Megabus, Indian Trails Coming to Escanaba

Great things are coming to Escanaba and people are responding in a positive way to our now little gem on the Great Lakes. The town is developing and people are coming to see what its like to live like a Yooper in a town that has just about everything you want from a northern smart city. 

Escanaba needs tourism because it has that as an option to help diversify its economy and bring in new revenue for businesses. That will of course mean some changes. For example, someone might want to reach out the bus line and ask them where they would like to park. 

The off load point being down by the park or near restaurants and bars makes a lot of sense. It depends in part on what the bus line wants to do. I think getting people downtown and into our parks and events makes sense. 

Megabus, Indian Trails to provide bus routes for UP

You can learn more about Megabus HERE. Checked them out. Kind of cool. If we do this well, we may find more in the future. 

Improving Police Effectiveness through Good Will and Integrity (Stopping the Exodus and Improving Recruitment)

Policing is a big issue in our nation and people are concerned about it from multiple perspectives. Because it is a national development issue I think its important to bring that up here for discussion. Society needs police and we want some of our best getting into policing. There are changes needed in the system to ensure its functioning at its maximum abilities to serve the public. Starting with the basics of Good Will and Integrity can go along way throughout the rest of the system's chains. 

Consider on a human-to-human level we all want what is best for our society and best for our communities. Systems such as policing create a level playing field that improve safety and security (Maslow Needs of Safety Economy) as basic assumptions of communal life. That is the basis of any societal development and without that we have other issues pop up. So we want to ensure that we start with those good will and integrity assumptions as a basis of all human interaction.

Read Integrity: What it is and Why it is Important

Policing can have a huge impact on the success of an economy. When policing is community based and focuses on building positive relationships it can lead to a great many things (Including lower crime and illicit drug use). People engage more, they trust officers are doing the right thing, and they know that they have the best interest of society in mind. The goal is to develop one's community through thoughtful behaviors that lead to more pubic support.

There are times when a few bad apples spread rumors and misinformation about minorities in their communities and then encourage others to act on those rumors as true. That can create an intimidating situation but it also can create a snowball effect of civil rights violation throughout the entire system. So if we know this, then it is important for our judges to act on it. 

People sometimes ask what are my leanings on police? Mine are fairly neutral and as I am for police but am not unaware of its challenges and some of the legitimate arguments for change. In other words, I'm 100% for police and 110% for civil rights. I'm looking at it from a systems side primarily (as well as some other sides). 

Here are a few ideas on how to improve Good Will and Integrity

1. When we recruit we must do so with personality in mind. Remember that police have authority and that help people and/or ruin people's lives and create all types of difficulties (Including the trust in policing). Police can also be a positive influence on people and the world around them. Which tool they use is often based in their personality and department culture.

2. Intentionally seek to diversify recruitment because it will open up the thought processes to other possibilities and new lines of filling depleting ranks. For example, hiring people from different backgrounds pushes officers to recognize difference as ok (Its not actually different if 60% of society now is diverse.). Diversity shows that policing is universal (Which it needs still needs some work to get there. Its lagging behind and part of that is culture but the other part is because the system is weak on feedback loops and self-correcting mechanisms.)

3. Judicial checks and balances. Sometimes those with nefarious intent and misunderstand of others go down a rabbit hole and can't get out of it. Its a clear sign of bias. It impacts all of their decision making. The carrot and stick approach is helpful. Training on how to handle bias is important but so is discipline and/or removal if an officer continues to misuse authority. 

4. Ensure police are not spreading rumors on things they can't cash at the end of the day. For example, if someone along the line makes up a story based in their bigotry and then spread that as true because it gets "hype" is itself defamation of character and could lead to serious injury of families in the community (Simply based on that bias and immaturity of the officer(s)). 

How do we solve that? Its not easy because it requires greater awareness by our court systems and officials to ensure that they are not damaging their communities with their own bias. There must be a way to change that root assumption of "outsider" when it is not reflective of the realities we live in during the modern era. Developing human capital requires us to think broadly about engaging the full spectrum of our populace's talents and abilities. Creating the basics of that environment are what police can do.

My advice to the youth is get involved in policing and help make the system better and more reflective of our universal values. There is a lot of good in policing, and a lot of good things that come from it, but it needs more diversity from people who have good ideas on how to better connect communities and policing to the same positive end. New type of recruits from different backgrounds makes a lot of sense. Let us turn animosity into something positive with the recognition that change is necessary and can happen through more engagement and appropriate/accurate reflective feedback.

*This blog is designed to improve our systems and encourage thoughtful engagement across wide sectors of society. It is meant for mental consumption and solution finding. If you don't like it please click off. We have a greater responsibility to be truthful then to encamp to one or the other side (We should all be on the same side). I love solutions, I do not like useless rhetoric. Our youth could like policing if we make some common sense and well thought out changes that align these institutions to principles of a universal democracy. There is much to be learned if different perspectives share those thoughts and find meaningful and heartfelt solutions to put everyone on the same page. 

Committee of the Whole 3-28-2023 Meeting on Job Description: Education vs. Experience

This meeting was primarily to get a good job description for the county administrator position. While there are some issues linger as they relate to an admin firing, the ability to narrow down a description is helpful for any future work expectations (No matter if new or older admin.). Placing job postings in the right venues will be important to lure the right kind of candidate.  (How to Hire the Right Person). Actually, half the battle is defining your description and right channel. The other half is selection and recruitment. 

Selection methods can be hugely complex if one wanted to get into the weeds on this in significant depth. I guess Michigan Works has some selection methods and are offering to help in this situation. Here is a solid study on Executive Selection.

I have to admit, the meeting looks a little more functional this time around. It might be that the focus is more narrow and open ended type questions don't loom. The questions are related primarily to the qualifications so while there is debate, it is of limited scope. A feather in cap meeting I guess.

-Profits vs. Non Profits. Both make money but one is restricted on how much they can keep from year to year.

-Education and Experience. I agree in general that education gives you the broader systems constructs that is necessary to master executive level management but the experience is going to indicate what you can expect from any individual candidate. Personality will determine the ability to truly influence others, persist or adapt to challenge.

-Private sector versus public sector. One feels we are pushing private more. 

-True on somewhat subjective on best. Its a shared best that is key for moving forward.

-I like the discussion on the job description. Because this is a key piece of concern for people having a transparent and productive meeting like this looks good. 

-Concern of distrust expressed also a word of praise for one of the commissioners.

-Good conversation on Public Act 214 Veterans Relief Fund veterans service organizations. They are going to lend the county an attorney's time to set up services on vets. Good job on the vets. They earned it.  

Recession Expected in 3Q 2023: Market Indicators

We are expected to have a recession this around he 3rd quarter (look into the crystal ball.) They are talking about indicators which are numbers they use to understand what is likely to happen at some point. For example, one might look at inventories in order to determine future potential slow downs. I guess if someone got good at looking at the early indicators they could determine which industries and companies are positioned to take advantage of market trends. Here is a little something on understanding Leading Economic Indicators.

A Few Reasons Why Its Hard to Find Firefighters (Tapping into the Enthusiasm of the Youth)

Many departments are struggling to find new volunteers. Young people seem to not be interested in public service and the recruitment has moved throughout different venues such as policing, firefighting, EMT, and other fields. To ensure these departments appeal to the younger generation they must be connected to their communities in a way where they are seen as viable and valuable options for our youth. I think we would want that to be a good pathway to their development through positive community engagement.

A Few Reasons Why Its Hard to Find Volunteer Firefighters

There are many reasons why many departments are having a hard time recruiting (not necessarily all). For example, I have heard people discount volunteer firefighters not realizing that they are doing most of the work nationally. Its a good thing people are giving up their time and put themselves at risk with little more benefit then knowing they are helping others. Yet we have people who feel that firefighting isn't serious work and those who put themselves at risk are somehow not of particular high value if they are not paid for it. 

Many of our problems are related to assumptions and the inability to see a new direction for our youth and for our society. Sometimes we have to flip the script to get people motivated and believing in building a world they want to be part of. Motivation comes from moral sentiment and need and there is no reason why firefighting shouldn't be part of that cause with Global Warming and other environmental issues hitting the airwaves regularly (Trust me, the youth are very concerned about that and yet we recruit from a mono-perspective and often from homogeneous groups. There is a reason why we do this unconsciously but that has nothing to do with firefighting itself or the skills it needs.)

What I will say is that I encourage our youth to get involved. We need diverse firefighters (and other public servants) and we need them to be drawn from all different types of backgrounds. We often recruit heavily certain traits and backgrounds that don't have much to do with firefighting at all. In some of the other industries like policing diversity is extremely low. To appeal to a wide group of people, to maintain support in a declining recruitment environment. We need all of our best and brightest to be involved. We can start with coaching our youth to become familiar with these fields and bring their new ideas and values with them. We will need good guides that can understand a younger generation even though there may be differences among backgrounds. 

*This blog is designed to help you think. We have two doors before us. The one we choose makes all the difference. I opt for everyone is part of the same growth opportunities. Others may differ with my opinion but the choice would be telling. Thank you for learning with me. Have a nice day! 

** Civic Engagement. CE. Construct on the health of the system in terms of voluntary engagement, event attendance, meeting participation, etc...Just the idea of total engagement by different sections of the population to participate in society.

U.S. Gets Win on Oil and Energy Production As Leading Euro Supplier: Digital and Physical Infrastructure Changes

Energy production is important for the world. While we transition to clean energy we cannot neglect the older structure of oil production. We can't just make a huge leap without weaning off one and onto another in a sustainable way. There will be for the foreseeable future for oil production for the health of Europe and other places. It is a good place for the U.S. with its vast reserves to get involved to increase national revenue streams but also further allows for a smoother transition from one energy system to another. We are seeing both the physical and digital shifting on a global scale. Much of that is based in the deeper concerns people have over Russia and China partnerships 

(That is why I kind of thought it wasn't a good idea for China to get involved in the conflict because there are deeper mechanics of what people are willing to support and it forces nations and businesses to make a conscious choice on which system the are going to connect their economy and receive their supplies. Its not a full transition but as the New Cold War is fostered by Russian and Chinese actions we may see these splits become more pronounced. This is where China might decide whether there is a liability in that path. I think there are long term risks. I'm a supporter of open markets with equal rules for everyone. We have struggled with that for decades with China and it would appear that national development was their primary concern but in many ways have put some of the countries they traded with into a subservient position.)

Consider the ways in which energy is a huge thing to economics and our life. From manufacturing to getting to work (Unless your a digital nomad but they like to get out of the house too.) We are moving to renewable energy but are not yet ready to make a complete switch. It would be unwise and a little risky if we do not have both systems running well. The best place to be for everyone is redundant, multi source plug and play energy infrastructure. However, managing the oil through our own production can make it cleaner and can allow us to phase it out in a sustainable way to strengthen the whole system with newer energy adaptation.

Consider the physical ways to "Beef Up" U.S. Oil Production on Russian Oil Supply Restrictions

What we find in the modern world that there is a physical and digital components to infrastructure. They both have value and in turn they both must be developed for national strength. In my Transactional Cluster Theory I'm working on you would have infrastructure, technology and human capital. They get very complex because infrastructure include energy, export, rail, telephone, highways, etc. Technology and innovation are connected with market leading products. Human capital includes ideas such as quality of life, education, judicial integrity, training, development and much more (We could develop a formula for it to create a benchmark on how a country is doing. We would just need to look at the definitions of other formulas and see if we can use them to represent these data sources and in turn can be test for validity as a formula. As a benchmark its not proving anything but only measuring it based on these factors. You would then see if those factors appear to relate in some way to a nation's pace of development.)

You can see the digital representation in Data Supply Lines Begin to Shift Between China and U.S.

Consider the impact of knowing when to press on the gas to get things done. Here is one win for the U.S. in the energy and infrastructure development. Strategically we might want to think that every time China makes a step to support Russia they adjust the market. We should find the potential market openings that might occur from those actions so as to capitalize on certain behaviors that are meant to take advantage of a difficult situation and turn those into possible strengths. Think of SWOT and how to analyze a wider market. 

US has replaced Russia as Europe’s top crude oil supplier

DOD Budget Indicates Changes to Capitalize on New Innovative Designs

Read the report below and you will notice new opportunities brewing for larger scale innovation throughout our defense networks. That is occurring because we are now aware of the growing threats overseas (We were always aware but the environment has changed to make such issues more pronounced). New developing through innovative practices is likely and it will be interesting to see where all of this goes. 

On another interesting point. The DOD appears to be actively courting technology industries to put in some dollars for mutual development. That means they may need places where they could test new ideas and concepts. One advantage of creating economic clusters also means that certain towns, with certain characteristics, could potentially capitalize on innovation as innovative incubators and prototype labs. (We would just need to find a place that would have good infrastructure, multiple terrains, ability to create incubators and small towns, attractive to investors, great place to vacation and have a healthy judicial system. I know a place but its just missing one component.)

I have sort of been working on an innovative cluster model that hopefully could be a win for government and industry. As a vet and an academic with a history of looking over the horizon I say that we are moving into something new and unique and I support development of our national capacity in this arena. If industry also gets a boost by such models, that is a win-win for development. That is something wholly unique about America and the root assumptions of capitalism and democracy. *

Department of Defense Releases the President's Fiscal Year 2024 Defense Budget

Why Judicial Integrity is Necessary for the Nation. (Louisville KY as an Example)

The Death of Socrates
As representing the voice of 
truth, justice, and wisdom 
supplanted by a corrupt
disdain for truth.

Corruption is something that is like a rot on our social conscious because it lowers the trust in our systems and that should be sacrosanct for our judicial officials. We know its wrong but its often so hard to catch. It takes a deep and thorough investigation into all the cupboards, nooks, crannies, and other places to ensure it isn't happening and hasn't happened to others. That is how important judicial integrity is to society and our department of justice (That is also what builds trust.). So let us ensure these institutions are in alignment with the current and long term needs of the nation. *

The big ones that sort of really concern me are "engaged in protected speech critical of policing." and "probable cause". One must have the ability to speak freely so as to ensure our total system adapts to higher forms (Right now the populace has adapted past the system's ability to catch up. We have to adjust the system to a higher form of truth that applies universally for a more competitive generation.). Without freedom of speech and without assumptions of safety some areas start looking "regimish" through an embedded network. So we must avoid breaking a judges sacred duties at all costs. We don't want to find luck 7's of corruption across multiple departments which would indicate a total justice failure like we saw in Louisville.

When we crack down on that speech we risk not only the long term health of the system but also the trust that helps it continue to improve. I love our officers, and hope others do as well, enough to not allow the shallow few to destroy trust for a great many people locally, nationally and internationally. Situations like Louisville pain and stain the national heart in a many areas and places. Not only because of the legacy of hate and where that came from but also because it smacks the face of liberty harshly. 

We must correct it and work together to do that. Judges and "The Judged". Its that important! 

The problem with judicial corruption is that it is hard to detect and often works in the background with other conspirators. While sometimes it could be a money or political issues at center there may also be other racial and religious considerations that come into play (i.e. implicit bias.  If there was a question one could go through each and every case involving a minority and see if there is a statistical difference based on a number of factors. In theory I mean. 🤔 Each DOJ investigation would be different I guess. Lets see what the future brings....). If true that would bump such corruption to a serous potential charge and likely a violation of multiple state, federal and international laws (Don't ask me, I don't know much about these things. I'm just trying to understand so we can build our nation.  🤷.)

(Economic systems are developed by good judicial systems that ensure fairness across the board. That is important to my cluster theory. I think there are a lot of people that want to see this theory come to a positive end because it can tie in a number of different sociological problems we are facing as a nation. We are competing against bigger issues for long term national improvement and wisdom is important.) 

When we break trust in our judicial systems we slowly erode the foundation as those that are supposed to be impartial decision makers but have inherently moved down a very dark and dangerous line of acting and thinking. In such situations it would be just and fair for people to be upset their democracy is being undermined and should report such corrupt crimes to the appropriate authorities. Where would you do that? You might try FBI Report Public Crimes  The tips section.  You can also report at Federal Civil Rights Violations. The State Attorney General might want to know. There may also be different organizations that might also want to be aware. 

The UN has a pretty good description of the long term dangers of unchecked corruption. "In his first report to the Human Rights Council, the Special Rapporteur emphasized that corruption and organized crime are undermining the rule of law and the capacity of States to promote systems of governance accountable to and compliant with human rights standards. Corruption also undermines the ability of the judiciary to guarantee the protection of human rights and directly or indirectly impedes the discharge of the professional functions of judges, prosecutors, lawyers and other legal professionals. Corruption also has a devastating effect on the entire judicial system, as it diminishes the confidence of citizens in the administration of justice." You can read more about that in Report on Judicial Corruption and Organized Crime. We should also be concerned about these numbers about court systems in Trust In U.S. Institutions Hits Record Low, Poll Finds

Here is the point I want to make. I think its important to report these things as to give an opportunity for various departments to sort of look closely at the issue and ensure that there are no serious state, federal or international laws being violated. It might take a little digging into multiple arenas and areas to ensure there hasn't been a history of judicial corruption. Because we are in the age of extremism we have to be doubly sure we are reporting to more than one agency to ensure there isn't that one demented soul out there that lacks empathy for their fellow human beings and a healthy respect for the truer forms and meaning of the law. (That is also important to international stakeholders who launched a program to improve judicial integrity. The UN launches global network of judges to strengthen integrity in courts.)

Multi department harm is so sad and I weep for all of those people and all the others that stayed silent. We must treat each other better. 😢 I really do sometimes think of all those people in history who were hurt. Not fair and we have to stop these things the best we can by being positive and persistent. Do so with love and do so with the knowledge that the data we will have tomorrow (as we are now discovering with this situation) are going to tell us a lot about some people and how authority is misused (A more accurate mirror.)

The Role of Justice in Development: The DataRevolution (What I like about the research field is sometimes we build off each other's knowledge as a network of scientists and discoverers. It is not an easy field and sometimes when you report corrupt entities retaliate and that creates more liability. Huge! Huge! if true.)

There is hope Americans and "Americans" can someday be the more enlightened AMERICANS (The one's who are going to beat our competition.) First step in human capital development is to clear the corruption to start leveling the assumptions for everyone. Beyond survival we need the true assumption of security and stability to start the process as such needs are rooted prior to advanced learning. This is what thoughtful judicial integrity can do......create a level playing field that allows all of our different colored and seasoned eagle eggs to grow in an environment that is nurturing (Assuming we are all important. As a person with a Muslim sounding name and multi-racial children I'm horrified there may be judges working in such third world manner! I've seen this in action and it is often built on years of corruption.) 

Investigation of the Louisville Metro Police Department and Louisville Metro Government

* Note and see how we are universalizing our values into a universal democracy. Then sprinkle that human capital with technology. There will be some cultural push back and some extremist perspectives and foot dragging mixed in but at the end of the day the will of the people will overcome. 

Delta County MI. Board of Commissioners Meeting (3-21-2023): Development, Vets, Housing, Old News......

Things are sort of moving along in a little better fashion then they were before in the best interest of society and its stakeholders. There seems to be a getting back at the key concepts and issues. My goal is to understand the economics, to help my community, and in many ways to show that different types of people can work together to accomplish great things. So far I think everyone is sort of doing well and focusing on the big picture. Some hiccups based on what appeared to be a retaliatory firing based on freedom of speech issues (It sort of looks like from a distance a freedom of speech retaliation issue but one would have to sort of talk to someone with legal knowledge. I'm not making a judgement on it because people say all types of things that end up not being true. Its the backroom conversations that will be important if this comes to a head. You can watch the initial video here and make up your own mind.  The Daily Press sort of outlines the overuse of police to silence members of the audience. )

At the end of the day we all have a moral duty to be good to each other. Sometimes these issues are from poor behavioral patterns and quick reactions. When people get upset they sometimes verbally lash out and say things in an attempt to circumvent those feelings (Those might need to come out if there is a court case of some type. Because this is a one time issue we can't really judge from a labor relations standpoint but much is going to be in the details. However, if other reports of retaliation come up for freedom of speech it will be a huge liability for the county. Looks like they need some training. I would put that on the agenda so we are using our taxpayer dollars well and in the best interest of the county. I say that as a concerned citizen. I don't want my dollars being used to defend lawsuits that could have been avoided by patience, kindness and avoiding heuristic judgements about others motives and intentions. This might be where a prosecuting attorney might consider doing an internal investigation to ensure there hasn't been other retaliation issues for freedom of speech so that liability doesn't continue forward. I don't know for sure if that is the case and I doubt anything would come up but you never know what fate brings. )

Let us talk about general committee functionality. This occurs when there are shared goals and people are willing to listen and compromise with each other to reach those goals. Public committees often have amebic type goals to a very broad key stakeholders. Having a few key principles while working on Invest Escanaba (I guess one could use Delta or Gladstone but I'm just using Escanaba because it is sort of the main entity of the area.) type initiatives will help align. All economic choices are filtered 
through these few goals in order to ensure they align and are the best use of resources to achieve them. You can read a layman's term Secrets of Successful Committees

Delta County to discuss requirements for administrator post

-2.48 Starts with alien probing sounds. 👽😂

-Question of procedure issue. 

-Veterans Relief Fund. Thank you to all of our veterans and constitutional republic. I agree with this. 

-$1.10 assistance for our veterans for emergency relief for 3500 vets. I agree there need to be some changes. If your going to have a fund, you need to fund it well.  

-Online reservation for campers.

-Construction of 2 x 800 communication towers that are about $3.5 million. The signal gets blocked out.

-There are rules on the order of listing degrees. However, quartering for such issues went out of style a long time ago so we are probably good now. 

-Prosecuting Attorney: Outlined the different skills of the department. Kind of an interesting line up for different types of issues. Criminal and Civil do sometimes overlap. Civil for about 5 years. Some board members want civil attorney. 2 statutes MCL 49.71 MCL 49.155. I think the members of board would have to show they can't represent but that would be unlikely to be the case. They don't appear to have dropped any major legal balls to make that claim. Changing the coverage might open the county to lawsuits. $100-250 per hour. $10K in one suit. Each agreement is likely to have different rules. * 

-21.30 Parks and properties: Fixing parks, parking and tables. Michigan Trust Fund (I wonder if this is the MI. Natural Resource Trust Fund) $7K to Cornell Twp. Fire Department (I know a few others that would put that money to good use.). DNR wildlife commission with grant Whitetail Association. 

-Billerud might be using biomass. That would be interesting and probably save them money over time if they operate in this wooded area. However, as usual, one must run all the numbers. 

-By 2029 the parks will be self sustaining. 

-Want's to make sure that the job description of County Administrator is adjusted. If there are two people good at finance there should be no issue (maybe audit the county). MA or BA degree versus MA degree with 5 years of experience. Wants public admin experience and education. The MA degree has stronger awareness of the field. Argument brought forward on wider and narrower applicant nets. (One could prefer a degree and degree as a process ensure that they are given preference over and to hire someone without those preferences would require a group vote.). Michigan Works has special tests and skills. Free. (I like that concept). One commissioner brought up the idea that he wants to ensure the public understands that there are not individual commissioners pushing for certain agendas (He didn't say agenda but the term approach was brought forward by someone else. It also a sense of urgency in some board members to get the position solidified. ) Line by line. 🖉

-Tabling items passed quickly. 🤷

-Adjustment in finance meeting to avoid rushing. Finance Committee. (Making sure policies and procedures are followed to ensure integrity.)

-Conference in Lansing for administration. Approve out of county travel. 

-Zoom vs. YouTube Live. (A key point was made. Covid bumped government digital functioning upward.).

-Radio outreach person appointed. Concern over who the outreach represents. 

-New applicants. All of them seemed descent. Review of Master Plan. 

-2.23 One wants to explore attorneys. Many times its cheaper to settle then to defend a case. 

-Sense upset feeling of a comment. Sheriff to ask to ensure people be quiet (I think that has happened every meeting potentially showing a pattern. I would train on that to find a better way to sort of deal with that issue. As a public servant one would sort of want to step above the buzz of conversation and be polite and ask kindly, the second time ask kindly and then remind them of the general rules and what the consequences, and finally if they violate it again one might then politely ask if the officer would "kindly" remove the person. If it was me, I would probably also say sorry and please come back next week I want you to be involved in government and feel free to comment about important topics because its important to good governance. I think I would mean that. Its vitally important to let people feel comfortable to express themselves without feeling concerned they will be judged or retaliated against. Its not good to give that impression to investors nor to people who already have a crisis of confidence in government. I very much am concern about that in today's world and want transparent and kind government in the best interest of people. Its an uphill battle but with time we will all agree that we do best when we work together.) 

-One commission doesn't believe we should have such lawsuits. Another argued that the prosecutor can't handle all things opening up to them. Lists a few things not concerned about. I'm not sure if he comments on "specific" issue but not sure if that is a general comment or related to a specific incident. 

-MDOT and Escanaba utility project support. MDOT Superior Region (I would like more info on this. I will need to search it out because its a primary infrastructure issue for the area.)

-Airport grant. That airport should start seeing more business this year. 

-Support veterans with millage. $4K but want more. 

-YouTube needs to allow public comment. 

-Concern veteran help should have been more forthcoming.

-Airport grant money. I still think its beneficial to connect Esky to Detroit and Chicago for possible start up, design and other manufacturing. People need easy access. Same for vacationers.

- veterans center.

-Economic, Tourism, Manufacturing.

-We paid for conservation district so not free one lady states. 

-Concern over private hunting camp.  Million dollar grant was to be managed for recreation and wild life. 

-1400 acres isn't open to public. Two 40s block access. Deaf ears. Wants to ensure issues address.

-Application for position.

- We should be supporting law enforcement. Need more protection for court. 800k grant mentioned. 

-Counter argument on land misuse. 

-Feels upset people criticism everything. Happy on Vets help. Wants public experience for Admin. 

-New housing needed for construction work. Group. MSHDA housing maybe. No renting available for long time. Get projects started. (Depending on the type of grant I wonder if they could use that to ensure all the buildings downtown that have apartments are up to code and updated. That would probably be the easiest to do. We may need to build some new buildings and apartments. Be wise on the design. Make them like condos so you can resell to seasonal vacationers when people leave. Also, consider creating cabins because they are quick, easy, can be used recreationally, or sold for cheap to middle class people from Illinois and Lower Michigan who want a summer cottage but have limited budgets. A secondary use after people leave. Some old Victorian houses when turned into boutique apartments and condos often fetch a good return. While we may not have had that type of market before, we may have that going forward if everything turns out well.  An opportunity to increase tourism and maybe sustain it.)

-Wants people to look at property, roads, etc.

-DOJ ADA regulations on website for county.

-Wants paper copy.

no-good Queen Voyages stands for crafts. 26 visits.

-American Rescue Plan money for court.

-Pathways board member.

*49.71 County civil attorney; employment, compensation.

Sec. 1.

   The board of supervisors of any county by a majority vote of the members-elect may employ an attorney to represent the county in civil matters, whenever the board determines that the prosecuting attorney is unable to properly represent the county. Such attorney shall receive such compensation as shall be determined by the board of supervisors.

49.155 Opinions of prosecuting attorney or county corporation counsel.

Sec. 55.

   The prosecuting attorney, or county corporation counsel in a county which has employed an attorney in lieu of the prosecuting attorney to represent the county in civil matters, shall give opinions, in cases where this state, a county, or a county officer may be a party or interested, when required by a civil officer in the discharge of the officer's respective official duties relating to an interest of the state or county.

*I'm looking at the economics of a county so to finish off a theory. I built the structure of the theory and am seeing if the market can build the rest as practitioners. I do need to watch the county and city activities to see how they are doing and whether they are adapting to meet those challenges. That also includes world affairs and events. There will be public things that come up and those are important to understand. This is all public information and I'm a very nice guy and hope very much to help everyone along the way for the next couple of generations if I can. If in some way these ideas lead to greater development for other researchers, scientists, students, stakeholders, and government officials then I am profoundly blessed by influence and reach that I do not deserve. In all stories, is another story I guess. Economics is the macro study of behavior. Behavior is important in decisions and important in outcomes. Sometimes either the goal or the decision could be misaligned. Its about love and good kharma. Namaste. 🙏 

Life Expectancy in U.S. Declined Quickly-Good Health for Business and Society

According to this study on life expectancy the U.S. declined 2 years in a row while the rest of the world for the most part rebounded. That is a concern because employers want healthy workers and we as a nation want a healthy population.  As I read the article I kept thinking it is not a singular cause but one of lifestyle, food quality, neighborhoods and other issues. I suppose, one could potentially be impacted by many factors which would be an indication we need to rethink how we are doing this. 

One advantage of big data is that we will better understand how our environment impacts our lives and how improving on that environment can improve the health of the total system. Healthy citizens, good neighborhoods, systems with integrity, community engagement, and lots of other factors that ensure we are developing together. One might even be able to throw our political and social environment in as a contributing factor to good or poor health.

Environmental enhancements might be one way but so are education and employer programs. More push for preventative medicine and good health. I have a fitness trainer license (which I don't really use in that capacity) and have found that total health is rounded and integrated throughout the day. Nothing wrong with short walks, floor exercise, food, neighborhood redesign, etc. We just need to be more mindful and aware. 

'Live free and die'? The sad state of U.S. life expectancy

U.S. Special Forces: Stepping Away From Small Towns

The military and education are the great equalizers of society and at this time in history we need that to ensure a competitive population. The military offers opportunities that you are unlikely to get anywhere else. For those who step away from small towns and dare to look into fate, things will forever be different. Coming back is quit interesting to say the least. You will be a changed person and that will influence those around you. The best news is, you can do it for others while you do it for yourself. Win-Win.

What you can understand and see after spending time exploring your world will be drastically of higher depth then what others from your hometown can see. You will understand some of the sacrifices and challenges our nation has faced and a little of what it takes to overcome them. As a person, you knowledge and skills will be enhanced because you have no option but to enhance them through challenge.

Today's military isn't just about physicality as it was in the past, it will require in addition a whole new array of skills that will be tested and maximized. Digital to Physical. If you are of the type, give all of your intelligences a spin and see how the military can maximize them for you and your nation. It is time for the young to join up, stare boldly into fate, and build the world the way they want. We had our time and now must give back that wisdom.

Tomorrow belongs to them, the day after that to their children, so on and so forth. The military and higher education must maximize the natural skills of our best and brightest to ensure they can get over the hill. We got work to do still......

*Coming back is not always easy. Its disclaimer. As a changed person, people do not always appreciate our service men and women and may not like what they stand/stood for. That is a direct result of their misunderstanding of patriotism and likely one of the reasons they didn't join or contribute to their nation in the first place. In a diverse world you may represent something they do not understand because they have never developed their intelligences nor their personality or souls. That my friend, is what ties all military people together. We know what it takes to make it and not everything is black and white. Its the journey that counts.

Biden Addresses Canada: Economics, In Flanders Field, Mars (03/24/2023)

Watching President Biden's speech and thinking about how long we have been friends with Canada. I used to go over there a lot in my 20's because we are so close. They are very much like us in the U.P. of MI. We both like cheap beer and peanuts for the most part I guess (We also like maple syrup, hockey, hunting, and turning statements into questions with "eh?"). Anyway, we are all into the affairs of important and interesting things that truly impact our lives. We are a world spinning, and we are a nation that is ramping up to be something bigger and more advanced then we were in the past. 

We do have some need to go more bottom up in our economics. I think that should always be the goal to ensure the ultimate stakeholders, the American people, are primary to all considerations (A balance between investors, society as a collective group, and individual people. We really can't forget world stakeholders as well. Democracy needs friends.). As with all things in life, we have to find the sweat spot for everyone where maximum motivation and societal outcomes are possible (Hard to calibrate an approach. No one is ever truly satisfied. )

Different ways to approach issues are important. Democrats are often bottom-up and Republicans are often Top-Down but they don't have to be. There are different tools for different times (History sort of shows different leanings at different times to different effects. Having flexibility is a sign of Transformational Leadership style. ). Sometimes a little of both can be important because they are general approaches (Right now the little guys/gals are suffering more than the big guys/gals but there is a balance in everything. In our past we used to live in the same neighborhoods. Rich and poor are very different now and so there is likely to be some pushback.) 

(There was a discussion on unions. I'm not for or against unions, I'm for a market that adjusts across the board fairly. Everyone gets some benefits and everyone can feel the pain {A society}. Unions are more of a symptom when compared to a cause. I read a study once on why people unionize and its because perceived/realized unfairness. Unions are changing and becoming more flexible and that is likely going to help them find a foothold again in some industries; its not politics its just speculation based on market factors. I could be 100% wrong. I also think the Packers are a good team. 🤷)

Consider that we get into a political discussion on bottom-up or top-down but few can sort agree across the line on basic impact necessity. They both have merit but using the same at the detriment of the other leads to social imbalance. We have to watch the whole system to ensure people have the right motivation to grow in ways that lead to the most productive outcomes for society as a whole while rewarding individual effort. Grass roots wealth that encourages the masses is worth a lot in national development . Governments work best when they are universalized and fair to all parties and stakeholders. The key point is that decision should always focus on our shared goals and policies designed to get us there (That is not agreement or not agreement with anything.)

Lots of stuff and don't have time to comment. (If I'm wrong in my notes just sort post a comment I guess. No rotten tomatoes please. I have not formalized my thoughts. They are in flux and everyone is so smart they know all the answers. I'm just trying to catch up to them, but I'm missing pieces in my logical chains that is creating holes of decision making risk. How can I definitively decide something in which I don't really have all of the information? So...my commentary is for myself.....feel free to discard.)

-Batteries and electric cars. 

-Supply chains.

-Semiconductor development.

-Canada gets repacking jobs (What about Escanaba? Don't forget about us! We act like and talk like Canadians but we are really Americans! Eh? )

-50 countries supporting Ukraine. 

-Discussion on the In Flanders Field. We should always respect those who fought and bled for Liberty no matter what country! A little more history on WWI (Democratic nations do have a shared history of development. There are also different types of democracies.)

-Norad is the bi-national military program. New technology is coming forward. You can read more about Norad. (Such a cool military crest.). 

-Getting the drugs off the street is easier when we are focused on the essentials. I agree we need to get the hard core drugs off our streets. 

-Everyone should live in dignity and safety. Pursue justice and the rule of law. We should be fair to everyone (I'm thinking of the possibility and ramifications of broad based development.).

-Discussion on carrying the torch. 

-We need to unleash the full power of our people. 

-Mars is a good goal. There may be nothing on Mars but we might find new materials that allow us to consider precious metals that lead to different lines of innovative development. 

-Agree on writing the future together. Yes protect our men and women in service. 

*This article is designed to get you to think. We may not always agree on everything but as a light R. I can see the benefits of big pictures. Certainly there may be differences in how or when but those are strategic decisions and not necessarily disagreement on long term objectives and goals. As a nation if we learn to work together on issues that are central, we can accomplish many things. Politics should be a discussion and not a pitched battle. Its a give and take toward the bigger goals. A type of societal compromise. I say this for myself, and only my personal and only perspective. When it comes to building our nation, I encourage people who want to hold and pass the torch from this generation to the next to do so through shared commitment. 

**I like to watch politics (and eat popcorn) but its not really for me I think. I do believe that it is how we grease the wheels of progress. If I could just drive around in a junky pickup, a flannel, and my fishing pole I would. I will pick up a good book on philosophy and see how that might apply to our current political affairs. Some like fishing, some like politics, and some like both. 

The Data Supply Lines Start to Shift Between China and U.S. Leaning Nations (War Under Waves)

Businesses should be aware of the different types of changes occurring in the market through what is normally called a Market Analysis that includes internal and external factors that lead to competitiveness. (You may want to watch this video on how market analysis works in business. 'Strategic Management' ) Within this source shift you are going to have internal resources and external resources being expended and built. 

Internal resources our our capacities as a nation and group of nations (i.e. infrastructure/energy, innovation, human capital) The external resources will be the availability of fast data supply lines (i.e. just like old oil lines, highways, railways, airports, etc.). Countries, and flock nations, are likely to start coordinating their needs to ensure they are well supplied and maintained. 

Outside of business considerations, I'm going to say I think the Reuter authors did a fabulous job on this article. Outstanding work! The amount of research that went into a paper like this is significant. Thank you for letting me read it until my web cookie cuts my free reads and I now have to pay for it. (Usually the trick is to clean the browser cache. 🤫)

One strategic line worth exploring is the possibility that Russia and China are trying to split on purpose and therefore it could be advantageous to head them off and maintain positive relations with those nations that are neutral between democracy and communism to limit influence expansion. Doing that in a way that also strengthens our own supply lines makes sense. 

U.S. and China wage war beneath the waves – over internet cables

What Does it Mean to Be an American? The need for system integrity!

America Guided by Wisdom 1815
John J. Barralett

There is some misconception among some of our politicians and administrators on what it means to be an American and the need for integrity throughout our systems. We the People hope that the systems can push to higher states of integrity and become representative of the needs of ALL of society. We are moving in the right direction but there are still enough poor values and subjective application of the Constitution that it becomes worrying for the 60% of society that care about their communities and people that live within them.

Yet we have difficulty convincing some of our leadership that two different rules and applications of law and opportunities is harmful to our people and nation. Sometimes they hear the message but mostly they are reactive managers versus proactive change agents leaning toward higher American values. That of course doesn't apply to everyone but I would say its 50/50 out there (We do watch and do understand the destructive nature of ideological immaturity.). 

We as a nation need enlightened leadership that moves beyond self-glorification and shallow values to reach the next rung of national development. We have new risks rising globally and the biggest risk we face is our difficulty in encouraging our leadership to work on the behalf of its citizens. While elections are part of democracy, so is the process of selecting candidates that are capable of fulfilling their oaths and duties. Elections only work when strong leaders are elected that know how to solve problems. We have a responsibility to ensure our leadership is following the rules and promoting pro-social values. 

I would make a couple of suggestions for general consumption. 

1.) Review Congressional resumes and determine whether the Santos Method of electability and embellishment is common. We can't vote on issues if we don't have accurate information to make decisions (We don't want to be duped!). It should be a serious ethical violation to intentionally and significantly falsify resumes and mislead the full scope of the populist's vote. 

(Also cross reference organizations and entities to ensure there aren't groups cheating the system and selling our secrets for $$$. Not like its going to happen, but from a hypothetical standpoint, wouldn't it be nice to clean out those issues and then move forward. Maybe nothing is found, but I guess if you don't look you then you will always have that risk in the back of their head. Now that the thought is there...someone is going to wonder and want to peak behind the curtain. Fair is fair right...No? 🤷.)

2.) Encourage the laws to be applied fairly among all of the population. Trust me, as a person of a Muslim sounding name, I have seen things that would have been completely unacceptable if reversed. Actually criminal if we sort of viewed all people as important. The differences between law and shadow laws are becoming increasingly obvious and if we do not get ahead of the problem we will find big data embarrassing everyone across the decision making spectrum from many decades of short sighted thinking. (Hint on being proactive to show that you cared before it was a big problem. Its a proactive versus reactive approach.)

3.) Encourage broad based development across our entire nation and population. We can't just keep self-serving the "connected" and "inner crowd" in a way that is exclusionary to the many other Americans/"Americans" that want to get ahead (We want AMERICANS....the new enlightened Digital Age version that can hedge differences for innovative growth. In the past division was a way power, perhaps in the future actual performance is a way to power.) We need the best and brightest to get ahead in a way that leads to national growth. While a small sliver of our leadership may very well might be the best and brightest, most are not because they are limited to repeating what others are saying without critical thinking or having the leadership capacity to go against the grain. (Its the nature of the best and brightest to not be constantly self serving at the expense of everyone else. If they are the best in one arena, but don't have the values, then they are not the best and brightest.)

4. Swearing loyalties to parties and personalities over one's nation isn't the right thing to do either and often leads to eventual conflict and dissolution (One could support the mixed mission and goals in science and how that leads to group issues. The root arguments of some of our politicians is not actual strength of the country but designed to exploit division. This means there are questions of truer and deeper mixed loyalties of effort.) Divided loyalties often create big schisms because leaders profess certain values but are pressured to accept values that are antithetical to strong governance. The big picture should always be maintained in foresight. 

While this may seem a little rudimentary, an American is someone who believes in their people and freedom (Long lost art of the purpose of good governance.). Swearing oath to the Democratic Republic of the United States encompasses the concept of making decisions in the best interest of the nation and having enough cognitive flexibility to know when to change. To know when change is more honorable than argument. While I suspect our national leaders will be more interested in managing in the best interest of everyone versus the shallow few we have a lot of forces pulling in different directions in a way that makes the ship unsteady. Differences of opinions are important, especially when constructive, but we all must stay focused on the same goal just over the horizon. We must be rowing together....no excuses!

*This is article-story is designed to help you think about how decisions in one arena impact many other arenas. If it feels like it is useless or you disagree please just click off. That doesn't reflect on the good politicians and officials doing the right thing regardless of the benefits. This is for those who don't, can't, won't and will not.

**Typically when I voice my opinion all types of creepy stuff happens. Those who know....know...while those who don't....have no clue on the different societies that are forming.

***I have more responsibility to tell people things they don't want to hear if it benefits the next generation then repeat and reflect back inappropriate beliefs that harm our great nation. We are not at the end, we are becoming, and we will show our adversaries that Democracy is the best way forward. We will correct our deficiencies of blindness so we can "see" clearly the path that lay before us. Be brave, be faithful, and be wise sons and daughters of liberty. 

****I suppose its just story of fun and fancy. If you like other stories of a similar strain go ahead and attend a Congressional luncheon and listen to some of their fictional tales of awesomeness 😏. Tales and stories.

Escanaba City Council Meeting (03-16-23): Land, Pickleball, Pancakes, Sewers and Emotional Intelligence!!

Allegory of Good Government
Palazzo Pubblico, Siena, 1338-40

This is an interesting meeting because it delves into governance and accomplishing things in the best interest of residents. There are people interested in this town and they are watching these videos and want to know the area can manage its affairs and make decisions in the best interest of its people. In some ways, we are teaching a much wider stakeholder about how government functions and whether or not it functions appropriately. 

Some of that discussion is about whether government, community, investors and stakeholders can work together to turn a town that was once struggling, but with so much untapped potential, back into a sustainable example that might be utilized in other places. When people work together they can really change the landscape and create multiple win-win situations. 

What we have noticed over the past few years is a transition. We had some change in leadership, a few problems sort of cleared out (i.e. hotel development "hacked" money issue which isn't completely gone for good I believe. It just keeps going and going and going. Dark Side vs.  Energizer Bunny. 🐇). There will always be challenges but how people interact with each other in good faith will make a big difference in the outcomes. 

One can make mistakes but if they are trying to do good things then good karma will follow. (I'm not saying there are any mistakes here, I'm saying in general if you try and fulfill your duties it will most likely turn out well through many small daily choices.)

Let us just keep watching......

March 13th, 2023 Escanaba City Council Meeting

Notes: (I try to be accurate but am sometimes wrong. Feel free to post a comment and I will correct.)

-Terrace Bay. What? Not about the Jail property?  ....[Room goes silent in anticipation] .........water and sewer would help their business! (I also heard there is 100 units going in within Wells.). Drain field as well. I believe a lot of the larger businesses would be in support of new water and sewer. With state money its going to be beneficial. Early Christmas. Wells is the hot spot of development. Interesting. 

-Bonafas Art Center. Disabled community. 900 artists through year. Free to public. Different camps. Concerts and food truck. Wants to be included in city budget. 

-City Participation on budget.

-City Planning Commission wants some more training. Online or in-person training. Make master plan, how it relates to zoning, site plans, decisions, success new economy, role, ethics, standards,......$3,000

Public Comment. None. (This is meant as light hearted so please keep it in that realm. So sad I have to say that.... something to do with my name I suspect. 🤔 This not as much fun as the county meeting. I more or less watch because of the potential economic impact.) 

(I'm thinking about the stark contrast between the two meeting styles in the area and how Esky for the moment seems to be doing it right. Consider Management Style 1: More Excitement and Less Functional Admin Example  and Management Style2: Less Excitement but Healthier Example. {Not literally, just wry wit meant to uplift your mood. You should get the point I'm trying to make.}. 

(One committee a lot of conflict and open questions and the other one seems to be somewhat peaceful and restful. One seems to fight about everything little thing because of lack of trust and the other one is more subdued and focused. I suspect the issues might be cleared out pretty soon so everyone can get back on track to serving their communities.)

(You might want to read about personality, leadership and teams and how that impacts whether or not governance will be effective. See Harvard Study Great Teams Are About Personalities, Not Just Skills. Notice the study talks about emotional intelligence. This is becoming a big thing in todays executive world. The influence of emotional intelligence and personal styles of dealing with conflict on strategic decisions.)

(In this case, it looks like Escanaba is moving along a fairly good path with relatively happy government customers. It is possible under the right circumstances. Sometimes silence is music. Just notice the difference in public comment length between the two meetings. In this case, zzzzz is kind of a good thing. Its a type of focus on essentials and a willingness to get along.)

- Public recreation improvements that include basketball courses and other good stuff. 100K commitment response. MI. Trust Fund Grant. (I'm assuming it is the Natural Resource Trust Fund Grant). 8 pickleball course (People are really getting into this. USA Pickle Ball Rules. They may want to also check out the EPA's Recreation Economy for Rural Communities. I'm not sure if they are going to have another open date for the grant but it might be good to contact and see what they have for parks and recreation. ) 

-One board member mentioned about the majority of the city being older. I agree and the stats show that. It is not because the city can't attract and retain young talent. It is because there hasn't been a big effort to attract them, employ them, and bring in new capital. I think people are thinking about that now and capitalizing on opportunity. Decisions we make impact our children and grandchildren's future (Trust me there are many places where lunch is way more important than good governance. It looks like we are sort of finding some problem areas and the community is resolving them so everyone can move forward.)  

-Selling a parcel. Concerns on price and value. I don't think a delay will hurt anything. The buyer took the time to put in the request so they would likely be ok. Second property to be postponed until further review. 

-Letter of support for the Wells water and sewer project. A couple of arguments from a utility investment standpoint are increased revenue for Escanaba if it can provide a service and make a little revenue off of it. It would help put a dent reversing trends to go further positive. This is what infrastructure projects can do if they are well thought out. It also increases revenue again with new businesses, business use of utilities, and improves health. Just make sure you understand the math of it all so as to ensure some margin for lean times (Be a pessimist in number crunching and projection. Once you know your bottom line then you can know your goals and shoot for the stars if you want.). 185 Wells customers. A mention that some other businesses don't have water lines and if they had water they would expand. Right now it appears that they have the capacity and can negotiate other upgrades if they are needed. Another comment by another member on current residents and state monies.  

(I would agree with the letter of support for funding. In a county meeting they discussed whether or not Escanaba would want it and I think this would sort of give a direction to that question. You may also see how increased revenue can be used to grow sustainable development in this theory. Once you receive this money and it shores up a tight budget you don't want to waste it. Create a new revenue stream that helps build something with a win for residents, future, and potential investors. If you do it well, and for long enough, you can start to endow city expenses that produce revenue like parks, water system, etc. The point being is that we should use money wisely to protect certain necessary long-term growth entities and improve the budget by freeing them from being future resource draws. In good times, many of these endowed assets might eventually have surpluses that can be reinvested in other places to help the city/county. Food to debate and ponder as a people. )

-Appointments

-Splash park is going to take a little more time until next year for parts. 

-Pot Shop too close to residential. Couldn't offer a variance (If you are going to have them they should be managed strictly and in good taste. Best to encourage delivery more than actual pick up. Pick up is good for boutique tourists and visitors. However, in general having delivery encourages less traffic and other issues.) 

-WiFi for Harbor Tower. Waiting on parts.

Public Comment (Everything seems to be running well here again at this second opportunity. Something is oddly different between these two committees. I can't quit put my finger on it. Things are running so well at the moment. 🥱  yawn. Its a good thing.):

-Speaking on the behalf of Kiwanis Club. Home and Garden Show April 14th, 15th, and 16th. Free pancakes bring the kids! Connect up with them on Facebook HERE.

-Conservation district. Different pot of grant money. Bridge went down. Did it for half a million, we had a million, and they let us keep the money. New water and septic needed. 34 million dollar project for water and sewer. Either Escanaba or Gladstone to route water and sewer. Timeframe for allocation. There was some discussion on timber and biomass. 

-Kiwanis also puts on special Olympics. 1977 started here (History of Special Olympics). 

(St. Patrick's Day is now over. I noticed at Meijer's there are St. Patrick's Day shirts for like $3. They are not bad. They say something about Irish-ish on them or something. If your Irish....go get some. 🍀 I'm also mentioning them because they gave masks to first responders in the area when Covid hit.)

*P.S. I write these articles to understand government and to help others understand government. We should just continue to become informed citizens. Having nice, quiet, productive meetings often leads to growth over time. While I sort of poke fun at it, it is appreciated by the community that they are productive meetings and subdued. Think of it like one is full of action packed adventure and the other is sort of background music. ✌ Its the way things should be. Don't let the big politicians fool you....there is a difference between theatrics and good governance. 

Values: The Elusive Goal

Tempest 1508
 artist Giorgione

Behind every great story is another story. Life is a meaningful story of becoming, changing, growing, learning, adjusting and mastering. Those who do interesting things are not driven by money and prestige. The challenge may be important and the ability to overcome is important. Whether this situation turns out as it should, as I suspect it will, it also leaves a little sting. 

Such things happen because of values. At the end of the day, no matter where things are going forward, it was the values that drive people. Patriotism isn't only about flags and BBQ. There is something deeper in it all. It is about certain principles and values that lead to a shared sense of community and purpose. It is universal in its orientation.

I will not go into who has values and who is the first to dump them when they can self-enrich or get something (I got good at figuring out people and fairly accurate in my predictions of their depth of values.). The words people use mean very little when poor decision after poor decision become apparent. Walking the talk requires us to believe in those values of freedom beyond self-interest and surface symbolism. 

Occasional there are people who prick our conscious and they didn't do it for money. They did it because they care. Investors should put their money where their values are because they are building a world around them, building economic structures, impacting millions of lives/souls, and they should consider what the bigger picture is when they do that. Money is awesome, making money is awesome, but it must be based in something deeper. 

When you get the top of the score card you are only left with yourself. I hope you like what you see. 

Here is a good study on values. Think about why people do things that you don't understand and persist despite having few or no rewards. Sometimes, there are more important things then self-flattery and self-enrichment. All patriotism should teach the deeper values of a society and not get hung on symbolism alone. Symbolism is only an anchor that leads to a deeper dive into the essence and soul of a nation.

We will meet our challenges as a people and best them. That will require greater focus then we are accustomed and that will require us to dive deeper into our own personal and shared universal values. 

Do you know that guy has a Muslim Name? 

Attaining Your Goals Through Challenge: Smile, Side Step, and Keep Going

Life is not always easy or fair. Some are dealt the worst of all possible hands. Some have their good cards taken and replaced with bad cards. I will tell you that there are many ways to grow and develop. You can't adapt unless you are challenged. When the chips are down remember this....If you want to do something, you want it bad enough and are willing to make changes, you will accomplish it!

If you don't know what you want, then stay in school (Higher Ed or Trade School) and get an education until you figure it out. It certainly won't hurt you. What you will find is that you will change through knowledge and there may be some that will not grow with you. Let them go. It is, what it is! 

This country needs all different types of people and we must develop our talent. Let no person, clan or group hold you back from your destiny. Smile, side step, and let them trip over themselves. 

Taking the path less traveled is what differentiates you from the herd. (I still think of climbing that mountain. Still on my bucket list. At end of video.)

NATO is Protecting its Borders: What the U.S. Can Do?

China made a decision that it has more to gain from being Russia's supplier and friend then it doesn't from working within the international community. They also feel that by backing Russia they can carve out their supporters and markets. As the war rages between Ukraine and Russia, China finds itself in a position to sell more and foster differences in world alliance. However, they are finding that there is a longer-tail reaction to their decisions that will reverberate for some time. 

First, remember that Russia moved into Ukraine. While I understand some of the justification presented, they also did not calculate that Ukraine would fight back and that people would help in that defense. It would be a completely different reason if Ukraine attacked Russia. In a reverse situation I do not believe the world would support that either (This appears to be a justified defense by the Ukrainians. Unless someone presents something different I would support them. Living by our principles and being an example for the world.)

At the end of the day its about aggression and the inability to determine one's own path. Something most Americans believe in. That is why you have most people supporting helping Ukraine. There are some who don't want to support Ukraine anymore (I can understand some of the arguments but I think they need like 4 more months of support to settle out in favor of Ukraine {As defined only by this moment. Ask me tomorrow if the situation changes.}.  I don't understand what all the other arguments might be, but the war is becoming a fundamentally defined position of a potential New Cold War. I feel very bad for the Ukrainians. I have empathy over their plight and the plight of those struggling against much larger adversaries. ). 

China's support for Russia indicates that they are in many ways hoping the war will swing back in favor of their interests and in turn make Russia more dependent. China gets market and oil. Russia gets to be propped up and protected. Of course, the Russian citizens and Ukrainian citizens lose much in the process. No mater if Ukraine or Russia ultimately wins, I suspect the area will not be the same for a long long time. 

We see that now with NATO member starting to align their borders. Read NATO is racing to arm its Russian borders. Can it find the weapons?

A few things to think about as a nation (Just ideas so feel free to toss them anytime.). 

1.) Sew up diplomatic ties and settle non essential conflicts and issues with other nations (Don't let small things be exploitable by international actors.). 

2.) Build up innovation and supply lines to ensure superiority and supplying of allies. We got work to do in our innovative capacity and we could get there. Missing the human capital piece but the rest seems to be coming (Waiting on politicians....zzzz.....zzzzz...... 😴)

3.) Draw up contingency plans and encourage NATO to do the same. Get resources where they need to move and ensure nations are coordinated. Different nations have different strengths. Perhaps its time to start talking more directly about some of the other emerging interests (i.e. China influence and supplying of Russia with weapons. )

4.) Find a national plan around innovation/technology/science, infrastructure/energy/resource allocation, and human capital/education/training/opportunity/best & brightest.

5.) Resolve political issues to ensure that we are all focused on national health and the essential values of democracy (i.e. the universal democracy).

What we often find in such situations is that we think about such issues on a global scale and then don't realize how we are going to move from A to M. That is an issue if we are struggling with accepting minorities in our hometowns and/or blocking them from engaging in full American life. It is time Americans and "Americans" become the enlightened beefy AMERICANS (....probably a dumb idea....discard quickly....I got the wrong type of name. Even as a light R. 🤷).  

Why Patriotism Is Deeper than the Words and the Symbolism Alone!

 As nation we have an opportunity to grow and change based on environmental pressures and internal resources (Keep that in mind for later discussion. We can talk about how resources of different types and background lead to a developing nation. Soft and hard power.). New reports have come out from the DOJ that indicate maybe not everyone is doing the right thing all the time (They are stuck in a narrative and shallow symbolism.). The assumptions of "rightness" are now being replaced with a more balanced perspective of right and wrong. One system is dependent on the good will of the other. It is true whether they see that or not. Its important to continue to develop our systems to meet the needs of the people.

People might look at some of the protests and arguments as a terrible thing. I do not. I think it is a chance to change. It is a chance to really live by those values we profess. It is a time for all parties to be self-reflective. There is no good that can come from constant arguing or conflict. I say that as a person who knows many different sides to the same story that I suppose few of these people have the capacity (In this theory its called mirrors. It is not my theory.). 

We have a responsibility to grow and adapt. Police are not all bad or good. It is a collection of imperfect people that serves a function in an imperfect society. They are trying to do the right thing but there are individuals within those systems, just like there are individuals in any system, whos values are so anchored in misperception of self that they create risk and harm to people in the population. 

Reform isn't about winning or losing a political argument. It is about developing our human capital broadly, it is about raising the standard of justice, and about getting policy and people to work together. We are all at this present time in this boat together and teamwork is needed. Failure to set a course of direction ultimately leads to dissolution at some unknown point in the future (That is this team, that team, and as far as I know all teams.)

The DOJ's investigation is a chance to grow....not necessarily be punitive to those departments that need a "teachable moment". It is your opportunity to reconnect to the values of the community and their padded boot. Don't let this opportunity to slip through your fingers because the next one is likely to have more legal teeth in it (I don't really know, I'm just talking hypothetically if there was a problem.🤷) 

If you are unsure of which direction to take feel free to move from waving to me to inviting me out for a beer. (Oh did I tell you I'm also part German and a touch Native American, raised in part by Monks in WI to deeper values that were devoted to learning. We also invented American beer. 😁 :))  You can read the pledge below and learn about the History of Pledge . All patriotism is prosocial and should never be used to divide. That is a deeper value that ensures that patriotism has a positive outcome that advances society versus leaning into extremism where patriotism is power over (Just saying because I think it is helpful for people to ponder that concept for a few moments.)

 Read about Veterans and the Pledge and a little info on how to Deliver It from those who Earned It!

I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. It is based on The US Constitution.

We have challenges we need to face and that won't happen if we are not all rowing together. Can you "See" Now       Join the Cause! 

Other light Reading: PhD or DBA? Staying Diligent, Social Capital, "Common Sense", Human Perception of Hate, Hyper Politics, Two Biggest Threats, Human Capital, 2033 American Compromise  You might as well just file that story on Thoughtful Community Policing as an interconnected opportunity among Americans to ensure the truth of the the story to read again at a later date to a more international audience. National Archives 🤓🙈🙉🙊😲💨?

The Hawk 🦅 Stop and think before you act. Remember Our principle and values because of lives and sacrifices people have made to protect them (I have been to a few of these cemeteries and they may me very sad and very appreciative of the sacrifices. The rows of white stone markers. Just a few miles away from. Sometimes I go walk them.). Our principles should apply fairly to all members of society. Whether we want to hear that or not!