It’s a New Year’s tradition, but not one anyone should be a part of. As the calendar swaps to January each year, many in Selma celebrate by firing guns into the air. It’s a dangerous exercise because the bullets have to land somewhere, whether that be harmlessly on the ground or by falling into someone’s roof.

Fireworks are also prohibited in the city limits, although many continue to ignore that on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July.

There are many other — and much safer — ways to celebrate.

One possibility is the butterfly drop at the St. James Hotel, which will bring in the new year and start a new tradition in Selma. The butterfly will be constructed of paper mache and lights and will represent Selma, which is known as the butterfly capital of Alabama.

The celebration will include live entertainment and talks and presentations about Selma’s progression through the years.

The highlight of the night will probably be Selma Mayor George Evans, who will be participating in a dance competition against any willing to take him on.

It’ll hopefully be the start of a new holiday tradition in Selma. Whatever you do on Thursday night, do it safely and follow the law.