January 9, 2007

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the recent appointment of Steven L. Arbaugh to the Grape and Wine Industry Council.  Arbaugh, of Harbor Springs, is the president and CEO of Bayside Beverage Corporation. 

Mr. Arbaugh is appointed to represent beer and wine wholesalers who market Michigan wine for a term expiring October 9, 2007.  He succeeds Louis V. Gostinger whose term has expired.

The Grape and Wine Industry Council is charged with promoting Michigan's wine and wine grape-growing industries.  Priorities of the council include encouraging growth of the industry, promoting Michigan wines, funding research to support wine grape growing in Michigan, and sponsoring training opportunities for industry development.  The council is funded through non-retail liquor license fees.

This appointment is not subject to disapproval by the Michigan Senate.