Project Point to Help Business Start-Ups and Growth in Escanaba: Could it have an impact the downtown and the local economy?

(Illustrative Only)

If you have an idea
start by attending events and
creating a business plan. 

10 Steps to Starting
a Business-SBA

Rejuvenation and growth come from both economic and social development. On the economic side, communities benefit from strong financial planning, infrastructure, zoning, education, and the marketing of new opportunities. On the social side, growth happens when people get involved—joining local organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, taking courses, attending events, supporting downtown shops, and committing to building businesses in the area.

Not every business will succeed, and many young entrepreneurs don’t always know the next steps to turn an idea into something real.  Yet not only will some succeed a few will really take off with the potential to transform towns. That’s why these courses and programs matter. They spark creativity, share practical knowledge, and connect people with those who know how to make things happen.

(One might also consider socials of start-up businesses to help people learn from each other and connect to people who can help them.)

A single startup downtown can transform more than just one building. It can improve surrounding properties, raise tax values, and draw more people into the area. When customers visit one shop, they often stop at others. Positive exposure can also attract new investments—not just small business owners looking to relocate, but also mid- and large-scale investors, as we’ve seen with companies like Billerud and Amazon.

Teaching people how to develop their businesses has a long-term impact on economic growth. Tourism and downtown revitalization go hand in hand as well; people enjoy browsing local shops and discovering unique items. It impacts quality of life, draws more dollars for local wealth, and foaster retention and development in larger anchor businesses. 

If you have an interest in starting a business or expanding one in the area, consider reaching out to these organizers to see what they offer. Congratulations on another milestone in our community’s development. It is this kind of forward thinking is what creates new opportunities. You might not fully see the impact yet but you will. 

How Cities Can Spark Economic Transformation through Entrepreneur-Led Economic Development

Project Point Workshop Series: Helping Delta County Businesses Grow

The Escanaba Downtown Development Authority and the Delta County Economic Development Alliance are launching Project Point, a monthly workshop series designed for both current business owners and new entrepreneurs in Delta County.

Event Details
• Location: Escanaba City Hall, 410 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
• When: Second Wednesday of each month
• Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Hosted by: Downtown Escanaba, Delta County Chamber of Commerce, and Escanaba DDA
• Info & registration: https://escanabadda.org/project-point

Each session focuses on a different area of business—from launching a startup to strengthening and growing an established operation. The format is moderator-style, encouraging audience participation and discussion.

Kickoff Workshop was Held – February 11-Contact to Get Involved.
Featuring the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Presented by Nicole Young Potvin, SBDC consultant, entrepreneur, and marketing specialist.

Topics include:
• Accessing free SBDC one-on-one consulting
• Writing a business plan
• Pricing strategies
• Marketing support and research
• Buying or selling a business
• Additional tools and resources for local businesses

SBDC’s no-cost services offer practical support to help businesses stay competitive in a changing market.

Why Attend?
“Taking time for workshops is crucial for business owners to stay competitive and adapt to evolving market trends,” — Ed Legault, Executive Director, Delta County EDA
“It’s like attending a business conference every month.” — Craig Woerpel, Executive Director, Escanaba DDA

Participants will leave with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and new connections with fellow business owners.

Bonus: DDA Business Partners Committee
Right after each workshop, the DDA Business Partners Committee meets at 5 PM at City Hall. It’s a chance to stay updated on downtown initiatives, including February’s Restaurant Week.

Join us each month as we work together to grow, strengthen, and launch businesses across Delta County.

January 2026 Boost Jobs Over Slow Growth Year (Gary and Sally Support Creative Capital, Market Engagement, and New Industries)

(Illustrative Only)

Gary and Sally invented
a new product based on the
needs of multiple industries
and market demand. Their
product is so unique it may
launch a new industry
as emerging science have
created a paradigm shift.

They hire creative capital, 
allow retired folks to
work part time and seek to 
groom younger people. They
and their business are community
oriented. Places
like Escanaba might be right 
where they need to be
to launch a new enterprise.

They are thinking of 
how a Multi-Cluster
in Delta County could
foster a new industry.
In theory.
Multi-Cluster DC

Unemployment remains relatively low at 4.3 percent, and January saw a solid gain of 130,000 jobs. However, total job creation for 2025 was modest at 181,000. Earnings have risen slightly, and some analysts view these developments as signs of a possible labor-market turnaround while other think a short uptick doesn't mean the underlying factors shifted in a month. Growth was concentrated in health care and social assistance, while manufacturing and production remained largely stagnant.

Ideally, more job growth would occur in manufacturing and production fields. Although health care and social assistance are important to society, they are not always major drivers of broad economic value (i.e. the cost of healthcare a long bubble that could be much cheaper.). Expansion into these types of service industries may reflect an aging population and an economy that needs to focus more on renewal and maximizing human-capital development. 

Technology could help bring more people into the labor market and support the creation of new industries. It can generate real economic benefits, but only if workers are prepared to fill the jobs it creates and if those jobs produce value that the world needs. 

Investing in infrastructure, strengthening education, fostering creativity from an early age, and expanding international partnerships could help. Achieving this, however, requires a deeper commitment to new ways of thinking and working. Few know the right answers and those are complet but one thing is sure, the more we develop our society the greater the benefits. It all starts with people.

January 2026r Employment Situation Summary

• Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 130,000 jobs in January 2026.

• The unemployment rate was 4.3 percent, little changed from the previous month.

• Job gains occurred in health care, social assistance, and construction.

• Federal government employment declined, continuing a recent downward trend.

• Employment in financial activities fell in January.

• Other major industries, including manufacturing, retail, transportation, and professional services, showed little change.

• Average hourly earnings for private-sector employees rose by 0.4 percent in January and are up 3.7 percent over the past year.

• The average workweek increased slightly by 0.1 hour to 34.3 hours.

• Revisions to November and December data showed employment gains were slightly lower than first reported.

• The annual benchmark revision significantly reduced the previously estimated job growth for 2025.

• Long-term unemployment remained elevated, and the number of people working part-time for economic reasons stayed high.

• Labor force participation and the employment-population ratio changed little in January.

Corruption Index: Learning How to Reduce Corruption Through a Thought Experiment (Story of the Clan)

(Illustrative Only)

Thinking about Kotter's Model
of Change and how small
adaptive changes leads to
smoother growth when 
compared to larger fast paced
changes. Leo thinks small 
faster paced changes could
improve systems based on
emerging science and 
societal expectations. Micro
changes that improve outcomes.

Leo is part of the 
hypothetical Feather Party
that is used for philosophical
discussion on a third vote
tipping party of independents that
doesn't work with special interests,
limits campaign donations, doesn't 
allow for party-line votes. It
uses an agreed upon decision 
making matrix based 
on the needs of the
next generation. Each
member must make their
own consclusion and
vote their conscious. The party
does not exist at this time
in history, a type of thought
experiment.

 If you don't like
one independent's
thoughts you can pick
another. The goal being
to create liquidity of intellectual
thoughts to greese friction. 

Philosophy and Politics
as Guides to Governance

We can talk about corruption endlessly and still miss the deeper consequences of its spread. The Story of the Clan is a philosophical learning allegory that underscores the need for systems grounded in principle rather than politics, ideology, prejudice, or personal gain. It functions as an early warning, revealing how certain mindsets and assumptions can produce harmful outcomes. Keep in mind this story is for learning and exploring so take with a grain of salt. Secretive targeting, suppressing speech or beliefs, and using institutions to punish some while rewarding an in-group are all improper and unlawful in orientation. In the example, poor actors intent was in some cases to exploit and dehumanize others in a way that inflicts harm, and benefits insiders. Once such practices are uncovered, failing to correct them reflects the values behind decision-making and the level of commitment to one’s oaths. (Remember that actions and habits are usually goal-oriented and in some cases might reveal a larger pattern. Nothing is in a vacuum. Behavior and Habits in Goals).

Now consider how this might relate to the global corruption index.

According to the recent report, there has been a general decline in the fight against corruption. Some have concluded that addressing it is not worth the time or effort, despite its significant costs. Thought experiments like the Story of the Clan illustrate how hate, bias, and unchecked misuse of authority weaken systems when checks and balances fail. The mistreatment persisted for years and affected more than one generation. These type of losses for victims nor the potential broader loss in human capital were not considered. We often selectively choose what we want to see and consider as valued (See philosophery versus lawyer conception below.)

The story moves toward resolution only when accountability is restored, trust rebuilt, and a renewed commitment to shared values emerges. In this game theory everyone looses until the actors accept there are certain norms that improve the outcomes and benefits of everyone. This is why those assumptions, beliefs and symbolisms were created to ensure society has cohesive glue as an adaptive species trait (Game Theory Selfish Eventually Loose).  It can ultimately become a positive story, but only if we continue to act as guides through the fog of competing agendas, limited reflection on societal purpose, and institutional entitlement. Clear sight comes on the other side of that journey.

When we learn and adapt, corruption declines. Most officials act with integrity and deserve recognition for their service. However, when checks and balances are weak or absent, even a small number of bad actors can exploit the system and undermine social contracts. Dumping it on victims creates a secondary harm and perpetuates the poor behaviors and the impact on societal health. There never should be second class citizens. When we fail to learn, the problems grow. Rising corruption damages economic development, weakens social cohesion, and disrupts the basic functioning of institutions.

Respect for law and order requires understanding the intent of the law, not treating it as a tool for gamesmanship. Laws form a social contract meant to hold everyone to the same standards; when they are misused, they lose perceptual value (Integrity, performance and perceptual integrity can be thought of as part of trust.). Those who model integrity strengthen society as a whole. Philosophers often remain closer to principle because they rely on broad ethical reasoning rather than narrow self-interest—although such clarity can be uncomfortable in many settings and, as a result, tends not to last long (Philosophy-Know Nothing) 

Corruption harms every society. Reducing it requires a commitment to core values, institutional purpose, and the idea that all members of society share in the same protections and responsibilities. (When things more like a game then there may too many lawyers and not be enough philosophers to maintain a true north point of sail.).

Corruption Perceptions Index 2025: Decline in leadership undermining global fight against corruption

A summary of the article:

• The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index shows global corruption worsening, with the global average score falling to 42, the lowest in more than a decade. Most countries score below 50.

• Transparency International reports a long-term decline in strong, accountable leadership to fight corruption, including in established democracies such as the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, France, and Sweden.

• The number of high-performing, low-corruption countries has dropped from 12 a decade ago to just five in 2025.

• Many countries with declining CPI scores also saw reduced civic space, including pressures on media, civil society, and public freedoms.

• Public dissatisfaction and protests increased, including among younger generations in countries such as Nepal and Madagascar.

• The organization calls on governments to strengthen enforcement, protect civic space, improve oversight and transparency, and close loopholes that enable corrupt financial flows.

*This is a philosophical, theoretical, thought experiment for learning purposes and exploring concepts. Feel free to change around the elements and come to your own conclusions. Take with a grain of salt.

A Man of Thought Photo and the Poem 'An Ocean's Saga: A Young Sailor's Choice' (Poetry and Art)

A Many of Thought Photo
Actual non-AI photo.
I can print different sizes and
can do special prints.
Most start about $50 with
free shipping. Send me
a message to the right if interested.
It may make a great photo
for your office or studio.
I can imagine a few restaurants 
that it would look great
on a wall. Just saying
Check out some
of my other work. 
I'm starting to populate
my own page.

A Man of Thought
This photo was taken a few years ago. I was on a beach and saw the silhouette, with a ship in the background, a sunset, and rough waves that suggest challenge. The solid rock beneath the figure represents the safety of our comfort zone, while the open water symbolizes the unknown—a place of risk, adventure, and uncertainty.

Many young people eventually face a defining choice in their lives: remain in the safety of what they know, or leap into the unknown. There are risks either way. Those who seek growth often choose to jump, while those who value security tend to stay where they feel safe.

An Ocean's Saga: A Young Sailor's Choice

Into the sea young hearts wander,

or stay close to home they may ponder.

One offers endless wonder,

The other safe from plunder.

One may jump head first into the ocean drink,

Another gets their fill no further than the kitchen sink.

A young sailors choice.

An article that is interesting to think about, 'What happens in the brain when we experience art' with a few key bullet points.

• Research in neuroaesthetics shows that engaging with meaningful art activates brain networks involved in introspection and reflection, not just basic perception.

• Aesthetic experiences can promote empathy, strengthen social connection, and support cross-cultural understanding.

• Art shapes thought, emotion, and identity by integrating cognitive and emotional processes, indicating that art appreciation involves deep psychological engagement.

 

Escanaba City Council Meeting (Feb. 5, 2026) Strong Fiscal Management, Funds, Infrastructure, Hiring, Business Thriving, and Yacht Clubs! (Lance Jumps in a Row Boat)

(Illustrative Only)

Lance couldn't find an
intro to sculling class so
he decided to just row 
his dingy. Thinking he also
might need to take a water
safety and navigation 
class. Would such classes support
 tourism, local health and a
little revenue for the club
and city? Maybe or Maybe not.

 Even with a dinghy he still
gets a pretty good workout.
He is thinking of heading
downtown to a 
new bistro to try it out
after he is done.
Elleven 10 Bistro

This city council meeting covered a range of topics, from fiscal management to decisions about the yacht club. The town has grown significantly into a hot spot over the past four years as residents and administrators have worked together to build something special. It’s becoming a popular investment and vacation spot on the Great Lakes, supported by strong infrastructure—roads, a port, an airfield, a railway, and high-speed data.

The area is also attracting more social events, including concerts, clubs, ice races, and activities at local museums and historic sites. This enhances quality of life factors in economic development. With all this growth, it raises an important question: what does it take for a small Upper Peninsula town to stay competitive and financially sound?

Ultimately, it requires people coming together around a shared vision and focusing on strengthening the community while creating new opportunities. A type of model is starting to form of how to create economic thriving and comebacks.

Comments on regular need for funding for businesses seeking to expand, housing projects, etc. Escanaba downtown has gained some new businesses and while it is strong for start-ups it also has industrial areas for scalling up successful businesses. An interesting article on 6 Characteristics of Cities Where Businesses Thrive

Feb 5th, 2026 Agenda

• City Council meeting scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on February 5, 2026 at City Hall.
• Agenda included approval of minutes from December 18, 2025 and January 15, 2026.
• No public hearings or unfinished business listed.

• New business items included:

  • Audit presentation by the city controller.: Appears to be that finances and grants were well run with no findings. Increases in assets and cash. Grants and infrastructure development. Increase in long term liability. Pension liability decreased because of investment returns. Electric is going up so perhaps there are ways to maximize that while creating more local electric independence. Just something to think about. 
  • Contract with CUPPAD to update the recreation five-year plan. 
  • Agreement to establish an unendowed agency fund with the Community Foundation for Delta County. A financial fund used for city related projects but don't have clear funding channel. Comments on regular need for funding for businesses seeking to expand, housing projects, etc.
  • Approval of the Yacht Club lease. Some discussion on opening more up to public use. Some discussion on cost and public services. Designating certain days and times when it can be rented by the public might help. A little revenue source for weddings and activities. There may be a beverage issues. Another option might be having club members volunteer for activities around the beach and park. i.e. boating training, etc. 
  • (Thinking out loud....🤔How about a rowing or other watersport activities? Like glass out there some mornings. Not specifically rowing but a variety of recreational activities/rentals, fishing 101, sailing 101, etc. Perhaps purchase year memberships and offer a few classes for the public. Some yatch clubs manage rentals and put on classes. Maybe helps tourism, park appeal, pays the rent and gets the club some money. Another thought is health, recreation, socialization, etc. Just something to think about but run your own numbers. 
  • Btw... If you haven't seen sculling you can look at a video from the San Diego Rowing Club. These guys/gals are awesome! I row there sometimes.👌 UoM and a few other university in Michigan have them as well.  We also have some Finlanders and a touch of Finlander culture here so they may like how the Finnish Row  Now if we keep the innovation juices alive we can start our own UP Sculling Version 🙃 :)
  • Resolution to add streets to the ACT 51 street system.
  • Resolution to change street names in the ACT 51 system.  
  • Discussion on hiring and candidates.
  • Join a number of the available committees.   

Agenda also included appointments, public comment time, and adjournment.

 

The Case for Joining and Supporting Your Local Fire Department

(Illustrative Only)

Firefighting is more
of a passion for many. 
They enjoy helping their
community. 

Equipment needs to be updated
regularly; unless
you want this piece of
history showing up! 
Donating to 
a non-profit is tax free. 
Send a message to
the right.

This would be a good place
for a business to consider
reducing tax liability
while supporting their
community.

Firefighters protect businesses, homes,
natural assets, etc...

People are drawn to firefighting for many reasons. In recent years, some departments have struggled to recruit younger members, especially for volunteer or part-time roles. Training takes time, regulations keep increasing, and departments have to put real effort into bringing new people in. Still, some firehouses do well—one department even has about a third of its crew under age 25, along with experienced members who have decades of knowledge. Sounds cross generational and that should be supported.

Why someone becomes a firefighter varies, but a few motivations come up often:

• A sense of community and helping others

• Being part of a tight, long-lasting team

• Personal development—firefighting gives you a reason to grow, stay fit, and take responsibility

• Pay, though it’s usually modest, even as firefighters take on increasing challenges like climate-driven emergencies

If you’re in business, college, a veteran, or another career path, joining a local department can still offer real benefits. You’ll learn teamwork, gain technical knowledge, take on responsibility, stay consistent, and maintain a basic level of fitness.

Even if you can’t be a firefighter yourself, you can still support your local departments—fundraising, recruiting, sharing fire-safety information, helping with events, and more.

 NFPA has an interesting article on why people choose this path if you'd like to explore further.

NFPA Firefighting Occupation Info

Also, if you would like to donate to a UP fire department that supports a couple of communities and could use some new equipment please contact me and I will connect you with the right people. Tax free donation. 

Making Pizza The Fast and Cheap Way for Cabin Dwellers (Camp Cooking)

People have all sorts of relationships with cooking. Some folks genuinely love it, some avoid it like it’s an optional tax form, and then there are people like me—who enjoy cooking only when the planets align and the mood is right. Most days, I keep it simple. Very simple. “If it requires more than two steps, it’s too fancy” simple.

When you live a camp/outdoor/sailing kind of life, cooking becomes part survival skill, part improvisational comedy. You rarely have everything you need, so meals often become, “What can I make with three vegetables, half a protein bar, and olive oil?” Surprisingly, the answer is usually something.

Cooking should be cheaper, but that depends on whether you actually have the ingredients. If you don’t, suddenly that “budget meal” costs more than a small car (More than my metal car tank thing Riveria). Health-wise, cooking at home is generally better—you know exactly what’s in your food, and you can control calories, protein, and how many vegetables you pretend to enjoy.

(Illustrative Only)

Recently, I made a very simple pizza. Yes, I cheated and bought the dough. Could I have made the dough myself? Sure. Have I made it before? Also yes. Did I want to do that again? Absolutely not. I sliced up a block of cheese, added sauce, threw on some veggies and lean white-meat protein, drizzled a little garlic olive oil (supposed to be good for your joints, or at least that’s what I tell myself), and shoved it in the oven.

Was it the best pizza I’ve ever made? No. Was it edible? Surprisingly, yes. For five minutes of effort and about five dollars’ worth of ingredients, it was basically culinary magic. Or at least edible sorcery. Either way, dinner was served.

With whitemeat chicken 300 ish calories, 30 carbs, 30 protein. 

A Pizza Recipe I found. Look up your own. Pizza Recipe