January 6, 2004

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointments of former State Representative Mary Brown and Gerald Hall, Jr. to the Natural Resources Commission.

Brown, of Kalamazoo, retired in 1994 after 18 years of public service in the House of Representatives. During her tenure, Ms. Brown was a champion of civil rights and women's issues, serving on many legislative committees including Conservation, Environment and The Great Lakes; Human Services and Children; and Senior Citizens and Retirement. She has received numerous awards and honors, including being named "Conservationist of the Year" by the Mackinac Chapter of the Sierra Club and "Legislator of the Year" by the Michigan Townships Association.

Hall, of Gaines, is a retired construction laborer, steward, and foreman. He served as business manager for the Laborers' Union Local 1075 from 1979 to 1987.

"The diverse experience of both Mary and Jerry will be very valuable to the commission," said Granholm. "Mary has been a champion of environmental causes in Michigan for many years. Jerry is an avid sportsman with a great passion for protecting Michigan’s precious natural environment. Both of these individuals are great additions to the commission."

The commission establishes general policies for the Department of Natural Resources and hires the department's director. Voter adoption of Proposal G in November 1996 vests exclusive authority in the Natural Resources Commission to regulate the taking of game.

Ms. Brown and Mr. Hall are appointed to represent Democrats for a term expiring December 31, 2007.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.