Michigan Natural Gas System Overhaul – Consumers Energy Launches 135-Mile Upgrade
Consumers Energy is replacing 135 miles of aging natural gas pipelines in 15 Michigan communities. The project targets reliability, safety, and job growth.
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.
McLaren Macomb Strike – Nurses and Staff Launch 3-Day Work Stoppage Over Labor Disputes
Nurses and staff at McLaren Macomb began a three-day strike July 7, citing unfair labor practices, unsafe staffing levels, and poor pay. The union says enough is enough.
Fireworks Tent Explosion Cadillac – No One Injured in Violent Early Morning Blaze
An early morning explosion in Cadillac on July 5, 2025, destroyed a fireworks tent, leading to a significant emergency response. This followed a previous fire involving a fireworks trailer.
2025 Tariff Shock Study Warns of Global Supply Chain Chaos, Says Michigan State University
MSU researchers reveal that 2025 tariff hikes disrupted global trade, causing significant challenges for companies and consumers, particularly in Michigan, exacerbating economic hardships for lower-income families and farmers.
AI Attitudes Study Shows Stark Divide Among Marginalized Groups, University of Michigan Reports
A University of Michigan study reveals significant AI skepticism among nonbinary, transgender, and disabled individuals, highlighting concerns on social bias in AI applications and urging policymakers to include marginalized voices to ensure equitable technology development.
Michigan Voter Turnout Surges After Proposal 2022-2 with Record Early Voting
Michigan experienced record voter turnout in the 2024 presidential election, with over 5.7 million ballots cast, largely due to early and mail voting from Proposition 2022?2, enabling broader participation across demographics and counties.
Fear of Fed Public Media Cuts Force Lay Offs At MSU’s WKAR
WKAR Public Media lays off nine staff due to a CPB funding rescission, which impacts TV production, digital operations, and fundraising. Federal budget cuts exacerbate challenges for public broadcasters, threatening crucial services and community programs across Michigan.
Medicaid Cuts and SNAP Reduction in BBB – Michigan Cities, Hospitals and Farmers Face $4.53 Billion Loss
Governor Whitmer warns that proposed Medicaid and SNAP cuts could devastate Michigan’s economy, leading to a $4.53 billion GDP decline and over 41,500 lost jobs, severely impacting local healthcare and businesses reliant on these programs.