Youth Forum Kicks Off To Full House.

[Jim O'Bryan]

Tonight's Youth Forum was heavily attended by both youth and leaders alike.


LO's Nadhal Eadeh steps to the back after introducing the program to a packed house.


The paneled that answered questions round robin about their life experiences in
Lakewood in the city, the neighborhoods an the schools.


Councilwoman Mary Louise Maidigan and Mayor Michael Summers listen to the children,
behind them is Charlie Calani Jr. and officer Angela Ortiz from the Ward 2 Mini Station.

Also in attendance from the ranks of elected officials were School board President Matthew Markling
who commented on what a great turnout it was, and how important it was for the city to
hear what the youth have to say about their lives and the quality of life they are getting
from their friends, neighbors, city services and the schools.


Meanwhile out in the hallway Councilwoman Monique Smith stood with an ear to the
door while keeping little Gabby quiet. As I turned to go down the steps, this picture just
struck me as what it is all about. The quality of life for the youth of Lakewood.

Great meeting more details from LO reporters after it is over.


.

[Kristine Pagsuyoin]

Jim,

Thanks for being at the forum tonight and getting the great pics of the event.

I was so proud of our Lakewood students! Each of them was articulate, sincere, and so eager to help us understand what life for teens is like in Lakewood. The discussion was honest which helped to make the event positive and energetic. I think the kids were able to motivate the "adults" in the auditorium to start thinking about how we can help create more meaningful experiences within our community for our kids. I know I feel motivated to get cracking on doing something that can help break down stereotypes and barriers that some people in our community may hold against teenagers, or of people with a background different than their own. Mostly. I saw 7 kids who were truly brave and I think continuing to support these kids, and programs that create dialogue between youth & adults, is important to growing Lakewood.

Great job kids! Thanks to the Lakewood Community Relations Advisory Commission for sponsoring this event.

[Betsy Voinovich]

What struck me about tonight was how well prepared the student panelists were, and how well thought out their discussion questions were. Lakewood High School has a lot to be proud of. The students obviously valued their school and trusted their teachers and mentors. They also had many positive things to say about their experiences in Lakewood and were very focused on ways they could help the city help them with issues they have as teenagers.

It was great that so many people were there; the room was full, and everybody left humming with ideas about what to do next.

What a great night.

Betsy Voinovich

[Nadhal Eadeh]

On behalf of the Lakewood Community Relations Advisory Commission, I would like to thank all of the residents, elected officials, and leaders of civic institutions for attending last night’s event.

It was an excellent “Youth Conversation” and we are especially proud of the several teenagers that spoke on last nights panel. For our commission, our intent was to empower and amplify teenage concerns in Lakewood. To me, it was remarkable to see how articulate our youth were last night: the conversation really flowed. The panelists were especially clear on what they want to see done in their community. Many of them now want to actively get involved in different civic organizations. You will read about their ideas in the next issue of the LO.

Most importantly, it was great to see so many elected officials in attendance. They were truly engaged and stuck around afterwards to speak to the students. It was good to see Mayor Summers having discussions with several of the students after the event.

School board president Matt Markling was attentive and took many notes. I’ve always been impressed with his knowledge and desire to learn about the many issues that impact Lakewood’s youth.

Nadhal

[Stephanie Toole]

Kudos to Nadhal and LHS teacher and co-chair Joe Lobozzo for putting together such an awesome evening! You two really are a dynamic duo!!

Thank you to the rest of the Community Relations Advisory Commission and the role you all played in bringing this thought provoking event to us.

Each of the teens brought such a unique perspective. Some are new to Lakewood, while others have been in the Lakewood Community since birth.

A few points that stayed with me from the evening:

1.)While some members of the teen panel have had a negative experience due to their skin color or ethnic background, they all said their positive experiences far outweigh the negative.

2.)Several members of the panel spoke of 'sholdering the burden' of their race or ethnic background. That there are bad people who make bad choices from all races and ethnic backgrounds. "Don't judge a book by its cover."

3.)The panelists spoke highly of their experiences as a student in the Lakewood Public Schools. They especially spoke highly of their teachers at LHS and how supportive and positive they have been in their lives.

4.)While some of the teen panelists played a varsity sport at LHS, other panelists would like opportunites to workout and get fit that are free or that they can afford. Most spoke of not being able to afford a membership to the YMCA.

Hats off to all involved. To all who took the time to come. And to a very brave group of teens who opened more doors than they will ever realize.

How blessed we are as a community!

[marklingm]

How blessed we are as a community!

Ditto!