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.

Stable Prices Today, Smarter Money Moves Tomorrow (Sept. 2025 Personal Income and Outlays)

While money doesn't 
grow on trees I can stick 
a few dollars here for tomorrow.

People are spending more on gasoline, heating, housing, and healthcare. These are essentials, and as their costs rise, they inevitably squeeze personal incomes. I keep an eye on these numbers because much of the economy depends on consumer spending. The September 2025 figures are lukewarm, which generally suggests that prices are relatively stable.

Still, it’s not quite time to celebrate. Consider looking for ways to increase your income, strengthen your investments, and reduce unnecessary expenses. It’s always wise to build a larger financial cushion. Think mid and long term while trying to create better spending habits today.

BEA Personal Income and Outlays September

Beyond the Fireground: Volunteer Service and the Mechanics of Fire Pump Operations

People have busy lives and plenty of responsibilities. Volunteer firefighting is one activity I enjoy because it does a lot of good—for others and for myself. Knowing you're contributing in a meaningful way provides a lift that goes beyond a cup of coffee. Of course, you won’t make every event or every call; we all have jobs, families, and other obligations. But it’s important to keep training and show up as often as you can.

Firefighting is a continuous learning process. You need to stay in good physical shape to carry equipment, pull hoses, and manage all the demands on scene. Many issues arise not from fire itself but from overexertion when people aren’t physically prepared. Still, most of firefighting is knowledge-based rather than pure strength.

That’s why I keep watching training videos, attending drills, and staying involved—so I know what to do when the moment comes. I suspect many others do the same. The video shared here is particularly helpful because it covers fire pump operations, which are essential for maintaining proper water flow and pressure. The more you understand about the trucks and equipment, the faster and more effectively you can use them, especially when unexpected issues arise.

If you’ve ever considered joining a fire department, I encourage you to give it a try. Most of the people I’ve met are genuinely dedicated to the community, and over time a real sense of teamwork and purpose develops. And if you have corporate dollars you’d like to contribute to a deserving department, feel free to message me—I can point you in the right direction. It’s even a tax-deductible donation.

Thanks again for being an active participant in your community.

U.S. Entrepreneurial Activity Shows Increased High (Escanaba as an Investment and Stat-up Example)

Entrepreneurship plays a critical role in helping people build financial independence. While it can be challenging—requiring time, resources, and patience—businesses often flourish once entrepreneurs refine their processes, secure reliable suppliers, and establish consistent approaches that they can replicate and improve as they grow. Entrepreneurs are essential contributors to local revitalization, helping counteract the concentration of wealth and business ownership while breathing new life into downtowns and communities.

Representing a person with a custom 
product idea and
looking for a place
to start a business.

For this revitalization to occur, communities must create clear pathways for people to start businesses. The entire process—from idea development to launch—should be streamlined as much as beneficial, especially in areas aiming to attract downtown growth. Aspiring business owners need access to market information, regulatory guidance, business planning tools, and financing options such as loans, grants, and angel investors.

Since many young entrepreneurs lack this knowledge and may not know where to find the necessary resources, they benefit greatly from structured support. Designing step-by-step systems that help individuals develop ideas based on market needs significantly increases the likelihood of successful business creation. If you want to start at a business start at Page A kind of thing. Everyone points people there. 

Escanaba is a useful example. The city has seen notable investment and growth, becoming something of a U.P. hotspot compared to nearby towns of which some are experiencing decline. As interest in attracting new downtown businesses grows, opportunities emerge to address housing pressures by renovating existing units or developing new apartments and condos that enhance that downtown (tourists and residents love downtowns).

Like many communities, Escanaba is still refining its strategy, but it is moving in a positive direction as more businesses open. One effective approach is to consider the full journey of a young entrepreneur with a modest amount of startup capital and a promising idea or product—what information they need, who they should contact, and which steps they must take. A practical tool, such as a business-startup checklist on the town or Chamber of Commerce website, could offer clear guidance and key connections.

The statistics below offer helpful insight, so you may want to review them.

GEM Report: U.S. Entrepreneurial Activity Returns to Historic High

Here is a report for development and finance in Escanaba, 

Investment Development and Finance

You can consider a revolving loan fund,

Escanaba Revolving Loan Fund

There is also the Downtown Development Authority to review, 

DDA Escanaba

The Multiple Benefits of Dance for Fitness: (Get Tickets for the Nutcracker Ballet December 6th, 2025)

It is the holidays
and fine arts are 
a big part of our wilderness
life. 

Fitness doesn’t have to mean grueling hours in the gym. It can take many different forms—from hiking to dance and everything in between. This is where dance and community engagement may improve your fitness. Why spend hours on a treadmill when you can move, socialize, and support your community at the same time? Dance has been both exercise and cultural expression for as long as humanity has existed. Whether it’s a structured style or something more freeform, it gets the body moving. This year let us enjoy the holidays with the Nutcracker. 

Just about every year I’m in a show that involves some level of partner dancing (I was pretty busy with another show and work and life so my parts were just perfect and for the most part what I requested. These people are awesome! Known some for years.). They also have a need for guys with the ability to do lifts and be part of the performance. Sometimes I think about getting even more involved, because I’m actually not a bad dancer and connected just a touch to a dance company and know people at a couple of studios. 

If you’re interested, you might want to grab a ticket—both nights are almost sold out, and I expect the rest to go within a day or so (I only have a couple of parts Russian style but the show is really nice to watch.).

I stay active in the arts, and dance is one of the practices I return to often. It also helps me stay in shape so I would like to do more (Working hard to get back on the training cycle for fitness so expect more articles.). Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to dance and its role in fitness and community:

1. Cardio benefits similar to running, but without the repetitive movement.

2. Strength and muscle tone, especially for supporting your body through various positions—or lifting a partner.

3. Flexibility, coordination, and balance, much like yoga.

4. Cognitive benefits—dance supports brain development and neuroplasticity.

5. Community and social connection—I’ve met some great people through dance, including a few well-known performers (though I doubt they remember me!).

   

   This is the Kaufman Theater
   Double decker seating.
   Marquette
   We don't build things like this
   anymore.

6. A fitness boost—dance challenges your body in new ways, activating muscles and skills that promote overall growth.

7. A strong complement to other sports, such as kickboxing, polo, or rock climbing, which all rely on complex movement patterns. Martial artists who also engage in dance and yoga have some of the strongest most flexible kicks at different heights, angles and positions. 

If you don't know, I’m a certified yoga and fitness trainer and occasionally take virtual clients. Feel free to send me a message if you’re interested.

A few articles you may want to read, 

Research on Brain Increase with Dance

Dancing in Fitness

Evolutions and Function of Human Dance

Interesting paintings

and pictures on the ceiling.

Old world luxury.

The Nutcracker Ballet:  Clara's Journey Through the Enchanted Forest

“The Nutcracker Ballet: Clara’s Journey Through the Enchanted Forest - The beloved story of Clara and her Nutcracker, as they travel through the land of the Enchanted Forest. The classic holiday tradition, with ballet score by Tchaikovsky, is presented by local dancers and choreographers in the Marquette community.”

Date & Times: 
December 6, 2025 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Location: Kaufman Auditorium

Prices:
Adult:  $17 in advance, $19 at the door
NMU Students/Seniors:  $12 in advance, $14 at the door
Youth (18 & under):  $12 in advance, $14 at the door 

Purchase Tickets