It’s New Year’s Eve and there is a definite decrease on the aerial fireworks this year for sure. The new law with harsher penalties go into effect and it appears to have changed things for the better across Honolulu county.

I saw a lot less posts of missing animals or ones hit by cars compared to last year because of fireworks. My dogs aren’t shaking like they did before and seem a lot happier versus being terrified.

My parent’s neighbors were tremendously better with their behaviors also with minimal large aerials being flown over their home as we ate dinner. My kids could safely go out to pop poppers without scattered debris of aerials.

It’s still heartbreaking for me to know that 6 people lost their lives during a “celebration” that turned deadly. Many survived but likely have permanent disabilities from a split second error.

It was even nicer to hear Mayor Blangiardi remind folks of what I stated last year that aerials were not something cultural nor a tradition. The fact that a new law was finally passed and leaders have stepped up to change things is moving in the right direction. I hope no more lives are lost from illegal and reckless behaviors.

What I’ve seen so far is families at home enjoying each other and spending time together. That is what the authentic culture and tradition is. Blowimg large bombs or aerials that risk the lives of others were never a part of our celebrations.

What started as a blog post last year calling out the appropriation of culture then getting to talk on PBS Kākou has hopefully made a change for the better. I’d like to believe that so no more lives are lost and those who choose to endanger others become a minority in our communities.

Happy New Year to a safer one!