SW Michigan

LANSING - Supporters of a ban on fracking in Michigan can begin gathering signatures on petitions that could put the issue on the 2014 ballot. The state Board of Canvassers approved the petition language Wednesday morning, that would ban the practice of using horizontal hydraulic fracturing, called fracking, to get at pools of natural gas and oil deep under the ground across the state.

Seven years ago, Michigan's Democratic and Republican lawmakers arrived at a rare moment of consensus: They agreed to dramatically raise the bar for high school graduation. A two-bill package passed the Senate without dissent, and there was just a smattering of no votes in the 110-member House.

PORTAGE, MI -- Greg Gray, head of Brighton Area Schools and the only person being interviewed for the superintendency of Portage Public Schools, was not among the 23 original applicants in Portage, confirmed a consultant involved with the superintendent search.

KALAMAZOO-The Western Michigan University Board of Trustees will consider room-and-board rates for 2013-14 as well as a new three-year contract that covers members of the Michigan State Employees Association who run the campus power plant.

The Holland City Council approved a fireworks ordinance Wednesday that limits the use of fireworks in the city. The ordinance changes are in response to the state's repeal of a long-standing ban on fireworks that leave the ground or make loud bangs after being ignited.