AG Warns Consumers of Unpaid Toll Road Scam
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Making medicine in America
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| Hi there,
I wanted to tell you about a bill that would target an issue that Michiganders have been struggling with for far too long: access to life-saving prescription drugs. The American Made Pharmaceuticals Act, which I introduced earlier this month, would encourage U.S. manufacturing of critical pharmaceuticals and reduce dependence on foreign sources. If COVID taught us anything, it opened our eyes to the consequences of an outsourced pharmaceutical supply chain. When we are dependent on others for absolutely critical supplies like life-saving prescription drugs, we leave patients without vital treatments. Specifically, the American Made Pharmaceuticals Act would:
This is an issue I’ve been working on for several years. In 2022 I launched the bipartisan Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Caucus, which works to address drug shortages and encourage domestic production of essential medicines; and my Strengthening America’s Strategic National Stockpile Act was signed into law, improving the U.S. stockpile of critical medical supplies and expanding domestic manufacturing of those supplies. Last summer, I introduced the Ensuring Access to Lifesaving Drugs Act, which would expand the supply of critical drugs during shortages. It is vital that we become less dependent on other countries, bring jobs back to places like Michigan, and help protect patients from drug shortages. -Rep. Elissa Slotkin |
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Medicare’s ability to negotiate will save billions
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| Hi there,
I wanted to talk to you about a really important development in the effort to lower prescription drug prices: Beginning in January 2026, Medicare beneficiaries will save an estimated $1.5 billion a year in out-of-pocket costs thanks to reduced prescription drug prices announced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These huge savings are due to Medicare’s ability to – for the first time – negotiate directly with pharmaceutical manufacturers for lower prices, which was authorized when Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act and it was signed into law in 2022. Unlike other countries around the world who negotiate lower prices on behalf of their patients, before we passed the IRA, Medicare was prohibited by law from doing so. Thankfully, that has now changed. Last summer, the first ten drugs subject to negotiation were announced. Here is a reminder of what those drugs are, what they are used for, and the reduction in cost announced following negotiations: 1. Eliquis, used for preventing strokes and blood clots, reduced 56 percent There is a reason that I and so many of my colleagues in Congress fought to give Medicare the ability to negotiate drug prices – because it would put money back in the pockets of our seniors and taxpayers. This announcement shows the concrete benefits of our fight. While these savings are limited to only the above ten drugs this time around, the number of drugs subject to negotiation will increase in the coming years. You can learn more about additional plans for negotiations HERE. After so much work by dedicated patients, advocates, and lawmakers, Medicare finally has the authority to drive down prices on some of the most common and most expensive prescription drugs, and the difference is measured in billions of dollars. – Rep. Elissa Slotkin |
Secretary Benson statement on allegations of voter fraud
 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAug. 15, 2024 Contact: Cheri Hardmon [email protected] |
Secretary Benson statement on allegations of voter fraud in Macomb County Primary ElectionToday, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson issued the following statement regarding allegations that four Macomb County voters illegally cast two ballots in the August Primary: “I’m grateful to the Macomb County clerk for his partnership in ensuring that voter fraud is rare and that when it happens, we catch it and prosecute it to the fullest extent of the law. Thanks to our partnership and commitment to security, he followed the protocols we have in place, and I have now referred the matter to the Michigan Attorney General for further investigation and potential criminal charges.” |
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 15, 2024
Contact: [email protected]
Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Commission on Services to the Aging, Michigan Wheat Committee, State Land Bank Authority Board of Directors, Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists, Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery, and the Library of Michigan Board of Trustees.
Today’s appointees represent Michigan’s young professionals, communities of color, seniors, and more. The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of appointees are women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history.
Commission on Services to the Aging
Joy Murphy, of Kentwood, is currently retired and volunteers with the Michigan American Association of Retired Persons where she is a member of the state and Grand Rapids leadership teams. She has previously worked as a senior account manager at TDS Metrocom, a client development coordinator at US Xchange, and as an inside sales representative at Newark Electronics. Joy Murphy is reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring July 28, 2027.
Sandra “Tene” M. Ramsey, of Detroit, is an appointee of Wayne County Executive Warren C Evans with the Wayne County Inter-Governmental & External Affairs Department. She also serves as the director of the City of Detroit Senior Citizens Department and a former board member for the Detroit Area Agency on Aging. She holds a Master of Arts in clinical psychology from the Center for Humanistic Studies Graduate School, and a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Wayne State University. Sandra “Tene” M. Ramsey is reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring July 28, 2027.
Dennis Smith, of Marquette, is the president of Dennis H. Smith Consulting and the former president and CEO of the Upper Peninsula Health Plan. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University. Dennis Smith is reappointed to represent Independents for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring July 28, 2027.
Shirley Tuggle, of Battle Creek, is a retired registered nurse. She has previously been an adjunct professor at Kellogg Community College, a quality assurance director at PACE, a quality assurance director at Select Specialty Hospital, and a nurse consultant at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. She holds a Bachelor of Science in healthcare from Western Michigan University and a Master of Science in nursing from Grand Valley State University. Shirley Tuggle is reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring July 28, 2027.
Arjan Kallou, of Troy, is a program operations director at United Community Family Services. She holds an associate’s degree in health care technology and a Bachelor of Arts in Health Service Administration from Baker College. Arjan Kallou is reappointed to represent Independents for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring July 28, 2027.
The Commission on Services to the Aging advises the Governor and Legislature on coordination and administration of state programs, changes in federal and state programs, and the nature and magnitude of aging priorities. The Commission also reviews and approves grants made by OSA and participates in development of the state plan and budget as required by the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Wheat Committee
James Doyle, of Grand Rapids, is the executive vice president of the King Milling Company. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Michigan State University. James Doyle is reappointed to represent District 9 growers for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027.
Jason Dunning, of Fremont, is the district sales manager for Dairyland Seed Company-Corteva Agriscience. He holds a Bachelor of Science in agribusiness management from Michigan State University. Jason Dunning is reappointed to represent District 1 growers for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027.
Lyn Uphaus, of Manchester, is the owner of Uphaus Farms. He holds an associate’s degree in animal science from Michigan State University. Lyn Uphaus is reappointed to represent District 4 growers for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027.
The Michigan Wheat Promotion Committee seeks to promote the production and consumption of wheat grown in Michigan and assists in the agricultural research and development of wheat products.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Land Bank Authority Board of Directors
Helen Lehman, of Ada, is the executive director of the New Development Corporation. She serves as a member of the Policy Committee and Neighborhoods and Communities Coalition for the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan. She also serves as founder and board vice chair of Catherine’s Care Center in Grand Rapids. Lehman has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from Aquinas College. Helen Lehman is reappointed to represent a resident of the state for a term commencing Augst 15, 2024, and expiring July 31, 2028.
The State Land Bank Authority works to create a positive economic impact on Michigan communities by recycling land to productive use. They work in a coordinated manner to foster the development of property to promote and support land bank operations at the county and local levels.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate
Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists
Dr. Barry Lesnick, of West Bloomfield, is an optometrist at the Belleville Vision Center. Dr. Lesnick earned a Doctor of Optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry and holds a controlled substance license and a license in optometry. Dr. Barry Lesnick is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2025. Dr. Barry Lesnick succeeds David Oh whose term has expired.
The Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to promulgate rules for licensing occupational therapists and ascertaining minimal entry level competency of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the Board to promote and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
Delores Mitchell, of Lansing, is retired. She most recently worked as telemarketer at Labor Law Poster Service. Delores Mitchell earned a diploma in fashion design and interior design at the Institute of Merchandising and Design. Delores Mitchell is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2025. Mitchell succeeds Mathew Hauser whose term has expired.
The Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery regulates the practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery in the State of Michigan; provided for the examination, licensing and registration of osteopathic physicians and surgeons; and provided for the discipline of offenders against the Act. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. This responsibility is implemented by the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of health practitioners and verifying continuing medical education during licensure. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Library of Michigan Board of Trustees
Dr. Mia Murphy, of Lansing, is a chief policy officer at Michigan Association of State Universities. She has previously been a senior analyst in the State of Michigan Budget Office and a chairperson of the Associated Students of Michigan State University. She earned a PhD in higher, adult, and lifelong education from Michigan State University, a master’s in international relations from the University of Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts in political science and history from Michigan State University. Dr. Mia Murphy is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring October 1, 2026. Dr. Murphy succeeds Brian Larkin, whose term has expired.
Melissa Lambert, of Allen Park, is school library media specialist at Allen Park High School. Lambert received a Bachelor of Arts in history, geography, social studies, secondary education from Michigan State University, and a Master of library and information science from Dominican University. Melissa Lambert is appointed to represent K-12 school librarians for a term commencing August 15, 2024, and expiring October 1, 2026. Lambert succeeds Nancy Hmayed whose term has expired.
The Library of Michigan Board of Trustees makes recommendations to the Michigan Department of Education regarding the Library’s services, budget, and proposed governing rules. The Board of Trustees also makes recommendations regarding the employment of other administrative and general assistants and employees of the Library as are necessary for the care and management of the Library, including the Law Library Branch of the Library.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Football Uniform Grades-2024
Football Uniform Grades-2024
Written Friday August 9th at 4:45 PM
Here are the football uniform grades after media day.
Red
Clarkston (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Wolves are making changes to their uniforms this season. The Michigan helmet stays which is the classic Clarkston look. The jerseys will be really interesting to watch come week one. GRADE INC.
Lake Orion (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Dragons went old school with the football uniforms last season. The all green and all white with the green V-Neck look is classic Lake Orion. There are no stripes or no LO V-neck collar, just a simple classic look with names on the back. The only down side is the road uniforms say DRAGONS as well and not LAKE ORION. The pants have the classic stripes on the sides with the Dragons logo and the green helmet makes it a perfect uniform. Finally a jersey that Coach Chris Bell got right and it’s me approved. GRADE A.
Adams (Uniform Provider-Adidas): The Highlanders have a yellow helmet with the Adams A on one side and the player number on the other side. There was talk about putting the script Adams on them which I questioned why they would do that. The home yellow is okay but not great, it is an upgrade over the brown jerseys and white pants look and or the brown and yellow look. The road whites are different with the brown and yellow stripes on the elbows. I’m not a fan of these jerseys. GRADE C.
West Bloomfield (Uniform Provider-Home/Road/Alt-Nike, Third jersey-Russell Athletic): The Lakers haven’t changed much with their uniforms. The white pants are classic along with the green and white uniforms. The all white look looks like the clone troopers from the Star Wars series. The all black uniforms look solid as well. The military uniforms also look great as well. The helmet needs a paint job. Green helmet would be much better and smoother. GRADE A-
Oxford (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Wildcats have a classic simple uniform whether it’s the home blue or road white uniforms. They went with a yellow helmet which is different from past tradition when they wore blue helmets. The new design with the small wildcat with the OHS on top of the sides along with the white stripe doesn’t look right, look too LSU like. The simple plain uniform looks very nice especially with yellow or blue pants. Oxford should NEVER wear white pants under any circumstance. White pants have been bad luck in the past. GRADE B.
White
Harper Woods (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Pioneers have an interesting uniform combination. They have three helmets and a very good uniform design. I like the black and maroon helmet much better than their white helmets. The uniform top looks great whether if it’s maroon, black, or white jerseys and pants. The black or maroon helmets make the uniform look very strong but the white helmet,well not so much. GRADE B.
Southfield Arts and Tech (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Warriors finally got out of the Adidas looks and went to Nike last season. The all blue uniforms with red helmet looked very good along with the all white with red helmet as well but I’m not a fan of the Warriors name on the back of the road uniforms. They also have a red uniform with white pants which looked good. They look so much better in the Nike uniforms and also red helmets which has the Warriors logo on both sides which is great. White is not a good look for the helmet. Great uniform and pants. GRADE A-.
Groves (Uniform Provider-Nike, Alternate-Zenith): The Falcons have a great home uniform but a subpar road uniform. The green helmet is great with the old classic Atlanta Falcons bird on both sides of the helmet. The home green, gold, and black look is a great look for the Falcons. The road white uniforms look odd especially the lettering in gold. It’s not like two years ago with that look, now that was a great look, the current look not so much. The alternate uniforms look good, the yellow jerseys look solid with the Falcons wings on the top of the jerseys. The greens look fine, the white needs a ton of work. GRADE C.
Rochester (Uniform Provider-Under Armor): The Falcons went back to tradition and no gimmicks. Rochester has an all blue uniform with a blue helmet and a road white look with a blue helmet. They have an alternate black look for a game if it’s a big one. I like that they finally figured out the uniform design and not go all Oregon like they did a few years ago which was the definition of fashion disaster. GRADE A.
Stoney Creek (Uniform Provider- Zenith): The Cougars released a new uniform combination this season. They went with the all navy blue helmet and the navy blue pants. I like the design of the uniform but the look needs some work. The gold doesn’t pan out as I thought it would. I don’t like the SC collar on the jersey. I think the Stoney Creek name is too small and the numbers are too big. The back of the jersey says COUGARS which is something I’m not too fond off. Overall it’s good look but some of the fonts need work. GRADE C.
Blue
North Farmington (Uniform Provider-Adidas): The Raiders are going with three jerseys. The Adidas logo scares me but Coach Jon Herstein loved the new look especially the black with the brown trim and the same with the white with brown trim. They finally got out of the white helmets. The all white look with the gold helmet would look great along with the all black and golds as well. Great look, not a fan of the provider. GRADE B.
Seaholm (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Maples went back to Maple helmets and went with an all Maple look at home and all white on the road. I think its okay but it’s not like the uniforms from three years ago. I wished the Maple helmet were with the old uniforms of the past. It’s an okay look but the jerseys are too plain but if they bring back the opposite elbows then yippee. GRADE B.
Troy (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Colts finally got Nike uniforms and they look as sharp as ever. The home black has the COLTS name while the road white has TROY. I wish they would put name plates on the back of the road uniforms but they got the all black and the all white look finally nailed down. GRADE A.
Troy Athens (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Red Hawks classic uniform design I really like with the gold helmet, red jersey, and gold pants. It’s the traditional look and the ATHENS crest looks sharp. The all white on the road looks very strong as well. I would like for Coach Tom Cook to at least put a Red Hawk on the helmet and not an A. They took the name plates off which was very sad. I like the Nike uniforms they wear. GRADE A.
Oak Park (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Knights changed uniforms last season. I really like the home red uniforms with the name OAK PARK on the crest with white pants with the Knights logo and the Jumpman photo. The all white look looked good until they went to white helmets. To make it worse there has been games they wore red pants. Overall I like the uniform design but NO WHITE HELMETS. GRADE B-.
Bloomfield Hills (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Blackhawks went back to black helmets which made the most sense and brought a black uniform with purple lettering. I like this uniform a lot even though their purple jerseys from the past were better. The white uniforms look too plain. The home black looks good, the white needs to bring back the opposite elbows. GRADE B.
Farmington (Uniform Provider-Nike): This is not the best design when it comes to uniforms. I don’t like the helmet being white but the Falcon wings make up for it. The all blue look looks very good but the helmet doesn’t click. If there is a team that could go back to a classic look like they did with the Penn State look then Farmington might have a great shot to do so. GRADE B.
Gold
Berkley (Uniform Provider-Nike): Berkley went back to the old tradition but something a bit different. They will have maroon helmets with the same design which is fine but they are bringing back the blue uniforms which looks great and white pants on both home and road. Overall I’m going to miss the all maroon look but the old school and the all white on the road looks great anyway. GRADE A.
Royal Oak (Uniform Provider-Zenith): The Ravens kept their uniforms from last season. The home black jerseys have the Ravens name in white with blue numbering. The elbows are much better with the blue, white, blue stripes. The road ones are the same design. They have a black helmet to go with it. I forgot the provider but they look fine. GRADE A.
Ferndale (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Eagles kept the same look with the all brown look. They still have an all yellow look and an all white look as well. The helmet is dark brown which I really like a lot. This is a great uniform that can make the colors work to their advantage. GRADE A.
Pontiac (Uniform Provider-Home/Third jerseys Russell Athletic, Road-Nike): The Phoenix have a solid color scheme. Pontiac has purple uniforms with black pants at home. They wore a new black uniform with purple wings on them. The road is white with all white uniforms with the purple helmet. I really like the purple even though Pontiac has two different uniform providers, I’ll live with it. GRADE A.
Avondale (Uniform Provider-Nike): The Yellow Jackets changed their home uniforms. I really like their home purple uniforms with the yellow pants. It is very classic. I am not a fan of their road uniforms. The changed the road uniforms by going to Nike. The all black third jerseys look very good as well for the Yellow Jackets which has became a permanent look. Finally a clean look. GRADE A