The Observation Deck

http://media.lakewoodobserver.com/issue_pdfs/Observer_Vol_10_Issue_20.pdf


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I took a short break from writing letters, many have asked why, and to be honest the only reason is that I'm busy living my life.

But with that said it would seem to have been a tough couple of weeks for Lakewood. Between the Rape, and the time delay to let people know there was a predator working the streets, and other “crime” type events that have come to light, a picture has been painted of Lakewood as being in some sort of trouble. This is far from the truth and all the indicators I have looked at show us still climbing up the ladder of success but slowly, in a region that is still declining.

What has been a bit troubling is the number of people willing to say, “That is the final straw, I’m moving!” I understand when people say that for various reasons: work, larger family, bought a horse-- but the reasons I am hearing make no sense to me. I have heard of people moving because they can’t have chickens, and because neighbors might have chickens. I have heard of people moving because of bumpy roads, and because roads are so smooth people now speed. I have heard of people moving because the police are too tough, and because they are not tough enough. Moving East, West, or South will not cure these or other ills in the blink of an eye, they merely disguise them and they move somewhere with you.

It is funny, in all of the great communities I get to work in, I see problems with schools and rebuilding, I see problems with crime, I see problems with businesses, etc.. I see the same things I see here in Lakewood, and with City Hall courting big box mall stores, the lines of distinction have been blurred even more. But what I don’t see in other communities are the Lakewoodites: Engaged citizens who care about their community, their neighborhoods and-- what means so much to them-- their families, their education, and their well-being. Some would call it living.

Lakewoodites are truly a different breed, and together we can face the challenges that face Lakewood and succeed. 12 years ago a group of us sat down and said, Lakewood is good enough, and solid enough to handle the tough days ahead. As long as we were not afraid to TALK and share information, together we could work through anything. Even when the tables were stacked against the residents, together residents were able to sort through the issues and move ahead in a positive way for all.

I do not see that changing, and you can measure it every day, by Lakewoodites who have dug in and said, “My city.” This issue of the Lakewood Observer might be my favorite for the past couple months. Businesses writing about, “Why Lakewood? Why Not?” then pointing out why they loved the city the first time they saw it. Articles about Lakewoodites working together to raise funds and awareness for those who need a helping hand. And then our Lakewood mainstays, giving it their all without wavering, without ever putting one foot in another community metaphorically.

For a long time I thought these were the people who never got out. Like what many people think of me. But what I have found is that most of them do get out, and see the world and other communities, then like me, come home and think, “Thank God I live in Lakewood.”

I hope you enjoy reading this issue of the Lakewood Observer as much as we did putting it together for your enjoyment. I would encourage you to think about sharing that story you have, or image you have with the rest of Lakewood. As I have stated many, many times, the Lakewood Observer Project is a true labor of love and respect for the city we all live in, Lakewood, Ohio. It is also our attempt as residents and neighbors to get you out, get you involved and make sure this community stays whole, and stays engaged. At the end of the day, it is only the residents and their needs that matter.

Damn I love this city, and this project.


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