Kailua fireworks show is on

By Catherine E. Toth
Advertiser Staff Writer

Not wanting to see a 50-year tradition end, businesses in Kailua got together and raised enough money to continue the annual Fourth of July fireworks display.

Last month the Kailua Chamber of Commerce decided to discontinue the show, saying the high cost of the display didn't justify the benefit to Windward businesses.

That appeared to be the end for a show that has been plagued with financial and other troubles in recent years.

But several businesses came forward and donated the roughly $23,000 for the 10-minute show that has become a tradition for Kailua residents.

"A group of concerned citizens figured out how to make it happen," said David Earles, chamber president. "Kailua residents bonding together have made sure that Kailua will have fireworks this year."

Clear Channel Hawai'i, a multistation conglomerate that includes flagship station KSSK, matched every donation by Kailua businesses with advertising on its airwaves.

"We realized that the people who had to contribute the money were businesses in Kailua; that would be the only way this thing would stay alive," said Chuck Cotton, Clear Channel vice president and general manager. "So I just offered them an incentive."

Sponsors include Hardware Hawai'i ACE, Kane'ohe Ranch Co. Ltd., Papa John's Pizza, Foodland and McKenna Motors Windward Ford.

Cotton, who has lived in Kailua for 10 years, wanted to preserve the tradition, one he has enjoyed since moving to the Windward side.

"I figured this was a way I could help my community," Cotton said. "It seemed a shame to have to lose the fireworks after it's been going on for 50 years, even if it's just a 10-minute display."

Reach Catherine E. Toth at 535-8103 or ctoth@honoluluadvertiser.com.