Joe Clabes has been appointed Executive Director of Kentucky Equine Education Project (KEEP), it was announced by the Board of Directors of the Lexington-based organization.
Clabes represented KEEP during the recently completed Kentucky 2015 legislative session and has worked in equine policy on the state and federal level for over 15 years. Along with his lifelong involvement in the horses industry, he has served as an independent government affairs consultant for the past nine years.
"We are very fortunate to have Joe lead our organization," said KEEP Board Chairman Corey Johnsen. "He has a thorough knowledge of all facets of Kentucky's horse industry and the drive to make things better."
Clabes welcomes the opportunity to work with KEEP, which was founded 11 years ago by a group of concerned Kentucky horsemen. Since its inception, KEEP has been the catalyst for many accomplishments that have resulted in positive economic impact for the state's signature horse industry.
"Kentucky's equine economy is an important part of our shared culture and reputation around the world," said Clabes." I'm honored to have the opportunity to help lead KEEP's effort to protect, promote and preserve the role of the horse across the Commonwealth."
Clabes will focus on a range of priorities for KEEP, including sales tax equity and furthering the support of grassroots programs throughout the state.
"KEEP has many projects and goals in place for 2015," added Clabes. "The new Seattle Slew license plate will available in the coming month, with proceeds supporting the KEEP Foundation and our ongoing grassroots programs. We'll also be advocating for equine tax equity in Frankfort. As KEEP enters its second decade, we'll continue to serve as a strong representative voice and partner to those that support horses in Kentucky."
Founded in 2004, KEEP is a coalition of Kentucky horsemen, representing all equine breeds and disciplines, designed to improve the economics of the state’s signature horse industry. Since its inception, KEEP has been the driving force for numerous horse industry accomplishments, including the creation of the Kentucky Breeders’ Incentive Fund (KBIF), the development of pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse racing, and a Grassroots outreach program which serves members in each of the Commonweath's 120 counties.
(story provided by Kentucky Equine Education Program)
