Escanaba City Council Regular Meeting Thursday (December 18, 2025): DDA

 A pretty good presentation by the DDA. It is nice to see what is going on downtown. The downtown is a developing asset so hopefully it will continue to grow. Downtowns can be a tourist draw. Agenda

What Sports Really Teach Us About Character and Attitude

Sports are essential for training both the body and the mind. They help build healthy habits, create social networks, and contribute to national competitiveness. In general, sports are good for people and carry important values related to personal growth and development. While I’m fairly good at many sports, I wouldn’t say I’m exceptional at any single one—though from time to time, I surprise myself. There is a particular mentality involved in playing sports well, and that is worth discussing.

Go get your nut!

"He calls himself the squirrel,
and you know why that is
... because he gets that nut."
 — Rob Gronkowski

I won’t list the many specific traits and technical skills that can make someone a strong athlete. You can find a nice article below on that. Instead, the qualities that seem to matter most are humility—the willingness to learn—and dedication to the craft. The ability to work well within a team fosters strong outcomes. Teamwork is learned over time, and when it develops, it leads to higher group performance.

Over the years, I’ve learned the difference between the right perspective and the wrong one. I’ve met several exceptional professional athletes across different fields. I’ve also played multiple sports myself, ranging from fencing and martial arts to horseback riding and dance. I consider myself fairly multi-skilled, though I suspect this is less about innate talent and more about exposure, practice, and time. I have given up with dreams of stardom and now focus on just doing things to do them for fun and health.

Having the right attitude when playing sports with others is critical. Arrogant, rude, aggressive, or manipulative players should never be on a team. It doesn’t matter how exceptional they believe themselves to be—those behaviors erode group cohesion and create toxicity through “better-than-thou” attitudes. In my experience, the rudest players are rarely the most confident or the most skilled. More often, they are only slightly above average.

What I’ve observed instead is that the best athletes are often among the most polite. They are eager to help, willing to share their knowledge, and genuinely love their sport. They listen—to coaches and teammates alike—and they know how to build teams. They understand that while talent may play a role in success, dedication matters far more. I’m sure rude professional athletes exist, but I’ve personally never encountered one.

What I have encountered in abundance are rude, mediocre players. In some sports, they seem especially common. They can often be outperformed on the field because they focus more on appearances than execution. Real focus requires commitment, not abrasion. People who are dedicated to something don't wan't to waste precious time in unproductive behaviors.

What we might learn from this is that if you want to do something you should dedicate yourself to it and avoid those who are not going to contribute positively to your goals. Surround yourself by team players and good people watch your success growth. 

Btw I have a trainer, yoga, and other license so if you need a little help and want to engage in virtual training let me know by sending a message to the right. 

20 Personality Traits of High Performance Sports Players

The Benefits of Multi Sport Playing

Grace Leads to Insight and Change: Understanding Bigotry and Hate and How to Learn From It

Speaking out against bigotry and wrongdoing is essential, especially when such behavior continues for long periods without correction or adaptive learning. We are meant to function as one people, yet there are those who deliberately create division through shortsighted thinking and behaviors. These individuals seek to elevate themselves by mistreating, harming and belittling others. Institutions are generally designed to guard against unchecked wrongdoing, but at times—and for various reasons—those checks and balances fail. It is not by accident they fail but by neglect of duty. In this learning example the courts knew of the wrong and incentivized it anyway. That is especially true against certain types of people. An ugly truth that has resurfaced at various times in history. Most may do the right things but when they don't victims are created. Checks amd balances are essential to good health of the system.

There is a higher purpose to the role of these institutions that some may not understand. It is important to stand for what is right even in the face of insurmountable and overwhelming odds. 

Insight is a gift and the 
greatest gift you can give
over the holidays is
the gift of understanding
and humanity. 
Values are socially driven.
We are what we believe.
Do good in the face of wrong.
You have found grace.

It is entirely natural to feel unsettled or frustrated when you witness repeated wrongdoing, particularly when groups engage in behavior that have harmed and dehumanized people they don't like even though the targets have done nothing but be a good victim (...to understand the roots of hate to help others.). Perhaps this group has done it so much to so many people they do not know the difference between right and wrong and those who placate such behaviors are the weakest most underdeveloped membersof society. They need to be liked by any means necessary. Caring is a sign of health, not weakness, even though some often interpret empathy as something to exploit. This is why such behavior is frequently accompanied by aggression, intimidation, mocking, false narratives, and subtle microaggressions. It becomes even more troubling when additional and more serious misconduct by some members comes to light and the same court failed to protect them as well (A culture of mistreatment by a few members that others took too far). At that point, it is reasonable to ask how better decisions and outcomes might have been achieved had these actions been addressed earlier. If there wasn't sometimes repeated failures to uphold our principles.

There is no perfect solution, but understanding the problem and its causes is a meaningful start. As individuals, we share a responsibility to protect others and to name harmful behavior when we see it. While imperfect, speaking out can help limit further damage. Truth matters—do not lie or exaggerate, even when honesty is not immediately rewarded. Speaking up will likely bring more mistreatment and retaliation, so it ultimately comes down to one’s deepest values. Harmful behavior is rarely isolated; it tends to recur across different people and situations. When such conduct goes unchallenged—or when individuals are treated as if they are above the law and some as barred from justice—the harm compounds.

Another essential broader tool beyond naming and identifying bad behavior is participation in the democratic process. It seems a touch obtuse but environments are influenced by leadership. Voting matters because it reflects our commitment to values such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to live without harassment from bigots, bullies, or those who enable them. If you want to help your society think about who you are voting for as blind partisanship has damaged us (Some have argued it is time for a third party focused on the needs of the young to smooth out decision making. If we are not doing it for them then who are we doing it for?) Upholding shared, positive principles benefits society as a whole and helps build a stronger foundation for the next generation. There is nothing wrong with trying to make the world better—just be mindful and kind in the process.

Learning leads to grace.
Grace leads to understanding.
Understanding leads to knowledge.
And knowledge, ultimately, leads to change.

*This is a learning story.

Speaking Out Against Bigotry

Purpose, Teamwork, and the Challenge of Firefighing (Attracting Younger Firefighters)

It takes time to learn how fire trucks operate and how to move water efficiently. Over the years, seasoned firefighters develop countless tips and techniques, and most are more than willing to share that knowledge with others. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not the best on the trucks, but I can operate them and pump water when needed. Others, however, have done it so often that they know exactly how to maximize flow under any conditions.

In some situations, engines can deliver up to 2,000 gallons per minute, which is an extremely high capacity. Achieving that kind of output requires strong water supply from hydrants or alternative sources and the right intake and outtake pressures. Drop tanks, rivers, and even lakes are sometimes used. The more water you can put on a fire, the faster it can be controlled, which makes mastering these skills vitally important.

One of the most rewarding parts of being in the fire service is the challenge and the benefits it provides to others. Unfortunately, the national trend is concerning. Knowledge of firefighting passes from older to younger firefighters and it is important to get the young involved. We have nearly half young men and women so that is a trend breaker. People are sharing knowledge, training, and encouraging a sense of belonging.

Many departments struggle to attract young firefighters (especially volunteers). Costs are rising, people have less free time, and the training required is extensive—most of it unpaid. With all the competing needs and life distrations those who get themselves involved are the cream of the crop. Some of the best society can bring forward through self-selection. Why Young People Are Not Joining Fire Departments?

If you are interested in supporting a department that has strong community backing and is bucking this trend by engaging younger members, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. There is much we can learn from departments that succeed in attracting and retaining volunteers. A shared sense of purpose and teamwork makes all the difference. Send a message to the right and I will point you in the right direction. Updating equipment is nearly always beneficial to improve capacity.

Cross-Country Skiing: Powered by Poor Planning (The Wood Pecker Encounter)

Today’s plan was downhill skiing at Pine Mountain. That plan was very optimistic.

After almost being pecked
Joe made a break for it!
Realized he didn't
have enough wax
on his skis. 
Thank goodness
this little guy only wanted
to peck wood.
Woodpeckers of MI
Burnt more calories!

After staying out a bit too late last night dominating a very competitive shuffleboard game, I pivoted to cross-country skiing instead. We had a light dusting of snow, and honestly, that’s one of the best things about living here—the outdoors are always just minutes from your front door.

The loop took me about 50 minutes, mostly because I realized halfway through that these skis have absolutely no wax on them. Rookie move. I should have checked beforehand, but hey, the extra workout was appreciated. Next time I’ll stop by one of our local hardware or sporting goods stores—assuming I can’t magically find wax hiding in the garage.

A word of caution: cross-country skiing uses a very different skill set than downhill skiing. I discovered this while sliding down a hill and landing squarely on my butt. Science.

Beyond the exercise, the real reason I get outside is nature itself. At one point, a little woodpecker decided to hang out and fly around me. I only managed to get a short video, but moments like that are exactly what make these outings special.

After I get back from visiting California (where apparently it is not cold like Michigan), I’m thinking about combining skiing or snowshoeing with some hunting. There are plenty of rural trails that likely have game, and it’s a great excuse to get exercise, take photos, and maybe bring dinner home.

If you’re curious, I’ve included some resources below for cross-country skiing in our area. Between that, snowmobile trails, ice fishing, and plenty of other outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of fun around here. And the best part? You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pretty great lifestyle. 

More Calories are Burned Crosscountry Skiing versus Downhill Skiing. 

Visit Escanaba Winter Silence Support

Cross Country Skiing the UP

Delta County Michigan in the Upper Peninsula Experiences Growth: Numbers and Tourism Tell Half the Economic Story

Let us discuss this interesting article from our local Escanaba Daily Press (A pretty good local place to advertise for local things), highlighted by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, and how the community has grown on many different levels over the past few years. The area has seen increased influence and growth across the U.P., reversing trends experienced by many other small U.P. communities—and likely many small communities nationally. While there are many ways to interpret the economic reasons behind this shift, one useful theoretical perspective is worth considering.

Charles and Mariam 
are thinking about starting
a business and are calculating
their ROI. They realize
that the infrastructure, sense of community, 
activities, downtown building affordability
and lifestyle tip the 
scales in their calculations.
They think Delta County would
be a great place
to start a business and a family. 
They are pursuing their happiness.
(Incalculable value, eat your
heart out Keynes and Schumpeter!)

People have natural motivations
and bringing that out in an
economic system/environment
makes a big difference. 
The Entrepreneurs Heart

From an economic standpoint, social and economic interactions are closely connected. On the social side, this includes tourism, events, social clubs, and recreational opportunities. On the infrastructure side, it includes improvements such as T-1 internet, roads, pavilions, parks, and other public investments that help connect people and share information/intellectual resources. One might reasonably ask whether strengthening social infrastructure can support economic development that relies on similar foundational systems. If so, this relationship may help identify which investments are likely to generate the greatest overall impact—at least in theory, and readers can draw their own conclusions.

Another important factor is the formation of economic clusters that can result in tandem with social development. When people think of clusters, they often imagine large, well-known examples such as Silicon Valley or other industry-specific hubs. However, smaller local clusters—especially when they interact with neighboring local clusters—can also create meaningful synergy. These clusters do not need to be large; they simply need to be effective within their environment. That synergy can lead to positive outcomes that are not always predictable but are significant for long-term growth.

The region also maintains strong production capabilities, including metals manufacturing and stamping, shipbuilding capacity, skilled-trades education, and wood products such as Billerud. Supporting these industries are key infrastructure assets: T-1 data lines, roads, water, electricity, rail, port facilities, the airport, etc.. It is worth considering how softer assets—tourism, fine arts, beaches, and recreational opportunities—enhance the performance and overall attractiveness of these harder industrial and infrastructure clusters. While they may initially seem as though they are separate because economists and sociologists love to slice and dice they are not necessarily that different (These are definitions based on scientific lines while modern science includes integration of fields/knowledge.).  As an example economics by its nature is the study of individual choice on a macro scale. That wouldn't exclude the social environment that impacts those choices would it or we just don't measure it?

Tourism, investment, and manufacturing together provide a noteworthy example. Growth has contributed to new cruise ship visits, increased marina traffic, greater regional awareness, and expanded social media marketing. This, in turn, supports both industrial investment and small “mom-and-pop” businesses, helps retain local residents, and attracts skilled talent to the area. Tourism’s influence extends to downtown business development and housing, maximizing the return on infrastructure investments through increased density and generating spillover benefits across other sectors. Industry, tourism, and entrepreneurship interact to create a unique, interconnected system in any location experiencing similar growth. If these relationships and spillovers can be mapped, they can also be intentionally strengthened. 

(Yikes! A touch too theoretical! It is ok to disagree and bring forward different ideas because it is just an exploration of possibilities. (Multi Clusters and SubFactors) Different people might interpret it differently so it is good to listen to a variety of opinions. Try and answer these questions, Why do you think the area is creating such a comeback? What does that have to do with positive and good governance? What might that have to do with a Sense of Community and interest in finding ways to enhance the economy and lives? Just a few things to ponder.....🤔)

The broader goal for some communities like this is to build upward momentum while hedging against market volatility. Each industry supports the other so that as changes in the market occur their is a natural adjustment to local economic systems/mechanics that find homoeostasis again. In other words, adaptable hedged industries. Successfully, that means keeping local people employed at strong wages, enhancing quality of life through social and cultural activities, strengthening the local tax base around shared public goals, and fostering new business, professional, and entrepreneurial opportunities for the next generation to create regeneration, adaptation, and innovation (This would be more of an organically formed clusters versus more vertical or structured cluster. Each has their advantages and disadvantages but for small communities organic clusters might lead to longer term health not reliant on a single industry.).

From a bird’s-eye view, the area appears to be moving in an upward development direction. This is one reason it represents an attractive investment environment. If you have a business idea—whether starting a store or building a facility—you may want to reach out to the organization referenced below or to other local and regional government offices that can help point you in the right direction.

Master Plan and Rec Plan: Delta County Commissioners Meeting (12/15/2025)

It is important to stay informed about local governance and the growth prospects of the county and its governing bodies. The county continues to move forward and grow, and it appears to be doing well in bringing new solutions and ideas to the table. Investors value access to information and opportunities to invest in communities that have strong infrastructure and workforce like this area.

It would be encouraging to see some form of manufacturing invest in the area to complement our existing lumber production and further diversify the local economy.

A few issues were raised, including the need for additional county attorneys following a recent resignation. The county may need to contract with a nonprofit organization while also encouraging more attorneys to step forward and live in the area. 

A couple of things that include the recreation plan and the master plan that are available to fill out. You can review the current Master Plan at Master Plan 2019.

This is a nice description as well. Daily Press Commissioner Meeting Article

Summary of Video from YouTube:

The Delta County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on December 16, 2025, covering various topics from administrative updates to new business proposals. Surveys are on the Planning Commission Site
The meeting commenced with a prayer (0:26) and the Pledge of Allegiance (0:42), followed by a roll call of commissioners (0:56). The minutes from the previous meeting (1:15) and the current agenda (1:46) were approved, with additions to the agenda including finance committee meetings and new business items such as the parks fund balance request, dispatch CAD contract, airport train proposal, and the MIDC contract (1:52-2:33).

Key Reports and Updates:

• The Administrator's Report (3:19) highlighted that the five-year "rec. plan" is open for public comment, and a survey is available for the new master plan. The fiscal year 2024 audit draft was received and is under review (4:11).
• The Hannaville Indian Community granted $50,000 to Delta County (4:30) for the non-motorized bike path connection between Escanaba and Gladstone, to be used for legal fees, architectural design, or property purchase (5:08).
• Commissioners were urged to review legislative updates from MAC (5:35), which include topics on MIDC, PO service, the sheriff's department, and prepaid impatient health plans RFP.
• Attorney Sarah McGregor is assisting with the MIDC transition (6:02) after the resignation of the lead attorney, and discussions are ongoing with Iron County regarding a memorandum of understanding (6:21).
• The Finance Committee meeting minutes (7:33) were discussed and accepted (8:42), with key topics including the parks and recreation request for additional funds due to gravel prices (7:51) and updates on the CAD contract and airport HVAC system (8:12-8:30).

Decisions on Unfinished Business:

• The FOIA appeal number 25-268 was denied (9:03).
• The Marquette County inmate housing contract (9:28) was accepted after legal review (9:58).
• The airport Me Hunt sign contract (10:14) for stone removal equipment building was approved, contingent on FAA design plan approval (10:43).

New Business Highlights:

• Payment of bills totaling $2,669,541.27 (11:38) was approved (12:01).
• The airport marketing plan (12:21) with Morgan Murphy Media was approved (13:03).
• The 2026 remonumentation grant application (13:23) was accepted (14:06).
• The 2025 remarketing invitation completion report (14:21) was placed on file (14:36).
• The Michigan State University (MSU) memorandum of agreement FY26 (14:46) was accepted (15:22).
• The retirement of L. Stannic Belt (15:43) and the request for a lump sum payout and filling of the juvenile diversion director position were approved (16:22).
• The transfer of Z. Villainov (16:38) to road patrol and the request to fill the corrections position were approved (17:31).
• A request for donation for the foreclosure sale case Michael Pong versus Isabella County (17:39) was discussed, and the board allocated $4,000 towards attorney fees from the delinquent tax fund (21:06).
• The proposed MAC Workman's Comp Committee policy (21:24) was discussed extensively, particularly regarding the rotation of the board assignment and transparency of compensation, but ultimately did not pass (31:43).
• Informational items included listing resolutions on the county's website (31:48), a plan for ADA compliance for board packets (33:37), and discussions around a 24-hour rule on board packets (34:51) to ensure public access to information before meetings, aiming for Monday at noon packet release (39:42). A 10-day notice for potential changes to the rules of procedure was noted (41:00).
• The Opioid Task Force's recommendation to deny a mini-grant application (41:37) that did not fit the statutory parameters was approved (42:59).
• A parks fund balance request (43:09) for an additional $7,000 for water tanks and gravel was approved (43:44.
• The dispatch UP CAD contract (43:55) was presented, seeking board approval for the dispatch director to enter into a collaborative agreement for a new CAD system, which would open potential for state funding (44:50).