StarBulletin.com

Kailua fireworks show saved


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POSTED: Saturday, June 27, 2009

With contributions from $1 to $15,000, Kailua rallied to keep a 61-year-old tradition burning bright—the Kailua Fourth of July fireworks show.

“;There's a feeling that everything's falling by the wayside—the weak economy, furloughs, the drop in the visitor count,”; said Kailua resident Brook Gramann, who spearheaded the fundraising effort. “;This is one thing that people wanted to keep.”;

Kailua's public fireworks display is one of several on Oahu Friday and next Saturday.

Each year, the Kailua fireworks show faces the threat of cancellation because of funding. This year $53,000 poured in, well above the $42,000 needed for a 12- to 14-minute display. The extra funds will be used to pay for expenses such as special-duty police and for extending the show a few minutes. The remainder will be saved for next year, Gramann said.

Honolulu Fire Chief Kenneth Silva says: “;The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many public displays conducted by trained professionals on Oahu.”;

Consumer firework go on sale Monday. A permit is needed to by firecrackers. The $25 permits are available at Satellite City Halls.

FIREWORKS DISPLAYS

Friday:

» Duke Kahanamoku Beach, 7:45 p.m.

» Aloha Tower Marketplace, 9 p.m.

Next Saturday:

» Kailua Beach Park, 8 p.m.

» Maili Beach Park, 8 p.m.

» Maunalua Bay (Hawaii Kai), 8 p.m.

» Marriot Ihilani Resort & Spa, 8 p.m.

» Ala Moana Beach, 8:30 p.m.

» Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii, 8:30 p.m.

» Hickam Air Force Base, 8:30 p.m.

» Turtle Bay Resort, 9 p.m.

» Pearl Harbor, 9 p.m.

» Schofield Barracks, 9 p.m.

Source: Honolulu Fire Department