A Toast to Samantha & Mark!!

Although the wedding was last year – None of us were there
Therefore a celebration today – For all of us who really care
Last year it was Madagascar – You got married on the 4th of July
Although it’s for a short time, you’re home – I’m so happy I could cry!!

When I look at you two – There is electricity in the air
The love you have for each other – Is the answer to a mother’s prayer
Mark, I’m glad you’re part of the family – You make Samantha totally glow
And that makes me so happy – This, I really wanted you to know!!

I remember back to High School – The first time I saw Mark at a swim meet
Sitting with his arm around Samantha -“Who is this skinny kid” although it was sweet
He seemed so confident and comfortable – In the middle of the girls swim team
 Even back then, there seemed to be a spark – From a distance I could see the beam!!

I have a little confession – When you two were always around our house
I made sure there was plenty of food – So Mark, you could always browse
With the appetite you had – You couldn’t go too far out of my sight
Food in the frig kept you both close to home – Much to my delight!!

After college, Samantha taught English in Japan – She also learned to speak Japanese while there
Then she joined Paulette in Seattle – When there’s a sister, why go elsewhere
Samantha started her own Networking Company – All her talent has brought much success
Samantha and Mark are both well traveled – Having been to numerous places outside the US!!

I remember, Samantha, when you corresponded on Face book – Samantha would practice enunciating so concise “Samantha Alexis Jackson” Hmmmm!!!- Now that really sounds nice
Samantha Alexis Jackson – Amazing, that’s what your name is today
If you can visualize it, it will happen – A little philosophy wouldn’t you say!!

Samantha has within her a combination of attributes - She cares about people and is bright and kind
She has a strong sense of right and wrong – A greater compassion for others you’ll never find
  All these attributes make her beautiful - On the inside as well as the out
Mark and Samantha compliment each other’s personalities – That’ so true without a doubt!!

With their strength’s, likes and dislikes so in tune – It was inevitable they would become one
And when the time was right, unbeknownst to them – A higher power got it done
So I’d like to propose a toast – To Samantha and her husband Mark
May your love continue to grow – On this new journey that you embark!!

Who would have believed – The time would go so fast
You’ve been married ten years- Many memories you’ve amassed
Some have been pleasant- Others a little more profound
It’s the ups and downs in life- That keeps your marriage so sound!

Jennifer loves to go shopping- While Chris is close with a buck
I guess opposites do attract- A deal must have been struck
You both love to gamble- It relaxes your mind
Jennifer has a love for candles- While Fantasy Sports helps Chris to unwind!

Being a Daddy’s girl- Keeps Jennifer going upstate
Staying close to her family- Is a strong family trait
You’ve got two wonderful children- Who are easy to adore
Nicole and young Jake- But they are no easy chore!

Nicole is my goddaughter- A very smart and good little girl
While Jake’s as cute as a little monster boy- At terrible two always in a whirl
You are the perfect match- with Jennifer being a little shy
Chris is nine years older- And a more excitable kind of guy!

Well, you made it by working hard- And we’re all here today
To wish you “Happy Anniversary” – with a hip hip hooray
You’ve had ten wonderful years- And hopefully many more to come
Cherish each moment together- And enjoy them to the maximum!

Happy 45th Anniversary

To two wonderful parents – Our dear Mom and Dad
Your loyalty to family – Was no less than ironclad
Being full-blooded Italian – Our passion was sometimes high
But as a family we stuck together – On each other, we could rely!

Dad, you’re a sweetheart – And Ralph and I want you to know
We remember all the times – That you let your love show
You taught us consideration – And to lend a helping hand
Both of us love you dearly – We want you to understand!

And Mom, you’re the best – The kind of person, oh, so rare
You taught us compassion and strength – And for others, to really care
We send both of you our love – On this your special day
May all your days be happy – to God above, we pray!

Well folks. I’m 50 years old – But I’m really quite proud
And many of you here tonight - Have always been part of my crowd
You took me from sandy fields – And laid in the sod
You built businesses and housing – But took time to worship God!

You were wonderful and caring – Looking out for the poor
When school children were needy – Betty Bacon would knock on their door
The school leaders knew – That she would come through
She’d find them warm clothes – While keeping herself out of view!

Sandbur Gulch, they would call me – But I held my head high
The leadership I’ve been given – Causes other cities to just sigh
I had Mayors Kirkham and Liebi – When I was still young
Then Mayor Nee came along – And my growth really sprung!

For twenty-some years – He guided my ship
Sometimes it got rocky – But I didn’t slip
I’ve fought with Tornadoes – Harsh ones, a time or two
But we all worked together – And all of us came through!

My schools are the best – With graduates far and wide
They’ve attended the finest colleges – Yes, I am full of pride
There have been many people – But one, all of you know
His name was John Gargarro – He really helped me grow!

He helped start my annual parade – We Forty-Niners are quite proud
They’d know when we were coming – With all guns blazing out loud
John helped the children – Coaching each and every sport
They called him Mr. Fridley – John gave me much support!

I can’t forget my service clubs – Kiwanis, Rotary and more
American Legion and the VFW – And those Lions that roar
They’ve all helped me grow- And their support is always there
People helping people – Helping because they care!

And would I be remiss – Not to mention some friends
Like Ornan and Medtronic – Their support never ends
Bob’s Produce and Schaaf Floral – And the former Fridley State Bank
All helpful citizens – If I may be so frank!

And who records my history – Now that I’m middle age
It’s the Fridley Historical Society- Recording page after page
And into the time capsule – This rhyme will be placed
And in twenty-five years – My history will again be retraced!

And many of you young folks – Will have stepped up to the plate
And become civic leaders – And yes, I can hardly wait
Just keep this one thought – in mind, if you will
Lending a helping hand – It’s really a thrill!