Fireworks issue in Hawaii has been controversial my whole life. Seems ever since ALL fireworks were banned, illegal fireworks problem has gotten much worse, setting up the tragedy on New Year's eve. I hope you post an update to raise awareness. Mahalo.
Fn Hawaii is the “ fireworks “ state. All throughout the year you can hear loud booms under these following events: 1) birthdays 2) someone proposed for marriage 3) MMA fights 4) Pacquiao fights 5) SuperBowl 6) 4th of July 7) someone got promoted at their job 8) graduation ( high school / college ) 9) thanksgiving 10) Xmas eve 11) Xmas day 12) day after Xmas 13) day before New Year’s Eve 14) New Year’s Eve 15) New Year’s Day 16) first born son, wife gave birth 17) a boy asking a girl on a date & she said Yes 18) bunch a Aholes just wanna wake up the neybor 19) leftover aerials wanna get rid of it 20) UH football wins a game I’m pretty sure there’s more events
And then sometimes it’s just because they have nothing else to do. Or maybe they can’t sleep at night so they figure they’ll light some bombs so no one else can sleep either.
4:20 I've been saying da same thing,how can people complain about gas electric food and Rent prices.but yet all year round I stay hearing illegal aerials go off all the time and not just one or 2,talking like 5 or more.
I grew up in Hawaii and played fireworks all my life. But, at 74 yo, I no longer love them, they frighten humans and animals! Now, with the tragedy in Aliamanu, its time to get serious about this issue! It is time Gor leaders to man up and do the right thing!
I was very impressed with your well-thought-out, organized presentation and your overall sense of wherewithal. I see bright things in your future! Keep going, brah! -Kamasami Kong, Tokyo
The problem is not one law or another. The real problem here is the culture. As someone who actually lives in Waipahu, I don't find the fireworks beautiful they are disgusting and traumatizing. I didn't grow up here. In any normal sane suburban community in America no one would tolerate 12 hours of nonstop sonic explosions. What about those of us who just want a quiet holiday in peace? So much for our rights. Every year I have to flee my home and shelter in the movie theater for 5 hours. Last night it was so bad it actually started raining sulfur. So much for "aloha." You people don't want to celebrate a holiday. Y'all just wanna see sh*t explode.
Sleepless nights all year long. 2 am there’s no excuse. Aerials are illegal period. Setting off aerial bombs late at night is a form of bullying the neighborhood. They are cowards.
Grew up on O'ahu, but home is on the mainland. Just heard the local news two people died and others injured in the Salt Lake area. It's a miracle the neighborhood didn't burn down. Maybe this tragedy will change the local mindset of people to change their ways
Curious to see what’s going to happen now that 4 people lost their lives and many were seriously injured from that home in Salt Lake. My jaw just came off its hinges and walked out the door when I seen that drone footage of that home 😢. Last night was definitely the greatest illegal fireworks show since it was banned.
We'll see what happens. Very sad news. Again, I want to see if we're serious about doing something about fireworks, or if it will lose steam by February.
In light of the recent tragedy in Salt Lake something needs to be done. Tradition is important but not at the expense of lives. I don’t pretend to know the solution but it can’t be the status quo. Condolences to those who lost loved ones 🙏
WHAT ABOUT ALL THE ANIMALS? AND VETERANS with PTSD....just so you can get your idiotic jollies..what about the environment..the air?? So archaic..despise fireworks 🤨
It SOUNDS/FEELS LIKE BOMBS GOING OFF - SETTING OFF CAR ALARMS FROM ALL OVER, MY HOUSE SHOOK WITH THE EXPLOSIONS OF THESE BOMBS, pets were so frightened, THE SMOKE FROM FIREWORKS MAKES BREATHING DIFFICULT FOR MANY. The law bans illegal fireworks - but someone sold it to hawaii and the police really did nothing. The die hard firework bomb blowers didn't end their popping at 1am as the law requires - it went on and on. Since they can't control illegal fireworks from being sold to hawaii - they should ban fireworks altogether. Perhaps hand held noise makers should be sold to bring in new year instead of fireworks.
Chris, you always have such sensible, level headed solutions for issues. You have the ability to see multiple points of view while staying calm. Please consider running for public office! And no, I am not a local, but I have family there.
Thanks for the encouraging words. Well, I just hope that we can at least try some solutions, instead of just talking about them and then we move on and the same thing happens next year. 🤙
This is not island wide in the scale being discussed. The west side is a warzone compared to wealthier areas on Oahu. This is the same as the mainland: Lower income populations engage in illegal fireworks to an exponential degree.
Yea... I live over here in Ma'ili...the fireworks are bomb like. All the dogs I care for are terrified and on edge all the time. Sucks. I wonder about the birds....
lower-income people (in general) tend to be more comfortable with buying things of "questionable legality". also more of an innate need to out-do the neighbors (rich people already out-do their neighbors daily).
@@HelloFromHawaii Just come to Kailua. Not a disadvantaged district by any means and we've been having Bombs and other stuff going off for days already. Tonight, NY eve they started at noon and it hasn't stopped. It's illegal sure but not enforceable.
It’s just beyond me how no one is afraid of these explosions causing a fire that could rip through peoples properties and the whole island. Especially with the trade winds. It’s so unnerving.
Fireworks were banned in Hawaii in 1994 because of Noise, Safety Concerns, and Environmental concerns. Authorities yet seized large quantities of fireworks. Thousands of pounds were apprehended; 10 t0 30,000 pounds. That's A LOT OF SMUGGLING!
Staying in Haleiwa for the month and cant believe the number of house-shaking explosions nightly. This really ruins the quality of life. War zone. Not fun at all. Combined with the countless drug addicts, your island is self-destructing, people.
I love how you work so hard to present reasonable perspectives from all sides of any issue you decide to discuss. In this one, you skipped over one of the most common local arguements for the fireworks. In Hawai`i, the fireworks are frequently defended as a cultural tradition of scaring off bad spirits...however, this is primarily a Chinese tradition done on the New Year of the Chinese calendar, which is a different date than the Gregorian calendar. Some locals feel very strongly about protecting the right to set them off, but many others feel it shouldn't have special protection since the tradition does not come from Polynesian roots. A complicated discussion that people can get really worked up about, but really kind of side-steps around discussing the practical real-world issues caused by the fireworks (trash, pollution, noise, scared animals, fire risk, etc.). It'll never happen here, but a few places on the mainland don't allow private fireworks displays, but set aside an area on 4th of July and on NYE where the public can bring their fireworks to a common location (usually with an assigned direction to fire and a "don't cross this" line, separate "just viewing, no fire" zones for spectators, fire department/ambulance on hand, etc.). That way, safety can be monitored, litter concentrated for cleanup, and everyone sensitive knows exactly where/when the noise will be. Some of them rival the town's own displays. Defunct airports (like the one in Kailua-Kona) are PERFECT for this.
Mahalo for the comment. That's an interesting idea that you brought up, where certain areas are designated for public play. But since the aerials are so widespread, all you have to do is look outside and you'll see them everywhere. 😆
The cost of fireworks trips me out. A friend showed me a price list 10+ years ago and I can't imagine the cost that some of these people are putting down to literally "burn"... Prices must be even crazier now... People have a hard time living due to high cost of living, yet they are able to "burn" thousands maybe even tens of thousands of dollars on fireworks... Another one of Hawaii's great mysteries of how people afford to live here
Last night was the first and only time I never heard one fire truck or ambulance (I’m near the Blaisdell Arena). Every year I would hear them all night long. With the amount of aerials covering every inch of the sky last night, I for sure thought I would be hearing the fire trucks and ambulances all night long. But never heard not one. 😳
I remember growing up and the neighborhood roar going up from about 11:45 to 12:10 - it was loud but you could go inside and get away from it - and it was nothing like the artillery like booms from illegal aerials - and having it happen year round (which it does off and on) and more so as new years, chinese near year and fourth of july is just nuts. And how are illegal aerials somehow safer than old fashioned standard ones. That's why they're illegal. And it's almost impossible for the police to catch people in the act
If safety was the issue, I'm not sure how illegal fireworks are safer than what we had before. I suppose it's less use, but then again, I don't know the data to back up the point about safety and if this ban has been effective.
Not like this. I've seen fireworks in Austin, San Antone, New Orleans, Cleveland, Denver. The shear magnitude of it on O'ahu is incredible and mind blowing. First time I saw it, I had no idea what was about to happen. I'm on the island right now, and those fireworks are one of the reason I keep coming back for NYE.
Same as you - grew up with the fireworks, but the whole neighborhood knew the hours we could legally pop AND we would be mandated (by parents) to pick up the red paper firecrackers. These days, the donkeys feel they’re above the laws. Sad!
I have no idea how much those illegal fireworks costs. I heard that some people spend $5000 or more just for fireworks. This is just insane to me. Even if I were filthy rich, I would not spend that kind of money. I can just watch my neighbors' fireworks for free. I don't need to be the one who actually lights the fuse.🤣
lol most locals ain’t that stupid , majority of their money comes from chicken fighting or anything that’s dirty so they use they dirty money for buy fireworks. If that’s the case half of Hawaii would’ve been homeless
I've had customers tell me that every year, starting January 1st, (they, or people they know) start saving for fireworks for the following New Years, and from price ranges of 5 to 15 thousand dollars. (as far as my customers, I'm a self employed plumber, and I cover the entire island of Oahu, so I talk to a wide range of people and all different walks of life.) While I'm making decent money at my job, I'm still barely making the mortgage and I couldn't imagine spending money on something that literally goes up in smoke in a matter of seconds. Although, I'm not gonna lie. It is one hell of a show, and an amazing experience, if you are in the right location. (hint, top of Makakilo, you get an aerial view of the Leeward side and it's awesome.) Talk about the greatest illegal firework show in the world.
@@Harloha Dang! Up to $15,000!??? I'd rather use that money to buy food, pay rent, or use it to send my kid to college. Full-time tuition at one of the Hawaii community colleges cost about $3000 for the entire year. One year at UH-Manoa cost about $10,000 for a Hawaii resident. So, for about $16,000, you could pay for a kid's first THREE years of college!
I don't understand that either, but I guess it's a thing. Those who spend a lot of fireworks must have a lot of expendable income or just prioritize different things in their budget.
In California, all fireworks are pretty much illegal except for a few counties where the safe and sane fireworks are sold. (that"s what they used to call them). I used to travel to Ft Wayne Indiana every month for business. They had firework stores there, never had time to go inside and check it out. Here in Okinawa, at the Don Quitote store near my house, they sell all kinds of fireworks. I think some of the fireworks are the ones that for up into the air and explode, but not sure as I can't read the writing on the package. I heard them called roman candles as a kid. Anyways, you want fireworks, come to Okinawa!!
Waipahu is illegal fireworks central. My neighborhood has been rocking for over a week now. I wouldn't be surprised if my smoke detector goes off over the next night or two.
Things that Hawaii people save up for... Babys 1st Luau, High school graduation, da speakers in your car, Wedding Luau, New Years Fireworks... da illegal kine
One of the biggest things that I don't get about fireworks and those who exploded them is that it 'narcasistic irony'. Exploding these devices would mean that they love attention, although drawing attention directly onto themselves would mean that they can get arrested. Exploding these devices year round greatly lessens the significance of the New Year's Eve celebration. It's like eating turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie everyday, that makes Thanksgiving just another day.
Good point. I think a lot of it is cultural and since it's banned, a lot of it is an act of defiance to authority. Maybe it's a way of saying, "I don't care what the laws say. I just do what I like."
@@HelloFromHawaii I honestly feel that the culture position of thought has gone out the window. This is more about Hawaii's obsession in thinking that we are being uniquely 'explosive' in ushering in the new year. That combined with the immature defiance of rules and laws, people who are firing off these explosives don't care about anyone but themselves.
Interesting ideas, as always. Make ‘em legal, tax ‘em, and fund the schools and fire department. Police don’t have to worry about it. Fire department gets support. And maybe teachers get paid better.
Interesting idea to give the money to the schools. That would make the tax a split between the State and counties since schools are funded by the State.
FBI setup at all shipping ports, Harbors. If Walmart can facial track your transactions, they can track all movement from these areas as well. BAN ALL FIREWORKS, NO MORE PERMITS! PAU
I was ready to blow up in your comment section when I read the title. However, I enjoyed this video. I certainly see the perspective of the elderly, people with young children, pets, and individuals that have medical conditions. It would seem like the people opposing fireworks are a minority, and the people for fireworks a vast majority. I agree with finding middle ground, but I don’t think there is a cut and dry answer. Also, it’s a very good point you make about people spending thousands on illegal fireworks. Aerials in particular are expensive, I’ve seen the lists. Almost like people save year round just to blow up their money going into the new year lol. Thanks for the content!
When you mention finances in Hawaii, how about placing a bounty of fireworks users. Increase the fines to $10,000, and upon prosecution, half of that ($5,000) would go to the person who reported it. So the person doesn't necessarily need to be a neighbor, just anyone. And as far as accountability, assess the penalty not only to the person who ignites it, but the property owners also. This way, no landlord would allow this type of thing to happen on their rental property. Lastly, threaten an all out ban if illegal aerials continue. That may increase 'neighborhood policing and reporting, and may take us back close to how things were in days gone by.
I thought that a reward or bounty system would work, but then it would create all kinds of conflicts that the police would have to further resolve. I can imagine some people would just drive around the island and try to collect the rewards. Could make bank in one night 😆
@@HelloFromHawaii The thing about bounty, is registering to be a bounty hunter. And turning in all of the necessary evidence will be so a tight case can be made against the people firing off these fireworks. The bounty hunters would have the similar technology as the police, so they can display and turn over the video evidence to them, and the police could immediately make the needed arrest and confiscation process. And like you stated, someone making even six of these in one night could make $30,000. And another kicker, since this is assisting the government enforcement, make the reward tax-free.
I am hoping that this year is not a repeat of last year, where I couldn’t sleep because some bozo was shooting illegal aerials on the sidewalk next to my fence. I live in a wood frame town house, and I was afraid one of the aerials would land on my town house’s roof and catch fire, which would necessitate me having to flee with my cat and a handful of belongings. I was so relieved the next morning when nothing happened, but this year if it happens again, I will call the police. I am not going to put up with that fear again.
Yes, it rained earlier so I was thankful of that. But some bozo still shot off illegal aerials on the sidewalk outside my fence again. I did call the police, but the police didn't do anything because they kept it up all the way until midnight.
@HelloFromHawaii At least four are dead and over 20 people remain hospitalized following a massive explosion in Salt Lake caused by what appears to be illegal fireworks.
The ones doing illegal fireworks don’t care. Even last year right after West Maui fires. Couldn’t believe it. I guess it didn’t happen to them so who cares. The cost. Well most families hui their money for everything here. Believe me local families are very resourceful. They protect their family no matter what goes on behind the scenes. I’m sitting here listening to bombs being let off in my neighborhood. Nothing will ever change. Happy New Year! 🎆
It's very hard to enforce. Can't catch them in the act and you don't want to be known as a snitch. I saw drones. You might see what house it's coming from but the only way I see enforcement is drones with good cameras recording your face. Police tried to record drivers but people cried about that. I try to think of a solution and not just complain but I don't see one. Aloha from village park.🎊
Howzit Chris! We were so fortunate to grow up in a time having fun popping and were all supervised and scolded when we played. Still remember the year being stuck in Hawaii Kai from the flood. I also understand the ban with my brothers being former HFD captains and the things they saw but never ever told me til this day. So I get both sides. Stay safe. hauʻoli makahiki hou to you and the ohana.
I’m pro fireworks and I also get irritated by the random Wednesday bombs that go off…if they legalized novelty fireworks it would solve the illegal fireworks problem..have stores like Don Quijote/longs/foodland sell them and it will undermine the black market..it’ll not make it worth the hassle for the black market guys to import it bcus nobody gon pay 3x mark up..and those who still want to risk it for the biscuit will be the same guys who bring ‘em it to have it for themselves jst cus hawaii people love to be exclusive..but they won’t make any money from it
I'm not sure legalizing fireworks would solve the problem, but it would have an impact. Again, we'd have to see how the market reacts to having it available at Longs and other places. I'm just thinking of the taxes and how that could help our county departments.
You are not exaggerating my friend when you say "The Greatest Illegal Firework Show in the World". I moved here 15 years ago, my wife is from Waianae, and she doesn't understand why I make such a big deal about fireworks on New Years. The fireworks, plus the Aloha spirit on New Years eve is an overwhelming, breathtaking, beautifully amazing experience, and I personally believe that everyone should experience it at least once in their lifetime. But, I'm just some white dude from Detroit, lol, so these are just my personal opinions. Much Love and Aloha from Ewa, Happy New Year, and God Bless. edit: if you are interested, or ever want to collab in a video, let me know. My contact info is in my about section.
The Bishop Trust and the Doris Duke foundation set aside 500,000 USD annually for the purchase of fireworks. You must apply well in advance to receive a grant.
I miss the days when fireworks were a community event and everyone pitched in after midnight to sweep up; not a fan of the loud”bombs” -to me it’s a different statement,meant to terrorize -agree with you about the money up in smoke
I live in probably the only area where you can’t hear or see any. On July 4 I could make out a little sound in the distance toward Hale’iwa and see a glow of light above the town but other than that nothing. Sure I love seeing them on TV or Instagram, but that’s about it. I do agree with all you said, they should legalize it. And yes I always wonder how people can afford to throw money away like that. Cost of living with just the necessities is hard enough. Just like the trips to 9th island. I don’t get it.
Mokuleia? Must be nice out there. I'm sure there are other pockets of places where you can't hear them. I think Waikiki and Kakaako might be quiet, despite the noise from parties and people. No place to play fireworks here.
@@HelloFromHawaiiIn Waikiki, they do it by Ala Wai, Kaimuki/Manoa, near buildings and by the beach. They've been going off by the beach and Ala Wai all year long. So yes, they'll do it anywhere. One year, the fireworks were so close to the buildings we saw a drone (that was filming all the fireworks) burn up from the fireworks landing on it. Ka'kaako has the Honolulu Marathon fireworks annually they have to deal with and by any parks or near the ocean can be easy areas for illegal fireworks.
My landlord's brother came up with some of the most extreme aerial shells. He was a fireman and somehow he was able to get some BIG stuff. I think the black market has connections with the police and fireman departments. They are allready associated with the weed business, this is just another way of making money for themselves behind the scene.
Locals to tourist: "Don't get too close to the turtles!" Locals on New Years: " Light the fireworks up and pollute the turtles environment with litter and noise!" 😂😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉🎉
Unless it's really dry fireworks are not really a bad thing. The amount of fireworks could also be restricted. For me what happens on New Years Eve is tons of gun fire, shotguns, rifles, pistols all around me. I would rather that be addressed than a few firecrackers.
Just saw something last night that upset me a bit. An adult man with his kids drove into our neighborhood got out of their car and quickly set off some aerials. They then jumped back in the car and left. So not only are they setting off these fireworks they are doing it in other neighborhoods to avoid getting caught. On top of that this guy teaching his maybe 10 yr old son that doing this is an ok thing. Idiot was standing in the middle of an intersection and when a car came to turn guy didn’t even move because the fireworks were still shooting off from his hand. 🤦🏽♂️
That is indeed part of the problem...not to mention that teaching kids this is 'ok' behavior is child abuse. Google the definition of "sociopath" and tell me I'm exaggerating...
That's part of the issue and it's unfortunately generational. Instead of having fun memories of playing in front of the house, I guess that will be what the kids remember.
When the ban was 1P brought I/ reason was the smoke & haze from the jumping jacks, sparklers and pollution that came with it. Rockets were not the main reason at first, but now fire and people's safety are the issue . I have watched homes burning bcuz of rockets and know of persons almost dying from illegal fireworks not to mention many who have lost fingers or eyes kids as well as adults. Many say my cultural heritage, BS, the Asians are the only culture that believe in that and they do so only at the start of a new venture. As far the $ wasted on fireworks goes many can't buy car insurance, pay rent but some how they can buy beer, cigarettes , and pakalolo. Time grow up & act like adults. And to our city council pass laws that help your constitutes instead of only worrying about keeping your seat. This coming New Years will be no different then the last 14 or 15 yrs. SADLY FOR HAWAII😢 and I do not expect any different 😢
I don't expect any difference. However, I do believe that Asians aren't the only ones who play fireworks to celebrate the new year. It may have come from Asian cultures, but the way it plays out these days in Hawaii, it's a local thing. Again, the greatest illegal fireworks show on Earth.
Hawaii need to follow California. We do allow certain types of fireworks. These fireworks are called safe and sane fireworks. They are not fireworks that shoot up into the air all known as aerial fireworks. These fireworks are only ground fireworks. And cannot get 10 feet up in the air. So outlawing all fireworks is the wrong call. But only allowing ground fireworks should be allowed in the like California. So I asked for All Hawaiian to follow Californians fireworks status. And use only safe and sane fireworks.
Back when fireworks were legal, I got off work at midnight and tried to go home. That year, there was no wind in Ewa Beach so you couldn't even see the streetlights, only the taillights of the car in front of you. It was a really bad situation, I really don't miss popping fireworks.
@@HelloFromHawaii As far as smoke goes, yes it got better. We don't have as much people on the ground lighting the long packs of fireworks at midnight anymore. More aerials now.
At this point, Hawaii should prob cherish the fireworks culture as it literally is a core part of the modern melting pot Hawaiian society. Everyone in Hawaii should read Michener’s “Hawaii” since it gives such a nice synopsis of how modern-day Hawaii evolved…it’s like the family history for today’s Hawaii. One of the numerous little details that one learns about Hawaii is the existence of Hawaii’s fireworks culture. To the surprise of most, I imagine, is that the “authorities” have been trying to stamp out the “fireworks problem” in Hawaii for over a century. Fireworks is a centuries old Chinese custom that was brought over to the plantation society by the native workers, and the authorities hated it from the start. Today, most likely view the “fireworks problem” as a civic problem between those who want peace and quiet versus those who like to disrupt that same peace and quiet. But the reality is that it is a culture war that started between “Haole” authorities who wanted to control a small joy that the Chinese plantation workers had in a lonely island far from their ancestral home. The modern “fireworks problem” is simply emblematic of the underlying historical tension between Haole and plantation worker cultures. IMO, the best solution to the problem is to create a compromise position that respects this historical reality…to ban fireworks will only find civil disobedience, while not having any regulation will eventually create a disaster like the fire in Michener’s “Hawaii” that destroyed much of the island…
Chris, good video. I soooo agree with you. If people goibg do it....let them just tax it. Lots of people are hurt in car accidents and we still allow driving. We need to find a good balance (middle ground) .
The ban is clearly not working or deterring people. I say just run a pilot program for a few years and see. Guarantee that first year of the pilot program we'd see huge numbers in sales...and tax revenue.
Unfortunately the cat is out of the bag and it’s really difficult to put it back. Unless the aerials coming into the ports stop coming in, it’s not going to stop. Plus there is the demand side and none of the sellers are being caught. It’s similar to the drug problem. Very complex. And I was born in hawaii and grew up with firecrackers and sparklers, not aerials. I now live in Chinatown with a view to the west and have the best nearly 180 degree view of illegal activity. I’ve seen some very fancy ones that I’ve never seen at legal displays. You know those must be very expensive! I have no solutions. I feel for those with pets, PTSD and breathing issues. My cats are used to it but we don’t like the bombs! Will see if there will be fewer aerials this year since they did confiscate a few tons at the port this year. But firecracker permits jumped this year so…..correlation? Will see. And the aerials were quite prevalent on Christmas Eve this year between 7-8 pm. It’s like they coordinated!
Chinatown must be a great place to view it. Good views of the west side and Kalihi/Nuuanu. And people don't really play in Town so it's fairly quiet. 🤙
I think your solution puts too much faith in the government. If the surcharge generates a million dollars then a million dollars will be removed from the fire budget and allocated elsewhere. Then the surcharge money will be given to the fire department so then they can say the money went where it was supposed to go. I'm not in favor of any policy that gives the government more money. I say work with what you got and let us spend our money the way we see fit.
People who like you are the type of person who would support someone with a drinking problem..not to have to stop drinking, to have a few and get into a car and risk lives. I hope for the victims of Salt Lake.. their tragedy wakes you up. Support out Fire department workers.. they put their lives on the line.. Support our Police they do the same.. Otherwise why have them. Let them choose what is safe for them and others.. by their expierence. Do a service for Hawaii.. grow up.
ban since 1980. what about july 4th. fireworks are legal in other states. im not for another tax. what happens to our sales taxes? State and city government is a tax blackhole. taxes makes it fireworks for the rich.
I don't think a tax would mean fireworks for only the rich, since it's optional and not yearround. Whereas GET is applied to everything, including essentials like food and medicine.
Has anyone here in Hawaii noticed that since the ban of recreational fireworks those massive aerials are more than common. I can easily go to my parents' house and see a better show in Ewa Beach than to an organized show. I'm thinking that if recreational fireworks were brought back, the smoke that they would produce would block out the aerial spectacles thus negating the purpose of launching them. How is it a SPARKLER is ILLEGAL? Criminal?!! Come New Years eve. If you have a house, give you roof a douse of water as well as your yard.
Yeah, the free shows by residents is way better than any organized display. The State should set up cameras and just livestream what NYE looks like on Oahu as a marketing ploy. "Greatest illegal fireworks show in the world" brought to you by locals 😆
Do we ever hear from drug addicts complaining about the costs of drugs? Do we even ask drug addicts, where you get the bucks for the drugs? A fireworks surcharge? Really? Is that like the sellers of ghost guns, oh wait, I gotta add the surcharge? Funny.
If they legalize the ground fireworks and sell them at Longs and City Mill, the taxes would be collected there. And all that money could be used to assist the counties.
@@HelloFromHawaii: Contraband will always be something people smuggle into. The prohibition of alcohal was one that sparked an underground industry. Taxes and costs of cigerettes are examples of people in states smuggling cigerettes to avoid the costs/taxes. Drugs are another example of costs of drugs. Even if fireworks are legalized, which they are provided one gets the permits. It's the aerials that are prohibited, yet they get into the state. Even if the aerials are taxed, the dangers of them and usage are still a danger, as alcohol is legal, yet driving under the influence doesn't negate the dangers of the driver, no-fault coverage of someone under the influence gives people endangered a recourse. The danger of legal aerials improperly used causing someone harm, there is no protection of people killed, mutilated or property damaged by the aerial. The police aren't going to ticket people without seeing the usage, so its to continue. The politicians don't want to lose voters by banning fireworks, legislatures aren't going to blanket banning fireworks. The 3 deaths last night, scores of injured people/property, are the neighbors going to turn in the people? Most will have to cover their own losses. We'll see what the politicians decide.
Fireworks issue in Hawaii has been controversial my whole life. Seems ever since ALL fireworks were banned, illegal fireworks problem has gotten much worse, setting up the tragedy on New Year's eve. I hope you post an update to raise awareness. Mahalo.
Fn Hawaii is the “ fireworks “ state. All throughout the year you can hear loud booms under these following events:
1) birthdays
2) someone proposed for marriage
3) MMA fights
4) Pacquiao fights
5) SuperBowl
6) 4th of July
7) someone got promoted at their job
8) graduation ( high school / college )
9) thanksgiving
10) Xmas eve
11) Xmas day
12) day after Xmas
13) day before New Year’s Eve
14) New Year’s Eve
15) New Year’s Day
16) first born son, wife gave birth
17) a boy asking a girl on a date & she said Yes
18) bunch a Aholes just wanna wake up the neybor
19) leftover aerials wanna get rid of it
20) UH football wins a game
I’m pretty sure there’s more events
As someone that lives on Maui this is very accurate
the black maket is alive and well 😎
And then sometimes it’s just because they have nothing else to do. Or maybe they can’t sleep at night so they figure they’ll light some bombs so no one else can sleep either.
And Chinese New Year.
lol. Never knew about the UH football celebration. 😆
Everyone: I don’t have 100k for down payment but I have 1k for fireworks 😂
😆
4:20 I've been saying da same thing,how can people complain about gas electric food and Rent prices.but yet all year round I stay hearing illegal aerials go off all the time and not just one or 2,talking like 5 or more.
Local kine math 😆
I grew up in Hawaii and played fireworks all my life. But, at 74 yo, I no longer love them, they frighten humans and animals! Now, with the tragedy in Aliamanu, its time to get serious about this issue! It is time Gor leaders to man up and do the right thing!
The animal shelters will be full of terrified lost pets.
That's every day in Hawaii.
If u don't adopt em by a certain time they kill the animal right?
I was very impressed with your well-thought-out, organized presentation and your overall sense of wherewithal. I see bright things in your future! Keep going, brah! -Kamasami Kong, Tokyo
The problem is not one law or another. The real problem here is the culture. As someone who actually lives in Waipahu, I don't find the fireworks beautiful they are disgusting and traumatizing. I didn't grow up here. In any normal sane suburban community in America no one would tolerate 12 hours of nonstop sonic explosions. What about those of us who just want a quiet holiday in peace? So much for our rights. Every year I have to flee my home and shelter in the movie theater for 5 hours. Last night it was so bad it actually started raining sulfur. So much for "aloha." You people don't want to celebrate a holiday. Y'all just wanna see sh*t explode.
It's cultural but definitely has changed since I was a kid. People played fireworks but with respect and within reason. These days it's pretty wild.
Sleepless nights all year long. 2 am there’s no excuse. Aerials are illegal period.
Setting off aerial bombs late at night is a form of bullying the neighborhood. They are cowards.
Grew up on O'ahu, but home is on the mainland. Just heard the local news two people died and others injured in the Salt Lake area. It's a miracle the neighborhood didn't burn down. Maybe this tragedy will change the local mindset of people to change their ways
Very sad news.
Here's the problem, the police rarely ever enforce fire works laws.
There is a reason for that. Think about those illegal lists and where they come from.
They can't arrest half the island.
@@drivehard2395 Fines up to 10k.
@@808lublabs4 That's called corruption, it's rampant here.
@@drivehard2395 Fines/citations up to 10k.
Curious to see what’s going to happen now that 4 people lost their lives and many were seriously injured from that home in Salt Lake. My jaw just came off its hinges and walked out the door when I seen that drone footage of that home 😢. Last night was definitely the greatest illegal fireworks show since it was banned.
We'll see what happens. Very sad news. Again, I want to see if we're serious about doing something about fireworks, or if it will lose steam by February.
palms are being greased at the port
In light of the recent tragedy in Salt Lake something needs to be done. Tradition is important but not at the expense of lives. I don’t pretend to know the solution but it can’t be the status quo. Condolences to those who lost loved ones 🙏
WHAT ABOUT ALL THE ANIMALS?
AND VETERANS with PTSD....just so you can get your idiotic jollies..what about the environment..the air??
So archaic..despise fireworks 🤨
Yeah, for sure animals and veterans are negatively affected by the loud aerials. My dog was shaking all night, and I live right next to Aliamanu.
Hey, you plan on maybe commenting on what happened at Saltlake...🙏🏽😞
It SOUNDS/FEELS LIKE BOMBS GOING OFF - SETTING OFF CAR ALARMS FROM ALL OVER, MY HOUSE SHOOK WITH THE EXPLOSIONS OF THESE BOMBS, pets were so frightened, THE SMOKE FROM FIREWORKS MAKES BREATHING DIFFICULT FOR MANY. The law bans illegal fireworks - but someone sold it to hawaii and the police really did nothing. The die hard firework bomb blowers didn't end their popping at 1am as the law requires - it went on and on. Since they can't control illegal fireworks from being sold to hawaii - they should ban fireworks altogether. Perhaps hand held noise makers should be sold to bring in new year instead of fireworks.
Chris, you always have such sensible, level headed solutions for issues. You have the ability to see multiple points of view while staying calm. Please consider running for public office! And no, I am not a local, but I have family there.
Thanks for the encouraging words. Well, I just hope that we can at least try some solutions, instead of just talking about them and then we move on and the same thing happens next year. 🤙
This is not island wide in the scale being discussed. The west side is a warzone compared to wealthier areas on Oahu. This is the same as the mainland: Lower income populations engage in illegal fireworks to an exponential degree.
Yea... I live over here in Ma'ili...the fireworks are bomb like. All the dogs I care for are terrified and on edge all the time. Sucks. I wonder about the birds....
lower-income people (in general) tend to be more comfortable with buying things of "questionable legality". also more of an innate need to out-do the neighbors (rich people already out-do their neighbors daily).
That's a great point. Perhaps elected officials could visit other parts of the island to experience the level of noise it creates.
@@HelloFromHawaii Just come to Kailua. Not a disadvantaged district by any means and we've been having Bombs and other stuff going off for days already. Tonight, NY eve they started at noon and it hasn't stopped. It's illegal sure but not enforceable.
It’s just beyond me how no one is afraid of these explosions causing a fire that could rip through peoples properties and the whole island. Especially with the trade winds. It’s so unnerving.
I'm sure it's a concern, but one that is overlooked with all the fun.
I live in Kula on Maui. That is definitely a concern for me.
Fireworks were banned in Hawaii in 1994 because of Noise, Safety Concerns, and Environmental concerns. Authorities yet seized large quantities of fireworks. Thousands of pounds were apprehended; 10 t0 30,000 pounds. That's A LOT OF SMUGGLING!
Based on what you see on New Year's Eve, you'd never know there was a ban. 😅
Staying in Haleiwa for the month and cant believe the number of house-shaking explosions nightly. This really ruins the quality of life. War zone. Not fun at all. Combined with the countless drug addicts, your island is self-destructing, people.
Sorry the experience is so bad out there. It's only going to get crazier.
I STILL Cannot understand why KGMB has not offered you a Position on the Nightly News Desk as an Anchor. Their Loss.
Thanks. I wouldn't be able to talk for just 2 minutes or less per story, though. I'd need at least 22 minutes. 😆
2Dead & 20+ people brutally injured on Oahu on New Years Eve. 😢
Updated to 4Dead
I heard. Very sad news
I love how you work so hard to present reasonable perspectives from all sides of any issue you decide to discuss.
In this one, you skipped over one of the most common local arguements for the fireworks. In Hawai`i, the fireworks are frequently defended as a cultural tradition of scaring off bad spirits...however, this is primarily a Chinese tradition done on the New Year of the Chinese calendar, which is a different date than the Gregorian calendar. Some locals feel very strongly about protecting the right to set them off, but many others feel it shouldn't have special protection since the tradition does not come from Polynesian roots. A complicated discussion that people can get really worked up about, but really kind of side-steps around discussing the practical real-world issues caused by the fireworks (trash, pollution, noise, scared animals, fire risk, etc.).
It'll never happen here, but a few places on the mainland don't allow private fireworks displays, but set aside an area on 4th of July and on NYE where the public can bring their fireworks to a common location (usually with an assigned direction to fire and a "don't cross this" line, separate "just viewing, no fire" zones for spectators, fire department/ambulance on hand, etc.). That way, safety can be monitored, litter concentrated for cleanup, and everyone sensitive knows exactly where/when the noise will be. Some of them rival the town's own displays. Defunct airports (like the one in Kailua-Kona) are PERFECT for this.
Mahalo for the comment. That's an interesting idea that you brought up, where certain areas are designated for public play. But since the aerials are so widespread, all you have to do is look outside and you'll see them everywhere. 😆
No money for food, rent, etc ... but plenty money for those god-damn FIREWORKS!!!!
😆
The cost of fireworks trips me out. A friend showed me a price list 10+ years ago and I can't imagine the cost that some of these people are putting down to literally "burn"... Prices must be even crazier now... People have a hard time living due to high cost of living, yet they are able to "burn" thousands maybe even tens of thousands of dollars on fireworks... Another one of Hawaii's great mysteries of how people afford to live here
Out here in Kalaeloa I can never differentiate the difference between a loud firework going off or the military blowing up something 😂
I'm watching this and listening to fireworks at the same time.
😆
Last night was the first and only time I never heard one fire truck or ambulance (I’m near the Blaisdell Arena). Every year I would hear them all night long. With the amount of aerials covering every inch of the sky last night, I for sure thought I would be hearing the fire trucks and ambulances all night long. But never heard not one. 😳
We heard some ambulances in Town, but I think the rain helped.
Lack of financial education and prioritization. How can locals afford so many crazy Tacomas? So much focus on wants
I don't know how we do it. I guess some people just gotta have the newest truck 😆
You could use an update already.
Why can’t the state put on shows so people can celebrate without having to light our own.
Because they don’t get off on it. They get their orgasm from setting it off themselves. It’s not the same to watch someone else doing it.
From EWA, it’s 12:18 Wed Jan 1. Happy New Year. 🎆 🎇 🎊 🎉🤙
I could see it from our side of the island. Wild
this episode did not age well...Salt Lake tragedy
I remember growing up and the neighborhood roar going up from about 11:45 to 12:10 - it was loud but you could go inside and get away from it - and it was nothing like the artillery like booms from illegal aerials - and having it happen year round (which it does off and on) and more so as new years, chinese near year and fourth of july is just nuts. And how are illegal aerials somehow safer than old fashioned standard ones. That's why they're illegal. And it's almost impossible for the police to catch people in the act
If safety was the issue, I'm not sure how illegal fireworks are safer than what we had before. I suppose it's less use, but then again, I don't know the data to back up the point about safety and if this ban has been effective.
San Antonio also has huge display of illegal fireworks in city limits on new year's eve.
Not like this. I've seen fireworks in Austin, San Antone, New Orleans, Cleveland, Denver. The shear magnitude of it on O'ahu is incredible and mind blowing. First time I saw it, I had no idea what was about to happen. I'm on the island right now, and those fireworks are one of the reason I keep coming back for NYE.
Interesting. Would love to see it there to compare.
Lmao. Just visiting aeia first time sorry but San Antonio is baby’s play compared to Hawaii.
If I could send you the midnight video you could see. It’s 1 am now and still going loud
Same as you - grew up with the fireworks, but the whole neighborhood knew the hours we could legally pop AND we would be mandated (by parents) to pick up the red paper firecrackers. These days, the donkeys feel they’re above the laws. Sad!
We still clean up. Kids played Pop pops and we swept up.
Happy New Year!!! Pray for rain...
😆
That didn’t do shit at all as you may have noticed.
The ER waiting times will be a bit longer...
I find it somewhat ironic that locals complain about their financial plight are purchasing fireworks and literally burning money.
I have no idea how much those illegal fireworks costs. I heard that some people spend $5000 or more just for fireworks. This is just insane to me. Even if I were filthy rich, I would not spend that kind of money. I can just watch my neighbors' fireworks for free. I don't need to be the one who actually lights the fuse.🤣
lol most locals ain’t that stupid , majority of their money comes from chicken fighting or anything that’s dirty so they use they dirty money for buy fireworks. If that’s the case half of Hawaii would’ve been homeless
I've had customers tell me that every year, starting January 1st, (they, or people they know) start saving for fireworks for the following New Years, and from price ranges of 5 to 15 thousand dollars. (as far as my customers, I'm a self employed plumber, and I cover the entire island of Oahu, so I talk to a wide range of people and all different walks of life.) While I'm making decent money at my job, I'm still barely making the mortgage and I couldn't imagine spending money on something that literally goes up in smoke in a matter of seconds. Although, I'm not gonna lie. It is one hell of a show, and an amazing experience, if you are in the right location. (hint, top of Makakilo, you get an aerial view of the Leeward side and it's awesome.) Talk about the greatest illegal firework show in the world.
@@Harloha Dang! Up to $15,000!??? I'd rather use that money to buy food, pay rent, or use it to send my kid to college. Full-time tuition at one of the Hawaii community colleges cost about $3000 for the entire year. One year at UH-Manoa cost about $10,000 for a Hawaii resident. So, for about $16,000, you could pay for a kid's first THREE years of college!
I don't understand that either, but I guess it's a thing. Those who spend a lot of fireworks must have a lot of expendable income or just prioritize different things in their budget.
In California, all fireworks are pretty much illegal except for a few counties where the safe and sane fireworks are sold. (that"s what they used to call them). I used to travel to Ft Wayne Indiana every month for business. They had firework stores there, never had time to go inside and check it out. Here in Okinawa, at the Don Quitote store near my house, they sell all kinds of fireworks. I think some of the fireworks are the ones that for up into the air and explode, but not sure as I can't read the writing on the package. I heard them called roman candles as a kid. Anyways, you want fireworks, come to Okinawa!!
I remember Roman candles when I was a kid. You'd hold them and they fire off into the air.
I feel like the ban made the illegal fireworks free reign in terms of ginormous sounds and all kinds of probs
Yeah I think the ban increased the aerials
Happy New Year 😊
Happy New Year 🤙
Waipahu is illegal fireworks central. My neighborhood has been rocking for over a week now. I wouldn't be surprised if my smoke detector goes off over the next night or two.
There is no way in hell I'd drive through waipahu on New Year's Eve😂
@@Lopezflies888 As long as you stay on the H1 you should be ok
Yeah, I have family there and they tell me it's wild every year.
Things that Hawaii people save up for... Babys 1st Luau, High school graduation, da speakers in your car, Wedding Luau, New Years Fireworks... da illegal kine
One of the biggest things that I don't get about fireworks and those who exploded them is that it 'narcasistic irony'. Exploding these devices would mean that they love attention, although drawing attention directly onto themselves would mean that they can get arrested.
Exploding these devices year round greatly lessens the significance of the New Year's Eve celebration. It's like eating turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie everyday, that makes Thanksgiving just another day.
Good point. I think a lot of it is cultural and since it's banned, a lot of it is an act of defiance to authority. Maybe it's a way of saying, "I don't care what the laws say. I just do what I like."
@@HelloFromHawaii I honestly feel that the culture position of thought has gone out the window. This is more about Hawaii's obsession in thinking that we are being uniquely 'explosive' in ushering in the new year. That combined with the immature defiance of rules and laws, people who are firing off these explosives don't care about anyone but themselves.
Interesting ideas, as always. Make ‘em legal, tax ‘em, and fund the schools and fire department. Police don’t have to worry about it. Fire department gets support. And maybe teachers get paid better.
Interesting idea to give the money to the schools. That would make the tax a split between the State and counties since schools are funded by the State.
You make some good points. Are the fireworks being shipped in from China?
In kapolei they were going till 2 am lol and it was bright as the sun out
I'm sure it will be wild on that side.
FBI setup at all shipping ports, Harbors. If Walmart can facial track your transactions, they can track all movement from these areas as well. BAN ALL FIREWORKS, NO MORE PERMITS! PAU
It would probably take federal enforcement to see real change but not sure they'd want to do it.
@@HelloFromHawaii True, This would be able to track other illegal things coming in to Hawaii. Make Hawaii Safer
I was ready to blow up in your comment section when I read the title. However, I enjoyed this video. I certainly see the perspective of the elderly, people with young children, pets, and individuals that have medical conditions. It would seem like the people opposing fireworks are a minority, and the people for fireworks a vast majority. I agree with finding middle ground, but I don’t think there is a cut and dry answer.
Also, it’s a very good point you make about people spending thousands on illegal fireworks. Aerials in particular are expensive, I’ve seen the lists. Almost like people save year round just to blow up their money going into the new year lol.
Thanks for the content!
Mahalo for the comment. I do hope we find a middle ground. If not, we'll be talking about this same issue every year until they legalize it again.
When you mention finances in Hawaii, how about placing a bounty of fireworks users.
Increase the fines to $10,000, and upon prosecution, half of that ($5,000) would go to the person who reported it. So the person doesn't necessarily need to be a neighbor, just anyone. And as far as accountability, assess the penalty not only to the person who ignites it, but the property owners also. This way, no landlord would allow this type of thing to happen on their rental property.
Lastly, threaten an all out ban if illegal aerials continue. That may increase 'neighborhood policing and reporting, and may take us back close to how things were in days gone by.
I thought that a reward or bounty system would work, but then it would create all kinds of conflicts that the police would have to further resolve. I can imagine some people would just drive around the island and try to collect the rewards. Could make bank in one night 😆
@@HelloFromHawaii The thing about bounty, is registering to be a bounty hunter. And turning in all of the necessary evidence will be so a tight case can be made against the people firing off these fireworks. The bounty hunters would have the similar technology as the police, so they can display and turn over the video evidence to them, and the police could immediately make the needed arrest and confiscation process. And like you stated, someone making even six of these in one night could make $30,000. And another kicker, since this is assisting the government enforcement, make the reward tax-free.
I am hoping that this year is not a repeat of last year, where I couldn’t sleep because some bozo was shooting illegal aerials on the sidewalk next to my fence. I live in a wood frame town house, and I was afraid one of the aerials would land on my town house’s roof and catch fire, which would necessitate me having to flee with my cat and a handful of belongings. I was so relieved the next morning when nothing happened, but this year if it happens again, I will call the police. I am not going to put up with that fear again.
I haven't heard of any arrests for fireworks. The rain helped keep things damp.
Yes, it rained earlier so I was thankful of that. But some bozo still shot off illegal aerials on the sidewalk outside my fence again. I did call the police, but the police didn't do anything because they kept it up all the way until midnight.
I miss the ground blooming flowers even North Carolina legalized those.
Miss those too
Money going up in smoke.
It’s like spending on a tv and throwing it away.
Yeah, literally up in smoke.
@HelloFromHawaii At least four are dead and over 20 people remain hospitalized following a massive explosion in Salt Lake caused by what appears to be illegal fireworks.
The ones doing illegal fireworks don’t care. Even last year right after West Maui fires. Couldn’t believe it. I guess it didn’t happen to them so who cares.
The cost. Well most families hui their money for everything here.
Believe me local families are very resourceful.
They protect their family no matter what goes on behind the scenes.
I’m sitting here listening to bombs being let off in my neighborhood.
Nothing will ever change.
Happy New Year! 🎆
Same ol' same ol' 🤙
It's very hard to enforce. Can't catch them in the act and you don't want to be known as a snitch. I saw drones. You might see what house it's coming from but the only way I see enforcement is drones with good cameras recording your face. Police tried to record drivers but people cried about that. I try to think of a solution and not just complain but I don't see one. Aloha from village park.🎊
A sound solution will be difficult. It will need new laws, good enforcement, and community buy-in. Tough to get all three, but it could happen 🤙
It's been 14 years already, how time flies, but funny how since we "banned" fireworks the aerials have been crazy.
Has it gotten worse since the ban? I can't tell, but it hasn't gotten better.
@HelloFromHawaii definitely more aerials imo, especially being in Ewa we see it all out here.
Howzit Chris! We were so fortunate to grow up in a time having fun popping and were all supervised and scolded when we played. Still remember the year being stuck in Hawaii Kai from the flood. I also understand the ban with my brothers being former HFD captains and the things they saw but never ever told me til this day. So I get both sides. Stay safe. hauʻoli makahiki hou to you and the ohana.
Mahalo for the comment. Growing up in Hawaii and playing fireworks is such an amazing memory. Miss those days. Glad you are able to see both sides. 🤙
I’m pro fireworks and I also get irritated by the random Wednesday bombs that go off…if they legalized novelty fireworks it would solve the illegal fireworks problem..have stores like Don Quijote/longs/foodland sell them and it will undermine the black market..it’ll not make it worth the hassle for the black market guys to import it bcus nobody gon pay 3x mark up..and those who still want to risk it for the biscuit will be the same guys who bring ‘em it to have it for themselves jst cus hawaii people love to be exclusive..but they won’t make any money from it
I'm not sure legalizing fireworks would solve the problem, but it would have an impact. Again, we'd have to see how the market reacts to having it available at Longs and other places. I'm just thinking of the taxes and how that could help our county departments.
You are not exaggerating my friend when you say "The Greatest Illegal Firework Show in the World". I moved here 15 years ago, my wife is from Waianae, and she doesn't understand why I make such a big deal about fireworks on New Years. The fireworks, plus the Aloha spirit on New Years eve is an overwhelming, breathtaking, beautifully amazing experience, and I personally believe that everyone should experience it at least once in their lifetime. But, I'm just some white dude from Detroit, lol, so these are just my personal opinions. Much Love and Aloha from Ewa, Happy New Year, and God Bless.
edit: if you are interested, or ever want to collab in a video, let me know. My contact info is in my about section.
Glad you enjoy the fireworks. I'm sure your wife has seen her fair share on the west side. Happy New Year! 🤙
The Bishop Trust and the Doris Duke foundation set aside 500,000 USD annually for the purchase of fireworks. You must apply well in advance to receive a grant.
🤦♀️
Where do the fireworks come from?
@@jimmckinnon7148 Corruption.
They come by barges
Boats and shipping containers.
This didn’t age well. 😅
You may have saved lives sir well done.
The news from last night was sad. Explosion in Salt Lake on Oahu
I miss the days when fireworks were a community event and everyone pitched in after midnight to sweep up; not a fan of the loud”bombs” -to me it’s a different statement,meant to terrorize
-agree with you about the money up in smoke
I miss those days too. Everyone on the street would help clean up the red paper and that was that. No more playing after 1 am.
"...the greatest illegal fireworks show..." What's the key word here, "greatest" or "illegal"?.
lol. I like to focus on "greatest".
I live in probably the only area where you can’t hear or see any. On July 4 I could make out a little sound in the distance toward Hale’iwa and see a glow of light above the town but other than that nothing. Sure I love seeing them on TV or Instagram, but that’s about it. I do agree with all you said, they should legalize it. And yes I always wonder how people can afford to throw money away like that. Cost of living with just the necessities is hard enough. Just like the trips to 9th island. I don’t get it.
Mokuleia? Must be nice out there. I'm sure there are other pockets of places where you can't hear them. I think Waikiki and Kakaako might be quiet, despite the noise from parties and people. No place to play fireworks here.
@@HelloFromHawaiiIn Waikiki, they do it by Ala Wai, Kaimuki/Manoa, near buildings and by the beach. They've been going off by the beach and Ala Wai all year long. So yes, they'll do it anywhere. One year, the fireworks were so close to the buildings we saw a drone (that was filming all the fireworks) burn up from the fireworks landing on it.
Ka'kaako has the Honolulu Marathon fireworks annually they have to deal with and by any parks or near the ocean can be easy areas for illegal fireworks.
My landlord's brother came up with some of the most extreme aerial shells. He was a fireman and somehow he was able to get some BIG stuff. I think the black market has connections with the police and fireman departments. They are allready associated with the weed business, this is just another way of making money for themselves behind the scene.
I'm sure there are some connections. Our neighbor used to have big stuff and he was with the fire department.
Locals to tourist: "Don't get too close to the turtles!"
Locals on New Years: " Light the fireworks up and pollute the turtles environment with litter and noise!" 😂😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉🎉
That was stupid lol
@@_bohm_ Merry Morman Christmas to you!🎉🎉
@MrOscarLong SIUYA
lol 🤙
They should charge the sellers of illegal fireworks for income tax evasion.
They could, but then it would be a DoTAX/IRS issue and I'm sure they don't want to have to chase all these people.
@@HelloFromHawaii True. And can they find the sellers ? But that's how they got Al Capone - tax evasion.
Unless it's really dry fireworks are not really a bad thing. The amount of fireworks could also be restricted. For me what happens on New Years Eve is tons of gun fire, shotguns, rifles, pistols all around me. I would rather that be addressed than a few firecrackers.
I'm not sure how much gun use there is on NYE here. I'm sure some, but mo' betta to set off the aerials 😆
Just saw something last night that upset me a bit. An adult man with his kids drove into our neighborhood got out of their car and quickly set off some aerials. They then jumped back in the car and left. So not only are they setting off these fireworks they are doing it in other neighborhoods to avoid getting caught. On top of that this guy teaching his maybe 10 yr old son that doing this is an ok thing. Idiot was standing in the middle of an intersection and when a car came to turn guy didn’t even move because the fireworks were still shooting off from his hand. 🤦🏽♂️
That is indeed part of the problem...not to mention that teaching kids this is 'ok' behavior is child abuse. Google the definition of "sociopath" and tell me I'm exaggerating...
That's part of the issue and it's unfortunately generational. Instead of having fun memories of playing in front of the house, I guess that will be what the kids remember.
When the ban was 1P brought I/ reason was the smoke & haze from the jumping jacks, sparklers and pollution that came with it. Rockets were not the main reason at first, but now fire and people's safety are the issue . I have watched homes burning bcuz of rockets and know of persons almost dying from illegal fireworks not to mention many who have lost fingers or eyes kids as well as adults. Many say my cultural heritage, BS, the Asians are the only culture that believe in that and they do so only at the start of a new venture. As far the $ wasted on fireworks goes many can't buy car insurance, pay rent but some how they can buy beer, cigarettes , and pakalolo. Time grow up & act like adults. And to our city council pass laws that help your constitutes instead of only worrying about keeping your seat. This coming New Years will be no different then the last 14 or 15 yrs. SADLY FOR HAWAII😢 and I do not expect any different 😢
I don't expect any difference. However, I do believe that Asians aren't the only ones who play fireworks to celebrate the new year. It may have come from Asian cultures, but the way it plays out these days in Hawaii, it's a local thing. Again, the greatest illegal fireworks show on Earth.
Hawaii need to follow California. We do allow certain types of fireworks. These fireworks are called safe and sane fireworks. They are not fireworks that shoot up into the air all known as aerial fireworks.
These fireworks are only ground fireworks. And cannot get 10 feet up in the air.
So outlawing all fireworks is the wrong call. But only allowing ground fireworks should be allowed in the like California.
So I asked for All Hawaiian to follow Californians fireworks status. And use only safe and sane fireworks.
Back when fireworks were legal, I got off work at midnight and tried to go home. That year, there was no wind in Ewa Beach so you couldn't even see the streetlights, only the taillights of the car in front of you. It was a really bad situation, I really don't miss popping fireworks.
But has the situation gotten better in the past 14 years with the fireworks ban? Less smoke?
@@HelloFromHawaii As far as smoke goes, yes it got better. We don't have as much people on the ground lighting the long packs of fireworks at midnight anymore. More aerials now.
At this point, Hawaii should prob cherish the fireworks culture as it literally is a core part of the modern melting pot Hawaiian society. Everyone in Hawaii should read Michener’s “Hawaii” since it gives such a nice synopsis of how modern-day Hawaii evolved…it’s like the family history for today’s Hawaii.
One of the numerous little details that one learns about Hawaii is the existence of Hawaii’s fireworks culture. To the surprise of most, I imagine, is that the “authorities” have been trying to stamp out the “fireworks problem” in Hawaii for over a century. Fireworks is a centuries old Chinese custom that was brought over to the plantation society by the native workers, and the authorities hated it from the start.
Today, most likely view the “fireworks problem” as a civic problem between those who want peace and quiet versus those who like to disrupt that same peace and quiet.
But the reality is that it is a culture war that started between “Haole” authorities who wanted to control a small joy that the Chinese plantation workers had in a lonely island far from their ancestral home. The modern “fireworks problem” is simply emblematic of the underlying historical tension between Haole and plantation worker cultures.
IMO, the best solution to the problem is to create a compromise position that respects this historical reality…to ban fireworks will only find civil disobedience, while not having any regulation will eventually create a disaster like the fire in Michener’s “Hawaii” that destroyed much of the island…
Michener's book is great. One of my favorites about Hawaii. 🤙
Chris, good video. I soooo agree with you. If people goibg do it....let them just tax it. Lots of people are hurt in car accidents and we still allow driving. We need to find a good balance (middle ground) .
The ban is clearly not working or deterring people. I say just run a pilot program for a few years and see. Guarantee that first year of the pilot program we'd see huge numbers in sales...and tax revenue.
I think your suggestions are good.
I wonder if the tourism board advertises that to the airlines, hotels, etc. it is a spectacular display.
It probably doesn't advertise it, but I'm sure many tourists are excited to see fireworks.
In Ohio its legal to buy aerial fire works. And you can fire these fire work in your backyard. New Year and 4th of July big time fire works.
Good to know. I'm sure it must be nice.
Hawaii needs recreational marijuana, casinos and lottery...
Issues for other videos 😄
Unfortunately the cat is out of the bag and it’s really difficult to put it back. Unless the aerials coming into the ports stop coming in, it’s not going to stop. Plus there is the demand side and none of the sellers are being caught. It’s similar to the drug problem. Very complex. And I was born in hawaii and grew up with firecrackers and sparklers, not aerials. I now live in Chinatown with a view to the west and have the best nearly 180 degree view of illegal activity. I’ve seen some very fancy ones that I’ve never seen at legal displays. You know those must be very expensive!
I have no solutions. I feel for those with pets, PTSD and breathing issues. My cats are used to it but we don’t like the bombs! Will see if there will be fewer aerials this year since they did confiscate a few tons at the port this year. But firecracker permits jumped this year so…..correlation? Will see.
And the aerials were quite prevalent on Christmas Eve this year between 7-8 pm. It’s like they coordinated!
Also, I used to live in Houston, TX where they shoot guns in the air on NYE. I think that’s worse!
Chinatown must be a great place to view it. Good views of the west side and Kalihi/Nuuanu. And people don't really play in Town so it's fairly quiet. 🤙
The end of January 2025 is Tết, lunar new year celebration!
It's a free for all now... It's out of control.
I think your solution puts too much faith in the government. If the surcharge generates a million dollars then a million dollars will be removed from the fire budget and allocated elsewhere. Then the surcharge money will be given to the fire department so then they can say the money went where it was supposed to go. I'm not in favor of any policy that gives the government more money. I say work with what you got and let us spend our money the way we see fit.
I'd hope the carrot would be enough to motivate buy-in from the county departments if that was the main reason for the veto by the mayor.
People who like you are the type of person who would support someone with a drinking problem..not to have to stop drinking, to have a few and get into a car and risk lives. I hope for the victims of Salt Lake.. their tragedy wakes you up. Support out Fire department workers.. they put their lives on the line.. Support our Police they do the same.. Otherwise why have them. Let them choose what is safe for them and others.. by their expierence. Do a service for Hawaii.. grow up.
Most fireworks I seen was in Waimanalo jus saying
Waipahu and Ewa Beach is pretty wild too 😆
ban since 1980. what about july 4th. fireworks are legal in other states. im not for another tax. what happens to our sales taxes? State and city government is a tax blackhole. taxes makes it fireworks for the rich.
I don't think a tax would mean fireworks for only the rich, since it's optional and not yearround. Whereas GET is applied to everything, including essentials like food and medicine.
If you can't effectively enforce it, you legalize and tax it. Fireworks, marijuana, prostitution, gambling etc etc
Fireworks here are on another level. Might as well try.
Has anyone here in Hawaii noticed that since the ban of recreational fireworks those massive aerials are more than common.
I can easily go to my parents' house and see a better show in Ewa Beach than to an organized show. I'm thinking that if recreational fireworks were brought back, the smoke that they would produce would block out the aerial spectacles thus negating the purpose of launching them.
How is it a SPARKLER is ILLEGAL? Criminal?!!
Come New Years eve. If you have a house, give you roof a douse of water as well as your yard.
Yeah, the free shows by residents is way better than any organized display. The State should set up cameras and just livestream what NYE looks like on Oahu as a marketing ploy. "Greatest illegal fireworks show in the world" brought to you by locals 😆
just like the chicken issue
The money could be used for rehabilitation of damaged limbs...
They don't seem too bad in town
They aren't bad in Town. Again, last year, I saw some really close to Blaisedell, but they may be firing them from trucks and then driving off.
@HelloFromHawaii it's really unbelievable. I'm with you everyone complains like oh we're barely surviving... But on New Year's it's like WTH lol 😂
I like the firework stories from the ER; how did the idiot lose his hand.
Hopefully we don't hear too many of those incidents.
Give the pot of money to the teachers and their education That's what we need to focus on.
They could do that, but then it would be a state tax. Trying to find ways to incentivize the counties to change.
They make a lot of the fireworks here.
Do we ever hear from drug addicts complaining about the costs of drugs? Do we even ask drug addicts, where you get the bucks for the drugs? A fireworks surcharge? Really? Is that like the sellers of ghost guns, oh wait, I gotta add the surcharge? Funny.
If they legalize the ground fireworks and sell them at Longs and City Mill, the taxes would be collected there. And all that money could be used to assist the counties.
@@HelloFromHawaii: Contraband will always be something people smuggle into. The prohibition of alcohal was one that sparked an underground industry. Taxes and costs of cigerettes are examples of people in states smuggling cigerettes to avoid the costs/taxes. Drugs are another example of costs of drugs. Even if fireworks are legalized, which they are provided one gets the permits. It's the aerials that are prohibited, yet they get into the state. Even if the aerials are taxed, the dangers of them and usage are still a danger, as alcohol is legal, yet driving under the influence doesn't negate the dangers of the driver, no-fault coverage of someone under the influence gives people endangered a recourse. The danger of legal aerials improperly used causing someone harm, there is no protection of people killed, mutilated or property damaged by the aerial. The police aren't going to ticket people without seeing the usage, so its to continue. The politicians don't want to lose voters by banning fireworks, legislatures aren't going to blanket banning fireworks. The 3 deaths last night, scores of injured people/property, are the neighbors going to turn in the people? Most will have to cover their own losses. We'll see what the politicians decide.
they could take a vacation in the mainland