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Remarks at the Honolulu Festival Reception

  By Yoshi Kamo, Consul General of Japan

March 10, 2011

 Good evening and Aloha.

 It is my pleasure to welcome you to the launching party for the 17^th Honolulu Festival. We are very proud to be part of this great Honolulu tradition by co-hosting this eve party together with the Honolulu Festival Foundation. Over the past 17 years, the JTB has been instrumental in putting on this Festival of Japanese culture here in Honolulu. Over the years, the Festival has grown to a full-fledged multi-cultural event, featuring the wide ranging cultures of Asia and the Pacific. This year’s theme “We are all neighbors, around the world” captures the spirit of the Festival very well. 

 Mayor Carlisle, thank you for joining us this evening, despite your busy schedule. We are honored by your presence. The mayor delivered his first state of the city address while ago. I had the　pleasure of attending the Mayor’s speech and was deeply impressed by his commitment to professionalism and straightforwardness. He underlined the importance of boosting the local economy, while grappling with Honolulu’s fiscal woes. I don’t bother with the issues of GET or parking meters, but, would like to remind Mayor Carlisle that the Honolulu Festival is one of his best supporters.

 Tourism is number one industry in Hawaii. If the tourism industry goes well, the local economy will follow suit. Mr. Mike McCartney knows this very well. Last year, 1.2 million visitors came to Hawaii from Japan. But this figure is not heaven sent. It was the result of the coordinated efforts made by the tourism industry. They say the JAL Honolulu Marathon drew 30,000 people from Japan. The Honolulu Festival drew 5000 from Japan. The Honolulu Century Ride drew 2000 Japanese bikers. The effect of these events in enticing Japanese tourists to Hawaii should not be taken lightly. They contribute to supporting Hawaii’s economy.

 Well, I am afraid I may sound like delivering my state of the Honolulu Festival is Mayor’s best friend address. Yes, I want to commend the Honolulu Festival for its contribution to the local economy through boosting tourism.

 This year’s Honolulu Festival is full of exciting programs. I would like to thank Nagaoka city for bringing the dynamic fireworks display to Waikiki Beach. The Senior Life Enrichment Association will participate in the Festival by putting on various cultural performances by the local groups. They are organizing the art exhibition by local artists as well. We at the consulate is going to show two excellent Hollywood films, featuring the battle of Iwo-jima, one with the Japanese perspective and the other American. I hope you will enjoy the films.

 Last, I want to thank many volunteers who make the Festival possible and successful. Your participation undoubtedly symbolizes the dedication and team work we cherish in making Honolulu a true paradise city.

 I wish you a pleasant evening.