News History & Fun in Michigan
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.
Michigan lawmakers have introduced the “Teach MI History” bills to reform K-12 education by including diverse cultural histories starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The initiative focuses on promoting understanding and empathy among students. It includes educator training and an advisory board for ongoing curriculum development.
Michigan State University engineers have developed innovative 3D-printed helmet inserts to improve communication among football players in noisy stadiums, coinciding with the NCAA’s new coach-to-player communication rules for 2024. This initiative, led by Tamara Reid Bush and student Rylie DuBois, enhances gameplay by effectively reducing ambient noise.
As the clock ticks on the legislative session, activists urge Michigan lawmakers to prioritize life-saving measures addressing ghost guns, industry accountability, and violence prevention. Michigan Advocates Demand Action on Gun Safety Legislation With the Michigan Legislature entering its final weeks of …
Grand Rapids is preparing for rain and snow this Thanksgiving week, with the National Weather Service predicting potential travel disruptions. Light rain today will shift to snow midweek, especially in the Upper Peninsula where significant accumulation is expected. Cold temperatures will persist, leading to hazardous lake-effect conditions over the weekend.
Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) anticipates over 4 million travelers this holiday season, marking a 6% increase from last year. Enhancements include a sensory room and expanded shopping options. New flights to destinations such as the Turks and Caicos and Tulum aim to accommodate holiday travelers.
Michigan’s 2024 firearm deer season commenced with a record harvest of over 97,225 deer in the first 10 days. Sanilac County topped the list with 2,961 deer, including 2,095 antlered. The DNR’s management strategies, including discounted licenses for antlerless hunting, are enhancing participation and ensuring sustainable deer populations across the state.
Derek Pfaff, a 30-year-old from Harbor Beach, Michigan, underwent a transformative face transplant at Mayo Clinic after a decade of severe facial dysfunction due to a gunshot injury. The pioneering surgery restored his ability to eat, speak, and smile, fostering hope and advocacy for mental health awareness and organ donation.
House Republicans propose a $2.7 billion annual infrastructure plan to repair Michigan’s roads and bridges, emphasizing local needs. By reallocating funds from corporate tax incentives and gas taxes, they aim for bipartisan support in December. The initiative seeks to prevent a funding crisis in 2026 and improve travel safety statewide.
