A Christian group recently backed out of the Hollister
Independence Rally after receiving permission May 19 from the
Hollister City Council to use city land for an event during the
July 4th weekend.
A Christian group recently backed out of the Hollister Independence Rally after receiving permission May 19 from the Hollister City Council to use city land for an event during the July 4th weekend.
Hollister-based Weyman Thomas Ministries recently announced the organization did not obtain enough sponsorship interest to fund the event, which would have been the first rally venue unrelated to HIRC. WTM had planned to use a lot near Fourth and San Benito streets next to the IOOF Hall.
Thomas attributed his nonprofit organization’s withdrawal to timing.
“During the time frame, it was really hard to get it done,” Thomas said.
WTM is expected to join HIRC for the 2004 rally, a preference expressed by several City Council members. Thomas said WTM still plans to organize a church service Sunday, July 6, at 8:30 a.m. He said speakers from several Christian biker organizations will take part. The proceeds from the service will be donated to other community nonprofit organizations, Thomas said.
Thomas said he had realized the commitment was risky. Organizing the event, he now realizes, will take a minimum of three months, he said.
WTM received support from HIRC, and particularly its Interim Executive Director Bob Beals. Thomas also said he was thankful to city officials who worked quickly to get the Council approval.
“Officials were on top of their games,” said David Roberts, WTM’s entertainment consultant.
Before the approval, Roberts had estimated the venue could potentially draw $200,000 to $250,000 – mostly from sponsors. WTM would have donated all the money to area organizations, Thomas said.
“We went around and talked to people, but, with a tight time frame, it was really really hard to get it done,” Roberts said. “A lot of people showed interest.”
The venue would have carried a Christian theme, and some of the entertainment would have been Christian based. Roberts said the entire weekend had already been booked with performers.
