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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, April 18, 2009

HTA seminar May 15 for event, festival organizers

Advertiser Staff

Helping festival and event coordinators through a tough economy is the focus of the Hawai'i Tourism Authority's fifth annual Festivals and Events Seminar.

"Re-Invention for Changing Market Needs" will feature experts whose topics include securing sponsors and organizing budgets in this challenging economic climate, managing operations, creative marketing programs, and more.

The one-day seminar will be held May 15 at the Hawai'i Convention Center.

"Festivals and events are such an important part of the visitor experience here in Hawai'i, providing guests with the opportunity to participate and enjoy an authentic community experience beyond sand, sun and surf," said Mike McCartney, president and CEO of HTA.

"We feel that this seminar will provide important tools for our local festival and event organizers to stay fresh, relevant and successful during these difficult economic times," he said.

Speakers include:

  • John "Mitch" Dorger, chief executive of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. He is also a former Mililani resident, from 1981 to 1984.

  • Sylvia Allen, president of Allen Consulting, a public relations and integrated marketing communications organization in New Jersey.

  • Patty Tracy, who has been an educator, corporate trainer, stockbroker and national marketing manager for a Fortune 500 financial services firm.

  • Toby Tamaye, president of AT Marketing. The firm provides sales and marketing services while focusing on the O'ahu visitor market. Tamaye also coordinates and promotes the annual Waikiki Spam Jam.

    Early registration is $44 and ends April 24. Regular registration is $55, and the deadline is May 4. Lunch, refreshments and seminar materials are included. For information or to register, see www.htafestivalsandevents.com or contact Alan Ellis or Teal Takayama at 528-4050.