LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Former Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority CEO Rossi Ralenkotter has died following a 16-year battle with cancer, according to an official release.
Ralenkotter was 78. He was best known for creating the iconic Las Vegas advertising campaign “What Happens Here, Stays Here,” the release said.
Under his leadership, tourism numbers reached record highs, with 42.9 million people visiting the Las Vegas Valley in 2016, according to the release.
“He was a Las Vegas original and contributed greatly to the growth of the meeting and convention business – and had the vision to expand the convention center — at a time when people thought it would never work in Las Vegas,” said Shelley Berkley, Las Vegas Mayor. “I am honored to have known him and am grateful for his service to our community.”
Ralenkotter also helped bring the National Finals Rodeo to Las Vegas in 1985, the release said.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; five children; and 10 grandchildren. Services will be held at St. Viator Catholic Church, officials said.
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