Mercer Island, WA August 2023

#1 Producing agent on Mercer Island

#10 Individual sales volume in Washington by RealTrends America’s Best

$550M+ Total sales volume

Welcome to the August 2023 edition of Mercer Island City Lifestyle! This month our national theme is Kids and Pets. Thanking our City Lifestyle team for producing a very interesting story about an unconventional pet, the chicken! Please read “Backyard Chickens” and let us know what you think. In this issue we also explore various aspects of life on our beautiful island from entrepreneurship and local commerce to delicious seafood recipes, home staging tips before you list, and honoring a WWII hero.

Before we dig into the issue, we wanted to acknowledge our Pet Services partner, the Island Animal Hospital. The cover photo is a tribute to all the pets and pet owners on Mercer Island! Here’s to you!

We also wanted to thank the numerous Islanders that have given us ideas and critical feedback to help us make the magazine better and a true reflection of community interest(s).

On to the issue........

The community gathered to unveil Riley Cove on the anniversary of D-Day in honor of famed military Vet Huston Riley. Please read about PFC Riley and the many neighbors that rallied around the recognition that he deserves. Wow! It took a lot of effort and grit to get it done!

In “The South End,” we shine a light on Mercer Island’s thriving but lesser-known commercial district south of downtown. With a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, services and healthcare businesses all located within steps of each other, the south end has many of the things residents need right here on Mercer Island. We encourage you to support our local businesses and help them continue to thrive.

Our “Savor the Sea” feature includes four mouthwatering seafood recipes from local women-owned business Premier Catch. Whether you are an expert chef or just starting out, these halibut tacos, crab pasta, and grilled scallop recipes are sure to satisfy and nourish using their premium wild-caught Pacific seafood.

The real estate market is heating up for summer. For those looking to list your home, we offer practical staging tips from local mother-daughter real estate team Team Foster that can help boost the value of your property. And finally, we explore the rising trend of keeping backyard chickens with advice for getting started on your own flock right here on Mercer Island.

We hope you enjoy this edition of your community magazine. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions for content you’d like to see in upcoming issues. Have a wonderful month.

Sincerely,

CHRIS AND MIKE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michael Stein | michael.stein@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kerry Donner, Declan Chapin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Robby Webster, Tim Van Asselt, Clarity Northwest, Bob Brahm, Declan Chapin, Flora Latifi

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

“We love the way our dining porch celebrates the early morning sunlight but keeps us sheltered from the weather — perfect indoor outdoor living just like we dreamed of.”

Inspiring Traditional Living

Embrace the charm of the past and the promise of the future. Step into a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, where the echoes of tradition inspire a new era of architectural marvels that respect a valued heritage of design precedent.

Schedule a consultation at get.AOMEArchitects.com/dreamhome to find out how you can start turning a vision into the home of your dreams—and how to avoid mistakes along the way.

Homeowner

— Marta

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Liberated Foods capturing GF with their Top Rated brand, Askatu Bakery at Seeking Cultura 2: Jeanette & Lyz Macias, co-Founders of Seeking Ferments at Seeking Cultura, June 11, 2023. 3: the crowd(s) at Seeking Cultura at South Lake Union, Seattle 4: Seeking Cultura Event HQ Tent 5: Lining up for Shave Ice at Mike’s Shave Ice at Seeking Cultura 6: Big line at 88 Cues Filipino Classics at Seeking Cultura 7: Lifestyle Landscapes at Seeking Cultura Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle

8: Terry Moreman and Mary Ann Flynn contributing to Mercer Island City Lifestyle at Met Market 9: Gathering at the Hu Riley Dedication Ceremony 10: Sharon Singh giving Chris and Mike MI community guidance 11: 2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 at BMW Seattle 12: 2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 at BMW Seattle 13: 2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 Interior at BMW Seattle 14: Wow! 2023 BMW i7 xDrive60 rear entertainment 31” 8k ‘cinema’ touchscreen with “theater mode” Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle

BOB BRAHM

15: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr 16: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr 17: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr 18: YTN Film Conservatory Premiere 19: YTN Improv Troupe’s improvised Shakespeare show -- Chaos Theory: Fakespeare in the Park 20: YTN Improv Troupe’s improvised Shakespeare show -- Chaos Theory: Fakespeare in the Park 21: YTN Improv Troupe’s improvised Shakespeare show -- Chaos Theory: Fakespeare in the Park Photography by Youth Theatre Northwest

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @mercerislandcitylifestyle

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Gorgeous Buchan two-story in Beaver Lake Estates features extensive upgraded millwork & upscale finishes throughout.

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 Two office spaces (one on each floor) plus bonus room.

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 Chef’s kitchen with granite counters & stainless-steel appliances.

 Outdoor living with BBQ, firepit, Koi pond & $250,000 custom gazebo with fireplace. Featured in Seattle Magazine March 2015.

Property website and video: www.buchanresaleinbeaverlakeestates.com

THE HERO FROM MERCER ISLAND

UNVEILING RILEY COVE

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB BRAHM

On the anniversary of the D-Day landings that took place in 1944, our Mercer Island community came together to honor and remember a local hero, Hu Riley. Hu, a brave and selfless individual, became the face of courage in one of the most iconic photographs of World War II, taken by the legendary photographer Robert Capa.

Amidst the danger and chaos, Robert Capa managed to encapsulate the essence of bravery in the face of adversity. That image features the face of a determined young soldier, eyes wide and jaw set. That soldier was none other than Mercer Island’s Hu Riley.

The photograph, titled “The Face of Courage”, also known as “Soldier on the Surf”, was captured during the infamous D-Day landings when the Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy. The photo is part of a very rare archive called the “Magnificent Eleven” and graced the cover of LIFE magazine in a special 70th anniversary issue commemorating D-Day.These photos also served as inspiration to Stephen Spielberg when he filmed “Saving Private Ryan”.

With immense pride, the Mercer Island community gathered to honor and remember the heroism and sacrifice of Hu Riley. To commemorate his legacy and the impact he had on our small island community, we renamed Lincoln Landing to Riley’s Cove. The dedication ceremony took place on June 6, 2023, at 4 pm at Lincoln Landing.

Mayor Salim Nice, Rob MacCauley, Councilwoman Wendy Weiker, Jane Meyer Brahm, and Erin Riley Borden gave well-deserved and special thanks to the many neighbors who showed their steadfast support in making this happen. Their dedication and efforts in working with the Washington and U.S. Boards of Geographic Names made the renaming of Lincoln Landing to Riley’s Cove a reality. Also acknowledged was the Mercer Island History Society (mercerislandhistory.org ) for their valuable contributions to preserving and promoting our local history.

Here is an excerpt from the Letter from the U.S. Boards of Geographic Names

Getting the name Riley Cove approved was not easy. Jane and Rob put together a strong campaign with extensive documentation and support from neighbors, the Historical Society, the VFW, and the City. After many years of waiting, the first, but very important, hearing for the proposal was October 26th, 2021, when the state Committee on Geographic Names approved the proposal. The recommendation then went to the

“Young PFC Huston Riley from Mercer Island was among the thousands of Americans who landed

on June 6, 1944, part of Operation Overlord. Only one quarter of the soldiers in his unit survived. He is ‘the

New sign installed at Lincoln Landing

state Board of Natural Resources. That board approved the recommendation, and the name was added to the Washington Administrative Code and sent to the United States Board on Geographic Names for federal review.

On July 14, 2022, the US Board on Geographic Names approved the name. It is now officially Riley Cove!

The dedication ceremony at Riley’s Cove was a heartfelt gathering, where we came together as a community to pay our respects and celebrate the legacy of our local hero, Hu Riley – “the face of courage” captured in LIFE magazine.

This was a day that Mercer Island honored the memory of Hu Riley and the countless others who fought bravely during the historic battle of D-Day. Our community will continue to share his story. A beautiful landmark will forever be known as Riley Cove and the iconic photograph of Hu Riley taken by Robert Capa will forever be a symbol of hope and courage for generations to come.

ABOUT THE PERSON

soldier in the surf’ immortalized in the  June 19 issue of Life Magazine, in one of the most iconic photographs

of the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach in Normandy.” - Mercer Island Historical Society

"Hu Riley was a lifelong Island resident. After returning from the war, he and his wife Charlotte, raised their family in the same house on Mercer Way that his father built in 1905. He was very involved in the community including being an active member of the local VFW Post 5760 and serving on the board of the Historical Society.

Hu Riley died in 2011 at the age of 90."

- Mercer Island Historical Society

Rob MacAulay, neighbor and friend of the late Hu Riley

Erin Riley, daughter of the late Hu Riley with new sign for Riley Cove

WITH IMMENSE PRIDE, THE MERCER ISLAND COMMUNITY GATHERED TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE HEROISM AND SACRIFICE OF HU RILEY.

HOME STAGING AND TRANSFORMATION

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM VAN ASSELT, CLARITY NORTHWEST

You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a Good First Impression

The power of staging when selling a home cannot be overstated.

Team Foster, a mother-daughter team, stands out from the competition with their proven track record, depth of market knowledge, and dedication. For many years they have offered complimentary home staging to their sellers, regardless of the home’s price point. After staging hundreds of homes, they have witnessed firsthand the power of staging, and the importance of presentation when bringing a home to market.

We live in an HGTV world; buyers expect spaces to look like what they see on TV. Staged spaces appeal to today’s buyers who are drawn to light and airy spaces. By creating an environment that potential buyers can envision as their own, homes typically sell faster and at a higher price.

“Sellers don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, both online and in person. Buyers want to get a good feel for the layout and space within the house, and cluttered homes or highly stylized interiors are distractions.” – Moya Skillman

Recognizing the importance of captivating online images, Team Foster ensures that every room is inviting, neutral, and appealing to a broad demographic. They also

understand that cluttered and dark homes fail to captivate buyers’ attention online (virtual showings), resulting in fewer in-person showings and prolonged time on the market. “White paint is magic,” Moya says. “Light & bright interiors balance the gray skies and keep interior spaces timeless and fresh.”

According to the Home Staging Institute, over 90% of realtors acknowledge the undeniable benefits of staging in selling a property. Staging can yield a return on investment of over 550%, and buyers are far more inclined to visit a staged home they find online. Additionally, 65% of realtors agree that staging helps sell a house for more money, increasing its value by 1 to 10%.

Another tip from Team Foster: when selling homes with views, it is essential not to block the view for potential buyers. Often, people who have been living in a home for a lengthy period “forget” about the view, and the furniture and accessories create obstacles. Sellers are best advised to make the view front and center for those who tour the home.

“Staging is not intended to be the focal point of the home. Instead we want the staging to serve as a neutral backdrop for the architectural and design features of the home. Without staging, we find that buyers fixate on the décor and not the home.” —Moya Skillman

HOME

STAGING

"Buyers are far more inclined to visit a staged home they find online" - Home Staging Institute

1 | Great Room Staged

“White paint is magic! Light & bright interiors balance the gray skies and keep interior spaces timeless and fresh.”

2 | Great Room Before

"We want the staging to serve as a neutral backdrop for the architectural and design features of the home."

3 | Living Room Staged

"Sellers don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, both online and in person."

4 | Living Room Before

We live in an HGTV world; buyers expect spaces to look like what they see on TV.

1.

2.

3.

4.

WWW.GALLAGHERCO.NET

WWW.GALLAGHERCO.NET

ARCHITECT Stuart Silk

architect

INTERIOR DESIGN

Ripple Design Studio

Cook Design House

interior design

PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Staton photography

Emily Minton Redfield

Michael Clifford Photography

Savor the Sea

Trying new seafood recipes is an exciting way to elevate your culinary experience and add a healthy dose of variety to your diet. In addition to being incredibly delicious, wild seafood is a fantastic source of essential nutrients, high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. For a mouth-watering seafood experience, look no further than Premier Catch - a local, women-owned seafood business based in Mercer Island. Their culinary team offers an impressive range of delectable seafood recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood enthusiast or a curious beginner, Premier Catch has something for everyone. These recipes were created from our passion for seafood, using Premier Catch’s tasty, wildcaught Pacific Halibut. From our kitchen to yours, here’s four of our favorites!

Air Fryer Salmon Burrito Bowl

SERVINGS: 2

PREP TIME: 5 minutes

COOK TIME: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Salmon:

• 2x 6oz Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon

• 4 tbsp coconut sugar

• ½ tsp chipotle powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ¼ tsp cumin

• salt & pepper

Avocado Corn Salsa:

• 2 cups cooked corn (you can use thawed frozen corn)

• ¼ cup diced red onion

• 1 medium avocado, diced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• ½ jalapeño, seeds removed and diced

• juice of 1 lime

• salt & pepper

For serving:

• cooked white or brown rice

• sour cream

• chopped cilantro

DELIGHTFUL + NUTRITIOUS SEAFOOD RECIPES FROM PREMIER CATCH

Salmon Burrito Bowl

DIRECTIONS

1. Thaw salmon and pat dry.

2. In a small bowl, mix coconut sugar and spices.

3. Lightly season the salmon with salt and pepper and then rub the coconut sugar-spice rub on to the filets.

4. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees and cook for 6 minutes.

5. While the salmon cooks, add the corn, diced avocado, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (with the seeds removed) to a medium sized bowl.

6. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to the salsa and toss gently until mixed.

7. To assemble, add the rice bowl to a bowl and top with the avocado corn salsa, flaked salmon, sour cream, and more cilantro if desired.

8. Serve and enjoy!

Air Fryer Halibut Tacos

SERVINGS: 1

INGREDIENTS

• 1 x 8oz Wild Pacific Halibut

• taco seasoning of choice

• 3 corn tortillas

• sliced avocado

• crumbled cotija cheese

Mango Salsa:

• 1 mango, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, diced

• 2 tbsp jalapeño, seeded and diced

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1 lime juiced

• salt & pepper

Taco Sauce:

• 1 cup sour cream

• ¼ cup mayo

• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• 1/2 lime juice, juiced

• 1 clove minced garlic

Air Fryer Halibut Tacos

DIRECTIONS

1. Defrost halibut and pat dry. Rub taco seasoning on and set aside.

2. Preheat air fryer to 375 degrees. Once heated, air fry the halibut for 7-9 minutes or until cooked through.

3. While the halibut cooks, prepare the mango salsa by dicing the ingredients and mixing them together in a bowl.

4. To make the taco sauce, add the sour cream, mayo, chipotle peppers, garlic, and lime juice to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.

5. Lightly toast corn tortillas in a skillet. Add flaked halibut and top with sliced avocado, mango salsa, cotija cheese, and taco sauce.

6. Enjoy!

Snow Crab Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce

SERVINGS: 2

PREP TIME: 5 minutes

COOK TIME: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 8oz Snow Crab Meat

• 2 servings linguine

• ½ cup + 1 tbsp butter

• 1 clove garlic

• ½ cup bread crumbs

• ½ lemon + lemon zest

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

• freshly chopped parsley

• salt & pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Thaw snow crab, rinse, and pat dry.

2. Cook linguine according to package.

3. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp butter in a small skillet and sautée garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add bread crumbs and sautée for 3-5 minutes or until crispy.

4. In another saucepan, melt ½ cup butter and add the juice of ½ a lemon.

5. Strain pasta and pour lemon butter sauce over the top. Mix together and add parmesan cheese.

6. Plate the pasta and top with crispy bread crumbs and garlic, snow crab meat, parsley, and lemon zest. Add salt & pepper to taste.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Island Style Grilled Scallops with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Snow Crab Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce

Island Style

Grilled Scallops with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

SERVINGS: 4

PREP TIME: 5 minutes

COOK TIME: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Grilled scallops:

• 1 package Wild Alaska Weathervane Scallops

• Olive oil

• Salt & pepper

Mango salsa:

• 1 mango, diced

• ½ cup red onion, diced

• 1 jalapeño, diced

• juice of 1 lime

• salt & pepper

• fresh cilantro

Coconut rice:

• 4 cups cooked white rice

• ½ cup coconut cream

• 2 tbsp sugar or sweetener

DIRECTIONS

1. Thaw scallops and pat dry. Season with salt & pepper.

2. Prepare the mango salsa by adding the ingredients to a medium bowl and tossing with lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook the white rice according to package and stir in coconut cream and sugar.

4. Preheat grill to high heat and lightly spray with olive oil.

5. Sear scallops for 3 minutes per side.

6. Serve scallops over coconut rice and mango salsa.

7. Enjoy!

Meet the culinary team behind Premier Catch - Joci Besecker and Declan Chapin, two ambitious culinary artists who are passionate about creating exceptional seafood dishes and sharing their love of cooking with others. Working closely with registered dietitian nutritionist Ashley Besecker, they create nutritious and mouth-watering seafood recipes for any occasion. All three women are long-time Mercer Island residents with a deep love for the Pacific Northwest and its bounty of fresh seafood.

At Premier Catch, every recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the fresh, natural flavors of wild Alaskan seafood. Consuming wild seafood as part of a healthy diet can have numerous health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.

Discover the South End

Mercer Island is well known for its stellar views, volunteer filled schools, safety, its beautiful trees and parks, and of course the convenient location between Bellevue and Seattle. The north end of Mercer Island is considered the “downtown.” Like all downtowns, it offers a little bit of everything, most of the time.

However, what if you cannot find what you need on the north end? Would you rather jump on the freeway, sit in traffic, only

to support someone else’s city, OR drive approximately 8 minutes south to support your own city’s “mom and pop” shops and restaurants? Without Islanders shopping and eating with local small businesses, commercial spaces will continue to stay vacant and turn over.

Additionally, other businesses will shy away from putting down roots on the prize island. Consequently, Mercer Island suffers negative commerce growth and will

WHY JUMP ON THE FREEWAY?

ARTICLE

BY KERRY DONNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLORA LATIFI

Kerry Donner, The Boutique Lounge

lack goods, services and essentials needed for Islander’s day-to-day lives.

(That is not to say that smart city planning, attentive business owners and motivated building landlords do not play an equal role in building commerce success, but that is for another article.)

This article aims to shine a light on the lifestyle shopping center at the south end of Mercer Island, not just as an alternative, but an essential.

Mark O’Shea, owner of the south end shopping center buildings says, “We are a community-oriented and locally focused neighborhood shopping center. Many of our businesses have been here for over a decade and we are passionate about having a diverse mix of businesses that serve the daily needs of the local community. We are also excited to announce our newest business Oh! Chocolate , who is planning to open in late summer. Oh! Chocolate has been on Mercer Island for over 30 years and we are thrilled to welcome them to the south end!”

The south end is home to two clubs, off leash dog walking parks, two schools, many residential neighborhoods, and one of the Island’s most used ball fields. Just north of these frequented destinations, sits the shopping center.

Here are the advantages to hitting the one-stop location. First, you can gas up and/or drop your car for service while you take care of your day’s checklist. Once parked, all the shops, services and eateries are steps from your car. You only have to park one time and there is ample parking for all . Next, drop your dry cleaning and lean into local businesses! Take care of your health and wellness by grabbing a workout at MI Fit , or get your spa needs

met at Salon 106, Mercer Nail and Spa ,  Eurobody of Mercer Island and/or Seattle Skin and Laser Finished with self-care? Hungry yet? Knock out your appetite and social visits at one time. The south end offers an array of restaurants. Join your friends and pick between Riviera Maya Mexican Restaurant or Yuzen Japanese Restaurant for a sit-down meal. Or, grab a sub sandwich, pizza, coffee with a snack or teriyaki and enjoy your meal at the outdoor seating areas. Next on your to-do list, run those everyday living errands. Drop by The Boutique Lounge for gifts and essentials for him, for her, for baby and of course your MI spirit wear. Last, you pop into the QFC . Walk your groceries to your car and head home. While you are at home, think about how much you got done without leaving the island. Pat yourself on the back for supporting your local community. Local business owners are grateful.

The south end, reported by their vendors, is actively working at filling their empty commercial spaces, including the former Rite Aid. While the Storage Court occupies the east end of the parking lot, there is more for the taking. So, if you have a new or existing business idea, if you like the idea of reasonable rent considering MI’s average price per square foot, call on an available south end space. Help grow Mercer Island commerce and work just a few miles from home.

As a patron, you can help save local businesses by staying on the Island to shop, eat, and take care of your health and wellness.

If you don’t see what you want at MI’s local businesses, make suggestions to owners and managers. You cannot get what you don’t ask for.

“We are a community-oriented and locally focused neighborhood shopping center."

- Mark O' Shea, Azose Commercial Properties

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL

Backyard Chickens

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet, but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages.

There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low-maintenance. And bonus—unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things to Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple henhouse can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through spring and summer and into the fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own, or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com.

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly kneed. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MONDAY, JULY 31STFRIDAY, AUGUST 4TH

Musical Theatre: Best of Broadway

MERCER ISLAND COMMUNITY CENTER, 8236 SE 24TH ST

MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040

Sing, dance and act your way toward becoming a triple threat. This week, Youth Theatre Northwest will combine all three elements of musical theatre and take on songs, dances, and scenes from the best of Broadway. Students should be sent to camp with a packed lunch and two snacks that do not need to be in a refrigerator or microwaved.

AUGUST 3RD

Brunch & the Blues

BOEING FIELD | 9:30 AM

This is Seafair Foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year. Enjoy brunch, an entertaining program, and a live auction followed by a front-row viewing of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels “walk down” and take off for their first flight at the Boeing Air Show.

Contributions support Seafair’s mission of empowering future leaders and connecting communities through educational and cultural experiences. August 4th-13th &

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH –  TUESDAY, AUGUST 8TH

Seafair Weekend Festival

GENESEE PARK AND PLAYFIELD, 4316 SOUTH

GENESEE STREET, SEATTLE, WA, UNITED STATES, 98118

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Set on Lake Washington’s 1.5 miles of shoreline, Seafair Festival Weekend is the largest boating event, air show, and festival all rolled

H A P P I N E S S H A P P E N S HERE.

into one. Fans enjoy the Boeing Seafair Air Show featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Miss HomeStreet racing at over 220 MPH in the HomeStreet Bank Cup, and the unforgettable sights, sounds, and smells of Alaska Airlines Park.

AUGUST 6TH

Mercer Island

Farmers Market

7700 SE 32ND ST, MERCER ISLAND, WA

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Season: Summer Market Hours: June 4 - October 8, 2023Sundays, 10AM - 3PM Harvest Market October 29 and November 20, 2023 Sunday, 10AM - 3PM Special Harvest

AUGUST 7TH-11TH & 14TH-18TH

Classes Offered By Youth

Theatre Northwest

4400 86TH AVE SE MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040

SONG & DANCE: Heroes and Villains (3rd-5th Grade) - 8/7-8/11

STORYBOOK PLAYERS: Wild Kratts Adventures (K-2nd Grade) - 8/7 - 8/11

SCENE STUDY: Star Wars (3rd5th Grade) - 8/14-8/18

STORYBOOK PLAYERS: Magic Tree House  (K-2nd Grade) - 8/14-8/18

SEPTEMBER 5TH-7TH

Shows and Auditions

Offered By Youth

Theatre Northwest

4400 86TH AVE SE MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040

Shows:

Disney’s Finding NEMO Jr. - August 4 - 13 at Risdon Middle School in Newcastle

Tickets at youththeatre.org

Auditions:

Auditions for Youth Theatre Northwest’s 2023-2024 Season  - September 5 - 7

Sign-ups are now open at  youththeatre.org

Design is more than what is pretty and beautiful— It’s also about the ways the mood, feeling and function merge within our home, affecting our happiness and well-being.