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.

AuSable River Queen Faces Bleak Future After Contentious Court Defeat

Posted on July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 by Michael Hardy

AuSable River Queen, Oscoda’s iconic paddleboat attraction, faces dismantlement after a contentious court ruling citing disputed safety and blight concerns.

Rare 1761 Map of Fort Detroit Aquired By The University of Michigan Library

Posted on July 19, 2025July 19, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Clements Library at the University of Michigan adds to their collection with this rare map of Fort Detroit. It offers a glimpse of what Detroit looked like in 1761.

The Indian Legend of a Lead Mine Near Caseville

Posted on July 18, 2025July 21, 2025 by Michael Hardy

In the early 1900s, news broke of a lead and zinc strike just six miles east of Caseville, tucked along

Local News Crisis: 40% of Michigan Newspapers Gone, Leaders Sound the Alarm

Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by Michael Hardy

A major summit on July 22 in Detroit brings together Michigan’s media, academic, and civic leaders to address the collapse of local news outlets affecting over 40 counties.

Michigan Innovation Fund Powers $60M Game-Changing Boost for Local Startups

Posted on July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan Innovation Fund backs eight funds with $60 million to bolster local startups, aiming to elevate Michigan as a top

Port Austin boat explosion near lighthouse injures four in dramatic family rescue

Posted on July 12, 2025July 12, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Family’s boat outing turns harrowing when a gas-fueled explosion erupts near Port Austin Reef Light, injuring four without any fatalities.

Machine Gun Conversion Devices Blocked by Michigan AG In Landmark 7 State Case

Posted on July 12, 2025July 12, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan AG Dana Nessel led a multistate coalition to block the ATF and Rare Breed Triggers from distributing machine gun conversion devices. The victory strengthens state law enforcement and limits civilian access to rapid?fire modifications.

Night Flight 760 With Jay Roberts – When WJR Was The Great Voice Of The Great Lakes – Videos

Posted on July 11, 2025October 5, 2025 by Michael Hardy

In the waning days of the fairness doctrine, and before the cheaply produced and political “talk radio” took over the AM band, Night Flight 760 dominated the night.

Michigan CNBC Ranking Surges to #6 In America’s Top States for Business 2025

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan climbed to a record No.?6 in CNBC’s Top States for Business rankings, propelled by improvements in cost of doing business, infrastructure and workforce development under Governor Whitmer.

The History of North Branch Michigan – 12 Rare Photos That Reveal a Resilient Past – Video

Posted on July 11, 2025October 5, 2025 by Michael Hardy

North Branch Michigan History is full of grit, fires, railroads, and rebirth. This blog takes you on a photo-rich journey through the people and landmarks that built a town, rebuilt it, and kept its story alive for generations. Discover the true heart of a small town.