ACURA-TE NAME: CAR MAKER SHIFTS WTA EVENT TITLE SPONSORSHIPS

          American Honda Motor's Acura brand has signed a four-
     year, multi-million dollar deal to title sponsor La Costa's
     WTA Tour women's tennis tournament, according to Lisa
     Dillman of the L.A. TIMES.  Acura becomes the third title
     sponsor of the tournament in three years.  TIG is currently
     the title sponsor, which replaced Toshiba after the '98
     event.  Dillman writes that Acura -- which will end its
     title sponsorship of the Manhattan Beach, CA, WTA Tour event
     -- was "looking for increased space and other facilities to
     entertain dealers and customers" (L.A. TIMES, 8/24). 
     Beginning in 2000, the Acura Classic at La Costa will
     feature expanded seating, new activities for fans and
     players and a new logo (Acura).  American Honda Motor Exec
     VP/Auto Sales Division Dick Colliver said the deal moves
     Acura from a presenting sponsor at the La Costa event to
     title sponsor.  Also, IMG is "seeking a new title sponsor"
     for its Manhattan Beach event, but is "continuing talks with
     Acura about another level of participation" (AP, 8/24).