February 13, 2004

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the following five appointments to the Fire Fighters Training Council:

Randal Agruda of Williamsburg, general manager of The Collision Center, public information officer/fire lieutenant with Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department, and trustee of Acme Township Board. Mr. Agruda is appointed to represent the Michigan Townships Association and the Michigan Municipal League for a term expiring December 31, 2006. He succeeds Thad Taylor whose term has expired.

William Anderson of Hazel Park, fire marshal of Hazel Park Fire Department. Mr. Anderson is reappointed to represent the Metropolitan Club of America, Inc. for a term expiring December 31, 2006.

Dan Henderson of Holland, chief of the City of Holland Fire Department. Mr. Henderson is appointed to represent active members of the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs for a term expiring December 31, 2006. He succeeds Ken Eagle whose term has expired.

Clifford Messing of Ruth, president of Cliff A. Messing Excavating Inc. and chief of the Delaware Township Fire Department. Mr. Messing is appointed to represent the State Firemen’s Association for a term expiring December 31, 2006. He succeeds Michael Burke whose term has expired.

Kevin Pirlot of Iron Mountain, lieutenant with the Iron Mountain Fire Department and 1st District Vice President for the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union. Mr. Pirlot is appointed to represent active firefighters of the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union for a term expiring December 31, 2006. He succeeds Terrence Chesney whose term has expired. Mr. Pirlot is also designated to serve as chairperson of the council at the pleasure of the Governor.

The council is responsible for establishing standards, courses of study, certification of instructors, establishing regional training centers, and developing and administering mandatory certification examinations for firefighters in this state.

All of the above appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.