the future, market insights provide valuable guidance on what is most likely to succeed based on past patterns and current trends.

The methods of market research vary widely depending on your goals. A small business might gather customer feedback directly or review online reviews, while larger companies may focus on analyzing global trends and industry shifts. In both cases, it is critical to understand how customers fit into these broader changes.

Learning more about market research and competitive analysis can open the door to powerful tools and resources. Business owners and executives who know where to find and how to apply these resources can make more informed strategic decisions that set their companies apart.

Market research and competitive analysis-US Small Business Admin

The Story of the Clan: Is Standing Up for Beliefs Worth the Challenge? (A Philosophical Thought Experiment on Hate and Corruption)

Beliefs are important—they act as the glue that holds people together through both written and unwritten values. Yet beliefs often differ. Two people may see the same issue in very different ways. For example, the law can be interpreted either through its philosophical purpose or as a practical tool. In reality, both perspectives come into play, but ideally the philosophical purpose should guide its application.

Different people choose which approach to emphasize based on their values. Some may apply the law with society’s greater good in mind, while others may bend it toward personal, financial, social, or career gain. Self-interest, whether admitted or not, is often a factor in decision-making.

The Story of the Clan is a hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment about moral conscience and human choice. It asks us to think about how our decisions affect communities, economies, human capital, and society at large. A tool may be useful, but a purpose gives direction.

In this story, a few perpetrators, supported by a couple of corrupted officials, engaged in extreme hate and misconduct—spreading rumors, violating human and civil rights, suppressing free speech, and colluding to shield wrongdoing. Justice faltered under favoritism and intimidation. Victims, whistleblowers, and witnesses were even placed on secret target lists in an attempt to silence them. Those who challenged corruption and hate by these rogue elements faced retribution (They are rogue because they don't represent the many fine men and women who do their jobs honorably and in alignment with their oaths.)

Eventually, the truth broke through. More victims and witnesses came forward, revealing the extent of the corruption and showing it was driven by far more than selfishness or dark traits—it was indicative of a long pattern. From the perspective of those harmed, the bias and favoritism were obvious. They saw perpetrators protected, rewarded, and emboldened, while those who spoke out were punished.

Yet some individuals held fast to their oaths and values. They stood up for what was right, improving their communities and becoming quiet heroes. In contrast, those who went along with corruption chose short-term benefit over principle, and now must live with the knowledge that they lacked the courage to stand for something greater than themselves (Lots of talk and little realized heart).

One silver lining is that challenge often makes us stronger. Those who resisted wrongdoing can take pride in knowing they acted with integrity, even when it was difficult. Their courage weakened hate and corruption, exposing those who believed they could operate above the law. In this way, the divide between those who believe in higher values and those who do not becomes clear.

This is where you reflect on what type of person you want to be.

The Story of the Clan is a thought experiment—philosophical, theoretical, and imaginative. It is a way to reflect on moral conscience and human interaction. As with any story, the ending is unwritten. Perhaps it is one of adaptation and growth, leading to stronger communities and higher performance. But other endings are possible. What ending would you write?

Study shows standing up for beliefs in face of group opposition is worth the effort-

Bert Gambini

November 10th The Edmund Fitzgerald: Memorizing for a One-Night Live Performance at Players de Noc

The arts have long been both a passion and a side pursuit for me. I’ve stepped away at times, only to find myself drawn back in. As an outlet for expression, the arts offer something unique—and the people you meet in drama and arts circles make the experience even richer. Many of the most insightful and original people I know come from the arts community.

Representing reading a script
sunken anchor 

In theater, memorization is essential. Recently, I was cast in 10 November, a 50-year commemoration of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald off Whitefish Point. My role will be The Man Who Walks Through with monologue. I might be the only person moving around on stage during different parts. One cast member even worked at a lighthouse and saw the ship the day before it went down (See I met an interesting person). 

Productions like 10 November—whether performed live on stage—remind us of history, resilience, and the risks faced by those who navigated the Great Lakes. As someone who has also spent time diving, I find that connection to history especially meaningful for understanding the broader context of our commercial world.  Edmund Fitzgerald-The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Players de Noc, our local community theater, consistently exceeds expectations. Their shows rival full-scale productions I’ve seen elsewhere, and they draw both tourism and community support. If you value the arts, consider supporting them yourself. Donations always help (notice button on site) Players de Noc Performing Arts Season

How to Memorize a Script

Memorization takes practice, but certain techniques can help:

• Speak your lines out loud.

• Read them through three times.

• Repeat often, even while walking around.

Though it may look odd from the outside, these methods engage multiple senses, improving recall. For example, reading out loud not only helps with pronunciation and projection but also reinforces memory through sound and rhythm. Another powerful tool is visualization—imagine the story unfolding as you speak the lines, and the words will feel more natural.

How to Memorize Lines-Backstage

This show will likely sell out and it is only performed one night. Guess what day it is on?

Purchase 10 November Ticks Here!