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.
Concern about climate change in Michigan has reached the point where business areas are being impacted. The effect on business costs will be in the billions.
Here are six critical areas of concern.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Social Security Fairness Act, benefiting Michigan’s public service workers, including educators, firefighters, and police officers. This bipartisan bill aims to repeal unfair Social Security penalties, addressing the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset that have harmed many retirees’ benefits.
State Representative Graham Filler proposes new legislation to protect local businesses from Michigan minimum wage hikes and sick leave mandates set to take effect in 2025. Bipartisan Bills Aim to Temper Supreme Court-Mandated Wage Increases State Rep. Graham Filler, R-Duplain Township, …
Michigan’s minimum wage will increase in 2025 due to a Supreme Court ruling reinstating voter-initiated laws. Starting January 1, the standard minimum wage will rise from $10.33 to $10.56, with further increases to $12.48 on February 21. Additional wage adjustments will occur annually from 2026 through 2028, affecting all employee categories.
Over 70 municipalities in Michigan, represented by Foster Swift, are appealing an MPSC ruling that limits local control over renewable energy regulations. They argue the decision undermines their authority and could lead to risky state-driven projects. The legal challenge aims to restore local oversight and ensure community needs are prioritized in energy development.
American Freight, the discount retailer known for furniture, mattresses, and home appliances, will permanently shutter all its Michigan locations as parent company Franchise Group Inc. files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The closures, part of a wider downsizing, could leave both employees …
Michigan’s Thumbcoast has partnered with Paradise Advertising & Marketing to develop a comprehensive five-year tourism strategic plan aimed at enhancing the region’s appeal through advocacy, development, and marketing. Set for release in January 2025, the initiative seeks to boost local economies and cement the Blue Water Area as a premier travel destination.
Stephen Duane Woods Jr., a repeat domestic abuser, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for illegal firearm possession, emphasizing the government’s commitment to combat domestic violence. With a long history of violence against women, his case reflects federal efforts to prevent firearms access for known abusers, protecting potential victims.
