February 28, 2006

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the following recent designation to the Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates, and recent appointments to the Michigan Board of Psychology, the Michigan Board of Respiratory Care, and the Michigan Board of Optometry:

Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates

Murray A. Gorchow of West Bloomfield.  Mr. Gorchow was originally appointed to the Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates in June 2004 and is designated to serve as chairperson at the pleasure of the Governor.  He succeeds Jack A. Nolish who is now Director of the Workers' Compensation Agency.

The Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates functions within the Department of Labor and Economic Growth.  Magistrates are responsible for conducting hearings in disputes that arise under the Workers’ Disability Compensation Act of 1969 and hearing cases related to workers’ compensation claims.
 
This designation is not subject to disapproval.

Michigan Board of Psychology

Monica P. Navarro of Lake Orion, principal member of the law firm Frank, Haron, Weiner and Navarro.  Ms. Navarro is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring December 31, 2009.  She succeeds James C. Pascoe whose term has expired.

The Michigan Board of Psychology provides for the licensure and examination of psychologists in the state.
 
This appointment is subject to Articles V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  It stands confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.

Michigan Board of Respiratory Care

Mary Ellen Baker of Rochester, department head of respiratory therapy for Wright and Filippis.  Ms. Baker is reappointed to represent respiratory therapists for a term expiring December 31, 2009.

James R. Berry, Jr. of Detroit, registered respiratory therapist and medical equipment consultant for William Beaumont Hospital.  Mr. Berry is reappointed to represent respiratory therapists for a term expiring December 31, 2009.

The Michigan Board of Respiratory Care is responsible for overseeing the licensure of respiratory therapists in Michigan and reviewing and approving rules in the scope of practice for respiratory therapists.
 
These reappointments are subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  They stand confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.

Michigan Board of Optometry

Harvey M. Curley of Eastpointe, former mayor of Eastpointe.  Mr. Curley is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring June 30, 2007.  He succeeds Nancy Stecker whose term has expired.

Kays T. Zair of West Bloomfield, owner of Security Financial Services, Inc.  Mr. Zair is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring June 30, 2006 and is reappointed for a term expiring June 30, 2010.  He succeeds David M. Pierce, Sr. who has resigned.

The Michigan Board of Optometry is responsible for the licensure and examination of persons prior to their entry into the practice of optometry in Michigan.
 
These appointments are subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  They stand confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.