REGION

REGION

Better Business Bureau warns of area scams

YOUNGSTOWN — The Better Business Bureau is warning Mahoning Valley residents of scams that are operating in the area.

One scam includes advertisements for an “import and export specialist,” the BBB said. The postings are seeking people to transfer funds from one account to another or ship stolen goods overseas, the agency said.

Another scam tells people they have won an international lottery. The BBB said people are told they must pay a fee for taxes or expenses before claiming the prize.

The agency advised consumers to avoid ads with descriptions such as “package forwarding,” “reshipping” and “money transfers.” It also said not to give out personal financial information or be fooled by official-sounding government or corporate names.

Environmental award applications sought

CLEVELAND — Biodiversity Alliance, a partnership for global conservation, and Dominion East Ohio are accepting applications for the second annual Northeast Ohio Environmental Awards, a program recognizing excellence in advancing regional environmental quality. All nominations must be received no later than midnight June 28.

The program recognizes outstanding achievements of organizations, businesses and individuals in a wide variety of environmental initiatives throughout the region.

Winners in each category will receive a $2,500 cash award and a plaque.

Participants can send nomination materials electronically to bioalliance@cmnh.org.

From Vindicator staff reports