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.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) celebrates the first year of Plan First!, offering free family planning services to nearly 20,000 residents. LANSING, MI – A year after its launch, the Plan First! program, administered by the Michigan …
The Library of Michigan’s new exhibit “The Searching Eye: Images of Mid-Century Detroit” features rare black-and-white photographs by Norman Zadoorian, showcasing Detroit from the 1940s to 1960s. The collection illustrates the city’s industrial history and personal narratives, enhanced by essays from Zadoorian’s son, Michael, creating a deep emotional connection to Detroit’s past.
The RNC and Michigan GOP secured a legal victory against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson regarding mail-in ballot processing, enforcing stricter rules on ballot number matching to combat potential voter fraud. The court’s decision emphasizes election integrity and transparency, ensuring adherence to state laws in Michigan’s electoral process.
The UAW is intensifying its conflict with Stellantis due to unmet U.S. investment commitments, highlighted by a 97% strike authorization vote from Denver workers. Stellantis’ $1.1 billion in stock buybacks, instead of fulfilling a $19 billion investment pledge, has enraged workers, prompting widespread support for potential strikes across UAW locals.
Michigan State University has achieved a historic enrollment record of 52,089 students for the 2024-25 academic year, reflecting its appeal as a top education choice. The diverse student body includes 10,978 new undergraduates and 27.8% students of color. MSU’s initiatives aim to enhance accessibility and opportunities in higher education.
Attorney Shawn Smith, known as “Shawn the Law,” was indicted for tax evasion, facing charges of underreporting income and failing to file returns from 2017 to 2022. If convicted, he could face significant prison time. This case underscores ongoing issues of tax compliance among high-income professionals within the legal sector.
Attorney General Dana Nessel is challenging Consumers Energy’s proposed $303 million electric rate hike, advocating for a reduction of over 70%. She argues the increase is excessive and unjustified, citing poor service reliability. Nessel’s stance reflects growing public frustration with rising utility costs and underperformance from major providers in Michigan.
Felony charges have been filed against four residents and three clerks in St. Clair Shores for allegedly participating in a double voting scheme during the August 2024 Primary Election. The charges include double voting and falsifying election records. Investigations revealed election workers were instructed to override voting systems, compromising election integrity.
