Harold Ripps, Frank Bromberg named directors of Alabama Jobs Foundation

Two pillars within the Birmingham business community have joined the Alabama Jobs Foundation, whose purpose is to promote Sen. Del Marsh-sponsored legislation to introduce a state lottery and casino gaming to the state as a way of raising new revenue without raising taxes.

Harold Ripps and Frank Bromberg have come aboard the AJF, according to a news release on Thursday. They will both carry the title of director, joining foundation President Pat Dye — beloved longtime head football coach at Auburn University — in their mission to cover a looming budget deficit and stimulate the state economy by advancing the Marsh proposal.

“These two men will bring a wealth of business experience to our cause: letting the people of Alabama vote on an education lottery and casino gaming, “ Dye said Thursday. “This addition to the Foundation Board of Directors is further proof of the momentum we are building in the business community and throughout Alabama for Sen. Marsh’s plan.”

Ripps and Bromberg added their enthusiasm for the plan as well to an announcement of the foundation’s expansion.

“The Marsh Plan will have a billion dollar impact on the Alabama economy, and enhance the tourism and hospitality industries,” Ripps said. “There is no question in my mind that this plan can transform the city of Birmingham into a world-class destination location. It is time to let the people of Alabama decide this question for themselves.”

“With the passage of this amendment, we can create 11,000 new jobs throughout our state,” Bromberg said. “At the same time, an education lottery and college scholarship program will provide important new investments for our education system, and that attracts jobs, too.”

Ripps joins the foundation by way of The Rime Co., a real estate interest he has led for four decades. Bromberg is head of Bromberg’s, a jeweler that the announcement said has operated in Alabama for 179 years.