School administrators in a few local districts soon will decide whether to put tax proposals back on the ballot after voters almost universally rejected millage requests.

There, in close-up view just off the right shoulder of Barack Obama at his first press conference as president-elect in Chicago, was Gov. Jennifer Granholm, a member of his transition economic advisory board -- called an "All-Star Cast" on CNN. Obama in his opening remarks singled out Granholm, saying he was "glad to be joined" by her on a day of grappling with grim economic news of joblessness and Ford/GM loss figures.

John Engler spent 12 long, patient years as governor placing nearly 200 judges -- including three Supreme Court justices -- who supported his conservative judicial philosophy onto state courts. But a little-known Wayne County judge toppled one of those justices from his seat on Tuesday.

Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is one of 17 people appointed to help advise President-elect Barack Obama on the economy during his transition period.

Barack Obama's election as president and his appointment of Rahm Emanuel as chief of staff are hopeful signs for the struggle to heal the ailing Great Lakes ecosystem, advocates said Thursday. Obama and Emanuel, both from the Lake Michigan city of Chicago, have championed initiatives in Congress to protect the lakes.

Lawyer and community activist Rashida Tlaib, the daughter of Palestinian immigrants who never attended high school, becomes the first Muslim woman ever to serve in the Michigan Legislature. She said she wouldn't have run but for the repeated urging of her Jewish boss and predecessor, outgoing Democratic state Rep. Steve Tobocman.

Voter turnout in the 5-county area.

Not everyone is excited about the nation's first black president. Some are downright hostile. Employees at Hampel's Key and Lockshop on Randolph Street in Traverse City flew an American flag upside down Wednesday in protest of Sen. Barack Obama's victory in the presidential election. And one employee directed a racial slur at Obama during a telephone interview with a Record-Eagle reporter.

Barack Obama stitched together a winning coalition in Michigan in part by peeling away voters in groups that might have been expected to oppose him.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm can't run for president, but she could still end up in Washington next year.

Christine Maxbauer may switch from a solo role in pushing and prodding a set-in-its-ways Grand Traverse County board to leading a newly constructed board. Maxbauer, who often found herself at odds with the board's old guard, could find some support in January from new commissioners-elect Beth Friend, Mike Stepka and Ross Richardson.

A late morning sun shone on this Antrim County village hours after a freshman Illinois senator became president-elect of the United States. Terry Miller talked politics with friend Wally Hibbard over coffee Wednesday at Java Jones in Elk Rapids, and called Democratic Sen. Barack Obama's solid win over rival Sen. John McCain "a breath of fresh air."

The secretary of state's office says nearly 5.1 million Michigan voters took part in the 2008 election.

The stunning upset defeat of Republican Chief Justice Cliff Taylor ends the Michigan Supreme Court's conservative grip and opens the welcome prospect that it will overrule one of its most controversial decisions -- the 2007 gutting of the state's widely acclaimed Michigan Environmental Protection Act.

Wayne Schmidt spent part of the day reflecting on a successful state House campaign he viewed as upbeat and effective. But his defeated opponent, local attorney Roman Grucz, seethed over an at-times bruising battle for the 104th District, a territory that covers Grand Traverse and Kalkaska counties. It was a race Grucz described as "gutter politics."

Democrats Mark Schauer and Gary Peters, Michigan's newest members of Congress, bring resumes of focusing on job creation and economic issues to districts flush with Republican voters.

Democrats picked up nine seats in Michigan's state House, giving them one of their biggest majorities of the past three decades.

TRAVERSE CITY — A Democrat will take a seat on the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners for the first time in 20 years.

Republican Grand Traverse County Commissioner Wayne Schmidt had a big lead over Democrat Roman Grucz in the race for the 104th District of the state House of Representatives.

One regional sheriff’s candidate will become the top cop at his department after serving as second in command. Another fell by a wide margin to his own employee.

Incumbents led in all races for the Grand Traverse County board, but large turnouts slowed ballot counts and left several county commission races unresolved.

East Bay Township Supervisor Glen Lile pulled out a win over challenger Gail Mason among the contested township races in Grand Traverse County. Other township races were still too close to call late Tuesday.

Change is coming to the Leelanau County and Elmwood Township boards.

Another of the region’s incumbent sheriffs has fallen. David Israel, 60, ousted one-term incumbent Kalkaska County Sheriff William Artress by about 1,800 votes, both candidates said.

Democrat Dan Scripps was poised to beat Republican Ray Franz for a two-year seat in the state House’s 101st District. Incumbent Republican Kevin Elsenheimer retained his seat in Michigan’s House for the 105th District, challenged by Democrat Connie Saltonstall.

A year ago, Josh Oberschmidt never would have believed American voters could elect a black man as president. But with Democratic Sen. Barack Obama’s victory Tuesday, the hope he had for years finally was realized.

"The way my own life is going definitely impacted the way I voted, I want to keep things moving in a positive direction,” said Kurt Ross, 38, of East Bay Township in Grand Traverse County.
Ross voted for the McCain-Palin ticket, a decision influenced more by Palin than McCain.

Democrat Gary Peters declared victory Tuesday in an Oakland County congressional district, building a solid lead against Republican Rep. Joe Knollenberg with the help of Barack Obama's win in Michigan.

Democrat Diane Marie Hathaway on Tuesday upset incumbent Republican Chief Justice Clifford Taylor to end conservatives' nine-year lock on the Michigan Supreme Court.

Michigan voters on Tuesday passed a medical marijuana ballot measure -- making the state the 13th to allow severely ill patients to use the illegal drug.

Traverse City election returns were slowed by hours by the city's use of a new "receiving board" of local representatives who audited election returns, a measure recommended by state election officials, deputy city clerk Benjamin Marentette said.

U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, riding a wave of popularity he has built up over three decades, rolled to another six-year term Tuesday by winning his latest re-election bid.

Michigan voters have approved a ballot proposal that relaxes restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research.

Thousands of voters braved long lines across Michigan. Election officials predicted a potential record turnout for the historic U.S. presidential contest between Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain.

Barack Obama radiated confidence and John McCain displayed the grit of an underdog Monday as the presidential rivals reached for the finish line of a two-year marathon with a burst of campaigning across battlegrounds from the Atlantic Coast to Arizona.

Teacher Tak Ready's classroom is a kaleidoscope of campaign signs. Life-size cardboard cutouts of John McCain and Barack Obama stand at the front. These students have watched debates, examined candidates and raised eager hands to give election opinions. It's a good year to be a government teacher.

Alan Fields plans to cast his first vote in a presidential election today. Fields, 18, of Lake Ann, was undecided a month ago, but now says he will vote for Republican John McCain. The Benzie Central High School student was barraged with opinions. Many of his classmates support Democrat Barack Obama, he said. That hasn't swayed Fields, who believes McCain is the right choice for the nation's top office.

Little else was on Diane Brand's mind when she was asked to name the three most important issues weighing on this fall's presidential contest. "Economy, economy, economy," she said.

Kimberly McKerchie, one of the members of the Record-Eagle's undecided-voter panel, said she cares more about this presidential election than any other race in which she's voted. We probably all do. It's exciting. So ... why don't we get excited and vote in the elections that hit us close to home?

Rosemarie Perrone has the perfect trait for an election worker: attention to detail. The stay-at-home mom and other mothers put barcodes on books to computerize the library at her son's Catholic elementary school.

More than 5 million Michigan voters are expected to cast ballots in Tuesday's election. Hundreds of political campaigns at the national, state and local levels are working hard to get a piece of the action.

Yes, the lines probably will be long on Tuesday, and you'll have to leave your campaign buttons in the car. But voting in the 2008 general election will be a chance to be part of history. A record number of voters -- more than 5 million -- are expected to go to the polls in Michigan.

Barack Obama and John McCain uncorked massive get-out-the-vote operations in more than a dozen battleground states Sunday, millions of telephone calls, mailings and door-knockings in a frenzied, fitting climax to a record-shattering $1 billion campaign. Together, they'll spend about $8 per presidential vote.

A new poll says likely Michigan voters support ballot proposals to expand stem cell research and legalize medical use of marijuana.

John McCain's campaign pulled out of Michigan more than a month ago, forcing the Michigan Republican Party and GOP candidates like Rep. Joe Knollenberg to find the manpower to make thousands of phone calls, distribute campaign fliers and overcome the doubters in a state where Democrats are favored.

The following is a recap of Record-Eagle endorsements for Tuesday's elections.

Tuesday is bound to be a historic day. Voters could choose Obama as the first black president. On the other hand, Republican Sen. John McCain could become the oldest president elected to a first term and his running mate Sarah Palin the first female vice president.

Political yard signs advertise which candidates the homeowner supports, but they don't tell the whole story.

With the rest of the nation seemingly ready to join Michigan's one-state recession and the auto industry begging for a federal bailout just to keep the lights on, our state needs all the clout it can get in Washington. That's one of the many reasons to send CARL LEVIN back to the U.S. Senate.

Jeff Harper was worried. The same day the U.S. Army first sergeant received an absentee ballot in the mail from Acme Township, the clerk's office called with bad news. He couldn't vote because he wasn't a township resident.

At least two local candidate forums will be replayed on public access television before the Nov. 4 election.

About Moore's interview; A bad idea; Pro-2nd Amendment; Vote 'yes' on Proposal 2; No special interests; War is deciding factor; For honesty and justice; A consensus builder; Correct the e-mail math; He stands for something; Sham and smoke; Unwavering dedication; Need new direction; Age is a benefit; Vote for a statesman; A needed change; Clear the waters; Saved taxpayer dollars; 'Inadvertent' omission; Admirable public servant; A new face needed; Taxes are the issue; No time to take a chance; For preserving wildlife; Unrestricted research; Has desire and energy; Big business over wisdom; Sales pitch to unload; Pray for our nation, peace; Dedicated public servant; Good deal for taxpayers; A risk to freedom; Misconception out there; Throw out bogus quotes!; Across party lines; Better than vitamins; A change is needed; A charismatic demagogue; Change can go both ways; God is the foundation; Supported by community; Excels at her job; Level-headed thinking; Record of action, results; Close to hate-mail; Will serve us well; Less tax, more freedom; Worldview not forgiving; Open ear and mind; A community leader; Treats all with respect; Honest and dedicated; A frightening scenario; Compassionate and caring; Won't meet expectations; Not a disappearing act; Cautiously hopeful; New court is needed; The perfect candidate; Best interests of residents; Wasteful spending; A strong advocate; Resume we need; Dedicated to community; Economic policies; Vote best interests; Pass fire services millage; Gold-plated heath care; Has proven himself; 'Experience' not a plus; Voice of common sense

Of all the races and ballot issues Michigan voters will decide Tuesday, arguably the most important is one many of us pay too little attention to -- the Michigan Supreme Court. Thankfully, there is a clear choice, one that could help reverse years of court decisions that have stripped Michigan residents of their rights under the Michigan constitution to hold companies and governments liable for their actions.

Michigan must not throw registered voters off the rolls, even if their cards were returned as undeliverable, an appeals court said Thursday.

The election in sight and the economy reeling, Barack Obama and John McCain fought over causes, cures and the final votes that will make one of them president. Obama tied McCain to President Bush and said Americans are paying a steep price for the partnership, while the Republican linked his rival to Big Oil and record profits.

Rachelle Babcock is ticked off. The Acme Township resident, a political independent, said she's been flooded with negative, specious political advertising from the Michigan Republican Party that targets Democrat Roman Grucz. Yet Grucz's opponent in the 104th District state House race, Republican Wayne Schmidt, insists he's running a positive campaign.

Fewer than 30 minutes to go until the campaign rally, and the television wouldn't play a DVD disc. Hundreds of students from as many as 10 other schools already were filtering into the Leland Public School gym, awaiting the start of a biennial mock election, and Jermiah Wakeman had to deal with last-minute technical problems. But if there were any glitches once Thursday's rally began, they went unnoticed.

An apparent shift in Michigan Republican Party strategy might leave Ray Franz high and dry, while Democrat Roman Grucz faces an upstream swim amid a torrent of Republican money. Franz, a Republican candidate for the 101st House District was supposed to be in a targeted race that attracts big money from the state parties and special interests.

Editor's note: Assertions in a letter published Wednesday about quotations attributed to Barack Obama need to be clarified.

It is fair to say no presidential election in a generation has come at a more difficult and trying time for America. What we need at this crucial moment in history is a leader who offers not just hope for a new direction, but someone who can inspire the nation to set aside differences and work for the greater good. We think that candidate is Barack Obama.

It's going to be hectic come Tuesday. Record numbers of regional voters are expected to participate on Election Day, when they'll be among five million citizens likely to cast ballots in Michigan. Local election officials said they've geared up for the coming onslaught, and it's a movement that's underway, in some cases.

Jesse Brocklehurst attends school in the morning, works from noon until 5 p.m. and doesn't have his own car. The chances he might make it to the polls Tuesday before they close, he acknowledges, aren't very good. Enter Josh Veith.

Barack Obama has pulled ahead in enough states to win the 270 electoral votes he needs to gain the White House -- and with states to spare -- according to an Associated Press analysis that shows he is now moving beyond typical Democratic territory to challenge John McCain on historically GOP turf.

A teacher, a lawyer, and a haberdasher will vie for votes in Grand Traverse and Kalkaska counties for election to the 104th District of the state House of Representatives.

The following are Record-Eagle endorsements for Michigan's two statewide ballot proposals, Proposal 1 (Medical Marijuana) and Proposal 2 (Stem-Cell Research).

A federal judge has upheld Michigan's ban on campaign T-shirts and buttons inside polling places.

Barack Obama and John McCain fought for votes Tuesday on critical ground in Pennsylvania, the only Democratic state McCain is still contesting on a national political map growing increasingly daunting. With just one week to go, GOP doubts about his chances for the presidency grew louder.

Expect long lines on Election Day. Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land said Tuesday that she expects more than 5 million Michigan residents will vote Nov. 4, or about 70 percent of registered voters.

Frankfort-Elberta Area Schools and Forest Area Community Schools both have tax proposals on the Nov. 4 ballot.

Several local school districts will have board races in the Nov. 4 general election.

A bowl-shaped meadow, a climax hemlock forest, varied animal habitat, old orchards and undeveloped East Bay frontage. Voters in Peninsula Township will balance environmental and preservation interests with economic and tax concerns when they mark yea or nay on the proposed Center Road Park.

Outside groups have spent more than the two candidates in the hard-fought Michigan Supreme Court race, but it's not known who's putting up the money to run the groups' TV ads. The nonpartisan Michigan Campaign Finance Network said Monday that Supreme Court Justice Clifford Taylor has spent $1.27 million so far to air TV ads in the race, while Democratic nominee Diane Hathaway has spent none.

The following are Record-Eagle endorsements in the region's three state House races: Dan Scripps, 101st Distrcit (Leelanau, Benzie, Manistee and Mason counties); Roman Grucz, 104th District (Grand Traverse and Kalkaska counties); Kevin Elsenheimer, 105th District (Antrim, Charlevoix, Otsego and Cheboygan counties).

Democrat Roman Grucz's promise not to raise taxes has been one-upped by his opponents in the race for the 104th state House District. Republican candidate Wayne Schmidt and Libertarian Dan McDougall pledge to immediately begin cutting more than $700 million in state business taxes if elected to represent Grand Traverse and Kalkaska counties.

On Nov. 4, Peninsula Township voters have their best and perhaps last opportunity to create new and needed public parkland in the south portion of the township. The land at stake -- spanning from Center Road to East Shore Road a little more than half of a mile south of McKinley Road -- is spectacular property.

Barack Obama is not a member of a socialist party. John McCain is not a foreigner. Sarah Palin is not Trig's grandmother. And Joe Biden is not dropping out of the race. Oh, and they're not all having sordid affairs. But it's Rumor Season again in this country, and with just days to go before the election, both campaigns are frantically knocking down these rumors.

Heading into the final nine days of the 2008 contest, the White House competitors campaigned in key battlegrounds that President Bush won four years ago as the state-by-state Electoral College map tilts strongly in Obama's favor. Democrats and Republicans alike say it will be extraordinarily difficult for McCain to change the trajectory of the campaign before the Nov. 4 election.

Another reason to veto; Voters, be wise; People's interest at heart; Veiled racism is a worry; Maverick leadership; Innovative policies; New ideas for investment; Sweet talking guy; Having it both ways; Respect property rights; Thoughts to ponder; Experienced manager; Too radical; Listens to concerns; Honesty, vision; Honest public servant; Enough hatred!

The following are Record-Eagle endorsements in contested Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners races. The Record-Eagle editorial board met with all but one candidate in contested races. Of the nine board seats, three are uncontested. Of the six contested seats, one has no incumbent running.

Experience & motivation; Has business savvy; Vote less government; Chance for a cure; Educator and volunteer; Positive focus on issues; Responsible visionary; Need most experienced; Alaskan crude; Examine VP candidates

If they ask, obstetrician Dr. Mark Walker tells patients he's opposed to a state ballot proposal that would loosen restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research. But Joyce Stein, a 30-year registered nurse who works in newborn intensive care at University of Michigan hospital, thinks just the opposite.

As far as Michigan's future is concerned, the most important thing on the ballot may not, in fact, be the presidential election, but a constitutional proposal addressing stem cell research. Proposal 2 would allow scientists to use donated, early-stage embryos discarded from fertility clinics for stem cell research that some believe could lead to what would seem like miracle cures.

Andre Perry used to smoke marijuana for recreation. Now, he uses it for medication. The 51-year-old retired auto worker thinks the drug should be legalized for medicinal use.

One's a conservative, the other's a liberal, and neither proposes immediate tax cuts or tax increases if elected to the state House of Representatives. Instead, both Democrat Dan Scripps, of Leland, and Republican Ray Franz, of Onekama, said they are going to have to cut programs to get Michigan's crumbling state budget under control.

Although our population is dropping, the 2008 registration is a 4.3 percent increase from the 2004 presidential election, according to Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, who has a solid reputation as guardian of electoral integrity.

Four of the seven seats on the Leelanau County board of commissioners are up for grabs in the November election.

Two candidates with diverse backgrounds are on the ballot to represent the 101st state House District that includes Leelanau, Benzie, Manistee and Mason counties.

John McCain's economic vision for America supports keeping taxes low and reforming out-of-control government spending. In every instance, McCain offers clear proposals that would benefit middle-class families and small businesses while his opponent offers empty rhetoric contradicted by his own record.

A recent poll shows support leading opposition for a ballot proposal to allow medical use of marijuana.

The Michigan attorney general's office said Friday that county clerks can't "deputize" each other to help first-time voters who registered by mail apply for absentee ballots.

Sen. Barack Obama's campaign for the White House pulled ahead of his opponent, Sen. John McCain, as soon as the current financial crisis hit the headlines. As one of McCain's top strategists recently blurted out, "If we keep talking about the economic crisis, we're going to lose."

An activist who opposes gay marriage and same-sex benefits for public employees is trying to raise sexual orientation as an issue in a state House race.

A recent poll shows support and opposition about even for a ballot proposal to loosen Michigan's restrictions on embryonic stem cell research following an ad push on both sides.

Barack Obama is galloping away with the presidential race. Or maybe he has a modest lead. Or maybe he and John McCain are neck and neck. Confusing? Sure, thanks to the dueling results of recent major polls.

Republican candidate Ray Franz faces accusations of "gay bashing" over his response to a Kalamazoo billionaire's support for Franz opponent Dan Scripps in the 101st District state House race.

A new poll shows Democratic incumbent U.S. Sen. Carl Levin with a 28-point lead over Republican rival state Rep. Jack Hoogendyk of Kalamazoo.

A television ad airing in the Detroit, Flint and Saginaw areas likens a ballot measure that would loosen Michigan's restrictions on embryonic stem cell research to the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study.

Michigan Democrats running for state House seats look likely to broaden their 58-52 majority on Nov. 4. A major reason is the influence of Jon Stryker and the Coalition for Progress. In 2006, the Kalamazoo billionaire's campaign contributions helped at least four Democrats win state House seats and played a role in at least 10 House and Senate contests.

Congressional candidates Dave Camp and Andy Concannon will headline one of four remaining debates sponsored by the League of Women Voters in Grand Traverse, Benzie and Leelanau counties.

Two Congressional candidates looking for local votes will debate their opposing approaches to the nation's economic crisis today in Traverse City. Democratic challenger Andy Concannon, 41, a private practice attorney from Saginaw, hopes to unseat 18-year incumbent Republican Dave Camp, 55, of Midland, to represent Michigan's 4th Congressional District.

Democrat Barack Obama said Tuesday that Republican John McCain is offering "willful ignorance, wishful thinking, outdated ideology" for an economy in crisis, seeking to capitalize on the main issue that is propelling him forward in the race for the White House.

For decades, Michigan has been a highly sought prize in presidential elections. But as this year's presidential contest enters its final weeks, the airwaves are nearly quiet, the candidates far away. Used to being inundated with the candidates, their ads and their automated phone calls, Michigan voters no longer are feeling the love.

An anonymous, automated telephone campaign targets local state House candidate Roman Grucz with allegations he owes thousands to the Internal Revenue Service. Grucz said the allegations are false.

The Michigan Supreme Court race was jolted out of a peaceful slumber Tuesday when Democrats rolled out a TV ad that accuses Chief Justice Clifford Taylor of nodding off during oral arguments.

Republican John McCain told voters in this key electoral state Tuesday he was personally tested by the same kind of crisis that Democratic vice presidential nominee Joseph Biden warned Barack Obama will almost certainly face if elected president.

Gov. Sarah Palin charged the state for her children to travel with her, including to events where they were not invited, and later amended expense reports to specify that they were on official business.

An ugly line has been crossed in this presidential campaign, one in which some people don't mind calling Barack Obama a dangerous Muslim, a terrorist and worse. Experts agree on the reasons: Obama, the Democratic nominee, is different from any other major presidential candidate in history in many ways, and people often don't accept such change gracefully.

After two debates in less than 24 hours, the stark philosophical differences between Democratic incumbent U.S. Sen. Carl Levin and Republican challenger Jack Hoogendyk are clearer than ever.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin says she supports a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, a break with John McCain who has said he believes states should be left to define what marriage is.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Carl Levin and Republican opponent Jack Hoogendyk clashed on who is to blame for the nation's economic struggles and how to fix them in a Sunday debate.

A daydream dances into mind to the tune of "Hey, Hey, the Gang's All Here" as I read newspapers, watch TV and surf the Internet to get a fix on this year's presidential election. Joe Six Pack nurses his third beer and his cousin, Joe Camel, takes another drag on his cigarette. His pet pot-bellied pig rests at his feet. It is wearing lipstick.

U.S. Sen. Carl Levin is talking about the economy and the presidential race with more than a dozen college students on a sunny tailgating Saturday at Michigan State University when he pauses to answer a frequent request. "You can take a picture of me wherever you want," Levin tells students who want a group photo with the Detroit Democrat before the football game. "Just get me in front of an American car."

When Jack Hoogendyk wanted to make a point about why Michigan needed a law making English the state's official language, he drove home his point in an unusual way. Facing a state House committee considering the bill, the Republican lawmaker made his opening remarks in Dutch before switching to English.

The Great Lakes are ailing, scientists warn, on the verge of ecological ruin from big-city sewage and invasive species. Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama promise to support restoration and cleanup, yet the nation's financial crisis calls into question how those efforts will be funded.

For Saul Anuzis, these are not the best of times. Michigan's Republican Party chairman has to keep his troops up and focused at a time when his "brand" is down in the polls. That, however, isn't the worst of it. Two weeks ago, his presidential candidate, John McCain, suddenly abandoned the state.

In its final stages, the presidential campaign is increasingly focused on taxes, a perennial flashpoint between the two major parties. Here are the highlights of their tax plans.

Beyond some generalities -- and a shared opposition to an increase in the retirement age -- the two presidential rivals are long on commitment and short on specifics when it comes to the government's huge retirement income program.

Consider qualifications; Don't throw stones; God did a good job; Integrity shows through; For the environment; Misleading comments; Has new ideas; Model treasurer; Creative problem-solver; Forgot main thing; Same script; Insightful input; Devoted to our region; Energetic dedication; Lack of character; Campaign a disgrace; Political games; Will get job done

Historically, a politically-savvy, high-visibility attorney general is in a good position to launch a bid for governor. It's a good -- bordering on safe -- bet that term-limited Republican Attorney General Mike Cox will run for governor in 2010, regardless of who else runs, including 2006 GOP nominee Dick DeVos.

County clerks across Michigan have banded together to guarantee access to the polls for all eligible voters. As we ready for the Nov. 4 elections, we are doing all we can to make sure no eligible voter is barred from exercising his or her Constitutional right guaranteed under the 15th Amendment.

Two local voters nudged closer to Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama's camp following the third and final debate. Another is wrestling between a vote for Republican John McCain or not voting at all. And a fourth voter is stuck between undecided and remaining, somewhat reluctantly, on McCain's side.

The issue: Project Vote Smart; Our view: Project Vote Smart is a unique, invaluable resource guaranteed to make you a more informed voter. Have the courage to give it a try.

Democrat Barack Obama is moving some staffers to other states as his lead in Michigan polls grows. But state Democrats still have their largest ever presidential campaign effort under way, and Republicans haven't thrown in the towel.

Voter naivete; Court needs this change; Elect change; A fresh approach; McCain's second bailout; Will protect gun rights; Good judgment; Lift the ban; Support park proposal; Stop pointing fingers

Amy Sutherland knows a thing or two about running board meetings. She became interim executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Traverse in March 2006 at a time of financial collapse. By the time she left, the organization had secured enough start-up funding to open two area sites. Sutherland, a full-time local volunteer, plans to use that experience as she seeks her latest role on the Traverse City school board.

A semi-retired restaurant owner leads a Democratic effort to integrate the all-Republican Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners. The November election features a race between Democrat Ross Richardson, 57, and Republican David Barr, 42, for an open seat in District 5. (Plus a breakdown of other Grand Traverse County district races.)

Will work for both sides; Be part of the solution; Surprised by support; Image is the reason; Vote to restore economy; Vital for quality of life; Preserve quiet area; An 'asterisk Catholic'? Who has the judgment? Make change happen; Stop pointing fingers

Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama tried to distinguish themselves on economics and foreign policy during last week's town hall debate. But it wasn't enough to win over many undecided voters.

John Engler believes Republican presidential candidate John McCain made a mistake by pulling his campaign from Michigan. McCain should have continued to slug it out for Michigan's votes instead of moving financial and staffing resources to other key states, the former governor told reporters Monday in Detroit.

A gallon of gas costs more than twice what it did six years ago, the last time incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Carl Levin was up for re-election. Energy prices are among the top concerns for Michigan voters headed to the polls Nov. 4.

With one month left to listen to Democratic Sen. Barack Obama and Republican Sen. John McCain sling mud at each other, it won't be long before we can't stand either one. We wade into this morass every four years and we know how it goes. In fact, I know it so well I don't have to listen to the candidates; I can fling it on my own.

Clifford Taylor is running for a final eight years on the Michigan Supreme Court because preserving the court's conservative philosophy is so important to him.

After nearly 16 years on the bench, Judge Diane Marie Hathaway wants voters to send her to the Michigan Supreme Court. The Democratic nominee is casting herself as a populist standing up for the little guy in a court where she believes the "wealthy and corporations" have too much influence.

Will likely flip-flop; Four regrettable years; 'Gonna learn on the job'; Mavericks are risky; White flag waving?; Jewel can become park; Preserve natural area; Goal worthy of pursuit; Very positive record; No new taxes or park; Protection from oversight

In this third in a series of reports, local residents and undecided voters who make up a Record-Eagle election panel said debates will play a crucial role as to who wins their vote. But so far for some viewers, watching the debates has been more of a tedious civic responsibility than an insightful voting guide to the presidential election.

You may think you are going to vote for John McCain or Barack Obama next month, but, like it or not, you really aren't going to. In fact, you can't. Michigan voters who think they are voting for McCain will actually be voting for a bunch of folks most of them never heard of -- people like Alfreda Schmidt and Jerry Roe; Henry Hatter, Tom McCleary and Susan Hartounian.

The Democratic challenger of Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Cliff Taylor faces an uphill battle, despite some polling indicating that Taylor could be vulnerable in his quest for a third term.

In most elections, older voters tend to commit early and form a base for one candidate or the other. This year, Boomers form an outsized bloc of swing voters and may well decide the winner of the White House. Neither Sen. John McCain nor Sen. Barack Obama can afford to take 50-plus voters for granted and both candidates need to explain their positions on the issues better.

A series of upcoming forums will be held in Benzie and Leelanau counties prior to the Nov. 4 election.

A newspaper report Thursday said tens of thousands of eligible voters have been removed from rolls or blocked from registering in at least six swing states, including Michigan, but election officials quickly lined up to defend their registration procedures and said they had done nothing wrong.

Louie R. Rose grew upset when someone plucked three political signs from the yard in front of his Traverse City apartment. But Rose plans to replace the signs -- one for Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama, two for Grand Traverse County Commission candidate Ross Richardson -- and turn his frustration into motivation.

Voters will choose from four candidates -- two incumbents and two newcomers -- for three spots on the Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees. Incumbents K. Ross Childs and Bill Myers seek re-election, while newcomers Susan Sheldon and Linda Wasielewski also vie for board positions.

A retired Ingham County district judge said Wednesday a state proposal that would loosen restrictions on stem cell research would tie state government's hands and prevent oversight of experiments on embryos.

Misrepresenting issues; Leadership, experience; Supporting 3 candidates; Facts that aren't facts; Preserve land for park; Law-abiding treasurer; Approve legal relief; Preserve 62 acres; Make voices heard; Preschool education

Area undecided voters are pretty certain of one pessimistic particular in this presidential campaign. There's not much chance the next president can soon reverse the nation's economic doldrums or lower the cost of necessities such as food and gas.

A report based on interviews with undecided voters conducted by journalists in eight states that collectively account for 101 electoral votes: Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Hampshire, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan.

CNHI journalists interviewed undecided voters during the past week and a half to talk about issues important during this presidential campaign. Reporters and editors spoke with 36 voters in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Hampshire, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan. Responses to some of their questions follow.

In these videos, undecided voters discuss the presidential candidates, the issues that matter to them and how they will make up their minds.

Meet the undecideds. Kimberly McKerchie cares more about this presidential election than any other race in which she's voted. Kalkaska teacher Rich Hilts has health-care coverage, but he's "concerned about everybody." Michelle Glass can be turned off by negative campaigning. They're among local voters who want to feel good about who they choose for president. But right now, they're stymied, torn or only leaning.

Michigan's economic misery topped the list of issues in the U.S. Senate race long before the debate over rescuing the U.S. financial industry came up. It's even bigger now as uncertainty swirls around what's next for the nation's economy.

The upcoming presidential election surely will be memorable, no matter who wins the White House. Either way, the country will have either its first black president in Barack Obama, or its first female vice president in Sarah Palin. But they need your votes. And the deadline to register is today.

Michigan may become the latest state to let some severely ill patients use marijuana to treat pain, nausea and other symptoms. Read about the proposal, including its wording as seen on the ballot, here.

Christine Allen is one of six candidates in Grand Traverse County who seek various township offices without party affiliation. Long Lake Township's treasurer will run for re-election without party affiliation: not as a Republican, not as a Democrat, Libertarian or Independent.

Michigan voters will be thrust into the crossroads of science, ethics and religion this November when they decide whether to loosen the state's restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research. Read about the proposal, including its wording as seen on the ballot, here.

It comes down to a question of how Kalkaska County taxpayers want to pay for the Kaliseum. The answer is due next month.

Greed, naivete; The influence factor; Illogical conclusion; Fought to grow jobs; Breath of fresh air; We should be wary; Let's think ahead; Who can we trust?; Dedicated to our area; Just the facts, please; Water for sale?

Republican John McCain's abrupt, ill-advised Michigan fade could be good news for Democrats down the ticket, maybe even for Supreme Court candidate Diane Marie Hathaway, partisan-nominated contender on the ill-named "bipartisan" ballot.

Let's cut to the chase scene. The American people expected Thursday night's debate ... to answer this question: Is Republican Gov. Sarah Palin a capable candidate for vice president?

Sarah Palin showed up with folksiness and grit. Joe Biden brought emotion and substance.

One candidate has been gaffe-prone for decades; the other -- at least in plain view of the masses -- for just over a month. One candidate is known as a longtime, sophisticated pol. The other a relative newcomer, with no federal experience.

The issue: Voter registration deadline; Our view: Only two days left; if you haven't found a reason to vote this year you're just not trying.

If Michigan voters approve a medical-marijuana ballot initiative next month, the state will enter a minefield of unintended consequences, according to a newly formed group opposing the measure.

Republican presidential candidate John McCain conceded battleground Michigan to Democrat Barack Obama on Thursday, a major retreat as he struggles to regain his footing in a campaign increasingly dominated by economic issues.

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said Thursday in Grand Rapids that his rival John McCain is out of touch with the economic struggles of Americans and doesn't understand that there's nothing more fundamental than a job.

A worthwhile cause; Arrogant attitude; A dose of reality; Am I qualified for VP? Falls short of mark; Shocking attitudes; Consider qualifications; Time for change; Single-issue voters; Stop and think; Voter watching both sides; Problem solved!

Led by the nonprofit Center for Michigan, a growing number of citizens believe talking to candidates can end partisan gridlock and rally Lansing lawmakers around common issues that matter to voters. Their success in northwest Michigan will be on display Monday during a candidate forum for local state House candidates Ray Franz, Dan Scripps, Roman Grucz and Wayne Schmidt.

Former U.S. Rep. Joe Schwarz is endorsing Democratic challenger Mark Schauer in his former south-central Michigan congressional district, even though he's a Republican.

One of the most pressing issues facing our next president is restoration and protection of the Great Lakes. Holding 20 percent of the world's freshwater supply, the lakes are a global strategic asset and a key to our national security. They will be the basis of our regional economy for the next century.

There will be at least one debate between the two major party candidates for Michigan's U.S. Senate seat.

How can it be that in 2008 -- 143 years after slavery was abolished, decades after the civil rights movement -- an AP-Yahoo News poll could find that racial misgivings could cost Sen. Barack Obama the election? In search of explanations, two Associated Press reporters -- one black, one white -- listened to people of both races along Detroit's divides.

The upcoming presidential election surely will be memorable, no matter who wins the White House. Either way, the country will have either its first black president in Barack Obama, or its first female vice president in Sarah Palin. But they need your votes. And you only have about a week left to register.

Mark Gaffney, president of Michigan's AFL-CIO, doesn't have to work hard at telling union members that the last eight years have been bad for them. Few have much use for George W. Bush. Nor do they have any love for John McCain. But he knows very well there are white, blue-collar union workers who just won't vote for a black man.

Eric Brefka pays attention to politics. He found out from a survey in government class that he tends to take a moderate stance on issues. Brefka anticipates the day he can vote for a leader who will tackle what he believes will be key this November -- the war in Iraq and the cost of a college education.

As founder of the only adult stem cell bank of its kind in Michigan, I support adult stem cell research and believe it is vital in the effort to heal and treat patients. I also believe Michigan must pursue all forms of stem cell research -- adult and embryonic -- in the fight to save lives.

A new poll shows Democrat Barack Obama leading Republican John McCain in Michigan by 13 percentage points.

Watch for radical intent; Keep women's rights; Read into 'head fake'; No 'trickle down'; Unseat the incumbents; Completely unqualified; Lies and half-truths; Proactive, accessible; Oil -- and water; Will promote tourism

What was he thinking? Stance on war deadly; Bad environmental record; Veteran takes exception; Heaven help us; Sick of pandering; The leader we need; Displeased with attacks; Not good for the country; In tune with community; Insubstantial candidate; Hope is in change

We're looking for Grand Traverse area residents who are undecided on their choice of presidential candidates, but who plan to vote in the Nov. 4 election.

A recent study on the benefits of in-state embryonic stem cell research is fueling new debate over Proposition 2 on the state's November election ballot.

Area filmmaker, film festival founder, theater programmer and author Michael Moore has a new hit with "Mike's Election Guide 2008."

With fewer than 50 days left until the election, Republicans and Democrats are opening up new campaign offices and recruiting more volunteers around the state.

Business issues, education and other topics will be covered in two upcoming candidate forums for three state House races covering the Grand Traverse region.

Clear vision for area; Get back to the basics; Commentary to humor? Vote pro-life; Breath of fresh air; Medical marijuana; Protect our lakes; Save Michigan's water; Slash and burn politics

If you had a high opinion of Sarah Palin before Thursday's interview with ABC News, you probably still do. If you had thought she is not qualified to be president, the sit-down probably confirmed that judgment.

Neither John McCain nor Barack Obama offers sound solutions to mammoth deficits in the federal budget and in Social Security. But their tax policies would differ dramatically.

Joe Biden told backers in industrial Michigan on Monday that John McCain will continue the job-destroying economic policies and divisive politics of the Bush administration.

Michigan's history of racial tensions is tugging against its Democratic tendencies, giving Barack Obama fits when most everything else potentially benefits Democrats: a soaring unemployment rate, shrinking auto industry and depressed housing market.

Bizarre attacks; Encouraging strength; A clear choice; No sense of security; Elect leaders who inspire; A poor choice; Voters deserve to know; Traditional values

I research adult stem cells, and my family here in West Michigan believes life begins at conception. Over dinner, we've had many conversations about the vital role embryonic stem cell research plays in the search for therapies and cures for diabetes, Parkinson's disease, recovery from spinal cord damage and more. On Nov. 4, Michigan voters will be asked to support expansion of embryonic stem cell research.

Thousands of Obama's supporters, many from organized labor, jammed into Hart Plaza along the downtown Detroit riverfront to hear the Democratic presidential candidate assure them of their place of importance in his White House.

There's a part of Brenda Lawrence that still doesn't believe this is true, that makes her want to pinch herself. Four years ago, the mayor of suburban Southfield was a delegate to her first Democratic National Convention, in Boston. She remembers, as everyone does, the riveting keynote speech by a then nearly unknown young senate candidate named Barack Obama.

Barack Obama and John McCain each had politicians with Michigan ties, one extremely slight, on their widely trumpeted running mate "short list" -- which often amounts to little more than a stroke list. Both ended up last week as also-rans.

Keep your eyes on Pennsylvania and Michigan. There are battleground states in the presidential election, and then there are these two, looming larger than most others because they offer such a rich opportunity for Republican John McCain and potential peril for Democrat Barack Obama.

Republican Ray Franz will continue his campaign for the state House of Representatives while Mike McManus returns to cherry farming after a recount upheld Franz's slim primary victory.

Mile High Stadium is coming to downtown Traverse City. Minneapolis-St. Paul, too. Cheering crowds, banners, placards, a master of ceremonies and the presidential nominees on the big screen will bring the excitement of the Democratic and Republican national conventions to the State Theatre.

Democratic delegates from Michigan and Florida were awarded full voting rights at the national convention Sunday, despite holding early primaries against party rules.

A Republican hasn't won Michigan's presidential vote since 1988, but GOP leaders said Saturday at their state convention that the time is right to change that trend this November.

The discussion of embryonic stem cell experimentation continues to generate a lot of heat while spreading far too little light. It bears repeating that adult, not embryonic, stem cell research is yielding amazing results. There are currently at least 73 diseases being treated as a result of adult stem cell research. This list includes cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, corneal regeneration, Parkinson's disease and spinal cord injuries, to name but a few.

Teams of local and state election officials will manually recount more than 17,300 ballots to determine who won the Republican primary of the state 101st House District.

James Schmidt says he's a homeless man, but his run for local office could earn him a bed in the county jail. Acme Township Clerk Dorothy Dunville filed a criminal complaint against Schmidt that alleged he lied when he registered to vote in Acme Township, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail.

Democratic dominance in presidential elections has been the norm for decades throughout much of the country's union-strong industrial Great Lakes region. Republican John McCain hopes to upset that history.

Michigan voters will decide whether to loosen the state's restrictions on embryonic stem cell research and allow medical use of marijuana during November's election.

The Michigan Court of Appeals said Wednesday that a broad proposal to change the size and makeup of the courts and the Legislature shouldn't be allowed on the November ballot.

A candidate for the office of Kalkaska County prosecutor wants the public to initiate a recount after he lost a close race in the Aug. 5 primary election.

Last year, Michigan and Florida Democrats were being told they would lose all their votes at the Democratic National Convention if they moved up their presidential primaries. Now, the same committee that stripped Florida and Michigan of their delegates for violating party rules by holding early primaries is poised to suggest those delegates regain their full voting powers when the Denver convention starts in eight days.

A recount in the Republican 101st District state House race looms after the district's four counties certified results that gave Ray Franz an apparent nine-vote win over Mike McManus.

The issue: Acme board prevails again; Our view: Voters demand the right to direct development in their community and to decide what the future will look like, as well as demand a township board that will represent their interests -- no matter what.

The issue: Tuesday's primary; Our view: Being an incumbent just isn't what it used to be. Across the region Tuesday, voters in the virtually all-Republican primary ousted a number of longtime incumbents and in at least one case a one-term supervisor elected on a promise of reforms.

Ray Franz doesn't plan to take a day off until after the November general election. He can't. There's another campaign at hand. "There's not enough time," said Franz, of Onekama, who likely will face Democrat Dan Scripps for the 101st District state House seat. "He's going to be hard to beat."

Voters' dramatic overhaul of the Garfield Township board, combined with incumbent losses in other Grand Traverse area races, will usher in numerous newcomers to local government seats come Jan. 1. In some municipalities, voters decided it was time for sweeping change, while in places like Acme Township, a solid majority of voters decided to ride the alterations they made in 2006.

Complete Charlevoix County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Crawford County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Cheboygan County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Wexford County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Antrim County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Missaukee County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Manistee County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Kalkaska County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Emmet County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

A Bear Lake grocery store owner bested three other Republican candidates in a close race for the state House.

Complete Grand Traverse County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Benzie County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Leelanau County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Complete Otsego County results from the Aug. 5 2008, primary election.

Casperson wins nomination to challenge Stupak; 2 move on in Michigan Court of Appeals race; Downstate counties support Detroit Zoo tax

Leelanau County voters passed three millages.

A Grand Traverse County commissioner was on track to defeat a Rapid City author in the state House 104th District race.

Herb Lemcool won’t be chairman of the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners next year.

Voters turned out some township office incumbents, but others survived close races.

Sheriff’s races across northwestern Lower Michigan involved a couple of incumbents who hung onto their seats and one who didn’t.

Challenger Richard Schmuckal — a former county commissioner — beat incumbent District 3 Commissioner William Bunek in Tuesday’s Republican primary by 11 votes.

Jack Kelly knocked out Elmwood Township’s incumbent supervisor and another Republican challenger in the primary election.

Voters terminated Lee Wilson’s 32-year reign as Garfield Township supervisor by an overwhelming margin and sent five additional incumbents packing.

Acme voters stood behind a township board bruised, battered, but unbowed by years of development battles that featured illegal efforts to oust them from office.

Challenger Thomas Bensley ousted two-term incumbent Grand Traverse County Sheriff Scott Fewins by a nearly 2-to-1 margin.

Eric Grebe single-handedly turned the race for Garfield Township treasurer into the most expensive in Grand Traverse County.

Now that Barack Obama has clinched the Democratic nomination for president, he wants convention delegates from Michigan and Florida to have full voting rights at the party's national convention.

A large number of first-time candidates wading into northern Michigan's political landscape could draw a heavier voter turnout at Tuesday's primary election, local officials said.

The answer to Michigan's faltering economy lies in breaking down Lansing's partisan gridlock, three of four Republican candidates for the 101st District House of Representatives agree.

Candidate Mike McManus is raising money like an incumbent in his second shot at the state House of Representatives, while his Republican challengers chip in their own to keep up.

The Republican primary for the 104th District state House race has been "eerily quiet" in Kalkaska and Grand Traverse counties, where author Tony Hefner of Rapid City faces Wayne Schmidt, a Grand Traverse County commissioner.

A defamation lawsuit against the Traverse City Record-Eagle by Grand Traverse County Sheriff Scott Fewins was publicly announced by Fewins' attorney Friday. The sheriff faces two opponents in his bid for re-election on next Tuesday's primary ballot.

Candidates for Leelanau County offices in next week's primary election are drawing on their experience and a desire for transparency in hopes of getting elected. Thirteen Republicans are involved in contested primary votes Tuesday. Voters also will be asked to approve a two-year, 0.375-mill levy for 911 services, a 0.5-mill levy for two years for the road commission and a six-year, 0.2421-mill levy for senior services.

Funding of fire departments, zoning issues and a general call for change generated Republican primary challenges in several Grand Traverse County townships. With few challengers lined up in November, Tuesday's Republican primary election will decide most of the contested races.

No way to run campaign; Not by accident; Holier than thou attitude; Restore integrity

Funding for emergency services, passing a new zoning ordinance and a proposed electrical substation continue to dominate the political landscape in Elmwood Township.

Letters to the Editor regarding the Aug. 5, 2008 primary election.

Jeff Morse had troubles in the past, but believes they'll help him provide well-rounded leadership if elected Benzie County sheriff. The Lake Ann native and Republican candidate pleaded no contest to a charge of domestic violence in Antrim County after he assaulted his wife in 1995.

Letters regarding the upcoming Aug. 5 primary election.

Letters to the Editor pertaining to the Aug. 5 primary election.

A crowded Republican primary ballot looms for voters in Garfield Township. This article contains biographical information for each candidate.

The challengers in Garfield Township preach for change while incumbents staunchly defend their records, some of which have been decades in the making. It's a historic moment for Garfield voters, who haven't had this many choices at the ballot box in almost half a century. Fifteen Republicans, including six incumbents, will be on the Aug. 5 primary ballot looking to fill seven seats on the township board.

Professional, efficient; Exceeds the standard; Time for a change; Influence our future; Lack of information; The 'spin' in Leelanau; Listener, communicator; Open-door policy; Ethical approach

The often bitter debate over a proposed Meijer Inc. store and other development plans along M-72 continues to cast a long shadow over Acme Township and its upcoming primary election.

A crowded Republican primary ballot awaits voters in Acme Township.

How much political courage do Michigan politicians have? Very little, and less all the time. That's the conclusion reached by Project Vote Smart, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to creating better-informed voters.

The issue: The Aug. 5 primary election Our view: This is the one that counts

The biggest -- and most welcome -- changes in Benzie County politics have come long before voters go to the polls Aug. 5. Sheriff Bob Blank, whose administration cost county taxpayers tens of thousands in lawsuits, said he would not seek re-election.

Northern Michigan voters will head to the polls Aug. 5 to choose among candidates for local, state and national office, as well as decide numerous local tax measures. This article lists all public office races in the region, as well as local millage requests.

Tom Bensley believes he can make the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Department better. Brian Weese, with no background in law enforcement, said he can't do any worse than the current sheriff. Sheriff Scott Fewins did not return several calls from the Record-Eagle seeking to discuss his candidacy.

Good government; Informed and intelligent; Integrity, heart and soul; Initiated new programs; Qualified for duties; A tireless worker; Will make changes; Three good candidates; Dedication, experience; A man of integrity; Experienced, trustworthy; Rectify the situation; Make voices heard; ecent and honorable; Experience counts; Vote experience; It's about giving back; ime for positive change; trong leadership; Vote wisely; Most qualified, certified; tireless worker; nvincible or useful? Let's end, not start wars; Hard-working, dedicated;

All three candidates for Grand Traverse County Sheriff are native-born sons who attended the same high school and two started their police careers in similar fashion.

Hundreds of northern Michigan residents are lined up as candidates on the Aug. 5 primary election ballots in counties across the region, as voters prepare to choose their party candidates for the November general election.

Voters in several northern Michigan counties have multiple choices for sheriff, but races in Antrim, Leelanau, Charlevoix and Manistee counties feature only Republican candidates, so the Aug. 5 primary election will decide who gets those jobs.

The Peninsula Township Board next month will review details of a proposed purchase and a growing group of citizens for 62 acres of rolling woodlands off Center Road, including 450 feet of East Bay frontage. The board will review a 10-year, .4-mill question for the November general election ballot to fund the natural area.

Prospective Traverse City school board members have nearly three weeks to file as a candidate for the November election.

Grand Traverse County commissioners can't order fixes to local roads, but that hasn't stopped voters from demanding commission candidates explain how they'll address all the crumbling pavement. Candidates who'll face off in the Aug. 5 primary election cited roads as the issue consistently raised by voters.

Goes above, beyond; An experienced officer; Keep open mind; Educated and qualified; Type of person needed; Corporations rule; Practical, common sense; Honesty, integrity, respect; Honesty, integrity, respect

A flurry of recent visits to Michigan by Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama likely helped the Illinois senator take a slight lead over Republican John McCain in a new poll released Thursday.

Richard Brewer is the lone candidate on the August ballot for an open six-year term on the Kalkaska County Road Commission, but he still may not get the post.

The issue: 2008 election; Our view: The more the better

Michigan Democrats picked high-ranking union officials, party activists and elected officials Saturday to fill out the state's Democratic National Convention delegation.

Behind-the-scenes negotiations are wrapping up on who will be chosen Saturday to fill the state's remaining Democratic National Convention seats.

Challengers are lining up to take on incumbent officials throughout Manistee County. The political issues vary by office, but several candidates credit a series of workshops the league hosted in October.

A flood of candidates for Garfield Township's Board of Trustees signals an abrupt change to a 30-year election tradition of lean ballots with few choices.

Open seats for the state Legislature generated multiple candidates across much of Michigan, but not in Republican-leaning Grand Traverse County.

Leelanau County voters will be asked to approve a tax for senior citizen services in the Aug. 5 primary election.

Years ago, the time-honored tradition was that Democratic presidential candidates formally kicked off their fall election campaigns in Detroit on Labor Day. But don't look for Barack Obama to show up in Detroit this fall.

This year's GOP challenge of five-term Sen. Carl Levin shapes up as another Mission Improbable, but Michigan faces some of its most spirited challenges of congressional incumbents in decades.

Juniors and seniors from Benzie Central and Frankfort high schools attended a voting rally Friday in the Benzie auditorium, where they registered to vote and met candidates for various local, state and national offices.

Elmwood Township voters will have their choice of candidates for each township office in the Aug. 5 primary.

Benzie and Manistee counties judges are up for election in November.

The issue: Benzie prosecutor fixes stepson's ticket; Our view: Need help? Call 1-800-TONY-THE-FIXER

Charlevoix resident Connie Saltonstall, a Democratic candidate for state representative in the 105th District, thinks Michigan's water is too valuable to jeopardize and she wants federal environmental officials to better study the potential effects of a deep-injection disposal well in Antrim County's Star Township.

The Aug. 5 primary election promises to feature contested races for sheriff in several area counties. A number of other county offices also have open seats.

Election information for the Aug. 5 primary for the five-county Grand Traverse region.

Michigan Democratic leaders settled Wednesday on a plan to give presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton 69 delegates and Barack Obama 59 as a way to get the delegates seated at the national convention.

Benzie County Undersheriff Rory Heckman will resign this week and focus on a run for his department's top post.

Antrim County's Sheriff's Department lacks leadership, contends former Undersheriff Dan Bean, who'll take on incumbent Sheriff Terry Johnson at the polls this year.