Local Beaches Offer More Than Scenic Views—They Create Economic Value

Gladstone Beach

Recent discussions about Airbnb rentals have highlighted the importance of local amenities, making new research on the economic value of beaches especially relevant to Delta County. Escanaba and Gladstone are fortunate to have two exceptional public beaches that offer more than beautiful waterfront views. Both communities provide lifeguards during the swimming season, a feature that has become increasingly rare. Many public beaches across Michigan and throughout the United States are "swim at your own risk," making the presence of trained lifeguards an added benefit for families and visitors seeking a safe place to enjoy the water.

This is a competitive advantage that could be emphasized more in local tourism and economic development efforts. Safe, clean, and well-maintained beaches help attract visitors while enhancing the quality of life for area residents (One might think of places like San Diego where beaches are a big part of their footprint. While their beaches are open most of the year our local beaches are seasonal but relates to regional tourist visits.).

(Illustrative Only)

A wild beach lounger
in his natural habitat.

Do not feed! Unless
it comes from one
of the nearby restaurants.

Research also shows that beaches contribute measurable economic value to nearby properties, including vacation rentals. Since most homes and Airbnb properties in Escanaba and Gladstone are located within a short drive of one of these waterfront destinations, proximity to the beach becomes a valuable selling point. Recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, walking trails, and waterfront parks further increase the appeal of the area.

The quality of the beach itself also matters. Fine sand, clean water, accessibility, maintenance, and available amenities all influence visitor experiences. Gladstone's beach features groomed sand, a concession stand, and family-friendly facilities, while Escanaba offers an expansive shoreline, Ludington Park, a public boat launch, nearby fishing opportunities, and other recreational amenities that attract residents and tourists alike.

Escanaba Beach

As communities continue exploring ways to strengthen tourism and encourage investment, these natural assets deserve recognition. Protecting beaches, maintaining waterfront parks, and investing in recreational infrastructure not only improves environmental quality and community well-being but also supports local businesses, tourism, and property values. In many ways, the shoreline is more than a scenic backdrop—it is an economic asset that benefits the entire community. 

The Economic Value of Coastal Amenities: How Beach Characteristics Influence Airbnb Rental Prices

• The study examines how different beach characteristics influence Airbnb rental prices, demonstrating that coastal amenities provide measurable economic value to nearby properties.
• Beach quality factors such as sand type, beach width, accessibility, and waterfront frontage significantly affect rental prices, with higher-quality beaches generally commanding premium rates.

• 

  A kid's imagination. 
  You can't put a price
  tag on it. There is a
  hard wall in this fort, 
  support poles,
  bridges, etc. 

  Using a hedonic pricing model, the researchers estimated the implicit monetary value of individual beach attributes, helping quantify the economic benefits of natural coastal resources.
• The findings suggest that investments in beach preservation, accessibility, and environmental quality can generate economic returns through increased tourism demand and higher short-term rental values.
• The research highlights the importance of incorporating environmental amenities into tourism planning and public policy, demonstrating that protecting coastal ecosystems also supports local economic development.

Boto-García, D., & Leoni, V. (2023). The economic value of coastal amenities: Evidence from beach capitalization effects in peer-to-peer markets. Environmental and Resource Economics, 84(2), 529–557. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10640-022-00735-5

PMI June 2026: Manufacturing Continues to Expand, but Employment Remains a Challenge

(Illustrative Only)

Representing a couple
working in a small town 
downtown shop 
similar to Ludington Street 
in Escanaba. As an 
illustrative example,
this couple moved to the area
invested in a small town shop
that produces custom 
repair and products. 
Their speciality 
is horse saddles and 
high end riding boots
but will high end
purses and other 
leather products.
In this example, 
they export regionally
and at times
overseas. 

They expect
to move some
of their line from
custom to
production because
of the high demand. 
They needed a place
to try out designs
and expand. 

The Institute for Supply Management's June 2026 Manufacturing PMI registered 53.3%, signaling continued expansion in the U.S. manufacturing sector (Wood and paper products did not grow.). A PMI reading somewhere above 47-50 indicates growth, making this another positive month for an industry that remains an important driver of the nation's economy.

The report showed improvement in several areas, including new export orders and inventories. Other key indicators, such as new orders, production, and supplier deliveries, also remained in expansion territory, although growth moderated slightly compared with previous months.

One area that continues to lag is manufacturing employment, which remained in contraction. While companies are producing more goods, hiring has not kept pace with overall industry growth.

The report highlights both opportunities and challenges for manufacturers. Continued investment in innovation and workforce development will be essential to maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly complex global marketplace. Human capital remains one of the nation's greatest assets, and organizations that invest in employee skills, encourage collaboration, and create opportunities for new ideas are often better positioned to improve productivity and develop innovative products and services.

As manufacturers look ahead, expanding participation in decision-making and fostering a culture of continuous improvement may help generate the innovation needed for sustained growth. A stronger manufacturing sector, supported by a skilled workforce and a steady pipeline of new ideas, can enhance productivity, strengthen exports, and contribute to long-term economic prosperity. (Side note: Keep in mind there are general trends as they relate to concentration of wealth and decision making influence so this could be a data point in the understanding of that. Maybe-Maybe not but keep an eye on it as we try and understand the lay of the land to further foster positive development. At this point we just don't know yet. May have no influence.)

June 2026 ISM Manufacturing PMI Shows Continued Expansion Despite Slower Growth

• The ISM Manufacturing PMI registered 53.3% in June 2026, indicating the manufacturing sector expanded for the sixth consecutive month, although growth slowed slightly from May's 54.0%. A reading above 50 signals expansion.
• New orders remained strong at 56.0%, marking a sixth straight month of expansion, while production also continued to grow despite moderating from the previous month.
• Employment improved but remained just below the expansion threshold at 49.7%, suggesting hiring conditions stabilized even though manufacturers continued to face workforce challenges.
• Input cost pressures eased noticeably as the Prices Index declined, providing some relief from earlier inflationary pressures, though supplier deliveries continued to indicate ongoing supply chain constraints.
• Survey respondents expressed cautious optimism. While geopolitical uncertainty and tariffs remained concerns, most manufacturers expected continued economic expansion supported by healthy demand and improving business conditions.

Institute for Supply Management. (2026, July 1). June 2026 ISM manufacturing PMI report. https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/reports/ism-pmi-reports/pmi/june/

Fireworks and Fourth of July in Escanaba and Gladstone

A few photos from the Fourth of July! The town was bustling with activity as both locals and visitors enjoyed a beautiful summer day. Warm temperatures, a refreshing breeze, and water that felt almost like bath temperature made it perfect for spending time outdoors. Food trucks lined the parks in Gladstone and Escanaba, adding to the festive atmosphere as families and friends celebrated the holiday together. In the video it looks like you can see Escanaba and Gladstone (At least we think its Gladstone but they look closer so could be just a house.). 

 

Connecting the Great Lakes: Shipping, Sustainability, and Regional Growth

Escanaba Historic Lighthouse
Past this there
is deep water, commercial,
and tourist ship docking
possibilities.

The past of shipping can 
help us understand
future opportunities.

Photography is a hobby
so if you are interested
in any of my pictures
send me a message to the right.
Some are gallery worthy
while others are up 
to the beholder. :)
This one is debatable whether
it should be in the gallery
but I kept it for
now just in case
it gets any interest.
I can print most pictures up to
poster size for $50
Frame or Unframed. 50% for charity
and 50% for me.
Send me a message to the right
or my email.
You may check out My Gallery
and Art Page

Thinking about ways to improve shipping on the Great Lakes is really about creating more value—not only for waterfront communities, but for the broader economy. The study below explores opportunities to better connect the Great Lakes with inland waterways, creating more efficient transportation networks for moving goods and materials. Better integration of these water systems could also encourage thoughtful waterfront redevelopment and expand economic opportunities.

Any discussion of expanding waterways must also recognize the environmental risks. However, if projects are carefully designed, scientifically informed, and responsibly managed, the long-term benefits can outweigh many of the costs. In some cases, restoration and development can work together by improving water quality, restoring habitats, and strengthening the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. Rather than pursuing development for its own sake, the goal should be to create projects that enhance both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.

This perspective is especially relevant for communities such as Escanaba and Delta County, Michigan. While the local population may not justify extensive inland waterway expansion, the region has characteristics that could support a larger role as a transportation and distribution hub. Its potential deep-water capacity, connections to major highways, rail access, airport, and strategic location within the Upper Peninsula provide a foundation for future logistics and supply chain opportunities.

Studies like this encourage communities to think strategically about how things like transportation infrastructure, environmental stewardship, tourism, commercial fishing, and economic development can complement one another. Similary to assembling a puzzle, each new piece of research provides a better understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges. Over time, that broader perspective can help communities make informed decisions that strengthen their economies while preserving and enhancing the natural resources that make the Great Lakes region unique.

Expanding Cargo Opportunities Between the Great Lakes and Inland Waterways

You may be interested in this 
hobby painting. 
It is of an
orange lighthouse 
sunset.

• The American Great Lakes Ports Association (AGLPA), in partnership with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation and several Lake Michigan ports, launched a comprehensive market study to identify opportunities for expanding cargo movement between the Great Lakes and the U.S. inland waterways.
• Although the Great Lakes and inland waterways collectively transport nearly 700 million tons of cargo annually, only a small share currently moves between the two systems, indicating significant untapped freight potential.
• Researchers will evaluate market demand, promising cargo types, and the infrastructure and operational improvements needed to make river-to-lake shipping more efficient and commercially viable.
• Expanding waterborne transportation could strengthen U.S. supply chains, reduce highway congestion, lower transportation emissions, create jobs, and support industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, steelmaking, and energy.
• The study will also develop strategies for improving transloading between barges and Great Lakes vessels, helping ports better integrate regional freight networks while enhancing long-term economic competitiveness.

American Great Lakes Ports Association. (2026, February 3). New study examines expanding cargo between Great Lakes and inland waterways. https://www.greatlakesports.org/new-study-examines-expanding-cargo-between-great-lakes-and-inland-waterways/

Happy Fourth of July from Academic Capital

 

The Type of People Who Scuba Dive: Old Dock and Testing Equipment

Diving is a sport I’ve occasionally practiced, but I’m finding myself more and more drawn to it, especially in places like Delta County in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, as well as around San Diego. Both regions offer very different but equally interesting underwater environments—shipwrecks, accessible shore dives, and great beaches that make the experience rewarding in their own ways.

I’m not a deep diver yet; I just haven’t progressed that far in my diving journey. Have done some shipwrecks and even sort of discovered one (...not really but I was the first to report it. A cheap find because others were there long before me. ) For now, I’m focused on building comfort and consistency in different water conditions, and I can already tell that familiarity makes a big difference. I also stay attentive to my equipment. Recently, I noticed a strap starting to fail and my tank would slowly slide down. I replaced the straps, installed a new rubber fitting to secure everything, and tested it this morning. It worked perfectly—no slipping, everything held tight.

I went out to an old dock area in Gladstone near the beach, figuring it would be a simple and controlled place to test the gear. I swam along the pilings that are still submerged, mostly looking for fishing lures. The visibility was poor—about one to two feet at best—and as the waves picked up, it became clear conditions weren’t ideal for exploration. Since the main goal was just to test equipment, I decided to wrap it up and plan for a clearer day when I can properly explore the area.

Diving also makes me think about the kinds of personalities drawn to the sport. Research often points to traits like sensation seeking, emotional stability, resilience, and a lower tendency toward panic. That resonates with what I’ve seen and experienced. I’m not interested in pushing into deep dives like 80 or 90 feet right now—it still feels like too much depth for my comfort zone—but that may evolve over time as experience builds.

I am an open water certified diver, and my focus now is simply getting more time in the water. The more time you spend diving, the more natural it becomes, and confidence tends to grow with repetition. Life is short, and part of the appeal of diving is just being present in those environments—the quiet, the water, the shoreline, and the sense of exploration right in your own region.

Starting a Saturday morning like that—out on the water, checking gear, and getting a feel for the environment again—is about as good as it gets.

P.S. I'm also a certified fitness trainer and yoga instructor so if you need a little help send me a message to the right. 

Some History:

I'm not sure exactly what is there or if these are the same but one sort of needs to do a little research to find out. I just searched up a few things. 

Gladstone Dock and Warehouse

Dock: Gladstone, MI - Lehigh Coal and Iron Co. Docks - 1887

Personality and Behavioral Outcomes in Diving: Current Research and Future Directions

• The article reviews how research on scuba divers has shifted from describing personality traits to examining how personality influences diving performance, safety, and behavioral outcomes.
• Studies suggest that personality characteristics such as sensation seeking, resilience, and emotional stability may affect diver training success, panic proneness, susceptibility to inert gas narcosis, and overall diving behavior.
• Researchers have found evidence that certain personality profiles are associated with safer decision-making and better adaptation to the unique physical and psychological demands of diving, although findings are not always consistent.
• The author notes that much of the existing research is based on small samples and varied methodologies, making it difficult to draw broad conclusions about the relationship between personality and diving outcomes.
• Future research should use standardized psychological measures, larger and more diverse participant groups, and longitudinal study designs to better understand how personality contributes to diving performance, safety, and training effectiveness.

Van Wijk, C. H. (2017). Personality and behavioural outcomes in diving: Current status and recommendations for future research. Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine, 47(4), 248–252. https://doi.org/10.28920/dhm47.4.248-252

The Social Roots of Corruption: Lessons from the Allegory of the Clan

We are continuing to explore the ideas of corruption, hate, and their impact on society and the economy through a hypothetical thought experiment called the Allegory of the Clan. Like the Allegory of the Cave, it is meant to encourage people to think more deeply about how values, culture, and institutions influence human behavior.

Our discussion suggests that corruption has real economic and social costs. When corruption is reduced, economies become more productive, people are treated more fairly, trust grows, and fewer resources are wasted on favoritism or unequal treatment.

This raises an important question: How can corruption continue for so long?

In our thought experiment, corruption is not just about one bad person making poor decisions. Instead, it develops within groups where people share values and influence one another. Members learn what behaviors are accepted and often reinforce those behaviors over time.

In the Allegory of the Clan, we describe this as a close-knit or "cultic" network. Members begin to see themselves as more important than others and slowly place less value on people outside the group. As a result, bullying, intimidation, and unfair treatment become more common. Over time, some members cross ethical and legal boundaries, causing harm to others.

Instead of correcting the wrongdoing, some people in positions of authority choose to reward poor behaviors which further embeds unhelpful values and normalize them. In the story, victims, witnesses, and whistleblowers are blamed instead of the people who committed the misconduct. They knew the end result before they started because of the years of patterned corruption and victim blaming. This allows corruption to continue and eventually become part of the group's culture. These patterns do not appear overnight—they develop slowly as unethical behavior goes unchallenged.

(As a side thought. Group culture isn't in isolation and the root assumptions of such culture come from underlining broader values. This is why it might be important to correct wrong doing to avoid normalization which can have a bigger impact. Professions such as oaths, Constitution(s), Bill of Rights, pledges, symbols, artifacts, patriotic festivals help keep decision makers and people oriented true north to the greatest collective benefit. However, there are times and individuals/groups who do not fully believe in - or understand - those values and could undermine them for self, group, or ideological gain. There may be times where they coordinate harm against those trying to uphold essential root values. Elect your best and brightest and not the most connected to sheild against destructive ideologies gaining influence.)

The thought experiment also shows how victim-blaming can keep corruption alive. When people are discouraged from speaking up, retaliated against, dehumanized, etc. the same problems can continue from one generation to the next.

One lesson from this discussion is the importance of strong institutions and ethical leadership. Communities benefit when they choose institutional leaders based on character, competence, and integrity rather than personal connections. Bringing in new people and new ideas helps strengthen institutions while supporting the many honest public servants who work to serve their communities with fairness and professionalism.

The overall message is simple: reducing corruption improves trust, strengthens institutions, protects people's rights, and creates a healthier economy and society. That is why it is beneficial to correct it so you don't protect it. 

*The Allegory of the Clan is a hypothetical learning thought experiment so take with a grain of salt. 

Corruption and Culture: An Experimental Analysis

• The study examined whether cultural background influences individuals' willingness to engage in corrupt behavior using controlled laboratory experiments with participants from different countries.
• Results showed that participants from countries with higher perceived levels of corruption were generally more likely to engage in bribery, suggesting that social norms and cultural experiences can shape ethical decision-making.
• Individuals adapted their behavior based on the expectations and actions of others, indicating that corruption is reinforced by social environments rather than solely by personal morality.
• The findings suggest that anti-corruption efforts should focus not only on laws and enforcement but also on changing social norms, increasing transparency, and promoting ethical behavior.
• The research demonstrates that experimental methods provide valuable insights into how culture and institutions interact to influence corrupt practices, offering guidance for policymakers seeking long-term reforms.

Barr, A., & Serra, D. (2010). Corruption and culture: An experimental analysis. Journal of Public Economics, 94(11–12), 862–869. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpubeco.2010.07.006