by Fran Eaton
Sunday's St Louis Post-Dispatch story penned by Adam Jadhaw about Missouri and Illinois' new ban on funeral protesting is an example of excellent objective and analytical reporting.
Jadhaw describes the Westboro Church's response to Illinois' new law restricting protests within 200 feet of a military funeral. The first such funeral since the ban went into effect was held Friday in Shumway, IL to honor fallen Army co-pilot Christopher Brian Donaldson. Our deepest sympathies to Donaldson's family.
Jadhaw provides some contemporary and historical context to the debate over free speech and points out potential problems in applying the law. The ban passed the Illinois General Assembly with unanimous votes in both houses, a "Kumbaya moment," Senator Bill Haine (D-Belleville) said.
Today's story is well worth the read. Kudos, Adam. You've obviously done your homework.