Nov. 6, 2009

Livingston County residents who are unemployed should not respond to any text messages regarding their unemployment benefits.

The state Unemployment Insurance Agency has received complaints that would-be identity thieves have text-messaged cell phones asking people to verify personal identification numbers for their debit cards, which some unemployment recipients use to receive unemployment income.

The UIA does not text anyone who is receiving unemployment benefits, and these kinds of messages should be disregarded. It's a sad fact that there will always be people who try to take advantage of other people's misfortune, and area residents should be aware of this potential scam.

The text messages urge unemployment recipients to reset their PIN numbers or return messages by phone to give identifying information.

Reports of similar incidents have occurred in other states such as New York, Rhode Island and Missouri.

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I would like to send a heartfelt "thank you" to all area veterans. On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, our nation will honor the tremendous sacrifices our military veterans have made for us. The day is especially meaningful during our country's time of war.

Because of veterans, we live in a nation that is a beacon of hope across the world. We must remember that the United States is unique because it is the only country that exists because of a concept called freedom.

We know that this great nation will always rise to whatever is necessary to help preserve liberty. Doing so is simply a part of our culture and collective American consciousness.

How deep our gratitude for the brave citizens who served our country in wartime. By now, it should be clear that freedom isn't free. It comes at a high price. Thank God so many millions of Americans have been willing to pay that price.

Let there be no doubt about the courage of veterans who rest in our nation's cemeteries at home and abroad, and to the veterans who to this day are still making contributions to our society.

Again, I'd like to say a special "thank you" to our local veterans. And we should thank them throughout the entire year, not just on Veterans Day.

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If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 1-866-828-4863 or via e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .