Monkeys, you know I try to keep this journal on the light and fun side, but this is going to be one of those mornings. So be warned.

Last year at this time, Joe and I witnessed the murder of a 16-year old kid outside our house. Those of you who used to read the now-defunct Broken Gates Film site or Joe's Diary read all about it. We were the first ones on the scene and saw the carnage first hand. It was pretty affecting, to say the least.

Last night, they had the annual 4th of July fireworks in my neighborhood, the event during which the fight and murder happened last year. As I drove through the blocked off streets, I was on edge. It took me a few hours to figure out why - that this was the night.

The utter senselessness of it still bothers me. A bunch of stupid assholes started a fight and it ended in a couple of dumb kids getting stabbed. One of them died. I think the thing that bothers me is that the victim never got a chance NOT to be a dumb kid. 16 years old shouldn't be the end. He didn't even have a chance.

Ryan Sullivan, I didn't know you at all. A weird twist of fate threw us together and I watched you die. I just hope that the first and only 16 years of your life were better and more fun than the only moments I saw.

Sorry to bum you guys out before the long weekend, but just promise me you'll have a safe one and I'll see you all on the other side.