YEAR IN REVIEW FEBRUARY 2025 MARCH 2025 A Look Back at 2025 Looking back at 2025 reminded both of us just how extraordinary this community truly is. Month after month, we met neighbors who turned hardship into purpose, talent into service, and personal passion into something that lifts others. Their stories— of resilience, generosity, creativity, and courage—reflect the heart of Kirkland and the strength that comes from showing up for one another. Thank you for welcoming us into your lives and trusting us with your stories. It is a privilege we hold with deep gratitude. Anne Hess & Stephanie Fawcett JULY 2025 AUGUST 2025 KIRKLAND KIRKLAND KIRKLAND KIRKLAND PHOTO BY STAN CORPUZ PHOTOGRAPHY SWIMMING PAST FEAR, RUNNING TOWARD STRENGTH: LIA STERCIUC’S ULTRATRIATHLON LEGACY PHOTO BY STAN CORPUZ PHOTOGRAPHY MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER Women Who Inspire, Create, and Give Back CELEBRATING Women’s History Month FEBRUARY – Courage Beyond Limits In February, we shared the remarkable story of Lia Sterciuc, the first American to finish the Triple Deca Ultra-Triathlon Continuous—despite learning to swim only in 2017. A survivor of communist Romania, Lia turned trauma into fuel, completing 114 km of swimming, 5,400 km of biking, and 1,266 km of running in 45 days with her husband as her only crew. MARCH – Women’s History Month March honored three women shaping Kirkland. Dr. Kathy Feek has elevated the arts for decades, from founding the Cultural Arts Commission to bringing healing art into hospitals. Molly Davis of Eastside Dance champions inclusive movement for all ages and abilities. And Brigid Graham has spent 30 years supporting children’s health, education, and access to sports. Their work strengthens our community. SEPTEMBER 2025 KIRKLAND SBENterciuc Bringing Art to Kirkland How one man risked everything to rewrite his family’s future & Energy David Lynx Takes the Lead at Kirkland Arts Center PHOTO BY STAN CORPUZ PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY STAN CORPUZ PHOTOGRAPHY MEET Sean McClinton BUILDING TEAMS AND LAUNCHING DREAMS PHOTO BY STAN CORPUZ PHOTOGRAPHY JULY – A Journey to Freedom In July, we told the extraordinary story of Ben Sterciuc, who escaped communist Romania after two failed attempts, months in prison, and weeks on the streets. Reunited with family in the U.S., he built a life rooted in education, service, and faith. From nursing and eldercare to creating a global medical nonprofit, his journey embodies resilience, hope, and purpose. AUGUST – A New Chapter for the Arts August highlighted David Lynx, the new Executive Director of the Kirkland Arts Center, whose path through theater, museums, teaching, and gallery leadership ultimately led him home. David brings warmth, vision, and deep experience as he works to revitalize the historic building, expand arts education, and strengthen community engagement—ushering in a vibrant new era for artists, students, and the wider community. SEPTEMBER – Building Strength On and Off the Field In September, we featured Sean McClinton, a committed leader strengthening Lake Washington football at both junior and high school levels. From helping launch the Junior Kangs cheer program to stepping in as Gridiron Club President, Sean champions an inclusive, well-supported experience for players and families. His belief in football’s lessons—teamwork, perseverance, resilience—continues to uplift young athletes and Kirkland’s proud football tradition. 10 January 2026
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