January 6, 2009
- Pasco, Washington
Financial Jam
By Sade Malloy
Yakima -- Saturday marked the end of a five months of planning for Huckleberry Jam coordinators.
The cost to put it on more than $75,000. Sheila Gonzalez says, "It's nice but it's a hot day so anything to that has to do with water would be great." With games, low-riders, 3-on-3 basketball and music Huckleberry Jam is trying to hit a younger demographic. But with about 2,000 people making it to the fair grounds and with day tickets going for 5 bucks Action News found out they group isn't even turning a profit. Jaime Scott, Huckleberry Jam says, "Even though we're not really in the positive I wouldn't say we even got out of the red." Part of the issue is marketing and a cultural misunderstanding. Organizers think people are turned off by low-riders and the tattooed crowds. Jeff Kelley says, "Something this caliber of an event would be hard to get together and get the funds together and sponsors." On the up side Huckleberry Jam pumped thousands of dollars into Yakima's economy. With 15-grand going towards the Sun Dome and about another 20 grand going towards banners, car rentals and hotels. Jaime Scott, Huckleberry Jam says, " We spent $20,000 on the media campaign alone and that's something I know casinos don't do." It's a short term win for the city but if the event isn't able to come back next year that's a long term hit in the city's credibility. |
YouNews
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled.
Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.
Resources and info you need to prepare for the switch to DTV. Stay Connected |
Connect with KEPRMost Popular
|
You
