Posted on: Saturday, January 15, 2005

Backers of beach events optimistic

By Mike Gordon
Advertiser Staff Writer

Supporters of "Sunset on the Beach" and "Brunch on the Beach" festivals said it will not be difficult to find private businesses to sponsor the popular events once the city stops contributing taxpayer dollars next year.

"We see the potential for national sponsorships that will allow it to really move to a higher level and be a real tool to help market the Waikiki renaissance," said Rick Egged, executive director of the Waikiki Improvement Association.

Local sponsors also are being courted, he said.

The cost of the events has stirred controversy with the City Council in the past two years. The events cost the city $1.5 million in the fiscal year that ended in June 2002, including $8,000 per weekend for security from Honolulu police working overtime for the events.

But Mayor Mufi Hannemann announced Thursday that the city would reduce the number of beach festivals this year and then withdraw city financing next year.

Egged said the sponsorship deals are still being worked out, so he could not reveal who would help pay for the events.

"It will be paid for by private sponsors," he said. "I can't give you a name because we are still working on it. We have a number of private sponsors that are already involved, but we are working on taking it to the next level."

Les Enderton, executive director of the O'ahu Visitors Bureau, called the mayor's decision "a positive thing." He said Hannemann still believes in the concept of the beach events and is "very visitor-industryioriented."

But the mayor needs to strike a balance, Enderton said.

"He is dealing with a very tight budget, and he feels this is the kind of thing in which the private sector can chip in," Enderton said. "I think they will do it willingly. This is a very giving community. I don't think there will be a problem finding sponsors."

Enderton said private businesses will step forward because they recognize the value of the events.

Patty Teruya, a Wai'anae community member who helped organize the events in neighborhoods around O'ahu, said the private sector will definitely help out. She has already had discussions with businesses that have agreed to help.

"They will step forward," she said. "In every community, they do have big businesses and they come out and support, even if the city does pull out. And I know it has been quite expensive."

The reason for the support is simple: fellowship.

"I am a true believer in this," she said. "It is a spirit of fellowship in the community with the businesses."

Reach Mike Gordon at mgordon@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8012.