Author: Michael Hardy

Michael is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. It started in 2009 covering Michigan and the Upper Thumb. Today, his Michigan Moments series has established a loyal base of 110,000 followers.

Get Up to Speed on Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

Posted on March 29, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

There has been a slow boil effort making websites accessible for the disabled. For the past several years, websites outside

Website Accessibility Advances at Thumbwind

Posted on March 21, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Web accessibility is the inclusive practice of ensuring there are no barriers that prevent interaction and access to Internet websites by people with disabilities. When sites are correctly designed, developed and edited, generally all users have equal access to information and functionality.

Ora Labora Colony – A Lost Community in Michigan’s North – Part 3

Posted on March 1, 2019November 18, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Part III of the Ora Labora story brings us to 1864. The rapid growth of the colony was costly and the society needs funds to grow. It was time for drastic measures. The raging war in the south was turning in the North’s favor and the colony was on borrowed time until the draft took effect.

Ora Labora Colony- Lost in Michigan’s North – Part 4

Posted on February 27, 2019November 18, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Part IV of the Ora Labora starts during Christmas 1864. The Colonies funds and provisions are low and its leader Emil Baur is begging his benefactors for loans to make it through the winter. With the war in its closing days the colonist are hopeful that a risky new venture will be profitable.

Capac Michigan’s Amazing Historical Museum and Railroad Depot

Posted on February 24, 2019April 15, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Capac Railroad Depot is a bit off the beaten path. Situated east of Imlay City, it maintains the vibrant small town rural charm found in Michigan. The town is located between Port Huron and Flint. The historic railroad depot is also home to one of the finest small town museums in the region.

Consumers Energy Wind Farms Continue to Grow

Posted on February 9, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Consumers Energy has been conducting its own alternative energy projects since 2014. It owns and operates six industrial wind farms in Michigan and Ohio. The company contributes over 1000 Megawatts of power from its wind farm base.

An Amazing Sebewaing Fishtown on Saginaw Bay 1878

Posted on January 24, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

An amazing article from 1878 describing a Fishtown on the ice near Sebewaing on Saginaw Bay.

Chill Out at Caseville Shanty Days 2019

Posted on January 21, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Caseville Shanty 2019 is the 27th edition of this Winter Festival. This offers mid-winter fun on the ice. It’s the largest winter carnival in the Upper Thumb.

12 Hometown Michigan Radio Stations in The Upper Thumb

Posted on January 12, 2019November 20, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Michigan’s Upper Thumb has some of the most diverse radio stations around. Located in Huron, Sanilac and Tuscola County’s. Listen live and see coverage maps.

Volunteering the Flint Water Crisis – 5 Things I Learned

Posted on December 19, 2018November 22, 2021 by Michael Hardy

1000’s of individuals from all over the United States converged into Flint Michigan to donate their time and skills to alleviate the disaster of lead contamination with the Flint water system. Here are a couple of things to know that may help you hit the ground running during a major disaster.