by orionontv | Feb 21, 2025 | Regional News
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 20, 2025
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Attorney General Nessel Calls for Action Against Counterfeit Weight Loss Drug Makers
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has joined a 38-state and territory bipartisan coalition requesting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) take swift action against bad actors who are endangering consumers with counterfeit forms of the weight loss and diabetes drugs Mounjaro, Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy (GLP-1 drugs).
“As weight loss and diabetes medications grow in popularity, scammers are taking advantage of the demand,” Nessel said. “To ensure you receive the medication you need and avoid counterfeit products, always get your medications prescribed by your doctor and the prescription filled at a licensed pharmacy. I urge the FDA to take action against counterfeiters to protect Michigan consumers.”
The letter declares that the Food and Drug Administration has the expertise and resources to stop the bad conduct and deceptive practices by counterfeit drug manufacturers and that they should increase enforcement actions against compounding pharmacies illegally participating in this market. It also encourages the FDA to partner with state pharmacy boards to ensure compounded GLP-1 drugs are produced safely and in sanitary environments.
Attorney General Nessel joined this bipartisan letter, co-led by South Carolina, Colorado, Illinois, and Tennessee and joined by Alaska, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
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by orionontv | Feb 19, 2025 | Regional News
Start Your Career with a Summer Job at Oakland County
Post Date:02/19/2025 12:05 PM
- Summer employment and internships with Oakland County enable students to begin developing professional networks.
- Starting wages for summer employment at the county range $12.71-17.89 per hour.
- Apply at oakgov.com/jobs. For more information, call 248-858-0530.
Pontiac, Mich. – With a summer job or internship at Oakland County, college and high school students can earn credit hours and paychecks while understanding how local government serves residents.
“Working for Oakland County helps young people explore different career paths and gain new skills, all while earning a decent wage,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “And it’s a great opportunity to make new friends.”
Summer employment at Oakland County begins April 1 with wages ranging between $12.71 and 17.89 per hour depending on job classification. College internships are paid and eligible for credit hours for freshman through graduate students during all semesters. Additionally, employees and interns are enrolled in a retirement plan.
Oakland County is actively hiring for various positions across different departments and divisions, including:
Applications opened Tuesday, Feb. 18. Apply online at oakgov.com/jobs or in person at the Oakland County Human Resources Department in the Executive Office Building at 2100 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford. For more information, call 248-858-0530.
Summer employment is generally limited to 13 weeks; however, some departments and positions may require a longer term of employment.
Applicants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school or college. Job seekers younger than 18 who have not completed high school must obtain working papers at the time of appointment. They will also be required to provide written parental consent for the employment physical and a parent/guardian must be present for the TB skin test. For positions that require proof of college or university enrollment, applicants must upload a copy of their college transcripts.
by orionontv | Feb 17, 2025 | Regional News
Consumer Alerts
Here are the top January Consumer Alerts you should be aware of:
Free Credit Reports: What Consumers Should Know
Your credit report is a financial snapshot used by lenders, employers, and service providers. Regularly check reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion for accuracy and signs of identity theft. Understand the difference between credit reports and scores to better manage your financial health.
Travel Club Memberships
Beware of “free vacation” offers that require attending a high-pressure travel club sales pitch. Memberships often come with hidden fees, limited availability, and unfulfilled promises. Michigan law provides some protections, including a three-day cancellation period. Always read contracts carefully, verify discounts, and research companies before committing to any offer.
Health Club Memberships – Lose Weight, Not Money
Before joining a fitness center, carefully review contracts to avoid misleading sales tactics, unexpected fees, and cancellation issues. Be cautious of “free” trials, long-term commitments, and financially unstable gyms. Always get promises in writing, verify policies, and research the business. Stay informed to protect your wallet and membership rights.
Online Ticket Purchasing
When buying tickets online, watch out for frauds, counterfeit sales, and hidden costs. Use safe payment methods, buy only from reliable websites, and confirm the legitimacy of your tickets. Steer clear of dubious transactions and request refunds from the merchant or your bank if the event is canceled.
QR Code Hijacking
QR codes are convenient but can be exploited by scammers in “quishing” scams. Fraudulent codes can steal personal data, install malware, or hijack accounts. Avoid scanning unknown or codes that appear to have been tampered with. Verify URLs and use secure QR scanner apps.
Disaster Relief and Charity Scams
Disaster scammers exploit tragedies by posing as fake charities to steal donations and personal data. To donate safely, give to well-known organizations, avoid social media ads and high-pressure tactics, and never pay by wire transfer or gift card. Always verify charities, donate through official websites, and request receipts.
Phishing Scams
Phishing is a cyberattack where scammers pose as trusted sources to steal data or money. Tactics include fake emails, texts, and websites. Warning signs include urgency, poor grammar, and suspicious links. Never click unknown links or share personal info.
Text Message Scams: Smishing
Smishing is a scam where fraudsters send fake texts posing as trusted companies to steal personal info or install malware. Common scams include fake delivery notices and bank fraud alerts. Never click unknown links or share sensitive data.
Auto Extended Warranties
Auto extended warranties are not real warranties—they are service contracts that cost extra and may have limited coverage. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to sell them. Always research before buying, read the contract carefully, and check for complaints.
Card Skimming and Shimming
Skimming and shimming are scams that steal debit and credit card data from ATMs and payment terminals. Skimmers capture magnetic strip data, while shimmers steal chip information. Protect yourself: use cash, check your statements, avoid stand-alone ATMs, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent unauthorized access.
After the Disaster Scams
After disasters, scammers exploit victims through imposter scams, price gouging, fake contractors, FEMA fraud, and flood-damaged vehicle sales. Protect yourself by verifying identities, researching contractors and charities, checking vehicle history, and reporting fraud. Remain cautious and informed to avoid being scammed during emergencies.
Prescription Drugs – How to Safely Save Money
To save money on prescription drugs, use discount programs, compare costs, and look for trustworthy online pharmacies. Pharmacies are required under Michigan law to provide prices upon request. Manufacturer coupons and discount cards have limitations, so use them with caution. Always do your homework to make sure you’re buying medications safely and affordably.
by orionontv | Feb 11, 2025 | Regional News
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 11, 2025
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AG Nessel Warns Consumers of Missed Jury Duty Scam
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her consumer alert about scammers impersonating government entities as residents continue to report a missed jury duty scam across the state, most recently in West Michigan. In this scam, fraudsters claiming to represent the Kent County Sheriff’s Department call unsuspecting residents, falsely stating that they have failed to appear for jury duty and must immediately post bond.
Attorney General Nessel reminds residents that delinquent jurors are never contacted by phone to pay fines for missed jury duty. Official notifications are sent by mail with specific instructions on what to do next.
“Scammers use fear and intimidation as tactics to steal your hard-earned money,” Nessel said. “A government agency will never demand immediate payment over the phone. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with a government agency and suspect it’s a scam, hang up and verify the agency’s contact information.”
If you are concerned that you are being targeted by a government imposter, you can protect yourself by doing your own internet research. Looking up the phone number for the government agency allows you to call and inquire without relying upon information provided by the scammer.
Residents can also simply do an internet search for the phone number they are being asked to call. This may help determine whether it actually belongs to a government agency or if it is one being used in scams. Attorney General Nessel wants all Michigan residents to be on the alert so they can avoid being scam victims.
For more details, view the Government Imposter Scams alert.
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by orionontv | Feb 7, 2025 | Regional News
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 6, 2025
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AG Nessel Launches Crime Victim Rights Webpage
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recently launched a webpage aimed at educating crime victims of their rights and guiding them through the legal process after a crime is reported. The webpage, as the Attorney General explains in a video, serves as a comprehensive resource, providing critical information to those affected by a crime.
“Ensuring crime victims have access to the support and information they need is one of my main goals as Michigan’s Attorney General,” Nessel said. “The Crime Victim Rights webpage will serve as a vital tool in empowering victims to report crimes, connecting them with resources, and guiding them through the legal process.”
The Crime Victim Rights webpage includes:
- A list of victims’ rights;
- Statewide victim support services and resources within the Department of Attorney General;
- Information on crime victim compensation;
- Guidance on victim advocates services; and
- An overview of the legal process for felony and misdemeanor cases.
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by orionontv | Feb 5, 2025 | Regional News
Post Date:02/05/2025 9:05 AM
- This international business to business (B2B) forum, organized by Oakland County, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and advanced business events (abe), will explore cutting-edge topics such as transport electrification and batteries, hydrogen and sustainable propulsion, connectivity and cybersecurity, autonomous driving, urban infrastructure and more.
- Attendees will encounter a full program of expert-led technical presentations, pre-arranged B2B meetings to connect buyers, suppliers and innovators, exhibitions of cutting-edge technologies and solutions, and participants from around the globe.
- To register, go to michiganvehiclemeetings.com.
Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County, in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and advanced business events (abe), is proud to announce the second edition of the Vehicle & Transportation Technology Innovation Meetings (VTM Michigan), taking place April 23-24 at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Mich.
This international business to business (B2B) forum will bring together leaders from the automotive and mobility sectors for two days of plenary conferences, B2B meetings, exhibitions and networking opportunities. The event will explore cutting-edge topics such as transport electrification and batteries, hydrogen and sustainable propulsion, connectivity and cybersecurity, autonomous driving, urban infrastructure and more.
“Oakland County and Michigan are leaders in mobility innovation, and VTM Michigan is a unique opportunity to showcase our successes on the world stage,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “With a history of automotive excellence and a thriving ecosystem of advanced technologies, we’re excited to welcome companies and innovators from across the globe to the heart of Southeast Michigan.”
Learn more about VTM Michigan during a free upcoming webinar presented by the MEDC at 9-9:30 a.m. Feb. 12. Advanced registration is required at medc.cventevents.com/event/VTM/summary.
To register for VTM Michigan 2025, click on michiganvehiclemeetings.com.
VTM Michigan 2025 builds on the success of the inaugural event in 2023, which brought together more than 320 attendees, 110 companies and delegations from more than 10 countries. The 2025 edition promises an expanded event, offering attendees opportunities to connect with suppliers, manufacturers and technology leaders driving the future of mobility.
“Whether you’re a startup, a tier supplier or a major OEM, VTM Michigan provides an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, discover new solutions, and drive the future of transportation,” said Dom Holmes, director of Oakland County’s Department of Economic Development.
Attendees will encounter:
- Technical Presentations: A full program of expert-led sessions on key challenges and advancements in mobility.
- B2B Matchmaking: Pre-arranged meetings to connect buyers, suppliers and innovators.
- Exhibitions: A showcase of cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
- Global Representation: Participants from countries including Austria, Germany, South Korea, Sweden, the UK, the USA and many more.
Michigan remains at the forefront of the mobility industry, with 26 OEMs headquartered or operating technology centers in the state and a $304 billion annual contribution to its economy. The state is also home to the largest concentration of mechanical, industrial and tool-and-die engineers in the nation, making it an epicenter for innovation and collaboration.
