It's alive and well.

For quite a few years I've considered myself fortunate to be able to tag along with a friend of mine who is a fixture of history. My friend Jefferson is a member of the Little Rock Nine -- the original nine student to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, AR.

When I first discovered his place in history I was only vaguely familiar with the historical feat and the enormity of the sacrifice so I went home and replayed my copy of the documentary Eyes on the Prize to refresh my memory. I had no idea that that small act would carry me along a parallel trajectory with these civil rights veterans for nearly the next 20 years.

I've been with members of the Nine at different commemorative events since I met Jefferson and this past month I was there to remember the 50th anniversary of the first public day in collective history. I've posted just a few of the images from the events and ceremonies here for the public to share. Later on I may make some of them available for sale but it's never been my intention to make a profit from the Nine. So I really hope you enjoy the pictures and take a few moments to remember their tremendous sacrifice.