You recently saw Landen Poplawski in our high school seniors issue. Landen is a senior at Charles Wright Academy, who has committed to Utah State University to pursue a career in Aviation. The Utah State Aviation program offers training in both maintenance and operation (piloting) of airplanes and helicopters. Students have access to local airports while in the program. Landen’s sister, Reece, is a senior at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo. The school’s motto is “Learn by Doing,” which Reece certainly embraces. She plans to attend law school. The Poplawski kids are going places, with a firm foundation in where they came from: our beautiful neighborhood and the South Sound. “We are blessed,” said mom, Kaylynn. 

 

Although they are going in new directions nowadays, Reece and Landen have been involved, or are still involved, in athletics in the area. Reece played soccer locally before she left for college in California. Landen currently plays travel hockey for the Tacoma Rockets. This is a youth hockey group for ages four to 18. Their mission is to develop team play and individual skills in its players through the game of hockey – whose popularity has taken off in western Washington with the formation of the Seattle Kraken. Like all good sports teams, the Tacoma Rockets emphasize sportsmanship, cooperation, self-discipline, self-confidence, and respect for others. 

 

The Poplawskis love to spend time on the lake. Fishing, surfing, boating, hanging out with friends, or watching the sunset from their home on the eastern shore. The lakeside options are endless. Something the Poplawskis do that might be a little different than others is to have a pickle-making party every year. “It has been a family tradition that we have done for many years!” they told us. They invite close family and friends to their home on Thorne Lane and make pickles. The history of making pickles goes back over 4,000 years – so they are in good company, and no doubt the results are delicious, not to mention the fun had in accomplishing the task together. Fermented pickles contain probiotics and are good for your gut! 

  

Another hobby the Poplawski family enjoys is travel. Their most recent trip was to Italy, a vibrant destination that is ranked number four in the world for tourism. “We spent a few weeks traveling to Sienna, Sorrento, Rome and Florence!” they shared. “Our favorite was the coast!” The coast of Italy is known for its gorgeous scenery that includes quaint villages, Mediterranean views. The area is also famous for making limoncello, a lemon liqueur served cold and often with ice cream. Even though Landen and Reece are busy with their school activities, the Poplawskis have always prioritized time together. “We love traveling anywhere as a family!” they said. 

 

Both Kaylynn and husband Jesse are from South Seattle. They moved further south specifically so that  they could be on the lake. Both have been working in the building material industry for years. This is basically production and sales of materials for construction. During their nine years living in Lakewood, the couple have been active in the community. Jesse chairs a board position on The American Lake Association, and they also attend and support the Tillicum Community board meetings. We are sure they will continue to be vital members of our neighborhood!