The Observation Deck

Ohhh! How can I leave out a plug for Sweet Designs! I think they have one of the nicest window displays and stores in the whole city! They have chocolate that is unbelievable!

My daughter is vegan and there aren't a lot of places that cater to vegans yet, but there will be more soon.

Mama Mia's pizza - Vegan pizza that looks good, I'm not eating it.

India Garden - Lots of vegan choices.

Schewan Gardens (I'm sure I spelled that wrong) - Lots of vegan items and I lov their regular items, good, good food, friendly staff who are very paitent with somone who always thought that chow mein really was Chinese. It's one place I'll get a little adventurous because I tend to stick with safe choices (for me) when I go out to eat. It's also one of the few places, in Lakewood where we can go out to eat together and each have a great meal.

Steve,

Thanks again for starting this thread! The posts throughout this thread are signs that Lakewood is indeed alive and well. I would also like to shamelessly add plugs to two very important people.

Most important, my wife, Katie Markling, can never be plugged enough. Katie works tirelessly to keep the Markling Family running smoothly while also finding time to volunteer her time to various Lakewood events. Thank you, Katie.

I would also like to toss a plug out for my father, John Markling. I am indeed blessed and honored to have a role model in my father, as are my three sons. I emphasize the “Johnâ€￾ in my full name as a constant reminder that I need to work daily on becoming the kind of man my father is. Thanks, Dad.

Sunny Lakewood days make me sentimental.

Matt

I second that emotion

sharon kinsella wrote:The Dog House in Marcs Plaza. Everything you've ever wanted on a hot dog and more. The guy who runs the place is really nice and will suggest combinations to you that are spot on.

I have a couple:
1. My husband - he is a true partner and wonderful father

2. The Phase 3 Building Plan Steering Committee for dedicating many hours of volunteer time to help structure the plan, forums, discussion, etc for finishing the rebuilding of the lakewood schools.

3. My children who are an inspiration to me

4. And oh, well, I just have to -
I have a story in the next Chicken Soup for the Soul book coming out on March 24th - Chicken Soup for the Soul, Power Moms. I am excited beyond words to be included in this book.

Let me plug Diane Helbig in celebration of her achievement and inclusion of her story, and much more.

Ever since I had the opportunity to meet and interview Diane for an LO article on her run for council, she has impressed me with the inspirational powers of her first-rate intellect and her no-nonsense common-sense approach to problem solving.

So congratulations, and here's to Diane, one of the sharpest minds and most practically inspiring minds in the city.

I think we have a motivational star in our city. Time to celebrate Diane Helbig.

Kenneth Warren

Thanks Ken. I truly appreciate your kind words. They hold a special value for me as I have a great deal of respect for you.

You are a real asset to our community. Our library is a living testament to your commitment to the citizens of Lakewood.

I got a million of them...


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