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.

Increased Michigan State Revenue Sparks Debate Over Budget Priorities

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

Sen. Lana Theis calls for responsible spending, debt reduction, and potential tax relief as Michigan anticipates increased state revenue in

Whitmer’s Economic Wins – Michigan’s $1.68 Billion Surprise Revenue Surge

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan’s economy is booming, with projected revenues increasing by $1.68 billion for FY 2025 and 2026. Key factors include low unemployment, high labor participation, and significant GDP growth. Governor Whitmer plans to outline strategies for sustaining this economic momentum at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show.

Michigan Snow Law Violations Can Lead to Steep Fines or Jail Time

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan’s snow law requires residents to manage snow removal from sidewalks and driveways to ensure safety. Violations can lead to fines up to $100 and potential jail time. Compliance is vital not just to avoid penalties, but to maintain safe roadways and prevent accidents.

Michigan’s Big Fish Future – DNR Stocks Over Half a Million Fish

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources successfully completed its fall 2024 fish stocking season, releasing over 590,000 fish across 78 locations. This initiative, vital for recreational fishing and ecological balance, brings the total stock in 2024 to over 9.7 million fish, benefiting anglers statewide.

Side Wheeler Steamboats – Exploring Their Impact on Michigan’s Saginaw River

Posted on January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Side-wheeler steamers were used across the Great Lakes well into the late 1800s. The East Saginaw and Bay City line ran on Michigan’s Saginaw River.

The 1901 Wabash Railway Disaster – Michigan’s Deadliest Train Wreck at Seneca

Posted on January 9, 2025February 7, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The 1901 Wabash Railway disaster in Seneca, Michigan, resulted in over 90 deaths, largely among Italian immigrants. A collision caused by engineer miscommunication highlighted severe railway safety failures, sparking public outrage and demands for improved protocols to prevent future tragedies in early 20th-century rail travel.

How Michigan’s FORCE Team Crushed the State’s Biggest Auto Theft Ring!

Posted on January 7, 2025January 8, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan’s Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the arrest of four suspects connected to a large auto theft ring, involved in stealing hundreds of vehicles in Southeast Michigan. The arrests resulted from an extensive investigation, revealing a violent operation linked to various criminal activities. Additional arrests may follow.

Tragedy Over Lake Michigan – DC-4 crash remains the longest unsolved commercial aviation disaster in U.S. history

Posted on January 6, 2025June 10, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The crash of a Northwest Airlines DC-4 into Lake Michigan on June 24, 1950, remains in the top 20 of

Medicare drug cost cap is set at $2,000 – A victory for Michigan seniors

Posted on January 6, 2025January 6, 2025 by Michael Hardy

President Biden announced a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries, effective January 1, 2025. This historic change, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to alleviate financial burdens for millions, particularly benefiting Michigan seniors struggling with high medication prices.