Phase 1 of FUTRA is centered on getting the right people in place to successfully launch and operate the food cart. The goal is to identify individuals with the skills and interest needed to bring the project to life. To start, I reached out to people within my network who have hands-on experience and practical skills. One of my friends is a carpenter, and I now have the opportunity to contract him to complete light maintenance and repairs on the food cart trailer. This step is essential to ensure the cart is safe, functional, and ready for operation. I also connected with another friend who lives in Houghton Lake. He and his wife are interested in being involved once the food cart is fully operational. In addition, he has offered to help with the repair process and assist in transporting the cart to Houghton Lake. This creates an opportunity to expand from one location to two, increasing reach and potential business. Alongside the setup process, I am planning ahead for future use by organizing an event. The target date is the Saturday following the Fourth of July, with a proposed location behind the town hall parking lot. I am currently working with local businesses to help support and develop this event. Overall, Phase 1 is focused on building a strong team, preparing the food cart for use, and creating opportunities for growth and community involvement. More updates will follow as progress continues.

Yes! Some Nights Remind Me Why My Mission Matters. Last night was one of those reminders of why this mission matters. I was invited to check out the Fraternal Order of Eagles Post #1039 in Lansing by Bill Richards from VETACON, and it turned into a very meaningful night. I also had the chance earlier in the day to complete a few final touches for the July 4th Block Party in Charlotte—a whole different story in itself. That event is being organized by a special fundraising and support group made up of veteran bikers that are working hard to bring their community together for a really great cause. It’s connected with the American Legion, and their dedication to supporting veterans and the local community is something special. More on this later and back to the story. I went to Lansing to support my friend Bill and his growing vision for VETACON. I believe in what Bill is building because it’s not about him—it’s about the art, the veterans, and reaching the people who need that connection the most. That matters. What separates VETACON is that the veteran comes first. The story comes first. The experience comes first. Then comes the art. For some people, it’s only about one thing—money. But VETACON is different. It’s built around purpose, healing, and giving veterans a place to be seen, heard, and understood. I also appreciated the opportunity to perform last night. My voice wasn’t at its best after playing two nights in a row, but it still felt right. Sometimes it’s not about perfection—it’s about showing up, being present, and sharing the moment. The night was full of good people, good energy, and real conversations. Everyone was friendly, welcoming, and supportive. It was one of those nights that reminds you you’re on the right path. Music saves lives. Community matters. And sometimes all it takes is one night, one song, or one conversation to keep the mission moving forward.

Here it is.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about direction. There are so many things I’m interested in. So many different paths, ideas, and opportunities. But at some point, you’ve got to ask yourself a simple question: Which one is actually going to make me happy? So instead of overcomplicating it, I’m keeping it simple. 👉 i received a food truck! (That is for a later story) This isn’t just about food. It’s about getting moving again. It’s about creating something of my own that brings people together—good food, good conversation, and good energy. I’ve seen what food can do. I’ve seen people go out of their way for something made right. I’ve seen how something small can turn someone’s whole day around. That’s what I want to build—but on wheels. 🔥 The Plan (Simple and Real) I’m not trying to have everything figured out right away. This is going to be a journey. I’m going to use this space to track progress—ideas, wins, setbacks, lessons… all of it. Not necessarily every day, not even every week, but consistently enough to keep moving forward. 🧭 Why This Matters For me, this is bigger than a business. It’s about: Getting back to creating Connecting with people Building something that has meaning And proving to myself that I can still go after it 📓 What to Expect You’ll see: Menu ideas Build progress Real numbers and decisions Mistakes (there will be plenty) And hopefully… growth This is Entry #1. No pressure. No perfection. Just forward motion. Let the journey begin. Rock On!