OUR TEAM
For more than 75 years, Kailua Beach has been the center of a spectacular fireworks display each 4th of July evening. For most of its history, the show was launched from Flat Island across from Kailua Beach Park. In 2000, a “twilight air show” was added, featuring aerobatic performances by two local pilots. In 2002, in consideration of environmental concerns, the platform for the fireworks launch was moved from Flat Island to a mobile barge, adding significantly to the event's expense.
The foundation for the continuation of both the fireworks exhibition and air show is now in place. The next step is sustainability and gradual build-up of a reserve to ensure that the fireworks and our other beach-front Independence Day events will continue.
Uncle Sam
aka Don Holden
Did you know…..Uncle Sam is a nickname adopted by the US on September 7, 1813, during the war of 1812 fought between the US and UK from June 1812 until February 1815. The name was linked to Samuel Wilson, a meat packer from Troy, NY who supplied barrels of beef to the solders in the US Army. In character at all Kailua Fireworks events by a Kailua resident of 53 years, Don Holden, president of Holden Hospital Supply. Uncle Sam wants YOU to donate to Kailua Fireworks to keep our tradition going.
Jana Holden
President
Originally from Croatia, I moved to Hawaii in 1969 and lived in Kailua since 1976. I’m currently employed at Holden Hospital Supply, a Board Member of Kailua Chamber of Commerce and an original committee organizer of Kailua Fireworks beginning 2013. My personal interests include community service projects, cooking, reading, photography, health and fitness, and inspiring youth to live up to their dreams. Highlights of my experiences include traveling to many countries and meeting people all over the world. My personal desire is to make 4th of July Fireworks a self-sustainable event so it can celebrate its “100 years” centennial anniversary in 2047.
Chow Yu
Treasurer
I moved to Kailua in May 2016 and started working with the wonderful and dedicated people of Kailua Fireworks in May 2018. With my experience in accounting/finance/auditing, and the fact that I love math, I am helping Kailua Fireworks with tracking, recording and management of their financial matters. For my day job, I am a consultant and have been providing my service to a major confectionery company in Honolulu for over three years. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, watching movies and traveling.
Eric Joseph
Committee Member
Eric Joseph has been a committee member since 2018 and has lived in Kailua since 2016. He developed and helps to support the maintenance of the Kailua Fireworks website. He also designed the "Ignite Aloha" 4th of July shirts.