The Observation Deck

"A republic, if you can keep it"

With deference to the quote attributed to old Ben Franklin about whether America would be a monarchy or a republic, we must recognize the winds of change in Lakewood.

They blew in, like yesterday's snowy November gale.

Congratulations to Ed, Kevin, Tom, Mike and Mary. Indeed you have a city to run, if you can keep it.

Thanks to Tom George for your service too. Thanks to those who ran for office, as well. You are a vital part of the pulse of this city.

Chas, Linda, Matt, you've got a school district to run. Go for it.

To all who have been charged by the people with the responsibility of governance: You have a lot of work to do.

Heal our land.

The future begins now.

For one brief beautiful moment, we are all one again.

Kumbayah.

Congratulations Ed, Kevin, Tom, Mike and Mary - the long, hard journey has just begun.

A lot of work ahead and I truly wish you all well.

Gary Rice wrote: To all who have been charged by the people with the responsibility of governance: You have a lot of work to do.

Heal our land.

The future begins now.

For one brief beautiful moment, we are all one again.

Kumbayah.

All best thoughts and wishes for those who will govern Lakewood in the next four years.

Congratulations to yesterday's winners and to the opponents who so ably challenged.

With the election of a few new faces a much larger shift of alliances is possible.

Take the wisdom and experience of the old, and blend it with the new, and hopefully we'll all benefit with the result.

As always your Lakewood Observer will be offering the most insightful analysis that will help us know our city better than that provided by the mainstream media.

Stan Austin

Congrats to the winners and losers in the Lakewood election. I hope that Mr. Fitzgerald can rise to the occasion. He will need all the help he can get.