State elections board finalize special primary today
A state elections board will meet today to finalize the September 5th special primary that will narrow the field of candidates running to complete the term of Congressman Thad McCotter. The Livonia Republican resigned suddenly on July sixth. The Board of State Canvassers will also take the next steps toward finalizing the statewide November ballot. "Before a question goes on the ballot, opponents have an opportunity to challenge whether a petition drive actually collected enough valid signatures of registered voters. They can also file other technical challenges to the petitions. The four-person, bipartisan Board of State Canvassers will set deadlines for people to file those challenges. The proposed constitutional amendments deal with energy policy, taxes, union rights, casinos, and a new international bridge in Detroit. There is also a proposed referendum on the state’s emergency manager law. That’s on hold while courts settle a challenge to the size of the type used on petitions. The Michigan Supreme Court holds a hearing on that question this week." Rick Pluta reports.
More bald eagles in Michigan
Michigan's bald eagle population is growing. The eagles are now being found in counties they've never been seen before. "In the early 1970s, there were only about 85 bald eagle nests counted in Michigan. Pesticides, such as the now-banned DDT, were blamed for the bird's sharp decline. In 2011, there were nearly 650 nests spotted during air surveys over the state," Rina Miller reports.
Lake Huron beaches reopen after spill
Saint Clair County authorities have reopened 4 beaches that were closed because of an oil leak from a barge and tugboat that sank in Lake Huron on Thursday. Authorities closed the beaches Saturday, but they re-opened yesterday. Efforts to raise the barge continue.
