by orionontv | May 22, 2025 | Regional News
Oakland County Launches Improved AdvantageOakland.com to Boost Economic Development
Post Date:05/21/2025 8:30 AM
- AdvantageOakland.com has new tools and data dashboards designed to support site selectors, businesses and investors evaluating Oakland County.
- Exclusive “Spotlight Sites” and searchable local property listings features high-potential, development-ready locations across the county.
- An enhanced user experience positions Oakland County as a national leader in economic development strategy and transparency.
Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Economic Development has unveiled a redesigned and enhanced version of AdvantageOakland.com, a dynamic showcase of the region’s business advantages.
The newly launched platform offers a suite of tools and data specifically tailored for businesses and site selection professionals evaluating Oakland County as a destination for expansion or relocation. Key features include vetted “Spotlight Sites,” detailed economic data, industry maps, community reports and a searchable Available Properties database focusing exclusively on commercial, industrial, office, retail and vacant land opportunities within Oakland County.
“This tool puts Oakland County’s strengths on full display,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “We are making it easier than ever for businesses to see why Oakland County is a smart, strategic place to invest and grow.”
AdvantageOakland.com’s “Spotlight Sites” focus exclusively on parcels of 10 acres or less which offers flexibility and visibility for smaller, development-ready sites. The site’s Available Properties Search tool complements the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s statewide database by allowing users to dig deeper into local listings.
“This microsite gives us the ability to directly communicate the unique advantages of Oakland County to national and international site selectors,” said Economic Development Director Dom Holmes. “Whether it’s a corporate team doing in-house research or a third-party consultant advising on a relocation, we’ve made it easier to evaluate our assets and connect with opportunities.”
AdvantageOakland.com is designed for a wide range of users from global firms exploring U.S. expansion to local entrepreneurs and investors seeking new ventures. By combining robust data with intuitive navigation, the platform supports Oakland County’s long-term goals of job creation, business retention and sustainable economic development.
To explore the new AdvantageOakland.com and learn more about Oakland County’s economic development initiatives, visit AdvantageOakland.com.
by orionontv | May 19, 2025 | Regional News
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Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2025
MDHHS CONTACT: Laina Stebbins, StebbinsL@michigan.gov
MAAS CONTACT: Laura Biehl, Laura@reschstrategies.com
Governor Whitmer honors Michigan’s EMS Heroes
by proclaiming May 18-24 as EMS Recognition Week
EMS personnel provide life-saving health care to Michiganders 24/7
LANSING, Mich. – To honor the life-saving health care provided by Michigan’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) practitioners every day, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed May 18-24 as EMS Recognition Week in Michigan.
“This week, we come together to honor the courageous EMS professionals who work hard, 24/7, to keep us safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “They serve on the frontlines every day, bringing their medical expertise and compassion for people to high-pressure emergency situations. Michiganders everywhere are grateful for their service and sacrifices, and we should celebrate them not only by recognizing them with tributes, but also by having their backs on the job by ensuring they have the pay, benefits, and resources they need to succeed.”
EMS practitioners stand ready day and night to help residents in need. They provide critical pre-hospital care to Michigan residents in emergencies and other health care situations, including preventative medicine, follow-up care, other emergent needs and more. The efforts of EMS practitioners help improve the survival and recovery rates of people who experience sudden illness or injury.
“Michigan’s EMS professionals are the frontline of emergency care, delivering expertise and compassion when every second counts,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Their dedication saves lives and strengthens the fabric of our communities. This week, and every week, we thank them for answering the call.”
“Michigan EMS practitioners take great pride in serving our communities and provide lifesaving pre-hospital care to residents in need,” said John Clayton, president of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services and System Director at MyMichigan EMS in Midland. “Working in EMS is a tough but rewarding career, and EMS Week is a great time to celebrate the important role of our industry and its practitioners.”
Michigan is home to 29,367 EMS providers, 804 life support agencies and 4,060 licensed life support vehicles, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Division of EMS and Trauma within the Bureau of Emergency Preparedness, EMS and Systems of Care. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ems.
There is always a need for new medics to join this essential field. Michigan residents interested in a career in EMS can get involved or learn more at GotWhatItTakes.org. |
by orionontv | May 16, 2025 | Regional News
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 16, 2025
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AG Nessel Reissues Post-Storm Scams Alerts Following Severe Weather
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding residents to watch out for common post-storm scams as communities across Michigan clean up from the latest round of intense storms that moved across the state last night. Attorney General Nessel encourages impacted residents to always take the following steps when they’re ready to start rebuilding and before signing any contracts or placing deposits:
- Get in touch with your insurance company;
- Speak to a local, licensed professional;
- Review credentials and references;
- Get more than one written estimate; and
- Ask for a contract and read it carefully.
“Scammers use storm clean-up efforts as an opportunity to take advantage of victims who are desperate to address basement flooding and repair damage right away,” Nessel said. “Consumers should do their research before making any decisions that will impact their home or business.”
Attorney General Nessel’s Government Imposter Scams Consumer Alert educates Michiganders on ways bad actors may try to take advantage of people who are cleaning up after severe weather, and reminds residents that imposters may claim to be anyone ranging from a government official to your local power or insurance provider.
In particular, criminals will contact consumers and tell them they have been selected to receive government funding to assist with repairs, or that if they pay an early deposit, they may receive priority standing for needed repairs. In order to receive the alleged benefit, the person will be asked to share personal or banking information.
The Better Business Bureau is also a helpful resource to research local companies and contractors when navigating repairs and cleanup.
While tree services are not licensed, it’s important consumers vet them as thoroughly as other contractors and request written quotes outlining the total project cost before signing any agreements. This will help consumers avoid potential price gouging and other predatory business practices, especially during emergencies.
Another common scam following severe weather is the Disaster Relief Charity Scam. Attorney General Nessel encourages residents wanting to help to use the following tips to ensure they are giving wisely:
- Be wary of messages from unknown organizations. Give to organizations that are well-known for giving disaster relief.
- Avoid social media ads raising money for victims. If you wish to give online, use the charity’s website instead of going through an unknown link.
- Research the charity and find out if it is registered to receive money (solicit) in Michigan.
- Don’t be pressured. Genuine charities give you time to decide when and what’s right for you.
- Be careful when organizations say you previously gave to them, especially if you don’t remember donating.
- Avoid alleged charities that ask for alternate forms of payment. Real charities never ask for wire transfers, gift cards, or other non-traditional payments.
- Donate to trusted organizations even if you don’t receive a new solicitation.
To file a complaint with the Attorney General, or get additional information, contact:
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by orionontv | May 16, 2025 | Regional News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 15, 2025
Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167
Returns for some retirees up by average of $600, for working families up $900, total of more than $2.98 billion in refunds delivered to Michiganders
LANSING, Mich. – State individual income tax refunds increased for Michiganders during the 2025 tax filing season, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury (Treasury).
Nearly a month since the April 15 “Tax Day” deadline, more than 3.5 million refunds were issued at an average of $843 per return, up 50% since 2022. To date, Michigan has issued more than $2.98 billion in refunds.
“Working families are getting the tax relief they deserve,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “Our work to roll back the retirement tax and quintuple the Working Families Tax Credit has already saved hundreds of thousands of Michiganders on their taxes and put more money back in their pockets. Our average refund for individual filers is up to $843, which is up 50% in three years, meaning more families can pay the bills, put food on the table, or save for a rainy day.”
This filing season, 207,000 retiree tax returns saw increased refunds because of the retirement tax changes. Refunds for these retirees jumped nearly $600 on average, distributing roughly $120 million. In addition, the Homestead Property Tax Credit increased about $70 million, providing additional refund relief to taxpayers due to increasing housing costs.
The quintupling of the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for Working Families has also meant an average refund of $900 for working families.
“The Michigan Department of Treasury is committed to issuing refunds as soon as practical,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “My team has worked hard to ensure taxpayers receive their refunds in a timely manner. Putting more money in the pockets of Michiganders helps as we navigate federal policy uncertainty.”
In 2023, Governor Whitmer signed legislation to quintuple the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for Working Families and roll back the retirement tax.
To learn more about Michigan’s income tax, go to www.michigan.gov/incometax.
State Individual Income Tax Filing Season Statistics (2022-2025) *
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2022
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2023
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2024
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2025
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Total Returns Processed
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4,373,726
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4,389,377
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4,385,046
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4,419,226
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Refunds Processed
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3,064,523
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3,203,498
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3,623,806
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3,536,700
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Total Refund Amount (in Millions)
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$1.72 billion
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$1.96 billion
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$2.64 billion
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$2.98 billion
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Average Refund
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$560
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$614
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$728
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$843
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*As of mid-May in each year.
by orionontv | May 16, 2025 | Regional News
Gov. Whitmer Makes Appointments to the Bench
LANSING, Mich. —Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointments of Judge Aliyah Sabree and Nicole Castka to the Third Circuit Court in Wayne County.
“Today, I am proud to appoint Judge Sabree and Nicole to the bench,” said Governor Whitmer. “Both of these skilled legal professionals bring years of experience to their new roles, where I am confident they will serve the people admirably and uphold the rule of law.”
Third Circuit Court– Wayne County
Honorable Aliyah Sabree currently serves as chief judge pro tem at the 36th District Court in Detroit, where she has served since her appointment to the bench in 2017. Prior to serving on the bench, Judge Sabree worked as an associate general counsel at the Detroit Water and Sewage Department, as a liaison to the City Council at the Detroit Mayor’s Office, and as an Assistant Wayne County Prosecutor.
Hon. Aliyah Sabree earned her Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Youngstown State University.
“It is with extreme gratitude that I accept Governor Whitmer’s appointment to the Third Circuit Court bench,” said Judge Sabree. “I look forward to serving the Wayne County community with dedication and integrity.”
This appointment was made to fill a partial term following Judge Charles Hegarty’s decision to vacate this seat. Judge Sabree’s term will commence on June 9, 2025, and expire at twelve o’clock noon on January 1, 2027.
3rd Circuit Court – Wayne County
Nicole Castka is a sole practitioner focused on criminal defense at the Law Office of Nicole L. Castka, PLLC., in Detroit, which she founded in 2003. Castka is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Wayne County Criminal Defense Bar Association, the Michigan Association of Justice, Women Lawyers Association, and the Detroit Bar Association. She is also an alumnus of the National Criminal Defense College.
Nicole Castka earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and history from Otterbein College.
“I am so deeply honored and grateful for the trust put forth by Governor Whitmer and her office to give me the opportunity to serve the citizens of Wayne County in a much deeper capacity than I have been able to in my private practice,” said Castka. “I will ensure that all parties appearing before the bench will be treated with dignity and respect and that justice will be upheld.”
This appointment was made to fill a partial term following the resignation of Judge Mariam Bazzi. Castka’s term will commence on June 30, 2025, and expire at twelve o’clock noon on January 1, 2027.
by orionontv | May 14, 2025 | Regional News
Governor Whitmer Signs Bills Increasing Transparency for Candidates and Elected Officials, Supporting Free and Fair Elections in Michigan
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills that will increase transparency and good governance in Michigan by clarifying and expanding reporting requirements for candidates and elected officials. These bills bolster Governor Whitmer’s commitment to increasing transparency in Michigan’s government by ensuring elected officials disclose conflicts of interest to the public. Including today’s legislation, Governor Whitmer has signed a record 1,504 bipartisan bills into law since taking office.
“Michiganders deserve to know how their government is working for them,” said Governor Whitmer. “That’s why I’m proud to sign Senate Bills 99 and 100, so we can cut confusing red tape, help more Michiganders run for office, and increase transparency in our government. By getting this done, we can keep building on the progress we’ve made to fix the damn roads, improve education, build affordable housing, and more. Together, let’s keep making a real difference for people across the state.”
Senate Bill 99, sponsored by state Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), increases transparency in Michigan’s government by requiring public officers to report the source of unearned incomes, including gift, travel, and charity payments. Specifically, this bill clarifies that public officers must disclose gifts that are required to be reported by lobbyists and lobbying firms. The bill also extends the deadline to file disclosures to June 13. By increasing transparency in lawmaking, this bill will ensure Michiganders’ interests are prioritized over external influences.
“Voters demanded more openness and transparency in state government by passing Proposal 1 in 2022 and we led the charge in the Senate to implement Michigan’s first-ever financial disclosure report for state officials last year,” said state Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “This year, we’re building on that progress by adding further required disclosures while making it easier for filers to submit the form and for the public to access it. This new law continues to deliver on the promise of Proposal 1.”
Senate Bill 100, sponsored by state Senator Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan), supports free and fair elections in Michigan by ensuring reporting requirements for candidates are clear, cutting unnecessary red tape within our election system. Specifically, the bill modifies and clarifies the process for financial disclosure, ensuring the Secretary of State’s office can properly submit the reports required to verify a candidate for office. The bill also extends the deadline to file disclosures to June 13. This bill will address past user errors, ensuring more Michiganders can run for office in our state.
“The citizens rightly demanded more accountability of their elected representatives, but bureaucracy has been making it very difficult and expensive,” said state Senator Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan). “I thank my colleagues and the Governor for supporting these simple fixes.”
Supporting Transparency and Good Governance in Michigan
Governor Whitmer is committed to ensuring that Michiganders have a transparent, responsive state government, and can make their voices heard at the ballot box. Since taking office, Governor Whitmer has:
- Voluntarily disclosed public calendars, federal income tax returns, and personal financial information.
- Signed executive directives to:
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