November 2, 2006

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the following recent appointments to the Michigan Rehabilitation Advisory Council, the Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs, the Board of Professional Engineers, and the Elevator Safety Board:

Michigan Rehabilitation Advisory Council

Jacqueline S. Day of Lansing, volunteer for the Capital Area Center for Independent Living.  Ms. Day is appointed to represent disability advocacy groups and individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities for a term expiring September 14, 2008.  She succeeds Thomas L. Provoast who has resigned.

The Michigan Rehabilitation Advisory Council reviews, analyzes, and advises Michigan Rehabilitation Services regarding rehabilitation programs and policies administered in Michigan under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
 
This appointment is not subject to disapproval by the Michigan Senate.

Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs

Michael L. Espinoza of Saginaw, financial advisor for Merrill Lynch.  Mr. Espinoza is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring December 10, 2007.  He succeeds Enrique Carrillo who has resigned.

The Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs was created by Public Act 164 of 1975 to develop policies and plans to serve the needs of Michigan's Spanish-speaking residents.  The commission consists of 15 members from around the state appointed by the governor, who are of Hispanic descent and are Spanish-speaking.

Board of Professional Engineers

Robert L. Stempien of Beverly Hills, director of the education group for Barton Malow.  Mr. Stempien is appointed to represent the Board of Architects for a term expiring March 31, 2009.  He succeeds Larry L. Rizor who has resigned.

The Board of Professional Engineers is responsible for establishing requirements for the registration of persons practicing engineering, as well as orders, rules, and regulations that specify standards of professional conduct.  The board also provides for penalties when standards are not met. 

Elevator Safety Board

William J. Kogelschatz of Portland, business manager for International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 85.  Mr. Kogelschatz is appointed to represent elevator contractor unions for a term expiring July 22, 2009.  He succeeds Andre G. Schirk who has resigned.

The Elevator Safety Board is responsible for promulgating rules, preparing examinations, and issuing elevator contractor licenses.
 
These appointments are subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  They stand confirmed unless disapproved by the Michigan Senate within 60 days.