GOVERNOR APPOINTS JACK KUBIK AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ILLINOIS RACING BOARD

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today appointed Jack L. Kubik as the Executive Director of the Illinois Racing Board.

"Jack Kubik is an experienced legislator and businessman," Ryan said. "I look forward to working with him and using his vast experience to help make Illinois Racing strong and vibrant."

Kubik, 44, of LaGrange Park, was a seven-term state representative. In 1998 he retired from the Illinois house and returned to his family newspaper business. Kubik was a leader in property tax reform, senior issues, judicial reform and the rights of the disabled. Throughout Kubik 's career as a legislator, he was involved in issues that effected the horse racing industry and the state lottery.

"I have had a lifelong interest in Illinois and its economic future." Kubik said. "My appointment as the executive director is a wonderful opportunity to give something back to the people and the State of Illinois. I am very honored to receive this appointment and I can not wait to begin."

Kubik was born and raised in Riverside, Illinois. He is a graduate of DePaul University where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. Kubik and his wife Aggie reside in LaGrange Park.

The Illinois Racing Board consists of nine members who are appointed to six-year terms by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Illinois Senate. The Board is responsible for the enforcement of all the horse racing statutes in Illinois, the audit of all racing revenues and receipts and for the collection and disbursement of all racing fees and taxes. Each year the board issues racing licenses and establishes a racing schedule for each of the state's operating thoroughbred and harness racetracks.