Classic Car Cruise on Ludington Street in Escanaba

 One of the fun events in the Escanaba area this weekend was the cruise on Ludington Street. The event drew a large crowd, with people lining the streets to watch the parade of vehicles. Car enthusiasts came from across the region, bringing everything from beautifully restored classics to custom-built projects. Earlier in the day, activities in the park included live music, bands, and entertainment, all complemented by beautiful weather and a spectacular sunset.

We found a great viewing spot near the restaurant by Babbleoons, where we could comfortably watch the cars navigate the corner and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into many of these vehicles. As someone currently restoring an older car, I can personally attest to the amount of time and effort required. After nine months of work, I am only now getting through the mechanical issues before moving on to the bodywork. Restoring a vehicle is a major commitment, which makes it even more impressive to see so many finished projects on display. Some vehicles were fully restored, others were still works in progress, and many featured highly customized designs that showcased their owners' creativity.

The cruise was a successful event that brought a significant number of visitors to the area. Events like this help promote Escanaba, Gladstone, and Delta County, encouraging people to stay in local hotels, visit parks and businesses, and experience everything the community has to offer. They contribute to the growing reputation of the area as a popular destination in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and give visitors a reason to return and recommend the region to others.

A couple of items that would have been helpful. 

I was looking at these binoculars for some of the outdoor and photography stuff that I do. Night vision. Kine of cool. Night Vision Binoculars

That could also work well with a chair that holds beverages. This one has a canopy and I think it would work well to keep the sun off of you in these events. Also, one might consider for the beach in Escanaba or San Diego-two tourist destinations. Canvas Top Event Chair

Escanaba LogJam May 27th, 2026

This is an event you don't want to miss. This has always been fun and it helps brand the area. The summar is kicking off. Parks, people, beaches, brews, and bonfires. 

If your a local or vacationing consider the Amvets golf fundraiser at Woody's in the morning and then Log Jam in the afternoon. Go take a nap on the beach in between. 

Amvets Post #123 Golf Outing

 Don't miss some of the fun events coming up. Its a good cause. After that there is the Log Jam in downtown Escanaba. A perfect day!

First Quarter 2026 GDP Growth to 1.6%-A Rise in Prices and Slowdown in Corporate Profits

 We can take a look at the first-quarter 2026 GDP report, which showed economic growth of 1.6%. That's a bit lower than many expected and may suggest that some consumers are beginning to tighten their budgets while investors adopt more of a wait-and-see approach.

About six months ago, there were a few indicators that hinted at the possibility of a slowdown, although the economy still appeared relatively strong at the time. This latest GDP figure is one sign of weakness, but no single data point tells the whole story. What matters most is whether a trend begins to develop over the coming quarters.

Inflation remains a concern as well. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index increased 4.5%, while the core PCE price index rose 4.4%. These figures suggest that goods and services are continuing to become more expensive, putting pressure on both businesses and households.

For consumers, this may be a good reminder to focus spending on items that provide real value and meaning. Avoid unnecessary purchases when possible, and consider investing surplus funds for long-term financial growth.

Corporate profit growth also slowed significantly during the quarter. Business investment remains relatively healthy, particularly in equipment, technology, and artificial intelligence-related sectors, but it would be useful to compare these trends with other countries to better understand how the United States is performing in the global economy. Looking at international comparisons can provide valuable context about competitiveness, productivity, and future economic prospects.

BEA Revises First-Quarter 2026 GDP Growth to 1.6%, Corporate Profit Growth Slows

• The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reported that real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 1.6% during the first quarter of 2026, down from the advance estimate of 2.0%.
• The downward revision primarily reflected weaker investment and consumer spending than previously estimated.
• Real GDP growth accelerated from the 0.5% annual rate recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025.
• Real Gross Domestic Income (GDI) increased 0.9% in the first quarter, compared with 1.6% growth in the previous quarter.
• The average of real GDP and real GDI, often used as a broader measure of economic activity, increased 1.3%, up from 1.1% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
• The gross domestic purchases price index rose 3.5% during the quarter.
• The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index increased 4.5%, while the core PCE price index (excluding food and energy) increased 4.4%.
• Corporate profits from current production increased by $40.4 billion in the first quarter, a substantial slowdown from the $246.9 billion increase recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025.
• Business investment remained a bright spot, particularly spending on equipment associated with artificial intelligence technologies.

U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. (2026, May 28). GDP (second estimate) and corporate profits, 1st quarter 2026. U.S. Department of Commerce. https://www.bea.gov/news/2026/gdp-second-estimate-and-corporate-profits-1st-quarter-2026

Escanaba City Council Meeting: Budgets, Data Transit, Millage, Classica Cars

(Illustrative Only)

Not in the parade this year.

Keeping up with the local news and governance. It is important for businesses, leaders, stakeholders and investors to see the good things happening. 

Any corrections please send me a message to the right. Don't miss the events this weekend. Community Calendar. 

Meeting Openings & Agenda Adjustments

• Roll Call & Pledge: The meeting was called to order by Mayor Ammel. 

• Minutes Approved: The council approved the minutes from the regular meeting held on May 7, 2026.

• Agenda Updates: Item #13 (Chip Seal Street approval) was removed. Two new items were added: Item #16 (Classic Car and Bike Night road closure changes) and Item #17 (Discussion regarding alleys going to gravel and chip sealer).

Public Hearing: FY 2026-27 Operating Budget

• Budget & Millage Approval: Following four public hearings and three work sessions, the council officially adopted the FY 2026-27 operating budget, capital improvement plan, and master fee schedule.

• Millage Rate: The city millage rate was established and approved at 17.442 mills.

• No public comments were made during this hearing.

Presentation: Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) Ballot Proposal

John Stapleton, Director of DATA, gave an informational presentation regarding an upcoming transit millage on the August 4th ballot.

Current Operations & Structure

• DATA currently employs about 29 people. Full-time drivers and mechanics operate under a Teamsters Union shop.

• It operates as a nonprofit and governmental authority, governed by a board with representatives from Gladstone, Delta County, and the township association.

• As a public transit authority, DATA is legally required to accept all riders without discrimination (unlike the private sector). Rides can be booked via phone call, smartphone app, or text message.

The August 4th Millage Proposal

• The Ask: DATA is proposing a 0.689 mill levy for an 8-year period. This would replace the current 0.6 mills restricted to Escanaba and Gladstone.

• Countywide Expansion: This proposal would expand demand-response transit services to all of Delta County, including seven unserved townships (such as Wells Township), bringing service to roughly 8,300 residents who currently lack it.

• Proposed Service Expansions: Based on community surveys, the millage would fund earlier weekday morning hours (for dialysis, work, and school commutes) and expanded weekend hours, including running until 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights.

• Financial Impact: For a home valued at $200,000 (taxable value of $100,000), the estimated tax increase is roughly 86 cents per month. It is a single countywide millage, meaning there is no "double-dipping" for city residents.

Financial Justification & Council Q&A

• Local Match Requirement: State and federal transit funds require a 50% local match before they can be reimbursed. DATA is currently about $600,000 short of funding this specific expansion. Stapleton noted that transit funding has failed to keep pace with inflation since 1997.

• Competition with Private Business: In response to council questioning, Stapleton clarified that DATA is meant to complement private transport, not compete. Private options can cost families $40–$55 per ride for long distances and often lack necessary equipment for disabled passengers (wheelchairs, scooters, walkers).

• Ridership Demographics: While specific ratios were not on hand, Stapleton noted that the majority of trips are now provided for working-age adults, though the service remains highly essential for disabled and elderly residents who cannot drive.

New Business: Ordinance First Readings

• Ordinance No. 1320 (Appropriations Ordinance): The council approved the first reading of the appropriations ordinance to implement the approved budget and levy the 17.442 mills.

• Ordinance No. 1321 (Tax Levy Ordinance): The council approved the first reading of the tax levy ordinance required by the city charter.

• Special Meeting Scheduled: A special city council meeting was scheduled for Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. for the second reading, public comment, and final adoption of both ordinances.

Agenda May 21st 2026

May Business After Hours Delta County: Data Bus, Charity, Newspapers, Food and Business Community

(Illustrative Only)

This is where you 
pass out cards on 
your start-up
and future investment
in the area. 
Suits voluntary.

Delta County MI. has a great networking event called Business After Hours, hosted by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce. While I do not make it to every event, I am always pleasantly surprised by the venue, the welcoming atmosphere, and the strong sense of business camaraderie whenever I attend. In a room of 100 I probably know 30 of them. Working together to enhance each other leads to total gain.

One of the best parts of these gatherings is the opportunity to learn something new. At this event, conversations centered around the Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) bus system and the benefits it provides to local residents. There was discussion about routes, mileage, and efforts to serve communities throughout the county. I've included a map below to help illustrate the service area. In addition to networking, the event also supported charitable causes and community initiatives.

For anyone interested in investing in Delta County, launching a startup, or growing an existing business, Business After Hours is the type of event you should consider attending. It offers a valuable opportunity to connect with local leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members. We discussed everything from media outlets, charity, new Veteran Service Officer, and more. A few people running for office showed up. 

Catered Food

Representatives from the Daily Press were also in attendance. The Daily Press is a top-notch local newspaper that has served the community for generations. The fact that it continues to thrive in today's digital media environment speaks volumes about the quality of its journalism and its connection to local readers (Eat your heart out NY Times!). For businesses looking to advertise or share their story, the Daily Press remains an excellent resource. Their commitment to local reporting helps ensure that community news is covered by people who understand the area and its residents. Local journalism is something worth supporting.

The event also featured raffles, a 50/50 drawing, and a variety of prizes, adding to the fun and excitement of the evening. The food was excellent as well. The catered snacks received high marks from our table, with the cheese curds and peanut butter cups emerging as the clear favorites. Both were absolutely delicious. I know the person who catered and always does top notch (Chicken grill event for the local classic car parade this Friday. Be there! Ludington Street Cruise. My car not yet ready for it.)

Data Bus Map

Overall, Business After Hours is a worthwhile event that brings together business professionals, community organizations, and residents in a positive and productive setting. If you have the opportunity to attend, I highly recommend it. And if you are interested in starting or expanding a business in the area, reaching out to the Chamber of Commerce is a great place to begin. You will be entering a community of like minded entrepreneurs.

Delta County Business Afterhours 

Delta Area Transit Authority-Data Bus

Escanaba Daily Press (Very long history and helps the community. Subscribe to online if you think of putting your business in this area.)

Rapid River Memorial Day Parade 2026

The Memorial Day parade in Rapid River is one of the largest in the Upper Peninsula and the surrounding area. People from many neighboring communities gather along the small main street of Rapid River, a village of roughly 500 residents, to enjoy the celebration.

Local businesses welcomed visitors throughout the day, while bands, music, fire trucks, and a variety of community attractions added to the festive atmosphere. There were also several individuals campaigning for political positions, including a few familiar faces from the region. Overall, it was a very enjoyable and successful event.

Down at the park, families could take part in children’s games and other activities, making it a great way to spend the holiday together. Events like this are part of what makes the Escanaba, Delta County, and Gladstone area such a wonderful place to live. The strong sense of community, local pride, and family-friendly atmosphere also make the region an excellent place to invest, grow, and develop.

Rapid River Memorial Day Parade

If your a veteran, or a family member of a veteran you can join Amvets Post #123