For a multi media glimpse of my town last night go
here
There is something about this town. I am not sure what it is. In many ways, it's the same suburban town that is attached to any other city in America. 12 miles out of the heart of downtown St. Louis. Could be 12 miles out of the heart of Columbus, Ohio or Detroit. According to legend, Kirkwood and it's twin Webster Groves were the first suburbs in America. I am not sure how people know that but that's what I have heard. I really like it here. People in this city get involved. I belong to a few organizations myself. I play basketball 3 or 4 times a week at the Kirkwood Y gym. Cookie Thornton and his wife were very active in the Y and gave generously with their time and money. I have attended many football and basketball games and tailgate parties when my daughter went to Kirkwood High. I have been to a few city council meetings when a ruling has dealt with something that concerns me. At one of those meetings, I met and chatted with Officer Biggs and disagreed with the mayor and he, respectfully with me. I saw him not long after that and we had a very nice chat. You really can't help but like the guy. At another meeting, I worked with my councilperson Connie Carr whom I had a great conversation with at The Greentree festival in September. My daughter was very popular and had countless friends over countless times, and one of those friends father was one of the victims. I like to shop and eat in Kirkwood, feeling a sense of pride that I spent money in my town. I had an issue with the Public Works department and had Ken Yost deal with me in a professional manner. I saw him not too long ago at a local eatery and we chatted. I am a lector at the Catholic parish that serves the downtown and business district. So, you see, I have met many people and continue to see them on a regular basis. I know that I am not alone in my interaction with the people in this town. There is a one degree of separation in this place. I may not know you but I know someone you know. After living here for almost twenty years, I can tell you just about everyone is as involved in our city as I am. It's what makes this town different than the city attached to Denver, Chicago or Miami. It is like Mayberry, but with the amenities of the big hulking city right next door. We have our Otis, the town drunk. We have our Andy Taylor, Helen Crump, Aunt Bea, etc. After thursday night, we don't have Mayberry anymore. It makes me angry and sad at the same time. We all feel it. It's in the air. I hope the feeling goes away but I am not sure. 6 dead in Kirkwood on a chilly February night. The healing begins, the scars will remain. The memories of really fine, good people will always be with us. God rest their souls. God help the rest of us.
