Celebrating Juneteenth-As We Continue to Improve

Today is a special day as we commemorate a significant step toward greater liberty and freedom. Juneteenth marks the moment when those who resisted freedom and emancipation were ultimately overcome and the promise of emancipation moved closer to reality. It is an important day to recognize the sacrafices and challenges of those who go back to the very beginning of our society but have not always been treated well. 

Yet these struggles are not confined to the past. Many of the challenges associated with discrimination, hatred, racism, and other mistreatments rear their head from time to time in history up until modern times. While most may do what is right, those who do what is wrong are often given wink and nod justice and more victims are created. We are becoming sensitized to wrongdoing through narratives and victim blaming. 

The Allegory of the Clan, loosely modeled after Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, explores how systems that embrace corruption and exclusion can emerge within societies. It examines themes such as discrimination, abuse of authority, manipulation of vulnerable populations, reputational harm, secret agreements, retailiation against witnesses and whistleblowers, misuse of public resources, and the tendency of some groups to protect wrongdoing rather than correct it. When institutions fail to hold themselves accountable, trust erodes and injustice can become entrenched. If it is a trend, you have a problem no matter what the narrative provided may be.

The encouraging reality is that the overwhelming majority of officials and citizens strive to do what is right. Good people doing what they promised and upholding their social contracts. They have a value system that many millions of people agree with. Many stand up for fairness, justice, and the rule of law, but they often need support. These are people with noble value systems-moral conscious. Yet we still have this problem of victim dumping and rewarding bad behaviors in some cases. The higher laws don't seem to count where people want to gain something. There are few checks and balances. 

Not all agree that all people have value and that law should be just and fair. Because those who undermine our values often create many victims we must challenge wrongdoing. There are places and times where people have intentionally harmed others and reward people most similar to themselves in values, skin color, religion, ideology, politics, etc. They allowed and rewarded open hate. So we strengthen our communities not by disengaging, but by participating—by encouraging those who act with integrity and reporting misconduct when it occurs (It may be ignored or undermined but you tried). As the saying goes, if you can't correct it, then you protect it. 

We are all in this together. There are many people in the future that rely on our choices today and at this time in history. No politician, judge, official, or powerful individual should have the authority to underemine that which we we strove generation after generation. Every person possesses inherent worth and deserves equal protection under the law. When victims are silenced, targeted, and have no recourse there is a problem. 

As a society, we can move forward by practicing civility, kindness, understanding, and mutual respect. By encouraging constructive behavior and holding destructive actions accountable, we help create communities and a society that are stronger, fairer, and more resilient. Juneteenth reminds us not only of how far we have come, but also of our ongoing responsibility to safeguard liberty, justice, and human dignity for all. Most importantly for the next generation. 

*The Allegory of the Clann is a philosophical thought experiment for learning purposes so come to whatever conclusion you desire as long as you thought about it. 

What is Junteenth?

You may be interested in this article, 

Hate as a System: Examining Hate Crimes and Hate Groups as State-Level Moderators on the Impact of Online and Offline Racism on Mental Health

• This study examined whether state-level hate crimes and hate groups influence the relationship between racism and psychological stress among racial minority individuals in the United States.
• Using data from 935 racial minority adults across 43 states, the researchers found that both online and offline racism were significantly associated with higher levels of perceived stress.
• The presence of hate groups, rather than hate crimes, significantly strengthened the relationship between offline racism and stress, suggesting that hate groups contribute to a broader culture of hostility and exclusion.
• Online racism was consistently linked to stress regardless of the number of hate groups or hate crimes in a state, likely because online experiences transcend geographic boundaries.
• The authors conclude that hate groups should be viewed as a form of structural racial inequity because their presence can amplify the psychological harm caused by racial discrimination and negatively affect mental health outcomes.

Keum, B. T., Li, X., & Wong, M. J. (2022). Hate as a system: Examining hate crimes and hate groups as state-level moderators on the impact of online and offline racism on mental health. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 91, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2022.09.002

La Noche Blanc Orphan Fundraiser July 18th 2026

 This is an organization that one can support. It helps orphans and those in need. Children are children no matter where they reside. Get Tickets

If you are not able to attend and would like to donate (any amount) on my page consider Donate Now

Leadership: Empathy with Expecations

 Let's talk about empathy in leadership. Whether you're leading an organization, serving as an elected or appointed official, managing a department, or volunteering in your community, empathy can be a powerful contributor to success.

Human beings are inherently social and adaptive. Over centuries, we have developed the ability to build relationships, cooperate, and create networks that help us achieve common goals. Organizations themselves are collections of people who come together to pursue shared objectives, create value, and, in many cases, generate economic benefit. Because organizations are built on human interaction, empathy plays an important role in effective leadership.

Empathy allows leaders to understand other people's perspectives, experiences, and concerns. It often improves communication, strengthens relationships, and helps build trust within teams. Leaders who demonstrate empathy are generally better equipped to understand employee needs, address challenges, and communicate in ways that resonate with diverse groups of people.

In leadership roles, much of what you accomplish depends on the social networks and relationships that influence organizational outcomes. You may hold a formal position of authority, but your ability to connect with others often determines how effectively you can lead. Empathy provides insight into the motivations, concerns, and aspirations of those around you, creating opportunities for more productive and meaningful interactions.

That said, empathy is not the same as avoiding difficult decisions. There is an important distinction between understanding someone's situation and simply yielding to every request. Effective leaders balance empathy with accountability. They seek to understand people while still making decisions that support organizational goals, maintain standards, and promote fairness.

Empathy combined with clear expectations can be one of the most effective leadership approaches. When rules are transparent, performance standards are understood, and accountability is applied consistently, leaders can treat people with respect and compassion while still encouraging high levels of performance.

The study below offers an interesting look at the relationship between empathetic leadership, employee engagement, and organizational commitment. It may be worth reading and reflecting on how empathy influences your own leadership style and the impact you have on the people and organizations you serve.

Empathetic Leadership in Corporate Communication: Cultivating Positive Dynamics and Enhancing Employee Well-Being

• The study examined how empathetic leadership influences employee well-being, engagement, and organizational commitment within corporate communication and public relations environments, using survey data from 1,055 communication professionals in the United States and Canada.
• Results showed that employees who perceived their leaders as empathetic reported higher levels of work engagement, stronger organizational commitment, and greater trust in leadership.
• Significant demographic differences emerged, with male professionals, older employees, and those in higher organizational positions reporting stronger perceptions of empathetic leadership than other groups.
• While empathy was strongly associated with positive workplace attitudes and engagement, it did not significantly reduce employee burnout when considered independently of broader organizational factors.
• The authors concluded that empathy is an important leadership competency but should be combined with organizational supports such as workload management, mental health resources, flexible work arrangements, and career development opportunities to improve long-term employee well-being and retention.

Robayo-Sanchez, K., Cacciatore, M. A., & Meng, J. (2026). Empathetic leadership in corporate communication: Cultivating positive dynamics and enhancing employee well-being. Behavioral Sciences, 16(3), 412. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16030412

Escanaba Sailboat Races, Races in Michigan Calendar and Something about Knots

(Illustrative Only)

The other night, we headed out for the Wednesday sailboat races at Escanaba Yacht Club. If you're interested in watching, you can head to the mouth of the harbor around 7:00 p.m. to catch the action. (Hint: Bring binoculars or telescope.) A few other races in the region are offered below. I was unable to find a strong calendar for all sailboat races in Michigan and Wisconsin. If you know of one send me a message to the right and I'll post. 

Last night's race was quite an adventure. The weather was rainy and cold, and everything was soaked—even with proper wet-weather gear. The waves were large, and conditions were challenging, but that was part of the fun. There is something rewarding about testing your skills against the power of nature.

Our team finished in second place. While we're happy with the result, there were only a few boats competing due to the weather, so we're not quite ready to call it a major victory until we see a larger regatta field. Still, it was a great experience.

One of the best parts of sailing is learning from others. Every time you sail with someone new, you pick up a new skill, technique, or perspective. Experienced sailors—especially the salty dogs who have spent years on the water—always seem to have a trick, story, or lesson to share. A discussion on knots opened up and I realized I needed to review so I put a resource below. That's part of what makes sailing such an enjoyable and lifelong pursuit. You never stop learning. 

If you want some balance, socialization, the outdoors and fun recreation consider joining your local yacht club.

Sailing Knots

Lightenings Sail to Victory!

Escanaba Yacht Club 2026 Calendar

Lake Michigan Races

Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac

• Route: Chicago, Illinois to Mackinac Island, Michigan
• Distance: Approximately 333 statute miles
• Founded: 1898
• Often called the oldest annual freshwater distance race in the world.
• Website:
  https://www.cycracetomackinac.com
• Race Overview: Finishes at Mackinac Island and regularly attracts hundreds of boats from around the Great Lakes.

Queen's Cup Race

• Route: Alternates between Wisconsin and Michigan ports
• Typical Route: Milwaukee to Muskegon or Grand Haven
• Distance: Approximately 69 nautical miles
• Overnight cross-lake race
• Website:
  https://www.ssyc.org/queens-cup-r-race-blog
• The 2026 race is scheduled for June 26.

Little Traverse Yacht Club Ugotta Regatta

• Location: Harbor Springs, Michigan
• Multi-day regatta on Little Traverse Bay
• Website:
  https://www.ltyc.org

South Haven Yacht Club Regatta

• Location: South Haven, Michigan
• One of the major annual racing events on Michigan's west coast
• Website:
  https://www.shyc.org

Muskegon Yacht Club Racing Series

• Location: Muskegon, Michigan
• Multiple regattas and offshore races throughout the season
• Website:
  https://www.muskegonyachtclub.org

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Major Great Lakes Races

Bayview Mackinac Race

• Route: Port Huron, Michigan to Mackinac Island
• Founded: 1925
• One of the most prestigious freshwater races in the world
• Typically attracts more than 200 boats and approximately 1,600 sailors.
• Website:
  https://www.bycmack.com

Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac

• Great Lakes classic
• Finishes at Mackinac Island
• Website:
  https://www.cycracetomackinac.com

Tri Lake Challenge

• Consists of:
  • Bayview Mackinac Race
  • Chicago Mackinac Race
  • Trans Superior Race
• Competitors who complete all three compete for the Barthel Trophy.

Mills Trophy Race

• Route: Detroit to Put-in-Bay, Ohio
• Hosted by the Detroit regional sailing community
• One of the oldest races on Lake Erie
• Website:
  https://www.drya.org

Hook Race

• Lake Michigan distance race
• Popular among offshore and short-handed sailors
• Website:
  https://www.lmss.us

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Lake Superior Races

Trans Superior Yacht Race

• Route: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to Duluth, Minnesota
• Founded: 1969
• Widely regarded as the toughest offshore race on the Great Lakes due to Lake Superior's weather and distance.
• Website:
  https://www.transsup.org

Keweenaw Cup

• Location: Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan
• Offshore racing around Michigan's northern peninsula
• Website:
  https://www.keweenawsailing.com

Bayfield Race Week

• Location: Bayfield, Wisconsin
• Features the famous "Around the Islands" distance race on Lake Superior.
• Website:
  https://www.bayfieldraceweek.com

Superior Sailfest Regatta

• Location: Duluth, Minnesota
• One of Lake Superior's largest annual regattas
• Website:
  https://www.duluthyachtclub.com

Apostle Islands Offshore Series

• Location: Bayfield, Wisconsin
• Challenging races among the Apostle Islands
• Website:
  https://www.apostleislandsyc.com

The Federal Open Market Committee Holds Interest Rates Steady and Seeks Price Stability (June 17th, 2026)

(Illustrative Only)

Deep in the forest
outside Bark River
.........🙃

Buy now and 
pay later or
Save now and 
buy later?

The interest rates established by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) help determine the federal funds rate, which influences borrowing costs throughout the economy. These rates affect everything from car loans and mortgages to business financing, credit cards, and other forms of lending. As interest rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive, which can influence spending, investment decisions, and overall economic activity.

For business owners and executives, monitoring interest rate decisions is important because they provide valuable insight into future economic conditions. While interest rates may seem like a finance-specific topic, they can help organizations anticipate changes in operating costs, financing expenses, supplier pricing, and consumer demand. Understanding these trends can support more informed planning and strategic decision-making.

Interest rates also have a direct impact on personal finances. Changes in rates can affect credit card balances, personal loans, home loans, and savings returns. By paying attention to Federal Reserve announcements, individuals can better understand the financial environment and make more informed decisions about borrowing, saving, and investing. Staying aware of these economic indicators can improve both personal and business financial management.

Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady and Reaffirms Commitment to Price Stability

• The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) voted unanimously to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 3.50% to 3.75%, citing continued economic expansion and a relatively stable labor market.
• The Committee noted that inflation remains above its 2% target, with elevated price pressures attributed in part to sector-specific supply disruptions, particularly in energy markets.
• Policymakers emphasized their ongoing commitment to restoring price stability while supporting maximum employment, consistent with the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate.
• The FOMC reaffirmed its policy of maintaining ample reserves in the banking system and continued its current balance sheet approach.
• Updated projections and accompanying communications suggested that policymakers remain concerned about inflation risks, with some expectations that interest rates could move higher later in 2026 if inflation pressures persist.

Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. (2026, June 17). Federal Reserve issues FOMC statement. Federal Reserve. https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20260617a.htm

Corruption and Economic Development: The Potential Costs of Hate and Corruption

Let us continue exploring the moral, economic, and legal dimensions of corruption through the Allegory of the Clan. This philosophical thought experiment is modeled in part after the Allegory of the Cave. As participants move through each stage of the allegory, they gain greater insight into how corruption develops, how it can be recognized, how it can be minimized within society and communities, and how it affects economic and social development.

When examining the research and evidence on corruption, a consistent pattern emerges: corruption weakens governance. It diverts resources away from productive investments, increases transaction costs, and slows innovation (Economic transactional theories support this.) As corruption is challenged and reduced, societies often experience lower crime rates, higher household incomes, and the creation of new opportunities through greater transparency, knowledge, and awareness.

Corruption weakens institutions because individuals within those institutions may use taxpayer resources for purposes that are illegal, unconstitutional, or inconsistent with human and civil rights. In many cases, favoritism replaces fairness, and public resources are directed toward benefiting a select group rather than serving the broader community. Even when whistleblowers and witnesses come forward they are silenced and victims dehumanized. This creates significant economic inefficiencies and wastes valuable resources (There are moral conscious questions that come forward.). 

The consequences extend far beyond the immediate victims. Corruption imposes costs on all members of society. It robs the next generation of options and opportunities who are likely to struggle more than our own (It might be hard to sell that is why correction and/or reform is slow.). Resources that could have been invested in education, infrastructure, healthcare, entrepreneurship, or economic development are instead consumed by activities that produce little or no public value. As a result, economic growth slows, trust erodes, innovation declines, and communities lose opportunities to improve quality of life and their economic health.

Through the Allegory of the Clan, we seek to better understand these dynamics and examine how transparency, accountability, ethical leadership, and civic engagement can strengthen institutions and contribute to greater prosperity for all. The next generation of best and brightest should join these institutions to support them, we should think about the type of people we elect beyond partisanship, and alway seek to improve as much as possible. Support what is good and try to correct what is wrong. There are no perfect systems only trajectories towards higher performance. You can come to any conclusion you so desire and that is ok as long as you thought about it. 

Corruption and Economic Development: Understanding the Costs of Weak Governance

• Corruption diverts resources away from productive investments and public services, reducing economic efficiency and slowing long-term economic growth. Funds that could support infrastructure, education, and healthcare are often redirected toward private gain.

• Businesses operating in corrupt environments face higher transaction costs, greater uncertainty, and barriers to market entry. These conditions discourage entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment while reducing overall productivity.

• Corruption weakens institutions by encouraging regulatory capture, favoritism, and rent-seeking behavior. As a result, policies may benefit special interests rather than promoting competition, economic development, and public welfare.

• Financial systems can be adversely affected by corruption. Research cited by Nature indicates that higher levels of corruption are associated with greater levels of nonperforming loans, weakening banking systems and contributing to slower economic growth.

• The negative effects of corruption are often most severe in developing economies where institutional safeguards are weaker. Poor governance can create a cycle of underdevelopment characterized by lower investment, reduced human capital development, greater inequality, and diminished public trust.

Nature Index. (n.d.). Corruption's impact on economic development. Nature Research Intelligence Topics. Retrieved June 17, 2026, from https://www.nature.com/nature-index/topics/l4/corruption-s-impact-on-economic-development

Detroit Economic Club: The Future of US Steal and Economy

Trying to understand the economy and the underlying factors that drive long-term growth requires looking at some of the core inputs that support economic activity. Steel is a good example, as many industries depend on it directly or indirectly. The same can be said for digital technologies, infrastructure, and other foundational sectors that enable innovation and productivity across the economy.

(Illustrative Only)

Mining in the UP could
make a come back. 
Places like Escanaba
have a Port that
could be further developed
and a budding ship
repair/building potential.

Pondering the possibilities of 
the future. 

Visit Escanaba.

and

Pictures of Escanaba
Ore Dock-Delta
County Historical
Society

When we invest in strong industries that support many other industries, those investments often create long-term benefits that extend far beyond the initial impact. At the same time, we need to be strategic. It does not make sense to continually support industries that are unable to compete, but it does make sense to help industries become more competitive. That requires ongoing innovation, improved efficiency, lower costs, higher quality, and a commitment to continuous development.

These goals are achievable if we remain focused on strengthening the foundations of the economy and reorienting investments toward opportunities that are emerging in the digital era. Building competitive industries today can create significant economic advantages in the future.

While searching for a newer video on this topic, I came across a presentation from the Detroit Economic Club. The organization is well known for hosting influential speakers and discussions on business and economic issues. Although this was not the newest presentation available, I found it worthwhile. I uploaded the transcript for analysis and summarization, and the results are provided below.

• The Nippon Steel Deal Revival & Oval Office Insight: After President Biden originally killed the deal based on political and labor pressures, U.S. Steel successfully lobbied President Trump to study the transaction. This ultimately led to a massive, renegotiated $14 billion investment from Nippon Steel.

• The "Golden Share" Structure: To preserve U.S. Steel's national legacy and identity, the deal includes a "Golden Share" mechanism that grants the U.S. President veto power over material corporate choices, such as changing the iconic company name, shifting headquarters out of Pittsburgh, or idling facilities.

• The "Best of Both" Production Strategy: U.S. Steel is leveraging a dual footprint that pairs legacy, unionized "integrated mills" (which refine raw materials to produce high-end automotive steel) with highly efficient, low-carbon electric arc "mini-mills" (which recycle scrap steel into milder products).

• U.S. Energy Independence & Advantage: The massive shift toward electric arc mini-mills in the United States (comprising 70% of the domestic market) is structurally supported by robust U.S. energy independence, giving the domestic industry a sharp cost and productivity advantage over European and Asian competitors facing high energy prices.

• National Security & Global Trade Defenses: Steel remains a vital national security industry. Strict 232 and 301 tariff barriers are actively used to protect the domestic market from massive Chinese overcapacity (representing over a billion tons globally) and indirect route-dumping through other nations.