July 2, 2009 Press Conference
Operation: Our Troops Count

Fixing Michigan's Broken Military Voting
System and Defending Overseas Troops'
Right to Have Their Vote Count

As we celebrate America's freedom this week, the Oakland, Macomb and Wayne County Clerks are calling for Michigan to ensure our troops - defending democracy overseas - have their right to vote protected here at home. The Clerks will outline how technology and new legislation will help.

WHO: Ruth Johnson, the Oakland County Clerk, Carmella Sabaugh, the Macomb County Clerk, representatives for Wayne County Clerk Cathy Garrett and legislation sponsor State Rep. Vince Gregory (D-Southfield.) The Clerks together represent half of Michigan's registered voters. They will be joined by local veterans, various veteran officials and local lawmakers.

WHAT: Michigan's military voting system got a failing grade in a national report because our troops and their families stationed overseas do not have enough time to return their ballots to be counted on Election Day. There are solutions to ensure that every American - especially those defending our nation - can celebrate their freedom by casting their vote and having it count.

WHEN: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2009

WHERE: Freedom Hill County Park in Sterling Heights 15000 Metropolitan Parkway (16 Mile Road east of Schoenherr west of Utica Rd.) Enter the park, pass the parking booths and immediately turn left. Park on the northwest side of Ralph A. Liberato Independence Hall. Brief remarks will be made at a podium, outside in front of the tank and helicopter.

RSVP:(248) 858-0168 or wardt@oakgov.com.