Escanaba City Council Meeting January 11th, 2022: "Smart Zones"

Escanaba's townhall was a positive step in the adjustments needed to encourage this small town to be a place where people invest, live and thrive. It was also a productive meeting because it was informative to city council members in terms of how procedures work and why they exist. You will notice that from prior meetings until this meeting there is a higher sense of team cohesion and sense of direction (Go back to the Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning stages and some of the exhibited behaviors of groups. Tuckman's Stages). There will naturally be differences throughout their time in office but if they focus on actionable steps to improve future prospects and how their choices impact the lives of residence they will be accomplish much of what they set out to do.

The good news is they are taking an additional step to increase personal-professional knowledge of how to manage a city and the ability to work together in a way that builds trust with community members (Notice in the presentation the focus on transparency and shared goals.) Newer and younger city council members would likely find it beneficial to be familiarized with official rules, regulations, and laws so they don't step in legal potholes. Sometimes when members enter into public life they may not have all of the experience needed to make difficult decisions in complex environments. This is where organizations like the Michigan Municipal League can be helpful to new administrations where ideas and resources can be shared among municipal members. 

Another step the team could take would be to take a look at personality attributes and area of interests and try and match that with roles and responsibilities. The benefit is that it can create increased engagement and motivation of team members because they already have the natural focus. One would want to of course keep in mind over interest in an area which could make someone blind. Where that might occur you may want multiple people working on that topical area. (See Personality Traits and Team Cohesion , Path-Goal Theory and Higher Performance Path-Goal)

As a side note. The speaker did a great job of connecting the concepts that universities can draw resources and provide an attractive draw for young people to move into the area. They also have the ability to use their intellectual resources to improve their communities and give "real life" experience (...thinking how things connect between different institutions and activities to create net positives community. The more you do that, according the a theory on innovative transactions, the higher the growth rate. It is also possible to also expand the system by new lines of "net positives" that come from efficient use of resources to create ROI in clusters.) That of course relies on the ability to attract and retain diverse faculty from a broad range of backgrounds that can help students prepare bright futures. While Escanaba is a small town nestled in the woods and lake in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan it has significant potential as an investment draw. (Small Business Online Success and Business Incubators)

Verso Merges with BillerudKorsnas AB Investments in Escanaba (Delta County Economic Cluster Model)

Verso unanimously accepted a buy out offer by BillerudKorsnas AB in a $27 per share bid that seeks to convert the Escanaba mill into a world-class, sustainable, fully integrated paperboard production site. That is good news for Escanaba and its local economy as the company invests up to an additional billion beyond the initial purchase price into paperboard operations. The strategic move into North American, near new markets and sources, will likely help BillerudKorsnas meet increased demand for green packaging in an online upswing of sales. There is more to be done in Delta County MI to attract, retain and capitalize on investments to create growth. The following provides an overview of BillerudKorsnas AB investments and how other investments in the area could lead to a growing innovation system/cluster (Its just a model and for illustrative purposes to develop a full economic theory.).

The merger may make the Escanaba plant one of the leading facilities in the country in terms of advanced paperboard technologies. It means more jobs and job opportunities for local residents (Likely money/tax revenue for the community.).  Prior to the merger, there was some concern that if Verso ever closed the town's economy would nose dive. One of the reasons why I'm doing my best to look at new economic models and theories (...not that it will or won't have an impact but simply to understand) as a way to return investment and generate new opportunities based on existing local strengths (A model that can be applied elseware.). Attracting and retaining the right kind of industries will create a more resilient local economy.

Products

BillerudKorsnas AB makes cardboard packaging and in a world where products are being bought and shipped from online marketspaces there is a high likelihood the company is tapping into a upward swing in online purchasing trends that rely on packaging solutions. You can review some of their products HERE and their general served industries of food, consumer & luxury, medical & hygiene HERE. 

Investments

The increase in $1 billion investment into the Escanaba mill will likely secure employment and other benefits for local residents, and new comers, into the mid term future (Its possible to project that under the investment schedule and company adjustment to figure minimum years of benefit. Maximum years are based in market projections beyond the next 20 years ish and are difficult to determine as manufacturing centers shift.). What we might want to see is investments in complementary industries that can build off of core competencies and shared interest in resources, human capital, and knowledge to create sustained global advantages.

Fighting Climate Change

BillerudKorsnas AB also won an award by Tetra Pak for fighting global warming through decarbonization, low green house gas emissions, a 97% fossil free production site. Notice in 2025 they plan on having a 100% fossil free location and how that coincides with conversion of one machine (That doesn't mean its the Esky Mill but it would be interesting if it turns out to be. See Delta County Green/Smart City)

Historical Context

Escanaba Pulp and Paper Factory 1920

Escanaba MI./Delta County, Mi.

Now known as the

BillerudKorsnas Mill 

"The Mill" originally started as the Escanaba Electric Street Railway Company, 1891 Escanaba Pulp and Paper Factor in 1911, it became Mead Corporation in 1942, Verso in 2015 and finally BillerudKorsnas in 2021/22'. the company has a long history in the area and one could almost see this mill as a landmark institution. Bringing in new technologies and investment will help ensure it goes forward forthe foreseeable future. (You can read more in the Iron Mountain Daily News and Visit Escanaba.)

Strategy

The company will still keep Europe as its primary market but is actively seeking to move into North American and locate operations where there is an abundance of fiber supply (I wonder if they are also thinking Canada). The company seeks to have net sales growth of 3-4% per year and the EBITDA margin above 17% (I dislike EBITDA...grrrrr Its so finite without a full capture of the activities.😤). You can check out the company on Reuters and look at the advanced chart to see its growth status over 10 years. 

You will also notice that BillerudKorsnas is also working with BASF to try and create higher levels of products with more end of life options. That could mean some state of art advancements are coming in the packaging process. BillerudKorsnäs paper ConFlex® Silk as well as BASF’s biopolymer ecovio® and lamination adhesive Epotal® Eco. Read BIL-BASF Press Release. 

Noteworthy Articles:

PR Newswire Verso. 

BillerudKorsnas North American Strategy

BillerudKorsnäs Article

Packaging Gateway Article

Wisconsin Threatened Paper Mills

A couple of Key Points:

-$27 per share offer by BillerudKorsnas AB and a prior offer by Atlas Holdings for $20.
-Unsolicited offer (Meaning the terms were very positive and little reason to reject it. That also may be an indication that Verso may have already been thinking of long term ownership options without yet searching and without yet.)
-The purchase is in line with their paperboard strategy and goals to have a bigger presence in North America.
-Together BillerudKorsnäs and Verso will be the largest producer of virgin fiber paper.
-One machine is estimated to be converted by 2025, a second machine by 2029, with a total capacity of around 1,200,000 tons (Looks like there may be new tech coming along with it.)
-BillerudKorsnäs is committed to continuing to serve Verso's existing customers.
-increased debt and operating cash flow to pay for purchase.
-Sales ending September 30 2021 of USD 1 264 million and adjusted EBITDA of USD 158 million (I dislike EBITDA and over reliance on it but yes...its an important metric of performance. grrrrr again!!!🙈).
-Financed through 3.5 Billion Krona, debt and operating cash flow (The company has the resources to make a large purchase and may be considering others.).
-Verso reported its net sales grew by 11% to $339m compared with the same period of last year (FY20)

-Northern Wisconsin has passed legislation to keep some of its mills functioning until they find a buyer. (Might be an opportunity for a consortium of investors that want to work on planting more seeds to increase fiber growth that slows climate change and creates a sustainable industry in the region.)  

Coordination Opportunities W/College

Bay College (local community college) may want to partner with BilleerudKorsnas to see what skills the company (and region) needs from local graduates (See Skill Availability and Investment). There appears to be programs in Forestry and Fire Science didn't see one directly related to the paper industry (You may need to look around and see if any of their programs are of interest. Review the offerings HERE.) Paper Science and Engineering degrees are excellent. (See Best Paper Science Colleges 2022). Its also possible to create truncated production associate degrees and/or certificates on the based on paper making production, familiarity with equipment, and general plant safety (Its just an idea on how industry and colleges can partner to make education increasingly relevant. Who knows....maybe mills will pay for an associate degree as an augmentation to internal training. or maybe it attracts companies to send employees through an online version. 🤷) 

[As a side note: Its important for higher education institutions to hire qualified faculty from a diverse range of backgrounds to better prepare students to compete in a world where knowledge is fluid and culture is more relative. Things sometimes only seem local but they are still influenced by global pressures and trends. See cultural hiring. If our colleges want to compete globally they have to think globally. 

Aligning education to industry needs while still maintaining the general purpose of broadening minds and developing the whole person often leads to improved lives and new employment opportunities. Its how you interweave information to stay focused on employer needs while infusing broadening ideas within that content. i.e. multiple sort of themes in the narrow and wider context. One might include for example common industry job skills, wider industry-economic awareness, life-long personal development skills and societal knowledge all in the same program. There are likely many different opinions on how to do this. See Global Mindset]

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Other Activities in the Area

We should also consider that there has been other movements in the area such as Navy ship works and general focus on enhancing the marina and tourism that will create their own benefits . Housing is also becoming an important consideration in Escanaba and that can be used for new residents, tourism, elderly, and young people who want to live downtown (i.e revitalizing the downtown and making it attractive to young people.). Furthermore, Concentric's purchase of EMP for the the auto (maybe pumps for future space) industry is another solid investment that contributes to potential future growth. Concentric-EMP EV Auto, Michigan EV Upswing and a nice article by by Auto Litigation Partner/Attorney Lauren Loew in the National Law Review  (Time will tell what happens. You may want to read a little about Marketing Brand Management, Delta County Marketing)

Cluster Notes Conception: Having an understanding of the different investments in the area, state, region, and globe help to determine trends that help companies align their operations (See MI Expansion or Protectionism). Specifically, in the DC model I'm creating it is possible to connect companies to enhance shared resources, infrastructure (Shipping Infrastructure, DC Broad Band $18 Mil, Global Supply Chain, DC Venture Invest), institutions (Rights and Clusters, Law & Economy) and activities to achieve mutual growth while encouraging faster innovation.

For example, if we review the different technological lines developing within the cluster, compare that to growing international market needs, we can in turn place greater emphasis in areas that are likely to bear fruit for multiple industries (sometimes getting them to work together on shared projects. See R&D, Business Collaboration, ).  Its not specifically related to this or any other company but as a general approach of how one would map and create opportunities (Interorganizational Collaboration, Cluster Collaboration, Sub Cluster Factors, Economic Synergy and Multi Clusters.) 

Once we map an area by its transactions we are better able to know where to help shared elements grow through focusing efforts in key areas that improve the speed of transactions (Hub Flagship and Working Hub)  Where there are deficits of need a new start up or recruiting a new company might be beneficial. (Availability of Financial Information, Virtual Communities, Attract SME, Pure Michigan,  Tourism and Natural Resources, Esky Downtown, DC Hedge Fund, Regional Development, Institutional Invest, etc...)  I guess such concept would come under a "cluster management" approach.

 Again, I'm only working on a model so its just a hypothetical example for the moment. Within such a system there would need to be wider applicability so as to create a more sustainable economy with growth prospects. Perpetual Sustainable. Roaring 20's, Infrastructure Synergy, Innovative Macro Systems, Developing Hub Networks, Reinvest Marketing Systems, Super Hubs, and Renaissance Info Age)  Maybe at some point I can break it into a complex mathematical formula but I'm not anywhere near there; maybe not. I need to first understand the factors and whether innovative systems can be throttled up or down for greater economic influence. 🤷(See Empiricism and New Economic Theory, Theory Application, Mathematical Projection, Innovation, US. Losing #1 New Theories Needed and Theory of Transactional Innovative Clusters). 

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Hostage Situation Texas Synagogue - Its NOT how we solve problems in this country!

The hostage situation in Colleyville Texas highlights the reason why we need to understand how/why certain behaviors and beliefs lead to people acting in unacceptable ways.  Geopolitical issues should not be played out on our streets (of any race, group or religion). I pray for the safe release of the hostages and people's hearts will warm to a better path forward where peace can be found. A best case scenario is that the attacker/perpetrator releases the hostages and gives himself up to protect himself and society at large (We can always hope). There is a type of redemption for people who come to their senses and do the right thing (Bad happened but maybe we can learn from it. Looks like from the updated new the attacker did not do the right thing and it ended in instant justice. In this case it appears justified as other lives were being scapegoated/used for the attackers desire. Threatening other lives leads to difficult choices and not the optimum outcome. A common problem with extremism is that it loses its rationality and moves down a distorted line of thinking; again not race, religion, or group specific.)

We may want to understand whether this person has mental health issues, comes from a network of extremists, or where they were radicalized (I have looked at a lot of religions in my life and the sanctity of life is part of all of them. It looks like ideological distortion....but one has to wait and see until the investigation is complete.). This is why I advocate a track and coding system for people who display extremist behaviors (of any race, group, religion). It provides an opportunity to get into the psychological underpinnings (likely to be similar to other  precursor acts of group violence).

Knowing when to intervene on dangerous behavior and the key drivers are important for future prevention. America is a safe haven where people can practice any religion they so desire with peace and tranquility. No one has the right to take that from anyone else...it should be something we all stand behind as a national value (We must stand up for it together.). Failure here, in our hometowns, or in our Capital means we haven't learned the lessons of history and as a social structure haven't embedded more universal concepts. (There is no religion on the planet that I know of that would disagree with the right for people to worship...even when its different than the majority population. There may be people who disagree with freedom of worship based on their own extremist ethnocentric viewpoints but its not within the inherent religious text or values. Cherry picking any religious text without understanding its intended themes is almost always inappropriate. Personally, I think most religions lead to the very same path of wisdom/insight, knowledge/truth, moral conscious/prosocial values, and awareness/cognitive brightness but that's just my opinion. 🤷)

Tsunami San Diego - A little rain....small waves.

Tsunami Advisory for San Diego this AM. It ended up being  just a little ran and small waves. Could of course been worse but it wasn't expected to be anything grandiose by the time it hit the west coast. You might enjoy a couple of pictures of Ocean Beach last night. 

I like this one. That is a photographer. 

Michigan Sees Major Investments in Infrastructure $8 Billion

Sioux Locks, Roads, and Erosion are where some of the infrastructure money will be spent. Michigan has lots of focus on the Auto Industry and $8 Billion influx (See EV Michigan, Fed Plots Course, EMP Concentric, MI Infrastructure, Values and Competition China). You may also want to read about MITA and the Michigan Infrastructure Office. 

Fed Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell Testifies to Congress on "Normalization" (Demand, Supply, and Policy)

Few things are more exciting that watching Congressional testimony on Federal fiscal policy!🥳 (Think about it.....not boxing, not NASCAR, not a Packers-Lions game.....have as much action packed comments! 😏 You can just feel the intensity in the room.). We got inflationary fires all over the place while consumer demand is fanning the flames with insatiable need to buy and consume (Its actually good for society up to a point. Yet it would be better if we bought more of our own stuff to stretch those dollars into the corners of the system.). What we do know is that as we wean off the adrenaline rush of Federal stimulus we may want to figure out a way to hold onto what is helpful (i.e. increasing wages☝) while pouring cooling water on that which is not helpful (i.e. inflation and supply prices👇👇)

There is a discussion on how inflation can be fueled by supply chain issues or demand type issues. A way to solve that is to return production of some of the more important items back to the U.S.(especially leading technology that will be necessary to stay competitive) so that American manufacturers can avoid supply logistics, continue to raise wages, while also putting downward pressure on price through increased supply/demand not only in the U.S. but perhaps globally (i.e. meaning if we have a problem and can shoot two birds with one stone we should consider it.🥌 )

Its possible to  impact the supply side (...and perhaps even shift demand with new products) but that would require the ability to influence the innovative process/systems that invents, develops, and manufacturers these products (i.e. those market areas/products where the U.S. would like to compete globally and are importing significant products means there may be some benefits of manufacturing separately. Its a little like changing the factors of the system by making the U.S. more competitive by adjusting industries to become active in key areas.)

What one would hope to have happen is downward pressure on inflation through increased supply chain, improved wages through labor development in higher reward occupations, while returning investment into American manufacturing that leads to sustained growth by creating new global markets (Delta County Invest Hedge Fund, Clusters and Semi Conductors, Michigan EV Investments Unfinished Economic Theory). That can only be possible if we are strategic about what type of clusters we develop and how to utilize new infrastructure changes to create competitive advantages and wider innovative butterfly effects (At least in theory. It would require commitment among investors and bureaucrats. Theories are just ideas that can be used to "test" one's environment. You can read Peter Eastwell's 'Understanding Hypotheses, Predictions, Laws, and Theories' 🤔.  Also see Regional Development, China Trade Manufacture Imbalance,   US New Platform.)  

(Also you can read IMF's Professor Keynes Economic Theory. In general focused societal resources {i.e. money} can help increase economic activities {i.e. transactions} but through that increased economic activity and tax base we should be paying that money back to create "net positives". If lucky, "net surpluses" to spur economic activity in other areas. That is likely one reason why Professor Powell states our current debt trajectory is unsustainable if economy is not expanding faster than the servicing of debt. Perpetual systems are primarily driven by organic market factors because that is where the highest profits and innovation are realized in a way that improves an investor's bottom line. It can use a Keynesian-Schumpeter blend. One launches/attracts and the other builds...i.e. government-investor mutual benefits. 🤷 Maybe not. Its just an unvetted idea remember.)

You can gain a top line review of Powell's Testimony in Sergei Klebnikov's article
'Stocks Surge After Powell Says Fed Not Afraid To Raise Rates Further If Higher Inflation Persists'

 

City of Escanaba in Search of New City Attorney (Announcement Info)

 City attorneys have a big job and need to have a broad set of skills that range from business law all the way over to civil law. Escanaba is a city that is seeking new opportunities and growth that ranges in scope. The quality of those services will influence the ability of administrators to make strong decisions that benefit their communities. You can read more about the position HERE.

City of Escanaba Request for Proposals (RFP) For City Attorney

Introduction:

The City of Escanaba would like to contract with an Attorney, or law firm, to serve as City Attorney. The City invites interested Attorneys and/or firms with a minimum of three years of municipal law experience, representing municipal or other governmental entities in the State of Michigan, to submit a written proposal to provide City Attorney services.

The City Attorney, or Attorney’s firm, will be expected to provide a wide range of legal services to the City. The City Attorney is appointed by and accountable to the City Manager, but works closely with the City Council, Mayor, City Manager and City staff. The City Attorney serves as a key member of the Escanaba management team.

Submission Instructions:
Qualified attorneys and/or law firms are hereby invited to submit a proposal in accordance with the requirements and conditions set forth in the RFP. Submissions must be directed to:
Patrick Jordan
City Manager
P.O. Box 948
Escanaba, MI 49829

Submission Deadline:

Eight copies of the proposal are due to the City Manager no later than 4:00 p.m. on January 28, 2022.

Inquiries:

Questions concerning the RFP should be directed to Patrick Jordan, City Manager, at pjordan@escanaba.org or by calling 906.786.9402.

Notice to Respondents:
The City of Escanaba reserves the right, without qualification, to:
 Select or reject any or all proposals.
 Exercise discretion and apply its judgment with respect to selection or rejection of any proposals submitted.
 Negotiate specific terms and conditions contained in any proposal, including fees and pricing.

Proposal Content:
Proposals should provide a straightforward and concise summation of qualifications, adequate to satisfy the requirements of the RFP. Emphasis should be on completeness and clarity of content. Responsiveness will be a primary consideration throughout the evaluation process. Indirect, imprecise or incomplete responses will only serve to disadvantage a candidate. The City Council requires that all proposals contain the following elements:

Summaries of Experience and Qualifications:
1. Describe the nature of your law firm’s practice and your qualifications for providing City Attorney services for the City of Escanaba.
2. Provide a professional employment chronology for each individual who will be designated to serve as City Attorney, as well as any other individuals expected to be involved in providing legal services to the City of Escanaba.
3. Provide the overall capabilities, qualifications, training and areas of expertise for each of the principals, partners and associates of the law firm, including the length of employment for each person and his/her area of specialization for those involved in the assignment.
4. For the person whom you propose to designate as City Attorney, and for each person you propose to designate as a deputy or supporting counsel for special services or backup, please provide the following:
a. Legal training and years of practice (including date of admission to the Michigan Bar.)
b. Years of municipal or other local public sector law practice as a fulltime local government attorney and/or in a private law office specializing in the representation of governmental entities.
c. Knowledge of, and experience with, Michigan Municipal Law or other public sector experience or redevelopment law, including land sale
and purchase transactions.
d. Types of clientele represented and years representing each.
e. Litigation experience and demonstration of a good court track record. Cite examples of municipal litigation experience.
f. Experience with and knowledge and practice of law representing charter law cities relating to land use and planning, environmental law, general plans, real estate, code enforcement, and other related law.
g. Experience in the area of contracts and franchises.
h. Experience in the preparation and review of ordinances and resolutions for charter law cities.
i. Experience in public sector personnel matters and union labor negotiations.
j. Experience in municipal enterprises, including water, wastewater, electrical and garbage.
k. Experiences in the area of the Michigan Open Meeting Law and Public Records requests.
l. Intended office location and accessibility to the City of Escanaba.
m. Scholastic honors and professional affiliations.
n. If the responding firm, or any of its attorneys, have ever been sued for malpractice, or have ever been the subject of a complaint filed with the State Bar, or have ever been disciplined by the State Bar, please provide information on the nature any such incidents, including dates and final disposition.

Summary of Method of Performance:
1. Describe how you would establish, develop, and maintain an effective working relationship with the City Council, Mayor, Department Heads,
and City Staff.
2. Define the standard time frames for response by the City Attorney to requests or inquiries from the Mayor, Council or staff.
3. Describe the staffing of your office, and include any staffing changes you would propose for your firm, should you be awarded the contract to provide legal services to the City.
4. Describe proposed systems for monthly reporting of the status of pending matters. The City of Escanaba will require a billing methodology that identifies the specific task, the attorney completing the task, and the time billed toward the task.

Identification of Conflict of Interest:
1. Please list all current or former clients, having an interest in a business located within the Escanaba City limits.

2. Please list all cities, and other public clients, for which you or your firm currently provides, or previously provided, services under a fee or
retainer agreement.
3. Please identify any conflicts of interest, or potential conflicts of interest, which might arise by virtue of serving as City Attorney. In the event said conflicts or potential conflicts exist, please describe the manner in which you would propose to resolve such conflicts.

Proposed Compensation:
The City Attorney will be expected to provide legal services pursuant to a fixed monthly retainer fee, with special services provided at an agreed upon hourly rate. Currently, Union Labor Negotiations are considered to be special services and are billed at an hourly rate, outside of the retainer agreement. All other work is performed under the retainer agreement.

Respondents should propose a monthly retainer fee, and specify which services shall be covered under such fee. Respondents should further identify any services which will not be covered under the retainer, and specify the hourly rate for such work, along with any other applicable fees or charges.

Duties:
The City Attorney will be required to attend all regular City Council meetings. Virtual or phone attendance will be at the discretion of the Mayor. There are typically two (2) City Council meetings each month, held on the first and third Thursday, at 7:00 p.m. Attendance at special meetings will be at the discretion of the Mayor.

The Attorney is occasionally expected to attend board, commission, staff and committee meetings, and is expected to meet with staff and Department Heads as needed.

The Attorney is required to provide written opinions concerning legal matters that affect the City.

The Attorney reviews, prepares and negotiates a variety of contracts and agreements on behalf of the City.

The Attorney performs legal work, including document preparation, relating to property acquisitions, property disposals, public improvements, easements, right-of-way abandonment and related matters.

Provide legal advice relating to enforcement of City codes, zoning regulations and building standards through administrative and judicial actions.

The monitoring of pending and current state and federal legislation and court decisions as appropriate.
The Attorney represents the City in litigation and defends the City against all legal claims or challenges.
The attorney represents the City in all bankruptcy matters for which the City has monetary claims.
The Attorney represents the City during labor negotiations with the City’s six bargaining units. This work is currently performed outside of the retainer agreement.

Please identify any work you would propose to bill on an hourly basis, outside of the retainer agreement.

Evaluation and Selection:
Proposals will be screened, and finalists will be selected by the Mayor and/or the Mayor’s appointed Subcommittee. In reviewing the proposals, the City
will carefully consider the following:
a. Depth and breadth of experience and expertise in the practice of law, specifically in those areas most often encountered in municipal government operations;
b. Capability to perform legal services promptly and in a manner that permits the City Council and staff to meet established deadlines and to operate in an effective and efficient manner;
c. Degree of availability for quick response to inquiries that arise out of dayto-day operating questions or problems;
d. Degree to which firm and individual attorneys stay current through continued professional development and active communication with practitioners in the municipal law field;
e. Communication skills;
f. Cost of services; and
g. Other qualifications/criteria as deemed appropriate by the City Council.

The Mayor and/or Mayor’s subcommittee will interview candidates, negotiate terms and recommend a final selection to the City Council.
The City Council will make the final appointment in conjunction with approval of an agreement for legal services. Services to the City of Escanaba are
expected to commence on or about March 1, 2022.

Jaimie Diamond CEO JP Morgan Chase Says Economy Might be Best Year Since Depression

This will be an interesting year for economics in a post Covid pandemic matched with adaptive technology and hyper competition between the US and China. Jamie Diamond predicts volatile markets, 4 Fed interest rate increases, and a strong underlining economy. Let us see what happens.🤔 (Economic Explosions, Roaring 20s JP Morgan, Goldman Socks Projection, Not Out of Woods, See 20 Years, Out Perform China 2033🔮).  Let us wait and see as nothing is for sure🙏!

Escanaba Boy Needs Bone Marrow Transplant Funds (Baby Camden)

Be The Match

There are few things more precious then a child's life. An Escanaba boy by the name of Baby Camden Kleikamp needs a second bone marrow transplant (See what a bone marrow transplant is HERE.)When a community boy needs our help many of the residents will open their checkbooks and share some of what they have (See TV6 Video). If your a business and have a few dollars you can consider doing a different kind of investing in the future. (Tax Deductions? Here). Sometimes its about helping your neighbor and feeling good about your contribution to the world above and beyond the financial benefits. 

Camden Facebook

Camden Go FundME

Running Hate Review and Analysis: Hometown Hate and Potential Solutions

Some responsibilities are those of law enforcement and some are that of social expectation (Of which one should help avoid the other.). A difficult situation arises where poor values such as lying, aggression, stealing, manipulating, and/or corruption become acceptable against chosen targets but stay under the radar of the triggers that bring it to law enforcement's attention (Legitimacy of behavior is contextual based on perceived social hierarchy. We also see the Pentagon and DOJ are working on better detection methods/models.). Worse, when such targets have been chosen based on perceived ease of scapegoating (Blacks, Muslims, Jews, Asians, etc...). Better markers/variables/factors that detect pre-violent aggressive indicators by looking examples of a chain of choices, feelings, beliefs and actions can lead to higher levels of cross variable/multi-factors (valid) that highlight areas of concern.

The laws legislating hate and domestic extremism are often based in post hoc behaviors but are often partially blind to series of events that lead to violence (Another reason to study those caught engaging in hate through counseling and coding. Its better for them and for the victims.) Studying just the physical characteristics/aftermath of hate is a post hoc strategy of initial event (s). While they are helpful one would truly want to study pre hoc behaviors that lead to prevention/intervention in a way that limits future violence (Remember from prior writings that hate is a series of dysfunctional thinking that ends in the "justification" of removing, harming, or killing the targets to maintain a lower order assumption about the world and self worth. See Allegory of Cave).

There are acts of intimidation, spreading rumors and converting others into scapegoating and extremism that are moral crimes that are not reflected well within our current legal system. The laws are poor carbon copies of societal values and must continuously adjust to be more reflective. The law and its application is limited by its capacity of understanding actual behavior and putting that within a workable framework (Why studying hate behavior is important and that comes through mental health. The Importance of Judges.)

While we know these behaviors are immoral and often criminal we fail to act on them in a ways that help thwart escalation (Sometimes we reward certain extremist groups by not holding them to a level of accountability, or turning a blind eye, based at times in perceived societal worth/values. We thus reconfirm the dysfunction as appropriate and reward socially and financially certain behaviors.). How do you muzzle those intent on harming others? How do you convert a large group of hate supporters (even those in law enforcement) from a mob to a free thinking people empowered to think beyond the confines of their particular social network, religious group, ethnic affiliation, or distorted view of what an "American" looks like? How do we ensure domestic extremism doesn't turn into domestic terrorism? (Trust me...I'm not going to be able to answer it here. I can sort of frame out an idea.)

The answers aren't clearly defined but the method of understanding is more apparent. These are the things I have learned from being a target of a coordinated hate group (of which one if not more were in law enforcement.). Some of them may not be practical for enforcement but can create contextual differences in understanding. Many of them can be further added to and broken down into measurable behaviors.

1. The National Red Line: There should never be justification for targeting specific populations. As a whole nation we must come down on such groups to let them know that while such behaviors may be acceptable in their distorted world it is not acceptable to the rest of society (Supporting the Constitution and its rights to its citizens.).  We are a nation of many different backgrounds that support certain principles. We must act together from these various backgrounds to ensure democracy, rule of law, and our philosophical ideals are maintained through shared understanding and pressure. (Whole Nation Affair). That requires us to agree collectively that we will ensure that our institutions are aligned to the national philosophy and constitutional approach that acts as our social contract least we lower the value of national institutions and in turn social stability (This nation is for all of us. Truth and Integrity)

2. Words Have Meaning: When words increasingly become aggressive, seek to enrage, thwart responsibility, and enflame followers (especially when they have no reason to be involved) they also become tools for escalation. It is precisely those words that lead to violence. There are changes within language and tone that precede violence.

3. Personality Disorders: Whether we are discussing Hitler or our local hate group there are personality disorders in play that push some to consistently dominant behaviors. The inability of those who encourage hate to self-regulate is extremely difficult and that in turn drives them down a particular path without brakes. Fighting to create boundaries against those supported by a group can be difficult and dangerous.

4. Histories: Behavior is often patterned and in turn where current behaviors seem more obvious there was likely less obvious behaviors within their histories. Mocking others, group disdain, strict social rules, bullying of others in the community, manipulation, trying to be in the "right" crowd, etc... Few behaviors in flat personalities are spontaneously new because such individuals lack self awareness.

5. Lower Order Values: When groups brag about low order values that should raise some red flags. People who talk about "getting" people, use racial/religious slurs, "better" than, damaging someone, etc... we find social encouragement to be their "worse" selves. Social restraint begins to decline as the language makes acceptable behavior that in most circumstances would be unacceptable. The lower order values are raised as ideal. 

6. Unable to Take Responsibility: Those who engage in these behaviors have a hard time taking responsibility for their behaviors. If they did we wouldn't be where we are now. Because they are already engaged in the scapegoating process, any level of accountability means it was not the fault of "those" people/target, versus actually being an effect of their behavior. (Blind Eye Risks)

7. Seeks to Maximize Recruitment: Groups like this (i.e. radicalized groups of any background) often seek to spread their ideologies and in turn twist stories and information to gain followers through false justifications. They do so off of conjured "horrendous" moral violations that may have never actually occurred (i.e. trying to increase victimization). The more people encouraged to engage in the crime the more "legitimate" the behaviors are viewed (Aristotle Morality-Justice).

8. Morphs and Displays in Different Forms: Hate will come out in other forms and behaviors. While these haven't been fully defined they are related to black and white thinking and the pushing of one's beliefs on others (i.e. likely why there has been multiple community complaints against some of the members.). Often there is a history of conflict of some of the members who lead bread crumbs to their desire to be more important than warranted based on societal contribution.

9. Supported by Blind Followership: Bad things can't happen on a group level unless the wider society has come to accept some of these behaviors as appropriate. People act and in turn receive reflection by others (Society has come to accept aggression on others on some level and there are circles/networks that seem to support those behaviors within certain contexts.). When groups are dysfunctional and signal back inappropriate expectations we run the risk of future group aggression. (Dysfunctional Groups, Update on Hate 02-16-22, Update on Hate 03-22-22, Update on Hate 04/18/22)

10. Indifferent, Inadequate, or Legal "holes":  People who understand the law, are seasoned in legal manipulation, and/or have friends in the law know how to circumvent the legislated rules for self gain. Studying these behaviors leads to closing the loops so laws can be applied when it is necessary to step in when behaviors are out of control. Laws should focus on truth and not supporting a particular race, color, religion, or view point. When laws are based in finding the deepest truth it can and the best justice it can offer then it is on the right path. Passing laws that are adequate and enforcing them with wisdom is important (If you don't have wisdom you won't have trust because it bio-psycho driven in our species. See Who is Wise?).

11. Hyper Politics: Hyper politics gives cover for bad behavior (Antifa, Proud Boys, etc...) as they tie themselves to a particular political cause. That also allows politicians, judges, and law enforcement officials to give cover for behavior that is highly inappropriate and aggressive at its root. Both sides should focus on what is most important in our democracy. (Look overseas at large scale ethnic/religious crimes and you will find an underlining current of bigotry, weak rule of law, broken shared social contracts, and an inability to deal with such issues prior to a national schism. That is direct result of leadership pitting demographics against each other for personal gain while ignoring the bigger principles that keep a nation together. Law and Economy)

12. Low Boundary Relationships: Those who are most likely to sick "the dogs" on someone do so when they have control over the feelings, values, beliefs, and social relationships of others and are certain their won't be social push back. There is a need to have increasing control and thus they draw in those who don't have the self-confidence to reinforce their boundaries or ability stand up for higher principles. As low boundary people align to a stronger personality they also become increasingly easy to manipulate. They lose their sense of judgement and perspective which increases their inability to manage and deal with differences. It becomes easier to go along with one's social network. 

13. Flat Thinking and Self-Selection: All bias is rooted in the inability to think dynamically about issues. Most (some) of the information is weeded out to reconfirm existing bias. Thus the type of media one watches, groups they engage in, friends they hang out with, etc... become increasingly homogeneous leaving little outside anchors for critical thinking. As they move into their dysfunctional world the outside world seems more distant and foreign. The normal values and beliefs of the wider society become sifted and distorted in these groups (Gossip and Rumors). 

14. Entitlement: Its hard to force your will on others if you don't feel entitled to be "right" all the time. Within such groups dissention is rare and only their beliefs, values, lifestyles, and world view are acceptable. All others are seen as dangerous or foreign. One must take over excessive pride in one particular group or background that entitles them to behavior and act in ways that are self seeking. Those who oppose being pushed to the back are often attacked verbally, socially, or physically. There is a sense of being more important, more American, or worthy of additional benefits when compared to others. (Standing up to Hate)

15. Ostracization: People who have a distorted sense of self also can't stand people they disagree with being in the same room. Their very presence drives their emotional state and often leads to quick escalation. There are elements of social punishment for disagreeing (Even if they were 100% in the right) and there are elements of group aggression that make situations dangerous (i.e. two different racial, religious, political groups, etc... protesting in the same location.). Group members support ostracization when they are afraid to be ostracized themselves (Extremism reduces freedom even for its supporters.).

16. Core Identity: There is a core identity around something that ties the members together. Sometimes this might be a particular village, ideology, school connection, religion, ethnicity, sports clubs/teams, color, etc... Members define themselves by sharing those backgrounds and identities. Such identities define the inner group as different for others and in turn creates a cultish type identity. This is one reason why it can be hard for undercover agents to get into certain groups when they don't have particular in-network core identities (It is also likely why whistleblowing and freedom of speech become important.)

17. Misuse of Authority: The lines between legitimate and illegitimate authority have become somewhat blurred each time poor behaviors are not held to account (There are significant differences between legitimate authority and street militia authority. It is one reason why we must ensure the integrity of the badge beyond the needs of individual officers). This is also a factor in why we must change culture and ensure that our policing units (including all other public service positions) have greater representation of different types of people so as not to become derailed from their essential purpose (There appears to be an attempt by some officer(s) from the initial group to limit engagement in public service unless they approve it on an unofficial-unlegislated level. Using unofficial channels built through official position, i.e. misuse of badge, to create borders of who is and who isn't allowed to serve their community. There are multiple community complaints from different sectors of people against at least one/some member(s) of this group making "serving the community" highly suspect. It appears as though they are serving their social group before the duties of their position. That can further separate society and the responsibility of all communities to serve its best interest. ). We also don't want to inadvertently prompt society that "these" people can be public servants and "those" people can't leading to the reduction in value of institutions. We also don't want to turn the "blind eye" so as to prompt society that authority is used for one class, group, power, etc... at the detriment of others.  (I'm a supporter of police and their sacrifices while still recognizing the need to remove "bad apples". There is a fairly long history of supporting my country-community in different venues so I completely understand the benefits that police can bring to supporting our democracy and capitalist way of life. I also recognize the need for internal integrity in all services Blind Eye Extremism Model, and Police Laws).

18. Nepotism, Cultural, and Racial Hiring: In third world nations where economies have bottomed out and high levels of social conflict exist is an underbelly of inappropriate hiring based on one's social, racial, cultural, tribal or religious understanding (not exhaustive). While there may be official laws in place on the inappropriateness of discriminatory hiring nevertheless behaviors continue as designed to put "their own" in worthwhile positions while pushing others to lower valued positions. For example, a public institution financed with tax payer dollars (i.e. public college) making hiring decisions based on subjective hiring criteria that is not applied equally across candidates. While this may seem like a small issue some of these institutions impact a lot of people and in turn the quality life for everyone else (Using public money for personal, private, and inappropriate uses.). There seems to be the official stance of some of these organizations and the realized actual beliefs/behaviors which are sometimes radically different. The damage of tainted institutional hiring and values can make or break long term belief in the value of institutions (See What I'm Thinking, Challenging Hate for Public Unity in Higher Education, and Organization Cultural Factors). 

19 .This of course is not an exhaustive list. These may or may not be helpful but do sort of make some sense and I believe would be experienced in one form or another in most situations. It is possible with some work to create factors, markers, and elements that would highlight when something amiss is occurring. It may also help in finding ways to tackle these issues when they first appear versus when they have completed their path. Without challenge hate doesn't have an end it just continues to change and shift seeking new scapegoats for society's problems (Hate Group Member Remorse).

Thinking to resolution is important (I will add more when it comes available.)

1.) Leadership and Integrity Improve Institutional Resilience: Important for creating resilience of institutions from extremism type views. (Integrity and Leadership on Org Perform.)

We have choices in this country to work around shared principles, universalizing our values/institutions, and standing up for higher principles through accountability. We also can do the opposite. One will improve our economic and social prospects while the other will lead us down the path of mayhem and dissolution (Kind of makes you wonder how you define a Patriot 🤔). If you ask our politicians what they believe is the right path, we are likely to find people all over the spectrum in their personal beliefs (Some public and some private. Coordinated National Vision/Values). Our politicians, judges, and institutions must keep the bigger goals of the nation and the philosophy of democracy and capitalism in mind. When they don't bigger risks for the entire nation loom as non competitiveness and inappropriateness of realized values begin to deteriorate the foundations of democracy. For me, I will continue to positively engage and be present in all aspects of local life until either there is victory in values or someone "removes" the "problem". 🤷 (I guess there is a third option to sort of say, "If we believed in these values already we wouldn't be in this place in history today". That would require a recognition that the values are not important, the situation isn't serious, and certain groups can run towns outside of our agreed upon democratic processes. Then I turn on the tv and watch the news to see which way the nation is heading). As with all things, time answers all questions. ⏳

Remarks Toward Conclusion and Resolution

Resolutions to Hate: 05/01/22 Pressure on Institutions to Change

Investigating and Hold to Account Extremism and Corruption (Resolutions to Hate 05/09/2022)

The Great Replacement Theory and Extremism: There is more to this!

What to do with Highly Manipulative People? (Resolutions to Hate 05/20/22)

Debunking In-Out Group Ideological Pressures (Resolution to Hate 05/24/2022)

The Concerns of Lack of Hate Accountability (Hypothetically What is the Value of Accountability?)The Dangers of Distorted Social Networks and How that Can Hamper Community Growth

Why Its Important To Challenge Distorted Groups (Sports, Cults and Hate)

Normalizing Hate

Interacting with Those Who Spawned Hate

Thinking about the different kinds of hate.

Lack of Laws and Lack of Moral Fortitude

Hate Moves to Other Political Corners (The Macro View of Hate Popularity)