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.

IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool: What Michigan Taxpayers Need to Know

Posted on April 16, 2025April 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan filers can check their refund status 24 hours after e-filing using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or the

Michigan Noise Abatement Bill Aims to Address Highway Sound Pollution

Posted on April 16, 2025April 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan’s HB 4084, introduced by Rep. Ron Robinson, aims to establish a statewide noise abatement program managed by MDOT to construct sound walls, addressing highway noise in residential areas and filling a 17-year funding gap in noise mitigation.

Implicit Bias Mandate Sparks Legal Challenge From Michigan Dentist

Posted on April 16, 2025April 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan dentist challenges state rule requiring ideological training for license renewal, calling it unconstitutional. State Licensing Mandate Prompts Legal Fight

Last Stop to the Sugar Beet Fields – Kinde’s Pere Marquette Station, Circa 1915

Posted on April 15, 2025April 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

This early 20th-century postcard captures a rare moment outside the Pere Marquette Station in Kinde, Michigan—a once-bustling hub for passengers

Michigan Clean Energy Support Remains Strong Across Party Lines

Posted on April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 by Michael Hardy

A recent poll indicates strong bipartisan support among Michigan voters for clean energy initiatives and accountability measures for utility companies. Many residents favor an expedited timeline for clean energy goals and express concern over affordability and reliability in energy services.

Ideological Deportation Policy Faces Legal Setback as Nessel and 18 States Sue to Stop It

Posted on April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, along with 18 others, is challenging the Trump-era “Ideological Deportation Policy,” claiming it infringes on free speech and impacts higher education by threatening noncitizen students and faculty at public universities.

Highline Fiber Internet Expansion Brings Long-Awaited Boost to Michigan’s Thumb Region

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

Highline has resumed installations of fiber internet across Michigan’s Thumb, targeting rural homes with reliable, high-speed connections. Orders are now open in Sanilac, Tuscola, Lapeer, and St. Clair counties—ushering in new digital opportunities for work, school, and everyday life.

DOGE TSA Funding Delay Ends with Scholten’s Major Victory for West Michigan

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

Congresswoman Hillary Scholten secures the release of $16 million in TSA funds for Gerald R. Ford Airport. The move prevents costly delays, protects over 50 jobs, and challenges federal disruptions caused by DOGE and a Trump executive order.