When Dan Shields was deciding where to host a fundraiser for his 2007 Ward 2 Council race, he knew just the place - Bar2 - the newest Ward 2 dining establishment. “I want to promote business development in my ward, so it was a natural place to be. They are doing a fabulous job there, the food is great, and the atmosphere is exciting.

It was a good decision. About 90 people joined Dan to see old friends and make new ones.

Shields was joined by a host of family and friends, including local Democratic leaders: State Representative, Michael J. Skindell, Council President Robert M. Seelie, Councilwoman-at-large Nickie J. Antonio, and Ward 4 Councilwoman Mary Louise Madigan. He was also joined by several of his siblings (he’s one of nine children of William and Florence Shields), including his brother Matt, a Lakewood teacher who is Dan’s campaign treasurer.

“Dan and I have discussed many issues involving the schools including discipline and safety,” said Matt. “I think he’ll be a great resource for us on council.”

Shields began his talk by honoring fellow Lakewood Democratic Club members and longtime Lakewood residents, Gerry Nelson, Jerry Morse, and Jack Simon. He noted their years of service to the community and the Club. “These are our precious seniors, who have worked hard for us. Now I will work hard for them” Shields said, “by protecting senior services and making sure they have resources they need.”

Shields lives on Westwood Ave. with his wife Kathy and four daughters. He is excited about the possibilities for development throughout the ward. “There are a number of construction projects happening in the city, and I want to continue to promote development in Ward 2.”

In addition to senior services and economic development, Shields said he would also focus on parks. “Lakewood is a great place to live”, he said again and again, “and I want to see that our children and families continue to have open space for play and recreation.”

Shields noted that he is the only homeowner with longtime involvement in the Lakewood community in the Ward 2 race. “We need a neighbor, not a newcomer”, he said to enthusiastic applause.

He was a coach and served on the board of Trustees for the Lakewood Soccer Association; he is on the Board of Trustees at the Lakewood United Methodist Church, he has served on the Board of Trustees with the Ohio Canal Corridor (working to bring the Erie Canal’s towpath Trail to Northeast Ohio); and is a longtime parent volunteer in the schools.

Shields is an attorney with 20 years’ experience, and was on the 2005 Charter Review Commision. “These tools will help me to begin to make a positive difference immediately on council” he concluded.

Lakewood’s City Council Primary is Tuesday, October 2nd.