Nestled on the flanks of a wooded steep slope, this home embraces the beauty of nature while providing a comfortable, stylish living space. From exposed wooden beams to large windows that allow natural light to flood in, every element is carefully crafted to create a warm atmosphere.
“I remember the first sketch I saw, I think it brought me to tears, I was so stunned by it. That you could put into this picture all the ideas that had been running through my mind all these years. The house was beyond my wildest expectations.”
Homeowner — Carolyn
ARCHITECT
Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl
INTERIOR DESIGN
Hillary Young Design Associates
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tim Van Asselt
Luxury Representation
“I highly recommend Kelly to anyone looking to buy a home. She is extremely knowledgeable, and her expertise was evident in both the buying and offer writing process. She and her team gave us every single detail of information we could need to craft an extremely strong and winning offer! In addition, she gave us great guidance when seeing homes and going through the inspection process. We felt extremely confident and supported throughout thanks to Kelly and her entire team. Thanks Kelly!
- D.M
Exploring the Wonders of Mercer Island and Beyond
Dear Fellow Explorers,
As we embark on the month of July, we invite you to join us in celebrating the theme of exploration through the captivating stories and experiences that make Mercer Island such a remarkable community.
This issue takes you on a journey from the distant Galapagos Islands to the heart of Mercer Island. Brenda El-Ghazzawy's article on "The History of the Pikaia Lodge in the Galapagos Islands" showcases the lodge's commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism, inspiring us to be mindful of our environmental impact wherever our adventures lead us.
Closer to home, Suzie Mulligan and Robin Holland's "Classic Guatemalan Fried Chicken" recipe offers a delightful culinary exploration, while Terry Fleming's "Walk the Rock" takes you on a tour of Mercer Island's most fascinating public art installations, showcasing the creativity and imagination that make our city so special.
The heart of this issue lies in the story of the "Solemates," a group of senior citizens who have been walking together every Wednesday for the past 27 years. We were moved by their recognition at this year's MIYFS breakfast, prompting us to share their story. Laura Ohata's feature, "Solemates Builds Community One Step at a Time," is a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection and the value of exploring new friendships.
Artist and Photographer Sean Du's stunning landscape images in "Above the Treeline" capture the rugged beauty of North America's mountain wildernesses, reminding us of the power and majesty of the natural world and our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.
We raise a glass to the spirit of exploration with the "Fire Melontini" cocktail, courtesy of Heritage 1904 Northwest Spirits – a perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July and add a spark to your summer gatherings.
A special thank you to our photography partners, Jim and Katarina Garner, for their creative inspiration on exploring the Island and Walking the Rock, with a cover shot that serves as an artistic tribute to all Mercer Islanders.
We encourage you to explore the pages of Mercer Island City Lifestyle, share the stories with your friends and family, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Your input is integral to the quality of this magazine, which is created for you and our community.
Happy reading and exploring!
CHRIS ISHII AND SHARON PEREZ
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laura Ohata, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, Terry Fleming, Suzie Mulligan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
J. Garner Photography, Laura Ohata, LUXXE Travel, Sean Du, Terry Fleming, FUUDI
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
HIP HIP HIP ZEPHYR
city scene
1: MIHS alumna Julie Keeler, Sharon, Northwood Principal Julie Newcomer, Kristy Sieckhaus at MISF Breakfast 2: MIHS Student Servers at MISF Breakfast of Champions: Justen, Sol, Amelia 3: MICL Partners Jim & Katarina Garner, Megan Atkinson, Robyn Kimura Hsu, Andy Nystrom, Kelly Weisfield 4: Northwood 1st grade students and teacher Katie Gallagher presented at the MISF breakfast 5: Devi Brunsch, Nikki Baidwan, Diane Tien enjoy May First Friday Art Walk at Realogics Sotheby’s 6: 23 Mercer Island Visual Arts League (MIVAL) artists Spring Show at Yuan Ru Art Center. 7: Artist Angie Chatalas with her paintings presented at Realogics Sotheby’s on First Friday Art Walk. Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
8: A full and fun house at Elsom Cellars for the MICL May Issue Release Party. 9: MICL May Issue Release Party MIHS alumnus Ed Kashiba, Sharon, Tadashi Shiga and Chris. 10: The amazing Elsom Cellars hosts for the MICL Release Party Jennifer Woods and Jody Elsom. 11: Julie Hsieh, Mark Harrington, Cynthia Hwang, Susie Vannatter, Chris enjoy delicious appetizers from Arista Catering. 12: Katarina Garner, J. Garner Photography and Amy Patton, Hip Zephyr, celebrate the Ladies Issue. 13: Island Books hosted Justina Chen, author, “With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei” and Shari Leid 14: Deborah Sepulveda and Irene Ishii of the Gates Foundation at AANHPI Discovery Center event
J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
J. GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
15: MIHS grads David Ishii & Irene Ishii (Gates Foundation) with Islander, Angela Bahng (Gates Foundation). 16: Islanders Cap and Nellie Anderson - Lodge at St. Edwards Park for Yuzi Launch Party 17: Chris, Islanders Nellie, Ellie and Randy Wu - the Lodge at St. Edward’s Park
Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle
Dr. Jacqueline Blanchette Named Island Animal Hospital New Medical Director
Mercer Island’s Island Animal Hospital has named Jacqueline Blanchette DVM, as the new Medical Director. Dr. Blanchette graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003 and started her veterinary career as an equine veterinarian and then moved into mixed animal practice. Dr. Blanchette’s special interests are in soft tissue surgery, orthopedics and dentistry. She performs TPLO and CBLO procedures for cruciate disease, fracture repair for broken bones, and managing arthritis in patients.
Photography by Island Animal Hospital
Fuudi Kitchen Goes to Guatemala for Global Flavor Inspiration
This month’s recipe created for MICL by Islander, Suzie Mulligan of Fuudi Kitchen, gives us the back story, “My husband Tom and daughter Kylie recently returned from a mission trip to Guatemala to perform eye surgery with the organization Humanity First USA. They loved the experience and the food in Guatemala and requested I figure out how to replicate the recipe for fried chicken that they enjoyed while they were there.” Buen Provecho!
Explore Dutch Cheese with Elsom Wine Parings
The Dutch have cheese figured out. Gouda is lactic, buttery, melty, and palatally innocuous when it is young. As it matures, it develops textural and aromatic complexity. Ultimately, it becomes crunchy and crumbly, and it boasts notes of praline and butterscotch. If Gouda (and wine) is your thing, then join Elsom Cellars on July 18, 6:00p- 8:00p while The Cheese Lady takes your palate on a journey with pairings of Elsom wines.
Photography by Elsom Cellars
EXPLORE THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR
Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Enjoy the Exclusive Pikaia Lodge
ARTICLE BY BRENDA EL-GHAZZAWY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXXE TRAVEL
Ride the Wave of Positivity from Mercer Island to the Galápagos Islands. This top-tier exploration offers a slate of immersive experiences, celebrating the Island’s natural and unique beauty. Pikaia Lodge is one of the most advanced
Penguin Excursion
At the core of Pikaia Lodge’s mission is a deep commitment to the Galápagos, manifested in its tireless efforts to protect and conserve the islands.
green lodges built in the world. It operates with alternative energy resources and has a comprehensive social responsibility program
THE HISTORY OF THE PIKAIA LODGE IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR
Secluded within a giant tortoise reserve and perched on the rim of an extinct volcanic crater, Pikaia Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux property, offers unparalleled comfort and service. This tailor-made experience is designed exclusively for the environmentally conscious adventure traveler, providing intimate encounters with this UNESCO World Heritage site's extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking
views, and overall splendor. Pikaia Lodge offers all-inclusive packages of 3-7 nights with flexible entry and the exclusive opportunity for half and full-day land and marine explorations aboard a private yacht.
CONCEPT
At the core of Pikaia Lodge's mission is a deep commitment to the Galápagos, manifested in its tireless efforts to protect and conserve the islands. Over a decade ago, they acquired 75 acres of cattle ranch land to build a hotel that champions responsible and sustainable tourism. The journey was challenging, navigating through lengthy legal
My Vision - Pikaia
procedures and importing materials. Pikaia Lodge also undertook the monumental task of reforesting the area, planting over 11,000 trees, which led to the repopulation of giant tortoises and endemic birds. Pikaia Lodge proudly opened its doors in August 2014, a testament to its unwavering dedication to the Galápagos and an inspiration for future conservation efforts.
LOCATION
The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often described as one of the last remaining paradises on Earth, has a delicate ecosystem primarily supported by tourism. Local authorities tightly control the Galápagos National Park with strict environmental and wildlife rules. Pikaia Lodge is deeply committed to protecting and conserving these magical islands for future generations. Charles Darwin visited the Galápagos Islands in 1835, which impacted his research. His work and findings have shed light on our planet's ever-present proof of evolution. His insight changed how we see the world today and remains integral to its history.
Located on Santa Cruz Island, at the heart of the archipelago, Pikaia Lodge offers a sense of complete seclusion and captivating scenery, with secluded white sandy beaches and wildlife sites of
Top: Blue Footed Boobies
Bottom: Pristine Beaches
Pikaia Lodge offers a sense of complete seclusion and captivating scenery, with secluded white sandy beaches and wildlife sites of the Galápagos National Park within easy reach.
the Galápagos National Park within easy reach. The 75 acres of private wild giant tortoise reserve perch 1,476 feet above sea level. Guests enjoy sweeping views of the pristine, arid savannah of Santa Cruz Island from all the public areas and rooms. To the north, guests can admire extinct volcanic cones veiled in mist and mountains adorned with lush tropical cloud forests and green pasture farms. To the southwest, a 270-degree panorama of the seemingly boundless Pacific Ocean unfolds, with nearby islands providing a picturesque backdrop.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The spacious rooms and suites have panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, private shaded terraces, and balconies with breathtaking, unobstructed views. The elegantly designed rooms are naturally well-lit and ventilated. All rooms have large bathrooms with marble walk-in closets, double sinks, and separate showers and bathtubs with great views.
To learn more about the Pikaia Lodge, contact Luxxe Travel at luxxe.travel, your VIP Concierge Travel Services on Mercer Island.
Pikaia Lodge
EXPLORING GLOBAL FLAVORS
ARTICLE BY SUZIE MULLIGAN, FUUDI KITCHEN FUUDI.COM PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE MULLIGAN, FUUDI KITCHEN
Guatemalan Inspired Fried Chicken
Guatemalan Inspired Fried Chicken
Classic Guatemalan fried chicken is renowned for its distinct blend of spices and crispy texture, offering a unique take on this beloved comfort food. This recipe draws inspiration from the famous Pollo Campero, a Guatemalan fast-food chain celebrated for its flavorful and juicy fried chicken. The secret lies in the marination and the special blend of spices that create its distinctive taste.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 Whole chicken, bone-in and skin-on, cut into pieces
For the Brine:
• 5 cups water
• 1/2 cup Diamond Crystal Kosher salt
• 1 tsp. coriander seeds
• 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 3 bay leaves
For the Coating:
• 2 cups flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1-½ tbsp. Adobo
• 1 tbsp. Sazon
• 2 tsp. ground cumin
• 2 tsp. curry powder
• 1 tsp. achiote powder (or paprika)
• 2 tsp. dried shiitake mushroom powder
• 1 tsp. Kosher salt
• 2 tsp. black pepper
• ½-1 tsp. cayenne pepper, adjust to your liking
For Frying:
• Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Brine the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the water, salt, coriander seeds, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged in the brine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken and tenderize it.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a large, shallow dish or bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, Adobo, Sazon, ground
cumin, curry powder, achiote powder, mushroom powder, ground black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack. Let them rest for about 15 minutes. This helps the coating set and stick better during frying.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Carefully place a few pieces of chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Fry the chicken for about 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. To finish cooking the chicken, place into a preheated, 350-degree oven, and bake, for about 10 additional minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve:
Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides, such as fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
TIPS:
For less mess coating the chicken pieces, use a gallon-sized plastic bag to mix your dry ingredients; then add the chicken pieces, seal the bag and shake to coat.
Try the shallow oil method for frying the chicken. Fill a large cast iron skillet with about 1 inch oil and heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Working in batches and being careful not to overcrowd the skillet, fry chicken, turning to brown and crisp all sides of the chicken.
Enjoy!
Walk The Rock
Explore Mercer Island: Mythical Bird, a Dragon, and a Very Large Rabbit
Exploring Mercer Island, one will find that it is filled with some very interesting landmarks that beg exploration. Allow me to introduce six:
Orbits and Pieces
Artist: NASA, Mercer Island Community and Event Center
I had to include this, considering we live so close to Jet City and flight is in our area’s blood. This is a sculpture made out of very unique found materials - two titanium tanks and three fuel lines and other surplus components originally engineered for the Apollo space missions. Dale William Cox Jr., a retired naval officer and 1959 Mercury astronaut candidate, bought the parts and his wife, an artist, crafted them into this compelling piece.
Call of the Wild
Artist: Donald Riggs, Luther Burbank Park
Well, I mean, come on! Is he not a dapper fellow? All I can say is, looking at him makes me happy. There’s something about him that seems so ready to greet the day. And I think if you were to visit him, you’d be ready, too.
To find out more, explore www.mercer island. gov/parksrec/page/public-art
BY TERRY FLEMING
Mythical Bird
Artist: Dudley Carter, Pioneer Park
Terry Fleming has been a freelance writer for twenty-five years. He’s a published author, entertainment blogger, screenwriter and playwright. He resides on Mercer Island with his family and enjoys exploring the unique aspects of community art.
A mythological take with a modern spin, this sculpture combines Native American trickster figures Raven and Coyote with birds and classical female forms, seeming to depict the Native American power of four (for many tribes, four was a sacred number as it represented the four seasons and many other things).
Between Two Worlds
Artist: Georgia Gerber, Mercer Island Library
Young children also get a kick out of this one for the fantastical element of the massive rabbit the boy is lounging against. Is this humungous bunny a familiar? A gargantuan pet? A character in the boy’s book? And what about the smaller bunny? Ultimately, artist Georgia Gerber likes to present an incomplete visual narrative in the hopes the viewers create their own story.
Gateway Figures
Artist: Garth Edwards, Greta Hackett Outdoor Sculpture Gallery
Four steel figures resembling life-sized paper dolls stand at the entranceway of this park near the new Light Rail station. There’s an adult couple and a mother with her child, each displaying fanciful designs of birds or umbrellas (of course, it’s the Northwest) and bowties on their garb. They’re all there to greet you as you enter the Sculpture Gallery, so give them a hearty hello!
Artist: Kenton Pies, Deane’s Park
For parents of small children, you can’t beat this - a 50-foot dragon that kids can play on and inside of! I’ve seen kids squeal with delight as soon as they see this boisterous beast for the first time. And whether they’re a dragon fighter or a dragon friend, the design of this magnificent creature lends itself well to hours of play. It was first created in the 1960s, but fell into disrepair over the decades, so the city contacted original creator Kenton Pies who built a new and improved dragon, which exists to this day!
Kenton’s Dragon
Artist: Kenton Pies
Kenton’s Dragon (above)
SOLEMATES BUILDS COMMUNITY ONE STEP AT A TIME
Mercer Island Voices
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA OHATA
Mercer Island Solemates walks rain or shine
Solemates founder Fran Call (L) leading the group on a lakeside walk
Solemates Scaling New Heights
I felt welcomed. I can’t say enough about what it has meant to me, and the ability to integrate into a larger community.
Walking is great for fitness, but did you know that it can also foster community? For the past 27 years, a group of Mercer Island senior citizens called “Solemates” has gone walking together every Wednesday, rain or shine.
“You know, we certainly exercise a little bit, but it’s the socializing that’s beneficial,” said Fran Call (83), the retired English teacher who founded Solemates. “As we grow older, we tend not to be in organizations so much as we were when we had children in school. We tend to stay at home and not see people. So, this is an opportunity to get out in a group and find people who have similar interests. We have happy hours together, we have coffee together, we volunteer together.”
Gerry Holley (93) has walked with the group since its founding. She said, “I had not been doing exercises as much as I wanted. I saw on the Mercer Island community news that there was a senior group that was going to start walking 3 to 4 miles every Wednesday. And so, I thought I’d try it.” There were only seven people on the first day. These days the group numbers roughly 60 men and women.
While Holley started walking with the group for physical fitness, she soon learned of the social benefits. “We all celebrate with you, send you cards, celebrate your anniversaries, birthdays, birth of a grandchild. If you have an illness or a death in the family, we are all with you. So, it’s very close,” said Holley.
Gerry Kapur (84) whose husband, Kal, also walks with Solemates said, “We get information plus stories about our kids and
about what we’re doing with our lives, the struggles we go through, our physical ailments, what doctors we see. We go to the symphony and to plays together.
Part of socializing together involves shared volunteer work for a variety of causes. Some of these charities include Seattle Children’s Hospital, Mercer Island Youth and Family Services, and building tiny houses.
Bonnie Cundiff (81) joined Solemates when she moved to Mercer Island four-and-a-half years ago from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She said, “I felt welcomed. I can’t say enough about what it has meant to me, and the ability to integrate into a larger community.” Since then, Cundiff has encouraged the group to build two tiny homes, as well as sew curtains for hundreds more. She notes that there is a group of Solemates who knit comfort shawls and prayer shawls for those who are grieving.
Marilyn O’Neill (81), who has been walking with the group for about 15 years said that Solemates adds structure to her life. “Wednesday is sacred. I don’t do anything else. I’m sorry if there is a Bible study at church. This is what I do on Wednesday. It frames the week for me, and that’s powerful. And, usually, we have coffee afterward.” Whether it is walking for fitness or socializing for mental health, Solemates builds community one step at a time. Founder, Fran Call, jokes that it is a lot like camp for senior citizens. Asked how Solemates has changed her life, Call said, “It ties me down, but it gives me a great deal of satisfaction. I enjoy it thoroughly or I wouldn’t do it.”
PET OF THE MONTH
Meet Sir and Noelle!
They may seem small, but their personalities are large and in charge.
Sir and Noelle are frequent visitors to Island Animal for all their preventive care as well as their monthly allergy maintenance.
We love our monthly visits from them and their mom. We are thrilled to be their partner in care.
See you both soon, Sir and Noelle!
Above The Treeline
Exploring Washington’s Peaks: Photographer Sean Du Shares Hard-Earned Views
Artist Statement by Sean Du: Above the Treeline is an ongoing study that seeks to capture, by way of hiking and climbing, seldom-seen views of North America’s mountain wildernesses. These journeys to the mountain tops were my communion with the natural world. The North Cascades of Washington have all the elements a mountain lover could dream of – massive amount of snowfall created glaciers that sculpted the mountains into rugged granite spires and formed deep, U-shaped valleys lined with lush
meadows and soaring conifers; ample moisture often leave the mountains surrounded by clouds, adding to the sense of mystery; meltwater from the snow and glaciers trickle down to form great rivers that ultimately gave the mountain range its name.
“Nature as a poet, an enthusiastic workingman, becomes more and more visible the farther and higher we go; for the mountains are fountains – beginning places, however related to sources beyond mortal ken.” –John Muir
My images of these mountains focus on views from “above the treeline”, where the idea of “the mountains as fountains” really comes into full view. The images are culminations of the vertical journeys that took me through a variety of vegetation zones before topping out in the world of snow, ice and rocks. Where trails disappear among the taluses and boulders and I am left to pick my own way, I enjoy a newfound sense of freedom in a time and space that’s way larger
Buckner-Boston Massif and Eldorado Massif, North Cascades
than ourselves. To a city dweller like me, the mountains are the last reminders of what the world was made of, and I hope my pictures of them will serve as mediators capable of re-connecting the viewers to the planet we call home.
Sean Du is a landscape photographer, earning a BFA in photography from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. Exhibiting at prestigious galleries throughout the West, he is locally represented by Yuan Ru Art Center.
The North Cascades of Washington have all the elements a mountain lover could dream of.
Forbidden Peak, North Cascades
Napeequa Valley, North Cascades
Fisher Creek Cirque, North Cascades
AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST
Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. The expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.
A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen. Scheduled kids activities are
available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property.
The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place or eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace.
After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com
ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE
At Aegis Living, we see aging as a gift. Every second of it. Aegis offers support for all stages of senior care, including short-term stays for seniors when caregivers need a respite, memory care for residents with dementia, and transitional care to meet a resident’s changing needs. We’d love to meet you, answer your questions, and show you around.
7445 SE 24th Street | Mercer Island, WA 206-800-8670 | aegismercerisland.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SUNDAY
Μercer Island Farmers Market
Mercerdale Park | 10:00 AM
MIFM is every Sunday, 10am -2pm. Live music is an integral part of the Mercer Island Farmers Market; enjoy these musicians while shopping for organic produce, enjoying lunch from a food vendor, or picnicking on the lawn in Mercerdale:
July 7 Djangomatics
July 14 The Wiretappers
July 21 Kimball & The Fugitives
July 28 Larry Murante
JULY 3RD
Shakespeare in the Park: The Two Gentlemen of Verona Luther Burbank Park Amphitheater 7:00 PM
The popular Wooden O will be back on MI this year, performing The Two Gentlemen of Verona, directed by local-favorite Kelly Kitchens. The production will be supported with live music, composed by Orlando Morales. July show dates at Luther Burbank Park are July 3,5,11,17,21,24,31. More information and the full performance calendar @ www.seattleshakespeare.org
JULY 11TH
Mostly Music in the Park Outdoor Concert Series
Mercerdale Park | 6:30 PM
The City of Mercer Island’s Mostly Music in the Park Concert Series kicks off July 11 and every Thursday evening 6:30-8:30pm in Mercerdale through August 22.
Bring a blanket, low-back chairs, a picnic dinner and your family for an entertaining evening of music and arts & crafts.
July 11 Point of Sail
July 18 Soul Proprietors
July 25 Harmonius Funk
JULY 12TH
Mercer Island “First”
Friday Art Walk - New Date!
Town Center | 5:00 PM
July’s First Friday Art Walk is on the SECOND Friday, July 12 - due to the Fourth of July holiday. Join your friends and neighbors for an evening of art at local businesses and galleries including: Clarke & Clarke Art + Artifacts, Realogics Sotheby’s, Suzanne Zahr Gallery, Barrels Wine Bar, Aljoya, John L. Scott, Caldwell Banker Bain and MIVAL Gallery.
JULY 13TH
City of Mercer Island Summer Celebration
Mercerdale Park & Luther Burbank Park | 10:00 AM
MI’s largest one-day event! Join the fun starting at 10am with the Community Parade, down 78th Ave SE and ending in Mercerdale Park, with booths from local businesses and nonprofit organizations, art vendors, live music, children’s activities, and food trucks. At 6pm the party moves to Luther Burbank Park with food trucks, live music and fireworks display at 10 pm.
JULY 18TH
Friends of the Mercer Island Library
General Meeting
Mercer Island Library | 10:00 AM
Love your library? Join the Friends!
The Friends are a member-driven, independent non-profit organization. They work to raise funds for library activities that support our Mercer Island community. The General Meeting is open to all and is from 10:00am12:00pm, Thursday, July 18.
Northwest Spirits Fire Melontini
A Spicy Fire Melontini
Cheers! Missy Claridge: My family has been running bars in Seattle for over 65 years, so cocktails are in our DNA. This is the perfect drink for the 4th of July - easy to make, which is great because we’re all busy.
- Missy Firnstahl Claridge, Heritage 1904 President
PREMIERE POUR OF THE MONTH: THE PERFECT DRINK TO CELEBRATE THE 4TH OF JULY!
ingredients:
• 2-3 chunks of fresh watermelon, muddled
• 1 shot fresh lemon juice
• ½ shot simple syrup
• 1 shot Savor Spear® Vodka
• dash of firewater bitters
• Tajín seasoning
• For an extra kick in any cocktail, keep firewater bitters in your home bar.
directions:
1. Rim a martini glass with Tajín seasoning. To do this, rub a lemon wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip the rim into a plate of Tajín seasoning to coat evenly.
2. In a large shaker, muddle 2-3 chunks of fresh watermelon until they are well crushed and release their juice.
3. Add fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, Savor Spear® Vodka, and a dash of firewater bitters to the shaker.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients thoroughly.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, ensuring no watermelon pulp gets into the drink.
6. Savor your refreshing and spicy Fire Melontini!
