Governor Announces Racing Board Appointment

SPRINGFIELD - Governor George H. Ryan today announced the appointment of Robert C. Winchester, Sr. of Whittington, to the Illinois Racing Board.

Winchester, 57, will serve a term ending on July 1, 2008.

"Bob Winchester has had a long and distinguished public service record and he will be a responsive board member," Gov. Ryan said. "I look forward to his fine service on the Illinois Racing Board."

Winchester worked for the Departments of Corrections and Central Management Services before being elected to the House in 1974. He left the House in 1985. Winchester also worked in the Department of Natural Resources and the Secretary of State's Office. Winchester was the Deputy Chief of Staff for Southern Illinois and he directed the daily operations of the Southern Illinois "Office of the Governor." Winchester served in the post from 1999 until he retired last year.

Winchester will replace Lorna Propes of Chicago.

The appointment requires Senate confirmation and pays only expenses.