February 15, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the following recent appointments and reappointment to the Michigan Judges Retirement Board and Judicial Tenure Commission:

Michigan Judges Retirement Board

Chris J. Swope of Lansing, executive director of Michigan Equality.  Mr. Swope is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring March 31, 2007.  He succeeds Lyle Van Houten whose term has expired. 

Judy A. Hartsfield of Detroit, Wayne County Probate Judge.  Judge Hartsfield is appointed to represent judges who are members of the retirement system for a term expiring March 31, 2005, and is also reappointed for a term expiring March 31, 2009.  She succeeds Judge Robert Ransom who has resigned.

These appointments are subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  The appointments stand confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.

Judicial Tenure Commission

Diane M. Garrison of Holt, executive director of the Michigan State Police Command Officer’s Association, Inc. Ms. Garrison is appointed to represent the Governor for a term expiring December 31, 2007.  She succeeds James “Mick” Middaugh whose term has expired. 

This appointment is not subject to disapproval.