Mercer Island, WA May 2024

Ladies Rocking the Acoustic Realm

Explore Award-Winning Artisan Wines at Elsom Cellars!

Indulge your senses just 8 minutes away from Mercer Island! Join us at Elsom Cellars for an unforgettable tasting experience and immerse yourself in the world of exceptional wines.

Stay for the Celebration!

Discover more than just wine – immerse yourself in our vibrant community events. From tastings to live music, there’s always something happening at Elsom Cellars. Check out our calendar to stay updated on upcoming events!

Upcoming Events:

Wine & Cheese Education: Expand your palate and knowledge. Monthly Book Club: Sip, discuss, and indulge in literary delights.

Wine Club Spring Release: Be the first to taste our latest creations.

Mother’s Day Brunch: Treat Mom to a memorable experience.

Friday Live Music: Groove to the tunes with a glass of fine wine in hand.

Taste the Story in Every Sip at Elsom Cellars

At Elsom Cellars, we believe that every bottle is more than just wine – it’s a testament to our family’s unwavering dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Each sip invites you to embark on a journey, telling the story of the land from which it came

Experience Sustainability & Community Seattle-Made, Washington-Grown

At Elsom Cellars, we’re more than just a winery – we’re a beacon of sustainability and community. Our roots run deep in Washington, and our commitment to quality winemaking is unwavering. Join us as we push boundaries, experiment with new techniques, and craft exceptional wines that reflect the essence of our region.

Elsom Cellars | Tasting Room | Urban Production Facility

Events Calender

BD | 1.75 BA

1,425 SF

I have known Greg since he was a little boy! I chose him to work with because I have seen his success on the island and heard nothing but good things about him. He was a cute kid and now he is genuinely a terrific person. He guided me through selling a home I have owned for 50 years. He understood the emotional component and he was always available whenever I called. He made a tough time a delightful experience. I highly recommend Greg!

- Andrea Danen

Luxury Representation

All Areas & All Price Points

West Bellevue Estate

$4,475,000

$3,450,000

M.I. Western View

$2,519,500

$3,350,000

JUST LISTED! WESTSIDE STYLISH REMODEL

Turn-key perfection on Mercer Island’s westside. Extensively remodeled with entertaining in mind– built-in bar, open floor plan & seamless flow from the kitchen to the expansive deck. Vaulted ceilings, 3 bedrooms up & bonus office. Ideal location walkable to schools & parks. Prepare to fall in love!

4323 W Mercer Way | $1,895,000

West Seattle Views

M.I. Shared Waterfront

Mid-Island Custom

North Bend Stunner

Celebrating Women

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our special May issue celebrating the phenomenal women of Mercer Island! There are so many amazing women with so many special stories that we would be remiss to not acknowledge that we are only scratching the surface of this issue's dedication to women on Mercer Island. We hope you will enjoy this issue.

This month's cover story features the musical duo Aly Burks and Debra Brandt, better known as the Small Bandits. We chat with Aly and Debra about their acoustic collaboration and the journey of "ladies rocking the acoustic realm" together. We had so much fun spending a day in the life that started at J Garner Studio. See our Instagram reel for the day's out-takes.

From creative visionaries to community trailblazers, this island is home to so many inspiring ladies making their mark. In this month's Fashion Forward section, boutique founder Dana Smith of Hip Zephyr shares her expert fashion advice for building a timeless, effortlessly chic wardrobe.

Our resident "Foodies" Suzie Mulligan and Robin Holland of Fuudi provide a delicious, savory shakshuka recipe that's perfect for a special Mother's Day brunch. Don't miss out on adding this crowd-pleasing dish to your menu. See our Culinary Creations pages.

We're also thrilled to feature an enlightening collection of profiles curated by guest writer Julie Hsieh. Read about the local women pursuing their creative passions through music, visual arts, writing and more - their stories truly showcase the unifying power of the arts.

This year’s “Ladies Who Lead” highlights some of our stand-out female partners! Read about what inspires them to lead! Amy, Brenda, Jody, Megan, Suzie, Robin, and Dana. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Last November, our cover story was, "Yori's Law and Legacy | A Mother's Journey". We are honored and again touched by Chezik Tsunoda's writing and continued dedication to honor Yori in this month's issue.

In our Giving Back section, we highlight the phenomenal success of Pitch Your Peers (PYP) Seattle, founded by Mercer Islanders, Erin Krawiec and Aly Burks. PYP is an allwoman collaborative giving group that recently surpassed $1 million in grants awarded to King County nonprofits. Congratulations to all connected to Pitch Your Peers!

We know you’ll love reading about some of our many remarkable Mercer Island women. Wishing all of the mothers, daughters, sisters and grandmothers a very Happy Mother’s Day!

Sincerely,

SHARON PEREZ & CHRIS ISHII @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Krawiec, Julie Hsieh, Kimberly Miyazawa Frank, Chezik Tsunoda, Suzie Mulligan, Robin Holland

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jim Garner, J. Garner Photography, Julie Hsieh, Hip Zephyr, Kimberly Miyazawa Frank, Pitch Your Peers Seattle, Lisi Wolf, No More Under

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Curated Style for the Ladies

Ladies Rocking the Acoustic Realm

Celebrating Women in Construction

Building on Mercer Island Since 2005

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Jason Du drives his 1957 Speedster to Tuesday evening Cars and Coffee at Metropolitan Market 2: Theater Moms ham it up at the YTN 2024 Gala at the Sunset Club 3: Chris visits the Seattle Design Center J. Garner Home showroom with founder, Jan Schaefer 4: Youth Theatre Northwest student actors perform at the 2024 Gala 5: Salon NUR’s tech panel tackled AI and the impact on our personal and professional lives. 6: Youth Theatre NW fills the house at the Sunset Club for the 2024 Fundraising Gala 7: Elsom Cellars Offers Mercer Island a tasting of their delicious wines at Barrel’s Wine Bar Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle

8: John Odegard, Jody Elsom, and Nancy Odegard celebrating the March Home Issue at the MICL Issue Release Party at J Garner Studio 9: Mark Harrington, BMW Seattle, Jennifer Woods, Jody Elsom, Elsom Cellars, at MICL Issue Release Party 10: Coach Amy demonstrates the new machines at the renovated Mercer Island High School weight room. 11: Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce Women’s Leadership Luncheon at MICEC 12: MI native, Merrisa Claridge, President of Heritage 1904, gives Chris and Sharon a Vons Tour 13: The inaugural MICL Issue Release Party at Jim and Katarina Garner’s Studio was a blast 14: YTN’s 2024 Gala Presenting Sponsors, The Hill Family, John Gordon Hill and Anne Hill Thomson Photography

Want to be seen in the magazine?

by Mercer Island City Lifestyle

NW Lifestyle Homes promotes Megan Atkinson to CEO

Megan brings leadership, planning, foresight, and landscape architectural design to NWLH. Megan has designed landscapes throughout the Seattle area for over 20 years, and she strives to increase each homeowner’s enjoyment/use of their outdoor living spaces. Megan has a B.A. in Economics from Bucknell University and an M.L.A. from the University of Washington. Since 2022, Megan has served on the City of Mercer Island Design Commission.

Ladies Who a MI Success Give:

Pitch Your Peers Celebrates Granting over $1M to KingCo Nonprofits

ARTICLE BY ERIN KRAWIEC

Pitch Your Peers Seattle, an all-woman collaborative giving organization founded by two Mercer Island women, hit a momentous milestone in December 2023, the award tally tipped the $1 million mark!

2023 “Grant Champions” delivered pitches for three King County nonprofits: Hamlin Robinson School, Key to Change, and The Healing Center. After a six-week discovery period, PYP’s 65 members voted to allocate the $198,625 grant pool.

Key to Change was awarded the first place grant, $119,175 (60%) Key to Change helps fill the gaps left by underfunded public school music programs in South King County.

The Hamlin Robinson School, received the second place grant, $59,587.50 (30%) to support the Literacy Outreach Program, providing dyslexia screening for all King County kids.

The Healing Center,  won the third place grant, $19,862.50 (10%) to provide group counseling for grieving individuals and families in King County.

PYP Seattle gathered on February 9 to celebrate the 7th grant cycle and also the milestone of giving away over $1M ($1,101,475) to King County nonprofits since PYP’s inception in 2017.

First Place Grant Champions: Jody Kris and Linda Floyd

PYP Seattle's 7th Annual Grant Celebration at the Amazon Spheres

PET OF THE MONTH

Laddy has been a cherished member of Island Animal Hospital since our doors first opened. It's been our privilege to partner with his parents to support his health and well-being as he continues to grow, and we're thrilled to mark the occasion of his second birthday! From nutrition to skin care, coat health to eye and ear wellness, our team specializes in a range of areas that we're excited to discuss with you and your furry friend.

Happy 2nd birthday, Laddy! We're eagerly looking forward to celebrating with you. See you soon!

Curated Style for the Ladies

Keeping it Classic and Chic at Hip ZephyrGlobal Fashion on Mercer

Island

Hip Zephyr owner Dana Smith is looking ahead with a mix of classic staples and on-trend pieces.

“Trends are really just building blocks for a forever wardrobe,” says Dana. “I want my customers to be able to wear these pieces season after season.”

The Hip Zephyr women’s apparel boutique brings international brands to Mercer Island for a constant flow of fresh and exciting designs that cater to diverse body types, styles and ages.  The fashion professionals on staff provide personalized guidance so that you can find clothes that make you look and feel good.

Stripe-patterned clothing are go-to items. “Stripes are a classic that I’ve carried in my store for years. You can dress them up or down depending on the occasion.” Dana suggests pairing a striped tank or slip dress with a cardigan and heels for a dressier look, or throwing on a denim jacket and boots for a casual vibe.

Other versatile pieces are wide-leg or narrow pants and denim. “We’re seeing

a lot of variety in pant silhouettes right now, which is great for women of all shapes and sizes. The key is finding what works best for your body type.”

“Earth-toned pieces like rich browns, greens, and blues have been gaining popularity over the last year, and they’re beautiful transitional shades.” Bomber jackets in an array of fabrics like leather, suede, and wool are also a musthave item this season.

“Trends come and go, but the pieces that will really last in your wardrobe are the classics - stripe tops, well-fitting denim, bomber jackets. Build your closet around those and then have fun incorporating the latest trends.”

Hip Zephyr curates a mix of global brands to offer hip, unique and quality clothes for the Mercer Island lifestyle.  Complete your ensemble with the selected leather belts, shoes, boots, jewelry, hats and handbags. Visit the boutique for a personalized shopping experience to build your own fresh wardrobe.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISI WOLF AND HIP ZEPHYR

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII AND SHARON PEREZ

Owner Dana Smith

Trends come and go, the pieces that will last in your wardrobe are the classics

Blue and White Spring Classics

Cashmere, the NW all-season sweater

Day to Night, Spring to Summer

Style for all the MI Ladies

Hip, Pretty, Professional, Practical

Ladies Rocking the Acoustic Realm

MERCER ISLAND’S OWN SMALL BANDITS ALY BURKS & DEBRA BRANDT

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII & SHARON PEREZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GARNER, J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY

When Deb Brandt and Aly Burks crossed paths nearly seven years ago as members of MIMX, the popular Mercer Island cover band, they instantly hit it off.

Deb, a lifetime pianist with a film scoring degree, and Aly, a former student of dance and musical theater, connected over their shared Dartmouth background and love of music. Though they came from different musical upbringings–Deb immersed in formal training from age three, Aly captivated by lyrics from a young age and always in love with the stage–they found common ground in their passion for bringing new life to beloved songs.

In MIMX, they thrive as part of an energetic nine-piece band, feeding off the excitement of the crowds they get grooving on the dance floor. But they both saw an opportunity to explore a different, softer side of music. Aly and Deb began experimenting with their own acoustic covers and highly stylized arrangements. It wasn’t long before The Small Bandits, a keyboard and vocal duo, was born in January 2022.

“This journey has been purposeful and therapeutic, humbling and fun. Each time Deb rings my doorbell for practice, joy washes over me, knowing that for the next two hours, I get to explore and work on music with a dear friend. And then to think that she chooses to do this with me *and* that people choose to come listen to us? I mean, pinch me – I just have infinite gratitude for the whole experience.” – Aly

Deb Brandt and Aly Burks in the studio

When they speak about their process, you sense the appreciation they have for their friendship and the opportunity to collaborate. The two artists bounce ideas off each other, introduce each other to new music, and ultimately curate a repertoire that is a perfect blend of their individual tastes, experiences and talents.

Do they always agree on how to approach music? “Not always,” Deb laughs. “Sometimes we come at things from wildly different places. Or one of us has to convince the other to take on a song they’re not crazy about. But we trust each other, keep an open mind, and always find common ground. We both genuinely want each other to be happy and musically fulfilled. And because of that, we always wind up with a better outcome.”

Deb and Aly put their own unique spin on classics by the songwriting greats they grew up with–from Joni Mitchell to Jim Croce, Elton John to Bob Dylan. And they get a thrill out of surprising audiences, taking well-known songs and reinventing them in unexpected ways, such as Jimi Hendrix’s The Wind Cries Mary or The Police’s Roxanne. Their songbook is an eclectic mix, spanning multiple genres and styles, and drawing from every decade since the 1960’s.  It’s not uncommon to hear The Small Bandits perform music by Madonna, Led Zeppelin, Alicia Keys and Jimmy Buffet all in the same evening.

Aly and Deb’s collaboration has allowed both artists to grow not just musically, but also as individuals.  Aly explained, “Picking music back up in my thirties after having put it down for so long has taught me so much. You know, life is long. It’s truly never too late to continue evolving, learning and doing what you love.”

"We trust each other, keep an open mind, and always find common ground. We both genuinely want each other to be happy and musically fulfilled." - Debra

"Each time Deb rings my doorbell for practice, joy washes over me, knowing that for the next two hours I get to explore and work on music with a dear friend. I just have infinite gratitude for the whole experience.” – Aly

Most of all, Deb and Aly cherish the deep personal connection they've forged and the creative license they’ve discovered. As Deb put it, being part of a duo means she has an opportunity to be “the whole band”--reinterpreting songs with diverse instrumentations as piano arrangements that highlight and support Aly’s vocals. For Aly, it's a chance to sing freely with emotion and connect to a song in a way that brings her back to that little girl singing her heart out to an invisible sold-out crowd.

Now, Aly sings with lots of us around. The Small Bandits have a devoted following, including Courtney Anders and Meghan Banta, who call themselves “The Small Fandits” and are often the first to arrive and the last to leave their shows.

To be part of the growing list of “Fandits”, follow The Small Bandits' Facebook Page or look for them at local fundraising events. They are also regular performers at Barrel’s Wine Bar, with upcoming appearances on May 16th and June 13th.

The Small Bandits

Small Bandits Fills the House at Barrels Wine Bar with owner Josh Wojcik

Savory Spring Shakshuka

ARTICLE BY SUZIE MULLIGAN & ROBIN HOLLAND

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FUUDI KITCHEN

A Flavorful, Easy Recipe

Featuring Protein-Rich Eggs in Aromatic Sauce for Breakfast, Brunch or Dinner

ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 Tbsp harissa

• 1 Tbsp tomato paste

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp cumin

• 5-6 fresh tomatoes, diced  OR

• 1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes

• 6 eggs

• fresh cilantro/parsley

Optional:

• rumbled feta cheese

• plain yogurt

• dukkah

directions:

Step 1. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cook until soft. Stir in garlic, harissa, tomato paste, cumin, cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2. Pour tomatoes into the skillet, breaking up with spoon. Season with salt and pepper, simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3. If adding prawns, cooked meatballs, or chickpeas, add and warm in the sauce for a few minutes.

Step 4. Make wells in sauce and crack an egg into each, cover and cook until done to liking.

Step 5. Sprinkle with cilantro and parsley; add optional toppings.   Serve hot with crusty bread or pita.

For a heartier meal, add prawns, Kefta meatballs, or chickpeas. Garnishes can include feta, parsley, Greek yogurt and dukkah.

Ladies Who Lead

WOMEN LED BUSINESSES MAKING MERCER ISLAND

MORE BEAUTIFUL AND DELICIOUS

Mercer Island is home to a thriving community of women business owners, each with their own unique story of determination and success. These local entrepreneurs have founded businesses in a wide range of industries, from design and fashion to food and travel services.

One such woman is Dana Smith, the owner of a popular boutique on the island. She has always had a passion for fashion and decided to take the leap and open her own shop, offering unique and stylish clothing and accessories to the local community. Despite the challenges of running a small business, Dana has found fulfillment in creating a space where customers can find beautiful and unique clothing that they love.

Suzie Mulligan, Robin Holland Fuudi

ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ

PHOTOGRAPHY

ARTALA, FUUDI, LUXXE, LISI WOLF

These women, and many others like them, are shining examples of the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives on Mercer Island. Their dedication, creativity, and passion have helped to shape the local community and make it a beautiful, delicious and special place to live and work. Follow Mercer Island City Lifestyle Instagram for a showcase of all of our women-led partners!

Amy May, Designer and Owner, Artala

Brenda El-Ghazzaway, Founder Luxxe Travel

Dana Smith, Owner, Hip Zephyr

Suzie Mulligan & Robin Holland, Founders Fuudi

Megan Atkinson, CEO, NW Lifestyle Homes

BY

Megan Atkinson, NW Lifestyle Homes

Amy May, Artala Design

Dana Smith, Hip Zephyr

Brenda El-Ghazzawy, Luxxe Travel

Young Ladies Abroad

MIHS PETRI: Philanthropy, Education, Technology, Research, and Innovation

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY MIYAZAWA FRANK Working

“It depends how you define poverty,” answered Ngigi, our local driver. “If it’s not having enough to eat, then no one here lives in poverty. But, if it’s not having opportunity to realize your dreams, many do.” This was a lightbulb moment for MIHS’ PETRI Club members visiting rural Kenya.

There were many lightbulb moments during mid-winter break, when eight MIHS students traveled 9,000 miles to Taita Taveta for a cultural experience that forever changed their perspective on poverty, privilege, and the paradox of similarities in differences. The students are part of PETRI, a club that supports education in Kenya.

This year, PETRI raised $33,000 to scholarship 116 students to 10 secondary schools. MaryMargaret Welch, the club’s founder and advisor, envisioned the trip as, “a unique opportunity for a shared experience between our students and the Kenyan scholars to honor both cultures and bring to fruition the work the students have been doing all year.”

The delegation spent a week with the Kenyan scholars, who each speak at least 3 languages: Swahili, Taitan, and English. They attended class together and collaborated on DNA labs.  The student also sewed reusable menstrual pads. Globally known as “period

poverty,” Kenyan girls miss 5 days of school each month because disposable products are not available. “I did not realize all the obstacles these girls overcome, from waking up at 4:00 am to walk to school, and after school cooking, cleaning, and studying. Learning about their daily routines took my understanding to a whole different level,” said Aadyaa Singhal. www.seavuria.org

MIHS PETRI Club

Collaborative study

Research gathering

ARTISTS Anne Hritzay, Eliza Brown, Judith Roan, Zeynep Alev, Yuchi Chou, Alice Finch

Ladies Building & Supporting Mercer Island Arts Community

ARTICLE

Entrepreneurs & Executives

BY JULIE HSIEH AND SHARON PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA OHATA

INSPIRATIONAL COMMUNITY BUILDERS, ENTREPRENEURS, EXECUTIVES & ARTISTS

Together, we’re crafting a future where creativity and learning thrive, underscoring the importance of women supporting and empowering each other.

Arts & Culture guest editor, Julie Hsieh, curated her group of inspirational women

JULIE HSIEH:

Being in the art field is so gratifying to me as art has the power to connect the community.

EFFIE PARKS:

As the host of the "Once Upon a Gene" podcast, Effie has been recognized for several awards including WEGO Health and Podcast Magazine for her impactful storytelling and resource-sharing in the realm of rare genetic disorders.

Effie extends her advocacy through speaking engagements at medical and patient advocacy conferences, sharing her experiences and insights from her work to bridge the gap between all rare disease stakeholders.

JODY LEE:

Jody is an active school and community volunteer on Mercer Island, currently serving as a school board director with the Mercer Island School District.  She focuses her other volunteer efforts on issues that affect children, particularly student mental health and fine arts education. She moved with her family to the PNW after a career at the US State Department as a Dispute Resolution Specialist, working as a mediator and a conflict resolution trainer.

AMANDA STOFFER:

From a very young age, Amanda has been a devotee of the arts - music, film, dance, literature, and fine art.  Amanda feels very fortunate to live in a community where she can combine both of

these passions, particularly through her leadership of various MI PTAs - Northwood, IMS and the PTA Council - and as a member of the Fine Arts Advisory Council. Amanda delights in bringing each of her three sons to the annual Fine Arts Showcase and witnessing their pride in seeing their artwork on display.

CRISTINA MARTINEZ:

Transitioning from a physician in Mexico City to a director on the Mercer Island School Board, my journey has been rich and varied. Inspired by children's curiosity and innate desire for learning, I'm passionate about enhancing the education system. This path has connected me with incredible women—artists, educators, and leaders—fueling our collective mission to empower and inspire the next generation. Together, we're crafting a future where creativity and learning thrive, underscoring the importance of women supporting and empowering each other.

ANNE HRITZAY:

After a 16-year career as an architect in Boston and Honolulu, I moved to Mercer Island in 2001 and worked in the MI Schools and developed an afterschool kids' art program. I am now active as the President of MIVAL (Mercer Island Visual Arts League).  This longstanding welcoming group of creative folks of all ages brings opportunities for gathering around art events.  I love being a community activator of art events, whether it be at the kids' table at Mostly Music in the Park, Summer Celebration, Fine Arts Showcase, Art Uncorked or hosting Gallery shows at the Community Center, Art Classes or First Friday ArtWalks.

Through working with hundreds of musicians each week, I’m hoping that I can touch some souls who yearn for beauty in our lives in every way possible.

ELIZA BROWN:

I fell in love with painting as a child living in rural England, and this passion has continued and developed with me through each of my life stages, and through my move to Mercer Island in 2016. Art has created connections and friendships for me, through study, through creating shows as part of a team, and through meeting the amazing people who attend these events.

JUDITH ROAN:

Having been an active hobby photographer, and sometime watercolor painter, I looked for local groups that might facilitate these interests after retirement. Mercer Island Visual Arts League was showing their artists' work at the annual Summer Celebration.  The group, comprised mostly of women, became my source of inspiration.

ZEYNEP BANU ALEV:

I like to record my memories, while I am recording; literature, poetry, and everyday objects become my fuel and inspiration to create this multimedia work. My background as an architect also lends an element of structure to my creative process. Volunteering is my other passion. I have been part of many art and youth-related projects through MIVAL since I moved to Mercer Island with my family 16 years ago.

YUCHI CHOU:

2024 marks the 21st year since I came to the United States as a young pianist chasing my dreams to be on the international stage, very soon I discovered another way to share my passion for music with more people: orchestral conducting! The thrill and sense of fulfillment in making music with a group of musicians is just beyond descriptions. As an international

musician, artist, and conductor, I draw inspiration from traveling and meeting artistic minds.

ALICE FINCH:

Award-winning LEGO artist, designer, builder, educator, and author. She co-founded the Women’s Brick Initiative and the Brick Alliance to focus on the importance of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging across all aspects of the LEGO ecosystem.

SARA BOWEN:

Attorney, in-house counsel, VP for Global DEI and Employee Listening; blending analytics, culture, and science to inspire innovation drawn on an arts background including dance, choreography, bassoon and piano.

ERIN KRAWIEC:

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and nonprofit leader. Co-founded Pitch Your Peers Seattle, Active leader with Make-A-Wish; MI Community Fund; and WeLoveMI Covid Relief.

ALYSON BURKS:

Finance and investment manager for a family business, vocalist in 2 bands, Co-Founder of Pitch Your Peers Seattle, board member Mercer Island PTA Council.

MINA VELAMOOR:

Software design engineer using data and technology background to create college and career pathways counseling to help students discover their ikigai and align it with their higher education and career choices.

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TILE AND GROUT SERVICES

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MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

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Each stone restoration solution is designed to dramatically improve the aesthetic of the stone in lobbies, restaurants, hotels, schools, and more.

Our maintenance plans are flexible, giving you the option for monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual programs. You decide accordingly to your needs. Keep your surfaces fully protected, gorgeous-looking, and prevent any costly repairs.

events

A SELECTION OF

LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 2ND

Mosaic MI - Open Mic for Singers & Songwriters

Suzanne Zahr Gallery 2441 76th Ave SE, Suite 160 | 7:00 PM

Musicians of all levels of talent, high-school age and older, are invited to perform for each other and appreciative listeners.  Sign-ups begin at 6:30pm and 20 slots are available.  In addition to guitar and keyboard availability, participants are encouraged to bring their own instruments.  $10 suggested donation per person.

MAY 3RD

Mercer Island First Friday

Art Walk

Mercer Island Town Center | 5:00 PM Enjoy at evening of art at multiple locations throughout Mercer Island Town Center on the First Friday of each month: Clarke & Clarke, Realogics Sotheby’s, Suzanne Zahr Gallery, Aljoya, Barrels Wine Bar, John L Scott, Caldwell Banker Bain and MIVAL Gallery.

MAY 6TH

Community Blood Donation Event

Mercer Island Community & Event Center 8236 SE 24th St | 11:00 AM Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Bloodworks Northwest for another community blood drive on Monday, May 6th, 11am-4pm.

MAY 10TH

Youth Theatre Northwest NeverEnding Story

7:00 PM

YTN’s season closer runs May 1019.   Neverending Story  is about Bastian, a lonely boy, who stumbles into a curious bookshop where he discovers a curious book. As he begins to read, a huge adventure about an orphan hero and his friend Falkor, the Luck Dragon embark on a quest. Full of unique characters and worlds. Showtimes and tickets youththeatre.org

MAY 16TH

Live Music - Small Bandits at Barrels Wine Bar

Barrel’s Wine Bar 7605 SE 27th St Suite 107 | 5:30 PM

Small Bandits are causing trouble again! Come see the duo play 5:308:00pm and be ready for some cool pop covers and crowd favorites.

Barrels Wine Bar has expanded the live music schedule and is now offering weekly tastings.  Check the schedule and make reservations at barrelswinebar.com

MAY 31ST

Empty Bowls Fundraiser by MIHS Art Club Soup Supper

Mercer Island High School Commons | 5:30 PM

The entire community is invited to the 4th Annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser hosted by MIHS Art Club and Fine Arts Advisory Council.  Donations fund student-led philanthropic support of a local non-profit.

$30 gets you a ceramic soup bowl made by Art Club students and a soup supper. Donations fund student-led philanthropic support of a local non-profit.

TURNING TRAGEDY into ACTION

Have you ever pondered the notion that every event in your life unfolds for a purpose? It’s a challenging concept, particularly when facing adversity and loss, especially with the loss of a child.

In 2018, my world shattered when my son, Yori, just three years old, drowned in a backyard pool. Amidst the suffocating grief, it was the presence of my other three children that kept me afloat. Every morning, I found the strength to get up, driven by the need to guide them through our new reality. I also still had a desire to ‘take care of’ Yori and was compelled by a deeper purpose: to honor his memory and prevent other families from enduring the same heartache. Thus, the seeds of No More Under were planted.

Over the past five years, our organization has made significant strides in promoting water safety. We’ve provided free swim lessons to over 1,000 children, established life jacket loaner stations where needed, and successfully championed House Bill 1750, also known as Yori’s Law. This, first of its kind, legislation, designates May 15th as Water Safety Day in Washington.

May is our nation's Water Safety Month and as we approach May 15th, let's celebrate the strides we've made and double down on our efforts to initiate vital conversations. Let's advocate for comprehensive water safety education in our schools, equipping our children with the knowledge of safe swimming, CPR and understanding of proper protocols in emergency situations.

ARTICLE BY CHEZIK TSUNODA PHOTOGRAPHY BY NO MORE UNDER

Yori's Day |: A Call for Water Safety Awareness

Top: Educating on Water Safety

Bottom: Advocating for Awareness

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