Jim O'Bryan wrote:State Representative Nickie Antonio, and State Senator Michael Skindell both award
ex-School Board Member Matthew Markling with recognition for his years of service to the
Lakewood School System, and for the many great things that Matt did for the schools.
Nickie, read off a list of accomplishments that made many in the room think, "I wish he
had run for re-election."
Congratulations Matt, I know firsthand just how dedicated you were.
Thanks for the time in office.
Jim,
I’m sorry for taking so long to jump in here to respond.
Thank you for your kind comments … although I would have loved a better photo. I guess I can only work with what God gave me.
And thank you,
State Senator Michael Skindell and
State Representative Nickie Antonio. It is indeed an honor to be honored by two public officials who are both dedicated to Lakewood’s children and families.
The fact that Mike and Nickie were willing to put partisanship aside to recognize me for one night says a lot about the integrity of both our officials. And this has not been just one night. Both Mike and Nickie have always been willing to work with me to improve education in Lakewood and beyond.
Lakewood needs more leaders like Mike and Nickie who put people over politics.
I remember the December 17, 2007 Lakewood City Council Meeting when
Mayor Edward FitzGerald displayed Mike/Nickie moxie and proclaimed that:
One of the great moments of [Ward Two Councilman Ryan Patrick Demro’s] service for four years was [his] constituent service. I don’t think there has been a councilman in a long, long time who was as aggressive about constituent service. [Demro] really fought for [his] constituents and that’s not ideological and there is nothing partisan about that, it was just good old-fashioned advocacy.
Thank you, Mike and Nickie, for your service to the City of Lakewood and all its citizens!
Matt