PJStar Snubs Fire Department

We know the editorial board at the PJStar long has had concerns about Mayor Ardis' relationship with Local Firefighters 50. After all, his brother, Tony, serves as the Union's president. That really doesn't excuse what happened last Sunday.

At 2:00 p.m., bagpipes played "Amazing Grace." The Bugler played "Taps." The big silver bell rang for each life lost. Firefighters, adorned in formal dress blues, marched in formation to City Hall Park. Mayor Ardis spoke. Firefighter Mike Morrow, who had been critically injured years ago in a blaze, spoke. Fifth District Councilman Nichting read a tribute poem. Tony Ardis spoke. At large Councilperson Sandberg was there, bird on shoulder. So was Second District's Van Auken. Wanna be Councilmember Anderson was there, kids in tow. City Manager Randy Oliver was there. Treasurer Ray Willis was there. The new p0lice chief was there, in also in dress blues. Citizens turned out. It was a beautiful spring day. Television stations covered the event.

The Journal Star apparently doesn't think a touching ceremony honoring those who gave their lives is much of a story. No picture. No words. No Coverage. No taste. Pathetic.