Information on Upper Peninsula of Michigan Hunting

For those of us who live in the Upper Peninsula we have a whole different way of life when compared to others who might live in more populated locations. Water you can drink directly from many spring fed lakes, miles of untouched forest, wild bears running across highways, snowshoeing during the winter and water skiing during the warm summer months. I came across this flyer. It looks like hunting (not to mention tourism in general) impacts our local economy in significant ways. That is why I support eco tourism and digital nomad destinations like Escanaba (Digital Nomads and Smart City). 

Consumer Data Privacy Laws-Functional or Dangerous?

Companies and marketing functions seek access to as much data as possible and have scooped up large swaths of consumer information. Some have argued it has gone too far and others argue that government shouldn't get involved. The problem is that swinging the pendulum one way fails to protect our consumer information (national security risk) or the normal privacies people come to expect and if we swing it wildly the other way companies will likely be upset that its unfair government influence. At present we haven't solved the problem and our current laws are lagging behind technological development. 

An article in the Iowa Law Review entitled, 'Privacy Losses as Wrongful Gains' by Bernard Chao that highlights some of the risks consumers face and the difficulty they have recovering damages if information is lost, stolen or misused. What they indicate is....

"Companies often violate their own privacy policies by selling customer data or by using the information in ways that fall outside their policy. Yet even when there is indisputable misconduct, the law generally does not hold these companies accountable. That is because traditional legal claims are poorly suited for handling privacy losses." (Chao, 2020, para 1). 

We thus run into a problem of information being collected and sold without consumer knowledge and these large data banks often move across the globe with little to no account. That not only creates security risks but it also doesn't help consumers ensure that their information is actually private. It isn't difficult for foreign adversaries who have access to large swaths of data from major companies and government institutions (mostly from hacking) that creates telling profiles of consumers (likely sometimes key officials). 

Yet it is more than that isn't it? Consumers often don't have a clue what information is being collected on them and they also have no idea how its being used. Even when they take the time to understand the process their information may not be used appropriately and can cause them all types of headaches in terms of credit and theft. Having some levels of protection are important. 

Don't get me wrong I'm not against companies coming to understand their customers. However, I am against misleading information, selling that information without disclosures, large data banks, and little consequence if that information is misused and in turn damages either national security or consumers rights. There should be a way to handle this and I think there are a few things we should consider. 

A Couple of Things to Think About:

(Disclaimer: It takes many different opinions to sort of ferret out the most plausible solutions. I'm not the expert but these are just opinions for mental consumption.)

1. Smaller Data Banks: Help avoid theft from hacking.

2. Encryption and Block Chain: Makes it more difficult to collect and understand.

3. Upfront disclosures of Where, Who, When information is sold and options to decline while still receiving services. Helps to put the consumer in control without forcing them to provide information outside of normal security requirements (i.e. banking and account verification). 

4. Civil and legal penalties for misuse of information. When companies take advantage of consumer data there should be civil and legal penalties. The law may need to change.

5. Work with other countries to help protect data. Collecting and cracking down on countries that misuse data is important for protecting overall security of the global business environment.

6. Review of current legislation and update laws regularly in shorter intervals to keep up with technological adjustments. Technology changes much faster than government can understand it. Making sure laws are updated more often is helpful (That also includes removal of outdated laws). 

Chao, B. (2020, para 1). Privacy Losses as Wrongful Gains. Iowa Law Review.

106 Iowa L. Rev. 555. Retrieved 11-30-21 https://ilr.law.uiowa.edu/print/volume-106-issue-2/privacy-losses-as-wrongful-gains/

Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs: Treasury Secretary Janel Yellen and Fed Chair Jerome Powell Testify

Its important to keep up with government legislation and changes in our economic and regulatory environment. Inflation, diverse growth and strategy are likely to be part of the discussion. One thing I'm going to agree with is we could have tanked our economy and slipped in international standing and if we play our cards right with the hard infrastructure bill we could lead well above our slipping Chinese counterpart for the next 50 years (China Real Estate Decline, Next 50 Years, US. Competitive Position, Attracting HQ, Legislation Infrastructure Inflation). The question is where do we keep the gas, where do we release the pedal, and where should our focus be?

The Necessity of Law & Order: And When It Defaults

The Path to Freedom
Integrity and Public Good Will

Law & Order is a good thing when its applied wisely it ensures a peaceful environment where beneficial open dialogue leads to national solutions.  Where corruption goes unchecked it begins to eat at the foundations of trust that erodes the concept of "authority". This is why I detest corruption in policing as much as I detest violence in protests. Where extremism and hate (of any kind whether pro or anti police) is left unchecked the foundations of democracy begins to erode.  No one has the right to destroy institutional foundations for self gain or to please the distorted views of their social and/or political networks.  

For those who have been reading my blog they may be aware that I take issues of corruption very seriously based on the experienced actions of a few "bad apples" and the harm they have caused to their community. Acts of intimidation, improper investigations, following targets, spreading  rumors to gain support for what appears to be ethnic oriented pressure are inappropriate in the U.S. 

When the innocent are being put in harm's way a red line must be drawn. Before making an assumption it should be noted that I have supported  police many times in my lifetime and continue  while still being opposed to rogue elements that violate our American  principles and in turn our agreed upon social contracts as codified in our national Constitution. 

Like I support honorable law enforcement personnel I also support peaceful protests to help ensure a feedback loop for positive change. That does not include anarchists and street militias of either ideological bent. We must find a safer path through the fog where compromise and good judgement makes sense so as to deradicalize the fringes within our society (civilian, law enforcement, politicians, youth, etc...).

For those of us who maintain loyalty to certain core American principles and values we must persevere them to ensure a free nation for generations to come. Our efforts turn the tide against those treading down the dark paths of either ultra or anti nationalism.  There are certain values our ancestors, veterans, leaders and the general population agree up and have fought for through generational sacrifices. No party, side, or group has the right to circumvent the public's will outside of legislative channels.

That is why the best way to protect our institutions is to maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all of our law enforcement endeavors.  The "Shield" is of value only as long as it continues to represent our collective values of protecting and serving its people. Rogue or corrupt elements detract from that honor and I encourage good officers to break the "blue code" to report illegal behaviors so as to remove corrupted elements in fulfillment of their sacred oaths (Not to mention it is also within their best interest for the profession, culture, and opportunities.).

We are one nation, free nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. They are not dead words and are still supported by most policing activities and other national institutions. I have helped officers on a number of occasions within my lifetime sometimes at great personal risks. I have made my peace with my maker a long time ago (multiple times like a cat) and will stand tall in the face of hate. Federal oversight becomes increasingly clear when embedded networks can't be rooted out effectively within compromised departments.

If the strategy of " ethnic cleansing" those who are different didn't work out how about we change our strategy and "clean house" of rogue elements within our departments? 🤷 We must only ask ourselves, "Which strategy will likely lead to the greatest benefit for everyone involved?" Trust is fundamental to Law & Order and it is incumbent on department leadership to ensure every officer serves with integrity and "bad apples" are investigated and removed promptly. 

I hope and pray that these events act as a lesson in which we can learn about how to create the most effective police departments we can. Wiggle room to solve problems "internally" may snap taunt as the hour glass sifts over the opportunities to make choices over the charting of ones own course. Failure to uphold the law is a failure of protecting our officers and the populace through mutual and shared values and goals. National development requires a collective commitment to higher order values and living.

“The police must obey the law while enforcing the law.”
– Supreme Court Justice Earl Warren

“Justice may be blind, but she has very sophisticated listening devices.”
– Edgar Argo

The Analysis of 'Power of Death' Painting (1889) by William Holbrook Beard

Painting is one of the highest forms of human expression. It carries with it time honored traditions and values that would be forgotten without sharing them from generation to generation. These values come from our very core coding as a species and will manifest in each generation in one form or another because they are based in our inherited survival skills (i.e root such as love, hate, anger, fear, etc...). Art is a manifestation of interior experiences (See Art Psychology Evolution) as an outward expression of core cultural expressions (especially if the are seen over and over from different societal corners.).

The painting 'Power of Death' by William Holbrook Beard symbolism focuses on the inevitability of death in which no powerful creature on the planet can avoid or escape (i.e. no matter how much the tiger claws.). You can see from the different carcasses, triumphant foot on elephant's neck and the strangling of thrashing tiger that our lives are temporary no matter our perceived skills and abilities. The big elephant is not immune and the tiger can claw but he will also succumb. (Covid might have helped us change some of our assumptions of mortality).

One might be able to look at deeper symbolism such as the pure burial shroud, the brutality of a club, half skull face, Death's gaze into the heavens, the background of scorched earth and the setting of the sun into darkness. To Death he is doing his job and has done it 1000's of times before and seems to feel no real connection to his victims anymore than a person might feel pity to a chicken in a chicken farm factory (This is why the absence of empathy doesn't give honor to life and we call it evil. In modern times we use more scientific concepts to describe this absence of remorse.)

While we should fear death in some respects, or more appropriately we should fear not living a meaningful life, paintings such as these help us think about our responsibilities and legacies. We will all end in the same place but it is those who think about life before death (called self-reflection on self and society) that can seek to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. In other words, if we are all here only for a short time then we should spend that time wisely; assuming we are aware of our mortality. 

Art tells us an awful lot about society and in turn also reflects our culture; whether American or other (See Sociology of Art). Art is a cultural artifact that often taps into essential values and in turn influences our perspective of life within our cultural vantage point. It isn't just an exercise in awe and wonder but also of understand the roots of our collective conscious (See Jung and Collective Conscious) Being familiar with different artifacts of repeated cultural experiences often tells you the assumptions of values within our society and how those are applied to our experiences.

The painting "Power of Death' is more accurately depicting the sanctity of life and the misguidance of a false self of importance.  We all have value and when guided through education and prosocial behaviors can create meaning to life. 

William Holbrook Beard, Power of Death, c. 1889–90, oil on board, Fogg Art Museum, Harvard University, Cambridge

Shipwreck Pictures Near Manistique

Getting back to readership concerning a shipwreck dove a few months ago (before the snow). I sent some pictures to the NOAA and as of present they are updating their maps and having someone take a look at the information I sent (I did not discover the ship and a number of people knew it was there...but maybe the first to bring forward officially. It in better condition than the one found in the area a few years ago.) 

Diving Late 1800 Schooner. 

Seul Choix Lighthouse-The Haunted Lighthouse

Gallop Poll Indicates Americans are Concerned About Economy and Government; Not Pandemic

Apparently Americans are more worried about the economy and government more then they are about the pandemic. This is caused by some shortages and inflation. We might also find there are concerns over leadership and perhaps in some way our ability to handle problems (See Biggest Post Afghan Risks). Its important we start working together to start solving problems. Because almost nothing stays the same a few curve balls might find us unprepared (We are running rigid, polarized, low morale, and dig heels opinions so if our environment/challenges shifts it will be our leadership that will master the art of change. )

Here are some of the highlights from the poll......

Gallop Poll

• 26% name an economic issue as the most important problem
• Government is the top specific problem at 21%; coronavirus next at 13%
• Gallup's Economic Confidence Index mostly steady at -29

There was a pretty solid explanation in the Santa Barbara News by Casey Harper entitled, 'Poll: Americans more concerned about economy, government than COVID' Its worth the read and provides some insights from the author. 

There is a side to this that is important and it still should be said as a one limited perspective that could be important on understanding change on a more macro level. Many of our politicians have been raised (not all) with opportunities while most Americans have never experienced similar opportunities (nor will ever become a Senator or Congressman/woman). Where we need change we often receive partisan arguments and when we long for insight we sometimes hear similar root answers (Foresight, insight, hindsight and blindsight are different constructs.)  You can see those logical holes and how they might work within one instance but might dissipate during novel situations (See Cognitive Fluidity). Seeing all the sides from different cultures and lens fills in the "grey" gap and creates clarity where uncertainty exists. 

Ideological and cultural blindness comes from being indoctrinated within a certain view of the world and in turn never having to break the mold to get over a hump (Comes from being protected and insulated with resources. It applies to any lifestyle and vantage point. For example, if you were born poor your viewpoint will be completely different and often just as limiting because of a narrow "world view".). Wealth brings opportunity but also comfort that doesn't always force one to adapt and that is not a luxury most Americans will ever experience. Effectively managing change and being flexible in strategic thinking often leads to options and the highest chance for overcoming environmental pressures. For some who grew up in a different world....one in which you must adapt or perish.......the limited focus and lack of exposure might feel like a speeding train longing to merge with the open arms of a brick wall (Large nations like large companies must rejuvenate themselves with a new shared sense of purpose or they will splinter. The USSR as an example. See Strategies International Business Environment). 

Charles Darwin stated, “it is not the strongest species that survive, not the most intelligent, but most responsive to change”

I would guess intelligence, strength, and adaptive are all important. 🤷

Keeping it Civil in Congress: Sign of the Times....Forgiveness Can Go a Long Way!

Words have meaning and I believe the leadership on both sides should push people toward the center. But that is just my opinion. Sometimes we say a little too much and we walk that back. It happens  because people are passionate and sometimes fail to role reverse. However, right now as things stand in our nation keeping the inflammatory rhetoric to a minimum is important. I kind of watch the news and see how people are acting and reacting to each other and scratch my head. We see how these beliefs play out in our hometowns all across America. Words have meaning. 

I consider myself an "Old Guard" Republican that sticks closely to the central values and beliefs that made our country great (Perhaps I'm not far right enough for some people's tastes but I think the rational center is where we should be and likely where the best solutions come. So I guess I'm a light right). My believes include the sanctity to practice any religion you want (why we started this country), fiscal responsibility, the right to responsibly bear arms (meaning for hunting and peaceful purposes and not for intimidation or antagonism), support our police with accountability for "bad apples" to maintain societal trust, diversity in people's and human capital, local governance that is in line with our Constitution, civil rights and freedom, a strong military with the best (equipment, people, tactics, training), creating economic opportunities among ALL our people, developing an American "family", leading other nations through example, as well as the right to voice one's opinion with good taste in mind. Of course one side could make jokes of "backpacks" and another of "swastikas" but at the end of the day it gets us nowhere....and makes it difficult for people to compromise on important issues. 

I'm happy Rep. Lauren Boebert apologized because we are human and we all make mistakes (I have made so many I can't even count them on a 100 hands). Its time for us to sort of agree that our nation has a bigger purpose than the anger and rhetoric of the times. We should work on focusing on our future and the ability to create a stronger connected nation for the the next generation; no matter what their religion. We are going to need all types of people to face the challenges the next 20 years is likely to bring as radical change and technology merge to transform our world as we know it.

www.postermywall.com

Rep. Lauren Boebert

@RepBoebert

I apologize to anyone in the Muslim community I offended with my comment about Rep. Omar. I have reached out to her office to speak with her directly. There are plenty of policy differences to focus on without this unnecessary distraction.

9:46 AM · Nov 26, 2021·Twitter for iPhone

Honesty, Respect and Collaboration in Politics (What?) Its the Holidays! 🎄 🎅

Twisted "Grinch" Tree of Wisdom

When we read through the news we seem to run into the sensationalism, hyper politics and a laser focus on conflict. At times we come across what appears to be a "feel good" article that is easily discarded as news rubbish. Religion, civil behavior, and reflection are about thinking before acting and learning to treat each other in a way that leads to "togetherness". Everything else lacks time honored wisdom and leads to conflict in its subtle or overt form.

Its hard do sort of get it through people's head that the best way to lead is not always to be louder and demand that either "you are with us or against us" mentality that seems to pander to the radicals on both sides of the isle. Sometimes its about leading people to new conclusions through new knowledge...and a reflection on old knowledge.

Long-term solutions almost never come from galvanizing sides and hyping up distorted beliefs to get one's way. (I have seen that false rhetoric play out through radicalization and spreading of rumors that still create risks for my family and I years after the people intentionally spread them. Laws are sort of thrown out the window when convenient!👿 No embarrassment, no apology, no accountability. Shifting of Risk). We have seen that on a national scale when people busted down the doors of our capital, attacked our officers, and nearly set the nation ablaze. Others are damaging property and getting violent in protest while others are bringing their "guns" to create "peace". (It happens in the context of hyper politics so both sides own some of the blame. I understand that some think its "good fun" and "tail gaiting"!😮)

There are still people in the news today talking about civil war and not embarrassed to say it publicly (Democrats and Republicans). There are people out there trying to "set each other up" with no accountability and even worse social approvals. Language and behavior has consequences, that lead to more consequences, that lead to different kinds of end results. Of which most are unlikely to be helpful or fruitful in the end. So its helpful to change the narrative and the rhetoric to a more positive future. 

Its the holidays and I think we should step back and take a look at where we are and whether or not there truly is going to be a positive outcome to the rhetoric or whether we are sort of stooges in someone else's (in this case some of our politicians) obsession to feel "validated" (Not party specific). 

Anyway....contrary to the normal headlines....there is an opinion article that has a positive message in the Gainesville Sun by Michael Raburn entitled 'Honesty, respect, collaboration and joy should be core values in our politics' that is worth reading. Some might think of it as "feel good" and others think of it as time honored truth. Your personality will likely determine how you interpret it. Just think about the kind of nation you want, how you want your family treated, and what strategically makes sense.

I wonder if our news outlets took a minute to think about subtly promote positive thinking while still being accurate if it would have an impact on our political environment? It sounds stupid but its sort of a social psychology thing. A study entitled 'Plain Texts as an Online Mood-Induction Procedure' seems to believe that what we read  and the language in which we read it does impact our mood.

I know, I know, being thoughtful and saying the truth doesn't win political games! The problem is The United States and our future isn't a game (nor our lives)! Its serious business with serious consequences not only for us but also for the direction of humanity (We are supposed to be a nation of higher order thinking and values.). Where one person wins, everyone else seems to lose. Just a thought. 🤔 Happy Holidays! (Sorry playing with Gifs)

 

31 Quotes To Celebrate Teamwork and Collaboration from HubSpot

The Rural Development Broadband ReConnect Program. Can it help communities in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?

Upper Peninsula homes and business don't always have the best connection. Beyond being isolated by geography they are also sometimes disconnected by lack of Internet. As someone who does a lot of work in the virtual world I can say that slow Internet causes problems and that includes being kicked out of Zoom meetings, slow download/upload, and lots of other issues. I have the fastest Internet service in the area and still there are times when I get kicked off!

For small towns around the U.P. they may want to consider the benefits of the Rural Development Broadband Reconnect Program by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that has a $1.15 billion loan and grant opportunities for communities just like ours. 

"The Broadband ReConnect Program furnishes loans and grants to provide funds for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas. The application window for the third round of funding is now open. Follow one of the links below to learn more about the program." (USDA, 2021, para 1.) 

You can learn more about that on the USDA website click below.....

St. Ignace Click Here jpeg. 
Linked to USDA site.

Michigan Has $18.5 Billion Coming-Lets Do Something Beyond Buying Christmas Presents! (Delta County Innovation Model)

Michigan is receiving $8.5 billion Covid Money and $10 billion or so from the Federal Infrastructure Bill. That is a whopping amount of money! What we should do with that money is highly depending on where we want to go and I'm sure there are lots of people out there that want to have a field day with that money. Putting more Christmas presents under the tree might not be the best use of the money if that spending has limited long term impact. 

What kind of presents
should we put
under Michigan's tree?

I have a couple of ideas on where I think some of that money should go and how that might help create a solid model of future prosperity (Trying to find a Christmas present that keeps on giving. Its kind of like giving a nice ham/turkey/lamb for Christmas which helps a starving family one day or giving someone tools, knowledge, and a job to help them feed their family everyday. Not that there is anything wrong with helping on immediate needs but long term plans are highly beneficial). Not that its a perfect model, or even a finished model, but that it may be one in which once successfully created and implemented could lead to reapplying in other areas.

I advocate for use of the money to develop hard infrastructure that leads to the fundaments that attracting more business. All of that is important for long term health. Putting that money into net positive returns can be helpful for state coffers.

For some time I have been working on a innovative transactional theory to help build a stronger society and have used Delta County Michigan as a focal point because of its unique characteristics (See innovative transactional cluster theory). Its semi isolated and many of the ideas and concepts could be observed developing in real time because of its smaller size. Large enough for some variability in industry but small enough to connect them to together into a shared brand.

Delta County has advantages that include infrastructure, a couple of anchor business, tourism possibilities, outdoor recreation, green living, small-medium town aesthetics and a skilled workforce. One thing that sets them apart is that the community supports each other (save a few selfish individuals) and have an active stake in each other's lives.

However, not much attention has been placed on the city and a little money in the right place could be used to attract businesses and ensure that the model could be applied and used in other places. While our economy is doing well today it doesn't mean that it will do well in a few years so we should think of long-term growth with this money. Trying out something new may not only be helpful but necessary. 

The Detroit Free Press put together a great article by Dave Boucher discussing how some of our officials want the money spent. Whitmer, Michigan lawmakers must agree on how to spend billions in federal aid

I understand its Christmas time but lets do something that could positively impact the nation for the next 50+ years and help to put our country on the path to a leading nation (assuming we can keep our politicians from splitting it.)!!! That will require more than just slamming our hands down and demanding our way louder and louder and louder. It requires a level of foresight and leadership that says, "Hey, if we can make it work here we can make it work in other places within the state...maybe the nation."

Possible answers usually start with a question!

via GIPHY

Happy Thanksgiving: Delta County Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy and spend with family and friends. Let us not forget the Native Americans that helped the new comers to shore and fed them. Do something good with your time. You can read about the history of Thanks giving HERE. 

Escanaba Community Thanksgiving Dinner had 300 people. They don't have an official website other then Facebook HERE. 

If you want to donate do so at .....

Community Thanksgiving Dinner

912 7th Avenue South

Escanaba, MI. 49829

Facebook Page

Data Bus brings people. :)

Department of Defense Establishes the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group (UFO Hunters)

DOD Announces the establishes the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group. You can read the official memorandum HERE. Cool stuff! Nano Nano! Congress Electro Propulsion  

Just for fun you can see our half joking UFO video in Escanaba. Its probably a drone or balloon but fun to think about. 👽👾 Someone said maybe Chinese lantern. 🤔 Only one problem the wind at 9:30 pm was 4.6 mph NNW. These "UFOs" were heading easterly. However someone from our Xfile Community Team (just kidding) said that they let off some Chinese lanterns at that time so likely that is the leading theory. Its just good fun. 

The Importance of Accountability-The Danger of Radicalism in Politics and Life?

Knowledge and learning
 guides the path.

Hate is powerful and sometimes part of the way we think. It can impact a great many things in the way we approach the world. Over the last few years our society seems to be stretched at the seams by people who have something to gain (politically, financially, ideologically, etc..) by hyping up the problems to further their influence. Often the people who start these problems don't care about the consequences on others because that is not part of their "agenda". As a nation we will need to start tackling some of these issues and holding people accountable when they are trying to harm or hurt others; no matter their race, creed, or position.

Removing "bad apples" is important to ensure integrity in any system; that isn't unique to law enforcement. I think most reasonable people sort of agree that when people violate the law and constitution they should be held to account. Likewise, I would suspect most people would similarly agree that we also have a responsibility to hold criminals accountable no matter their race, creed. I suspect you can add friend networks and wealth to keep it fair. Sometimes that might mean a lighter punishment if they can be reformed without jail and other times it might mean jail time if they present a real risk to others. 

Politics gets involved and there a level of acceptance of bad behavior and in turn further encourages such bad behaviors to continue by giving troublemakers "cover".  If you notice in my writings I talk about national unity, wisdom in the judicial system, universal rights, and holding criminals accountable (Way way before our current national blow out.). You also see me write about opportunities and economic growth for all Americans. You may even see me give a few thoughts on building the strongest nation we can by encouraging motivation, business, and positive engagement with society. 

Of course I'm a single voice and that is drowned out by those screaming at the top of their lungs. Despite the whisper, I have experienced a fairly full array of life because I have met lots of people, know lots of great officers, spend time with Black people, have Arab Muslims friends, Jewish friends Christian friends, and spend time with White Americans, Africans, Europeans and lots of other people. I'm experienced in understanding culture and "open minded" enough not to judge too quickly small differences (I focus on character). Yet my voice is drowned out by those who already have the answers; sometimes without thinking about alternate explanations.

That doesn't mean I'm always right and it certainly doesn't mean everyone will agree with me. I've also been on the receiving end where someone makes up a story based in their bigotry and desire for financial gain and utilizes their close corrupted friend(s) (indicating a wider departmental problem) to put pressure my family to leave our home town. At the end of the day....no accountability is seen as dangerous as the disease of hate can easily spread and starts circumventing the law (sometimes with nodding approvals and sometimes covertly to avoid detection.) 

Where do we go from here? I can only say what I'm going to do. I'm going to stand tall against the power of hate and encourage people to "do the right thing". I'm going to support our law enforcement and support the removal of rogue or corrupted officers (for integrity and trust issues). I will be visible and not allow the power of hate to terrorize our population (meaning this probably wasn't the first time this happened.). I will also encourage people to come together and be fair, reasonable, and just with their thought processes....no matter what their political agenda (There is no better political agenda than national health...maybe some of our politicians should think about that.). 

If we do not stick close to our essential American principles we will have a hard time keeping the ship together. Look around and look at the hyper politics and the radicalism growing on both sides of the issues (mirroring our politics and politicians) and ask, "Who are we as individuals and who are we as a nation?" It looks like time and choice will answer that question for us. I think I know what we could be and perhaps I will play a small part in getting us there someday. No one knows the future...but certainly we can look into history to see what happens to countries that don't take these concerns seriously or when factions develop that can no longer compromise or be held to account. 

A couple of articles worth reading Philosophy Politics Governance, Standing for Ethics,  Playing it Cool, Memorial Day, Conflict Modeling,  Cost of Embedded Groups, Cost of HyperPolitics, Evolutionary Arms Race, Vervet Monkeys,  Road to Ultra Nationalism, Democracy Backslide,  Why I Write? and Dissertation Questions  (Disclaimer...don't judge too quickly yet. This is a good opportunity for people to learn...not saying I'm teaching here or know anything. Its just observations for self understanding. Just take a moment to check in with your personal values and envision the future of your country. What can you do to ensure its long-term health? How are your actions part of the solution or part of the problem? 🤔💗)

Nasa Seeks to Change Asteroid Direction to Practice Planet Defense

We are not in Sci Fi as the space race continues. New radical technologies are being tested to ensure we have the tools ready in case Earth is threatened by asteroids. Very cool stuff!

Einstein's Theory of Relativity Goes Up for Auction

Einstein was one of the worlds leading scientists and as we move into space exploration more we find many of his theories to still be correct. Manuscripts are often preliminary work and ideas that lead to a bigger breakthrough. Some write them on pieces of paper (back when that is all they had), some put them into scientific pieces, journals, blogs, etc... to ensure there is a record of how these ideas were created and developed. An excellent article in the Guardian.... Einstein’s notes on theory of relativity fetch record €11.6m at auction.

Job Numbers are Much Much Higher Than Expected! What Does That Mean for Michigan?

Manufacturing, Tourism and Start-Ups
as a Michigan growth Strategy

New numbers came out from the Fed and job growth is more robust than originally expected. That is great news and in turn that is also an opportunity to ensure that growth will also raise opportunities for African American and Hispanic populations. Developing the broadest possible growth for society is important for developing fair economic development. There are different opinions on what those numbers mean and what we can expect so it is important to read diversely on the topic.

The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has a few comments on the disconnect between job growth and job announcements HERE. Different metrics reveal different insights and we can learn from them. Having a battery of metrics in the Digital Era will likely lead to greater understanding of how our economic engines work and thus lead to better decisions.

U-M forecasts furthermore indicates that Michigan should have a full recovery by the end 2021 with as much as a 2% growth in manufacturing jobs.. You can read about that HERE. 

The type of jobs Michigan attracts will be dependent on the industries we draw to our state. Adding manufacturing and tourism type jobs would seemingly have an impact opportunities for minorities; and others. Manufacturing brings back middle class jobs in a way that have real impact on families of nearly all backgrounds. 

I think the one thing that we all can agree upon is that making Michigan a place to invest, invent and build will increase positive opportunities. I might add that encouraging strong tourism (in addition to manufacturing and start ups) influences the creation of a more diverse economy and one in which attracts and retains top talent of different backgrounds. See Pure Michigan, SME, Start-Ups as a few ideas (I'm not saying they are the best ideas....I'm just saying they are ideas 😶.)

The articles and projects are considered market research and market forecast. You can read how each piece of the puzzle can be found by looking at both sides of an argument (Don't ever get stuck into a single way of looking at everything. That is called blindness.). Each piece of information fills in a gap of knowledge. HERE.  If you are an executive you will need to weigh these arguments to look at the provided evidence of different authors, scientists and intellectuals to make better strategic decisions. You can read about executive evidence based management HERE.

Strategy is built from assessing the environment, understanding the data, looking at our SWOT, and in turn making a strategic decision that appears to match certain economic, scientific and technology trends.

Waukesha Suspect Had a History of Crimes: Is this a time when jails would be helpful?

It appears that this person has hurt a lot of people over their lives and there is a balance between not prosecuting mistakes and ensuring we prosecute violent criminals. From what we have seen here this was not someone who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and a mistake happened. From what has been released this was a person with a history of callous behaviors and wanton disrespect for life. Their behavior appeared to be intentionally destructive and goal oriented (UN Investigation of Homicide).

I have met people who are unable and unwilling to own their behavior, and all too willing to take the next step in harming others. Some people don't need to be in jail but people who have a history of violence and violating the rights of others should not be walking around in the general public. If we use jails wisely and when its helpful/necessary it works out best for everyone....but knowing when and when not to lock someone away can be difficult for judges to determine. 

The wisdom judges must bring to the bench is to know when they can help a someone who made a "mistake" and when to lock the steel bars! In this case...I would guess the sound of the door closing will echo down the prison hallways; yet we have to wait and see. I would still think authorities should explore the motives and what set them off for grater clarity. A trial will determine the details....and we must wait to understand the full scope of contributing factors before making concise judgements....but I have to admit....it looks bad!

We pray for those victims. 😰 

What is a Backsliding Democracy and Why was the U.S. Added?

Democracies go through phases just like everything else. We get comfortable with being the world's leaders and then something happens that jolts that false sense of security and things go haywire for a little. The U.S. was added to a democracy backsliding list for the first time by the International IDEA. We are a resilient people and will correct our path going forward by helping out leadership get a bigger picture of how the way "politics is played" is starting to impact the foundations of our democracy. 😟

International IDEA is a think tank and describes itself as an, "International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) is an intergovernmental organization that supports sustainable democracy worldwide.". You can read more about those countries backsliding on their site HERE. You can also get the full report HERE. 

 The report indicates there were civil liberty issues, checks & balance issues, and election issues that all contributed to the factors. I don't really know the metrics and how they make those decisions (One would have to look at their data sources and descriptive explanations.) Yet...I think there may be some truth to what they are saying.

What I can say is that its important to maintain checks and balances throughout the system. For example, independent law enforcement/judicial system that isn't swayed quickly by national politics, commitment of Republican and Democrat leaders to the essentials of democracy, the promotion of civility and rule by the people for the people, a diverse society where people of all kinds feel comfortable.

According to the report democracies are starting to backslide and different types of more autocratic governments are coming forward. Thus freedom of speech and the rule of law are important to counter autocratic tendencies. More countries began to backslide and democracy is on the decline...unfortunately most of us just sort of don't really care as long as we get their own way.....thereby missing the bigger picture. 

In my humble opinion freedom of speech, rule of just laws, political commitment to the bigger picture, diversity, opportunity and the quality of our leadership all impact our chances. Our hyper politics have come to pervert our futures. Our leadership will have to decide what is important to them (and not what they think is in their advantage.) One must look at "trust" polls to get a glimpse of some of the changes occurring. Walking the talk and doing so with integrity is important....it means something. Maybe not to you but perhaps to your grand kids. What do you believe?

Fred Upton Receives Death Threats: We Should Stand Up to Terrorism and Extremism!

The job of our lawmakers is to make decisions they believe are in the best interest of society.  We  may not always agree but we shouldn't resort to threats of violence just because someone doesn't agree. As soon as people start using violence and threats of violence to force people to vote strictly based on the opinion of others we are not in a healthy place as a nation. The people who support this hate and those who intentionally hype up extremist ARE the problem. Every society and party needs wiggle room to get things done or otherwise we will not be able to make decisions we need to succeed. I suspect those who don't like our nation are clapping with glee as hate rips the rivets out of free choice and governance by the people (Biggest Risks to Society Post Afghanistan)

There is little to no fundamental difference between extremists overseas and the ones making these phone calls (The mechanics are exactly the same and the ideologies very similar. Everything is based on gradation.). I suspect there will be a breaking point where Republicans will stand up and blowback on extremists because they will see it as a real danger to the unity of their their party, its ability to maintain its base, and the future of the nation. Standing on the sidelines prolongs the problem.  

Its helpful to understand that giving into hate and shying away from duties to condemn the threats will embolden the separatists to move onto other targets to control them. Who is next? News reporters, presidents, kids, journalists, teachers, priests (imams, rabbis, etc..), clinics, etc... If you can't see the dysfunction in the voice of this caller then you are blind to the path that will be our undoing. 

Supporting a cause, a viewpoint, or a national vision should never seek to manipulate our political structure through violence....if we accept....we have already lost.

Sadly, it appears that we will have to feel the pain until we have greater insight....how many people will be harmed before those standing on the sidelines step in to do the right thing? There is no room for people promoting hate in our politics. Michigan Track and Code Hate Its a slipper slope.......

The Psychology of Money-What Does it Mean and Why Some People Will Do Anything For It?

Money is a pursuit for people in and of itself even though it is fictitious in nature and based only on our abstract social value as a unit.  Yes we can buy things from it and gain a sense of social emulation. I've kind of always tried to understand the desire to accumulate massive amounts of money and how it impacts a person (The score card.). To some money is an end in and of itself while to others it is a tool to be used for something more.

Don't get me wrong. I want money and I want more of it like everyone else. However, there are limitations to that need after a certain point where security and freedom have been earned. If someone accumulates a significant amount of money in their lifetime there are those who might consider lofty philanthropic pursuits. 

It is those who give back and pick up more noble causes whom I call our high society heroes. They know that money can't buy them happiness and certainly won't make them feel fulfilled. I read an article in Greater Good Magazine that seeks to use science to improve lives and it discusses how wealth can impact our morality, relationships and sense of well being. You can read the article HERE. 

I'm sort of an amateur poet, artist and lot of other things I probably don't have the time for...but maybe you like. :) It is either a tool or a tomb.

Money: The Tummy, Tool and Tomb 

Give me more money to fill my tummy, 

makes my day a little a more sunny. 

Never end it seems to come,

pouring soul into slum.

Pile my vault to the ceiling,

as the heavens keep squealing.

Most stand and drool, 

but this paper is just a tool!

For more green I once fought,

Good character simply can't be bought! 

Without good works during a boom, 

You could be sealing your moral tomb.

Praying for the Victims of Waukesha Wisconsin

Multiple injuries as SUV slams into Christmas parade. We must get a grip on this....no matter who the person, who the ideology, and what their background. Understanding such behaviors becomes important for tackling this type of behavior whether its extremism or something else. I hope authorities investigate and hold to account such actions in a way that leads to insight. We pray for peace and love to emerge from depravity.

Horse and Used Tack-Proceeds to Humane Society

In Delta County we don't have a lot of horse stores and place to get tack. There are a few pet stores that might carry a little basic gear but nothing on the scale as you might see in more equestrian oriented locations. Morse horse people know each other around here adding to the small rural charm of the place and its people. In this case, we hold used tack swap meets which give you everything you need. I got a back up western bridle and saddle pad for $35. The money went to support the humane society. 

Delta Animal Shelter

Why Extremists and Those Who Support Such Ideologies Might be RINOS? 🦏 vs. 🐘

There are Old Guard Republicans and there are RINO 🦏 Republicans. The Old Guard was founded in 1854 to free the slaves and build a nation on equality (History, 2021). While they might not think of themselves this way RINOs could be considered those who support extremism and rigid class structures that are antithetical to traditional Republican values; at least from a historical perspective.

Back in the early days of our nation we had Federalists who believed in a strong central government and we had  Democratic-Republicans (Jeffersonian Republicans) who believe in a weaker central government. After the War of 1812 we had a split into the Democrat and Republican parties which is where we are today.

Interesting the anti slave coalition that included the smaller Free-Soilers, Whigs, and other Americans founded the modern day Republican party in Ripon Wisconsin near my neck of the woods (literally woods🌲) (U.S. History. nd). You can read more about Republicans and their history against slavery, for free speech, women's suffrage, and equality as the gallant old party (GOP) (AlGOP).

It would seem from a more technical definition extremists and white nationalists are not true Republicans but use its name to gain legitimacy Republic In Name Only (Not the way people are using the term in media). They do not represent our essential values and beliefs as a free nation of free people with equality. They have perverted the value of Republicanism for their personal ideologies that are against the essential time honored Republican values.

When we were in grade school and a fellow classmate pointed their finger 👈 at others the teacher would say say with a scold "you have one finger pointed at them and three back at yourself". Do not let the voices of darkness determine the future of our party and in turn our ability to work with Democrats to rebuild our great nation into the beacon of hope and light for ALL Americans. If you can't vote your conscious you are not free! Perhaps RINO could mean Republican In Name and Orientation? 🤷 I'm just a little confused on how the term has been used. 🤔