Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointments of Curtis Hertel Sr., Janet Mansfield, and Carol Oakley to the Michigan State Waterways Commission.

“I am thrilled to have these three individuals join the Waterways Commission,” Granholm said. “They all have a deep connection to and love of the water and the Great Lakes. They are eager to help maintain and oversee Michigan waterways.”

Mr. Curtis A. Hertel Sr., of Grosse Pointe Woods, is currently the executive director of the Detroit/Wayne Port Authority. He succeeds E. Peter Beauregard whose term has expired. Hertel is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring September 18, 2006.

Ms. Janet M. Mansfield, of Alpena, is a member of the Alpena Coast Guard Auxiliary. She succeeds Robert G. Spicer whose term has expired. She is appointed to represent the general public residing north of town line 16 in the Lower Peninsula for a term expiring September 18, 2006.

“I am grateful that Governor Granholm has appointed an individual of Janet Mansfield’s caliber to serve on this commission,” said State Representative Matt Gillard (D-Alpena). “Our waterways are vital to the economic vibrancy of northeast Michigan, and it is critical that we have someone who will represent the interests of our region and the entire state.”

Ms. Carol B. Oakley, of Trenton, retired as a legislative assistant and district representative for State Representative Kathleen Law and currently serves as vice president of the Trenton Board of Education. She succeeds Jon G. VanderMolen whose term has expired. She is appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring September 18, 2006.

“Being a part of the Michigan Waterways Commission is a dream come true for Carol Oakley,” said State Representative Kathleen Law (D- Gibraltar). ”This is an issue near and dear to her heart, and I know that she will be an active commissioner who will dedicate her time and hard work to this commission.”

The Michigan Waterways Commission is responsible for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of recreational harbors, channels, docking and launching facilities, and administration of commercial docks in the Straits of Mackinac.