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The three Democratic candidates for Michigan governor took the stage in Grand Rapids during the first of two scheduled televised debates. The hour-long event covered a range of issues, including the hot-button topics of guns, insurance and immigration. Interestingly, on the same day hundreds of gun rights activists held a rally at the Capitol, two candidates - Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and former Senate Minority Leader Gretchen Whitmer - actively supported gun control measures to make schools safer. The third candidate - Ann Arbor businessman Shri Thanedar - stated his support for the Second Amendment, while making the case to make schools more safe through other measures. All three candidates pledged to reduce Michigan's auto insurance rates, and each presented a stance on immigration that runs counter to the current hardline national model. MORE
► Hundreds of gun carrying Michiganders hold rally at Capitol

Independent redistricting to appear on Nov. ballot

The Board of State Canvassers on Wednesday ruled 3-0 to place a proposal to change how Michigan draws its state legislative and Congressional districts on the November ballot. Currently, redistricting is controlled by the Republican-led state legislature. Voters Not Politicians gathered enough signatures for the proposal, which calls for creating an independent commission in time for the next round of redistricting after the 2020 Census. An opposition group still has an appeal pending before the Michigan Supreme Court to keep the proposal off the ballot. MORE

Pilot captures stunning aerial pictures from U.P. flooding aftermath

Parts of the Upper Peninsula still are recovering from the heavy rains last weekend that washed-out roads, created dozens of potholes and had Gov. Rick Snyder declaring a state of disaster in Houghton and Menominee counties. The damage has been impressive. Pilot Neil Harri shared with MLive a handful of his photos of the devastation. Even he couldn't believe some of the things he saw - and he's been flying for 30 years. MORE

As draft day dawns, we discuss where Wagner will land in U-M podcast

Where will Mo Wagner land in tonight's NBA draft? He's projected anywhere from the mid first round to mid second round. That's a fairly wide range. Our Michigan Wolverines beat writers tackle that question in our weekly U-M podcast. Plus, there's another draft this weekend - the NHL draft - with Wolverine implications. And no podcast would be complete without at least a little football talk. MORE
► Video: Wolverine Confidential podcast
► What to know about U-M's basketball schedule

15 Michigan river cabins to rent for a relaxing wilderness escape

Sometimes you need to get away from it all. While everyone else is heading to the lake, you should buck the trend and head for the river. After all, Michigan is full of scenic rivers and, luckily, welcoming cabins located right along the rushing water. Emily Bingham highlights 15 relaxing rentals located on rivers throughout the state. Take the family for a summer vacation or go solo. Either way, the river is calling. MORE
► The ultimate Michigan getaway? Rent a private island