Guinn names nine to new problem gambling panel

Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005 | 11:11 a.m.

Nine people with expertise in compulsive gambling disorders have been named to the newly created Advisory Committee on Problem Gambling by Gov. Kenny Guinn.

The committee was created by legislation signed into law during the 2005 session and is comprised of members with expertise mandated by law.

Named to the committee were: Las Vegas residents William Bingham of MGM Mirage and Glenn Christenson of Station Casinos Inc., both representing nonrestricted gaming license holders; Sean Higgins of Herbst Gaming, representing restricted gaming license holders; Carol O'Hare of the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling and Ken Templeton of the Problem Gambling Center, both representing problem gambling organizations; Dr. Rena Nora, a psychiatrist, representing veterans organizations; Reno residents William Eadington of the University of Nevada, Reno, representing the University and Community College System of Nevada; and Denise Quirk of Red Hawk Counseling, representing mental health professionals; and Carson City resident Ray Kendall, coordinator of clinical services for the Mental Health and Developmental Services for rural clinics the state, representing men tal health professionals.

The legislation forming the committee was unanimously approved in the Assembly and passed by a 20-1 vote in the Senate. The committee will review grant requests and make recommendations to fund organizations that treat compulsive gambling disorders.