Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Mark A. Ethen to the Minnesota Racing Commission.

Ethen, of Blaine, is the president of KleinBank’s northern market, with branches in Big Lake, Maple Grove, Otsego, and Coon Rapids. He has held a number of positions with KleinBank and its predecessor, Preferred Bank in Big Lake, in his nine years with the organization. Previously, Ethen held commercial lending positions with Associated Bank in Minneapolis and Zapp Bank in St. Cloud. He began his professional career as a bank examiner with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in Minneapolis. Ethen earned his master of business administration degree with a concentration in finance magna cum laude from St. Thomas University in St. Paul, and his bachelor of science degree in finance and public administration magna cum laude from St. Cloud State University.

Ethen serves on the board of directors for Connexus Energy, Anoka Ramsey Community College Foundation, and Central Minnesota Development Company. He is also a past chair of the Metro North Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and served on board of Anoka Rotary. Ethen replaces Kernal Buhler on the Racing Commission to complete a six-year term that expires on June 30, 2013.

The Minnesota Racing Commission licenses persons and organizations to operate racetracks, conduct horse racing, and conduct pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing; enforces and collects all applicable taxes and license fees; establishes a Minnesota Breeders’ Fund; and, operates a card club. The commission consists of nine members appointed by the Governor.