Directors elect officers for 2008-09

Joe Swanson, mid-Michigan district team leader for Target Corporation, is the new chair of the MRA Board of Directors.

He was elected by directors at the August 14 board meeting to succeed Peter Sobelton, of Sundries Plus in Troy, who served two years in the leadership post. Swanson served as chair-elect for two years.

Barb Stein, owner/operator of Great Northern Trading Co., Rockford, was voted vice chair.

D. Larry Sherman, retired owner of the former Sherman Shoes in Birmingham, was re-elected treasurer. James P. Hallan continues as president and chief executive officer.

The Retailers Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors elected Tom Ungrodt, president and CEO of Ideation, Inc., Ann Arbor, as chair. He succeeds Joe Kay, of Northland Tire and Service, Inc. in Southfield who served two years as chair.

Other continuing Retailers Mutual officers are President and CEO Hallan and Jean Sarasin, secretary and treasurer.