November 23, 2016
Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2016
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced initial appointments to the Horse Racing Advisory Commission.
The seven-member advisory board was created for the Gaming Control Board to govern the operation and promotion of horse racing statewide, and make recommendations to the Legislature to improve the regulatory structure of horse racing with the goal of maintaining its long-term viability.
"I am certain the expertise of these individuals in this field will help benefit horse racing in Michigan," Snyder said.
Don Ryker of Ortonville is the owner of the equine veterinary practice Don Ryker DMV and Associates. He is an adjunct professor at Michigan State University and an instructor for the veterinary technician program at Wayne State University. Ryker holds a bachelor’s degree in oceanography from the University of Michigan and a doctorate in veterinary medicine from the University of Missouri. He will represent individuals who have knowledge about and expertise in horse racing in this state. He will serve as chair at the pleasure of the Governor.
Thomas Barrett of Novi is the vice president and market manager of The State Bank and the current president of the Michigan Harness Horseman’s Association. He has over 30 years experience as a licensed harness horse owner, trainer, driver, and breeder. Barrett holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from John Carroll University. He will represent statewide horse racing associations.
Mike Carlo of Northville is the operations manager for Northville Downs harness horse racing track and previously worked as the marketing manager for Daily Racing Form in New York. Carlo holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Cincinnati. He will represent owners or operators of horse racetracks in this state.
Nancy Frank of Haslett is the assistant state veterinarian for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. She is an adjunct faculty member for the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Frank holds a master’s of public health from the University of Michigan and a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Michigan State University. She will serve as the designee of the Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
George Kutlenios of Holly is the president of Holly Management Inc. - The Holly Hotel, and president of the Michigan Horseman’s Benevolent and Protective Association. He is a former board member of the Michigan Restaurant Association, the Holly Area Chamber of Commerce, the Holly Economic Development Corporation, and the Northwest Oakland County Headwaters Association. Kutlenios holds a bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University. He will represent statewide horseracing associations.
Frank Nickels of Haslett is a veterinarian who specializes in equine health and a professor at the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he has worked for nearly 40 years. He has been a member of several veterinary associations including the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. Nickels holds a master’s degree from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary surgeons. He will represent veterinarians.
Members will serve four-year terms expiring Oct. 31, 2020. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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