Today is indeed a somber day for the city of Kirkwood. This afternoon scores of residents, city officials, family members and friends will fill First Presbyterian Church at 100 East Adams Avenue for a funeral service for the former Mayor.
The last seven months have been difficult for the entire community of Kirkwood. Mike Swoboda had been recovering from two gunshot wounds to the head and he also put up a heroe's fight against cancer.
The 69 year old former Kirkwood Mayor, the final victim from last February's shooting rampage at Kirkwood City Hall, died last Saturday at a Saint Louis County hospice. Swoboda served two terms as Kirkwood's Mayor and he spent 12 years on the city council. Today, he's being remembered as a "beloved, dedicated public servant."
When we we visited Kirkwood this morning, of course, the flags still fly at half-staff, partly in memory of the many victims of the September 11th attacks, but also in memory of the late Mayor.
How symbolic is it today it's raining outside. The tribute to the former Mayor and the 9-11 attacks both seem a bit surreal for me. It seems just like yesterday we were covering the horrible terrorist attacks on the 9-11 innocent victims, and the heartstopping rampage at Kirkwood City Hall back on February 7th.

All of this makes for a sad day today. I'd like to know how some of you---OUR VIEWERS---are feeling today as you watch the news coverage of these two powerful, but heart-tugging events. Feel free to leave a comment.

Incidentally, today's funeral service for Mike Swoboda begins at four o'clock this afternoon at the First Presbyterian Church at 100 East Adams Avenue in Kirkwood. It is open to the public. There will not be a visitation. Also, remember Kirkwood City Hall will close for the day at three o'clock.

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