Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of James Birchem and the reappointment of Ann Tagtmeyer to the Board of Examiners for Nursing Home Administrators.

James Birchem, of Little Falls, is the President and CEO of ElderCare of Bemidji. In this capacity, he is the owner/operator of two nursing homes, six assisted living communities, and one congregate apartment building for seniors, all of which are located in greater Minnesota. Birchem has been a licensed nursing home administrator since 1983. He also currently serves as a member of the Minnesota National Guard. Birchem received a B.A. in Accounting and a M.B.A. from St. Cloud State University. He is appointed to a board position for a manager, operator, or owner of a proprietary nursing home. Birchem will serve a four-year term ending January 7, 2008 and replaces June Schelde on the board.

Ann Tagtmeyer, of Mendota Heights, is a parent, volunteer and part-time fitness instructor. Tagtmeyer previously served as an officer in the U.S. Army. She received a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Virginia. Tagtmeyer was first appointed to the board in 2000 and currently serves as the chairperson of the board's education committee. She is appointed to a board position for a public member. Tagtmeyer will serve a four-year term ending January 7, 2008. This will be her second term on the board.

The Board of Examiners for Nursing Home Administrators licenses nursing home administrators. In addition, the board investigates complaints and has the authority to revoke or suspend an administrator's license. The board is made up of nine members appointed by the Governor, as well as ex-officio members from the Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Human Services.