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.

Microblading – Personal Journey For A Successful Startup Business in Saginaw

Posted on February 12, 2023January 29, 2024 by Michael Hardy

This is a heartening story of a young businesswoman’s 2 year personal journey of starting a microblading business in Saginaw, Michigan, during the Covid pandemic.

Uncovering the Rich History of 8 Native American Settlements of the Great Lakes Region

Posted on February 7, 2023April 23, 2026 by Michael Hardy

The Great Lakes region of North America was home to numerous Native American settlements before European explorers and settlers arrived. These settlements were established by various indigenous tribes and served as centers of trade, culture, and community life.

Ice Fishing – 10 Authentic YouTube Video Channels Not to Be Overlooked in 2023

Posted on February 5, 2023February 5, 2023 by Michael Hardy

In a matter of weeks, ice will begin its annual coverage of inland lakes and the Great Lakes. We found 10 top-ranked ice fishing videos.

Famous Minnesota Foods – We Found 23 Of the Best

Posted on January 28, 2023January 3, 2024 by Michael Hardy

Explore the delicious and diverse cuisine of Minnesota with our guide to the state’s most famous foods. From classic dishes like wild rice soup and walleye to lesser-known gems like the Juicy Lucy burger and Knoephla soup, discover the must-try foods of Minnesota and where to find the best versions in the state.”

Quanicassee Michigan’s Jenny, The Beer Drinking Bear

Posted on January 12, 2023June 3, 2026 by Michael Hardy

In the 1900s Michigan was known for its roadside attractions to draw tourists to stop. An early attraction in the Thumb region was Jenny, the Beer Drinking Bear in Quanicassee.

Bay Port Fish Co. in 1996 – A Retrospective

Posted on December 10, 2022December 17, 2022 by Michael Hardy

I have a great collection of pictures my parents took of the Upper Thumb region in the 1980s and 90s.

Famous Wisconsin Foods – We Rank 20 Of the Best

Posted on December 4, 2022April 15, 2024 by Michael Hardy

Over the past year, we have made several trips to Wisconsin to see family. We found that in the land of brewing beer and dairy farms, there are many famous Wisconsin foods. We’ve uncovered abundant comfort foods such as brats, cheese dips, pasties, cream puffs, and Kringles. But one American favorite makes a list with this simple, delicious topping.