Rossi Ralenkotter, the man who led the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for 14 years and who is credited with playing a major role in turning Las Vegas into the world’s top visitor destination, has passed away. He died on 10 October at the age of 78 after a 16-year battle with colon cancer.
Ralenkotter was the coordinator of the iconic “What happens here, stays here” advertising campaign.
Ralenkotter worked for 45 years at the LVCVA. He spearheaded the destination to achieving record visitor figures of 42.9m in 2016.
Ralenkotter was also a member of the team that brought the National Finals Rodeo to move to Las Vegas in 1985, as well as massive events like International CES trade show and other many other conventions and events over the years, including IMEX America, to the Nevada city. The economic contribution of these shows to Las Vegas has been incredibly important.
“He made Las Vegas the focal point for exhibitions”
Gary Shapiro, CEO and vice-chair of the Consumer Technology Association, said Ralenkotter transformed Las Vegas as the world’s leading travel and convention destination. “He raised the convention industry and made Las Vegas the global focal point for both entertainment and exhibitions. He not only catalysed Las Vegas and CES success, he made the world better.”
Ralenkotter was elected him to the US Travel Leaders’ Hall of Fame Leaders in 2014 and appointed to the Brand USA board of directors in 2015. He was caught up on an airlines gift card scandal in 2018 and retired that year.
Current LVCVA CEO Steve Hill said of Ralenkotter, his predecessor: “He helped shape Las Vegas into a premier global destination. We are deeply grateful for his commitment to our city, and we are honoured to carry his vision forward.”
Source: www.exhibitionworld.co.uk
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