Clover Park School District teacher and a City of Lakewood employee were recognized for their efforts as a highlight of the annual Champions for Youth Breakfast put on by Communities in Schools Lakewood. Elizabeth Davis of Lochburn Middle School was honored as Outstanding After-School Teacher and Desiree Winkler, Transportation Division, received the Community Champion Award for her outstanding contributions to the community. • Elizabeth Davis
• Desiree Winkler
These two individuals were recognized for their tireless efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of their students and community members. Their dedication to their work is truly admirable, and it’s heartening to see that their efforts are being recognized in this way. The Lakewood History Museum is in danger of having to close its doors due to a lack of operating funds. Lakewood Historical Society President Becky Huber said the society needs at least $25,000 in cash or pledges to allow it to keep the doors open for another year. “We’ve cut costs as much as possible, but we can’t continue without the necessary funding,” Huber said. The Lakewood Historical Society is working hard to preserve the history of the area, but they need the public’s help to do so. The society is seeking donations and pledges to support their efforts. With weather improvements expected in the next few weeks, Steilacoom Historical Museum Association (SHMA) members are getting ready to continue efforts to restore the Wagon Shop located adjacent to the Orr House and museum building in the historic area of Steilacoom. According to Joan Shalikashvili, association president, the restoration project is a long-term effort to preserve the history of the area. • Restoration Project
• Preserving the History
SHMA volunteer French Wetmore noted that the association received a grant to support the restoration efforts. “We are grateful for the support of our donors and partners,” Wetmore said. Becky Huber, president of the Lakewood Historical Society, took members of Lakewood Women in Business on a nostalgic photo tour of the Lakes area Thursday. Huber took the Lakewood women’s group through the history of the area starting with the arrival of the first white people and the creation of Fort Nisqually. The historical society is working to preserve the history of the area, but they need the public’s help to do so. Unless you’ve needed your favorite pair of shoes repaired, chances are slight that you have ever noticed Ardesson’s Shoe Repair & New Shoes on Gravelly Lake Dr. The shoe repair shop, which also features an extensive line of comfort shoes and footwear for people suffering with diabetes, has been open since 1946. Alex and Karen Ardesson, the owners, are committed to providing excellent service and quality products. • Family-Owned Business
• Quality Service
Ardesson’s Shoe Repair & New Shoes is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. The owners have been serving the community for over 75 years, and their commitment to excellence has earned them a loyal customer base. Kaitlyn Kessel was recognized recently by the Rotary Club of Lakewood as its student of the month. The Clover Park School District student boasts a 3.89 GPA while taking AP calculus, English, and Spanish. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Ignite Mentor Program, and was a Daffodil Princess contender. Kessel’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities are truly impressive. • Academic Achievements
• Extracurricular Activities
The Rotary Club of Lakewood is proud to recognize Kessel’s achievements and support her academic and extracurricular pursuits. Woodbrook development plans, that portend jobs and a stronger economic base for the area, including sewers, will be unveiled at a meeting of the public on Tuesday, February 24, 5 to 7 pm at Woodbrook Middle School Cafeteria, 14920 Spring St. SW. You will have the opportunity to learn about the project and to talk with consultants. • Woodbrook Development
• Community Benefits
The Woodbrook development plans are expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area, including the creation of new jobs and improved infrastructure. The public meeting is a chance for the community to learn more about the project and to provide feedback.

Representation image: This image is an artistic interpretation related to the article theme.