Cool Down St. Louis

That's the trade magazine I saw at Dobbs last week as I was getting an oil change. Believe it or not, Ferguson landed on the front page of 'Tire Business', which I'm told is a national publication for, you know, the tire business. The last two and a half weeks have been a blur, but I never got used to seeing the story top headlines in the national media. day after day.

Things are much quieter now, but the story isn't going anywhere. Yesterday my dentist asked me about. Over the weekend I stumbled upon a pro-police rally on my way to get lunch. And every day at work we talk about what's going on, what's next, how do we advance the conversation.

Since my post last week, I have continued to spend time in Ferguson, covering the situation in local schools, the continued protests (almost entirely peaceful now), and the broader implications of what happens next. What I said then still holds true-- there is no consensus. Some call this the new civil rights movement, some say it's time to let the Grand Jury run its course, others just want to get on with their lives after weeks of disruption to local businesses and schools.

Late last week this group of protestors gathered on West Florissant. They marched with signs, some with hands up, then returned to the this designated gathering place (designated by police) and circled up to pray. I've been amazed by some people who we see protesting day after day, all night long.

This week, police are wrapping up their operation at 'Command Post', just a few blocks away from where that picture was taken. That's where the National Guard moved in to protect those law enforcement officers. The Guard is now gone, and businesses can resume normal operation.

Before I go, I would like to send my deepest thanks to everyone who reached out to check on me these last few weeks. Especially to the friends and family who put up with the unreturned texts and phone calls, the missed birthday parties and cancelled plans. You are simply the best! Thank you.