Unlock Michigan Sentencing – Maximum Fine Caps Dark Money Ballot Probe
Sandra Baxter’s guilty plea for providing false statements during the Unlock Michigan probe ends with probation, community service, and a $2,500 fine—the maximum allowed.
Category: News
Site announcements of changes that affect the Thumbwind website are highlighted.
News and events of Michigan’s Upper Thumb that are worth knowing in the region.
Here are some of the top stories.
Grindstone City’s Historic Grindstones Drying Yard
A rare historic photo captures the drying yard of Grindstone City, Michigan, where freshly cut Berea sandstone grindstones awaited shipment to markets around the world. This scene reflects the height of the Thumb’s once-thriving stone-cutting industry.
Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet seeks Mid-Michigan infrastructure funding for 5 shovel-ready fixes
Congresswoman Kristen McDonald advances five infrastructure funding requests—roads, bridge, fire station upgrades, blight removal, and SVSU site prep—in the FY 2026 budget battle.
Michigan Reconnect Launches 12 Events For Tuition Free Classes For Adult Learners
MiLEAP is hosting Michigan Reconnect enrollment events statewide this August. Adults 25+ can connect with Navigators on-site to receive tuition-free credential support and guided paths to completion.
Michigan teacher pay ranking drops to 44th as public backs raises, more state funding
An MSU report shows Michigan teacher pay is now 44th for starting salaries, with public opinion strongly favoring raises and more state funding to address shortages.
Grayling Hosts Armed Forces For Northern Strike Training
Exercise Northern Strike Michigan brings over 7,500 service members and international allies to Northern Michigan’s training centers for integrated, all-domain warfare drills—while contributing $38 million to the local economy.
Solar panels on farmland can slash costs, save water, MSU experts say — and Michigan is watching
EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University researchers report that solar panels on farmland are helping California’s Central Valley producers cut irrigation, stabilize revenue, and—when owners finance projects—sometimes out-earn traditional crops. The findings arrive as Michigan evaluates how to site utility-scale …
Michigan Net-Zero Plan Could Add $386 Billion to Electric Bills, Report Warns
A new Mackinac Center report says Michigan’s net-zero climate plan could raise electricity costs by $386 billion, hike bills by 146%, and increase blackout risks.