June 08, 2012
LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointments of Edward Clemente, of Lincoln Park, and Dennis Olshove, of Warren, and the reappointment of Edward Gaffney, of Grosse Pointe Farms, to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
The five-member panel, housed within the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, is responsible for managing the beer, wine, distilled spirits and mixed spirit drink industries in Michigan. This includes licensing products and establishments and enforcing the state's liquor laws.
"These individuals bring extensive public service experience to the commission," said Snyder. "I am confident they will effectively support the commission in overseeing Michigan's alcoholic beverage industries and protecting consumers and the general public."
Appointed:
Clemente is president of the Energy Innovation Business Council, which provides support for alternative energy programs. He served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2004-2010, representing parts of southern Wayne County. Prior to holding public office, Clemente worked as vice president of economic development, director of business development, chief operating officer and director of government affairs for the Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. He earned a bachelor's degree in public administration from Ferris State University, a bachelor's degree in social studies from Michigan State University and a master's degree in organizational leadership from Siena Heights University. Clemente, a Democrat, replaces Colleen Pobur.
Olshove retired in 2010 after serving eight years as a Michigan State Senator, representing much of Macomb County. Previously, he served as Macomb County Commissioner, Michigan State Representative and as an administrative assistant in the office of State Rep. Curtis Hertel. In 2009, Olshove received the Michigan State Medical Society Legislative Leadership Award. He holds a bachelor's degree in communications from Michigan State University. Olshove, a Democrat, replaces Donald Weatherspoon, who resigned following his appointment as emergency manager for Muskegon Heights Public Schools.
Reappointed:
Gaffney, a Republican, was appointed to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission in 2009 and currently serves as a hearing commissioner. Previously, he served as a Michigan State Representative, representing the 1st state House district. Gaffney also was on the city council for the city of Grosse Pointe Farms from 1997-1999, and served as mayor from 1999-2003. He also held the positions of director of the Michigan Center for Truck Safety and director of regional government affairs for the American Automobile Manufacturers Association. He received a bachelor's degree in history from Eastern Connecticut State University, a master's degree in history from Michigan State University, a master of law degree from Wayne State University and a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
Gaffney and Clemente will serve four-year terms that expire June 12, 2016, and Olshove will serve the remainder of a term that expires June 12, 2014. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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