Clifford ‘Rip’ Rippetoe (Source: rsgnow.com)LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) – A new president and CEO will lead
the future of former Kentucky Kingdom, Freedom Hall and numerous venues under
the umbrella of the Kentucky State Fair Board.
Las Vegas businessman Clifford ‘Rip' Rippetoe is expected to
start the job January 1, 2013. Board members selected Rippetoe
after interviewing another finalist Friday morning. Current President
Harold Workman resigned and will leave the post December 31.
Rippetoe's resume includes managing conventions, overseeing
trade shows and booking concerts for venues similar to Freedom Hall and
Broadbent Arena. He also worked on the Salt Lake City Olympic committee
in 2002. However, Rippetoe's experience managing tight budgets
helped seal the deal for board members.
"He has a lot of experience in all facets of business,"
State Fair Board Chairman Ron Carmicle said.
Struggling venues await Rippetoe's arrival, including former
Cardinal Stadium and Kentucky Kingdom.
The board is running a $5 million deficit. "He's helped produced events and shows. He has a breadth of experience, in
my opinion and has the financial expertise. We need that level of support
now," Carmicle said.
Rippetoe will earn an estimated $250,000 a year. He'll
leave his convention consulting business behind in Las Vegas. Contract
provisions require Rippetoe to give up his salary or any income from his
current position.
Carmicle confirmed not one candidate was from Louisville or
even Kentucky. Chairman Carmicle also said Governor Steve Beshear did not
participate in the process. "He has not been involved in it in any
form or fashion. Nor anyone in the governor's office."
Rippetoe could not be reached for comment.
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