Exploring the Summer Bounty of our Community
This July, we invite you to explore what makes Mercer Island truly special: our vibrant, welcoming community. At Mercer Island City Lifestyle, our “why” is rooted in building and celebrating that sense of connection—through stories, shared spaces, local traditions, and the people who make this place home.
This is one of our favorite times of year, as we gather together for Mostly Music in the Park , Summer Celebration , and every Sunday at the Farmers Market. These shared moments remind us how lucky we are to live in a place where community truly comes first.
In this issue, you’ll meet our local businesses and organizations who bring creativity and care to all corners of the Island. Whether you’re discovering something new or revisiting a favorite spot, we hope this season inspires you to connect, explore, and celebrate Mercer Island.
We’ll see you in the park!
Warmly,
CHRIS ISHII AND SHARON PEREZ @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Brenda El-Ghazzawy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
J Garner Photography, Luxxe Travel
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
3:5-6
HIP HIP HIP ZEPHYR
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The most dapper morning latte connoisseur, enjoying the new ASA coffee service. 2: Schools Foundation Breakfast of Champions student volunteers got up early to help serve breakfast. 3: School Board President Maggie Tai Tucker, Former Mayor Benson Wong and community champion Diane Tien. 4: Suzanne Ogden, Julie Hsieh, School Board Member Jody Lee, Zeynep Banu Alev supporting MI schools. 5: Breakfast of Champion Sponsors and Market Optical owners Jamey and Carolyn Balousek in cool specs! 6: Over 400 Mercer Island Schools supporters at the 2025 Breakfast of Champions at MIHS. 7: Mercer Island’s student MI Swinging Jazz Band is terrific and is for hire! Contact Manager.miswingin@gmail.com Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
8: Josh,
Island Books,
toast the inaugural Re-Vesta Group Mercer Island Book Club. 9: MI Book Club hosts:
MI City Lifestyle & Khue Dang. 10: Coffee break with a good read on a lovely morning on the ASA patio. 11: The Re-Vesta Book Club hosted the first meeting on the patio at Barrels Wine Bar. 12: MI Schools Foundation 2025 Breakfast of Champions student MCs Julius and Ava with Superintendent Rundle 13: Do you want to buy or sell a boat… you know who to call…. 14: Islander and Captain Ari Sherr taking us out on Lake Union for the cover shoot. Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Laurie, Rachel, Khue, Kristy, Jenn
Re-Vesta Group,
Barrels,
15: Lights, Camera, Action - our amazing photographers, Jim and Katarina Garner shooting the cover shot 16: MIHS Students prep for the Band Garage Sale to support the London Parade Trip 17: Kimberly Miyazawa Frank shows off the first book selected by the new MI Book Club. Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Want to be seen in the magazine?
TAG
The Crawlspace Gastropub New Summer Patio!
The Crawlspace Gastropub is kicking off summer with the grand opening of our brand-new patio—your go-to spot for sunshine, great food, and cold drinks! Designed for laid-back vibes and warm-weather gatherings, our outdoor space is also dogfriendly, so bring your pup along for the fun. Join us all before and after Mostly Music in the Park and all season long for al fresco dining, seasonal specials, and craft cocktails. See you on the patio!
Brenda El-Ghazzawy Global Real Estate Advisor Joins Engel & Völkers
Mercer Island local and founder of Luxxe Travel, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, joined Engel & Völkers as global real estate advisor. Known for her refined eye, branding expertise, and concierge-level service, Brenda brings a fresh, lifestyle-driven approach to real estate, specializing in connecting clients to exceptional properties locally and worldwide. With deep community roots and a passion for global living, Brenda is where luxury real estate meets intentional design and international perspective. Connect with her at luxxe.homes
Dr. Carrie York DDS rebrands to Islander Dental Arts
Dr. Carrie York DDS has added to her dental team with Dr. Allen’s Novak and they have rebranded the practice to Islander Dental Arts. The office is still located in the 80th Avenue Professional Building, Suite 102. Contact and information @ carrieyorkdds.com
Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Photography by The Crawlspace Gastropub
EXPLORING MOROCCO
Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains
A JOURNEY THROUGH HARMONY, HERITAGE, AND HOSPITALITY
ARTICLE BY BRENDA EL-GHAZZAWY
Some places don’t just leave an impression, they shift your perspective. Morocco is one of them. My recent journey through this North African country was a study in contrast and connections: from the vibrant energy of Marrakech to the stillness of the Sahara, the historic medina of Fes to the serene luxury of Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains. Morocco is more than just a beautiful destination; it has deep roots in hospitality, history, and tolerance.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXXE TRAVEL
Sahara Desert
My journey began in Marrakech, a city that engages every sense. I wandered through the medina’s maze of narrow alleyways, where artisans hammer copper by hand and the scent of spices lingers in the air. One of the most memorable experiences was visiting the Slat El-Azama Synagogue in the Jewish quarter, just a short walk from the towering Koutoubia Mosque. These sacred spaces, representing different faiths, stand not in opposition but side by side, embodying Morocco’s long-standing tradition of religious coexistence.
This commitment to tolerance is not symbolic; it’s woven into the nation’s identity.
Morocco’s monarchy has taken deliberate steps to preserve Jewish heritage sites and encourage interfaith respect. In a world where division often dominates the conversation, Morocco offers an inspiring model of peaceful coexistence.
I left Marrakech and traveled into the vast and humbling beauty of the Sahara Desert. After a long drive through ever-changing terrain, I arrived at a luxury desert camp nestled among the dunes. At night, beneath a sky filled with stars, I gathered around the fire with fellow travelers and local Berber hosts, the beat of hand drums echoing across the sand.
Historic Fes
SOME PLACES DON'T JUST LEAVE AN IMPRESSION, THEY SHIFT YOUR PERSPECTIVE
The desert demands stillness, and in that silence, I found clarity, a reminder of how powerful simplicity can be.
My next stop was Fes, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. I stayed at Riad Fes, a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the ancient medina. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to intricate mosaics, historic mosques, and some of Morocco’s finest artisans. Walking through its narrow passageways, I was struck by how tradition remains an active part of daily life in this historic city.
I ended my trip in the High Atlas Mountains at Kasbah Tamadot, a property that blends elegance with authenticity. Overlooking terraced hills and Berber villages, the kasbah offered a sense of calm and connection. The local people’s warmth and the landscape’s beauty left a lasting impression of peace, perspective, and profound gratitude.
In September 2023, Morocco faced a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake centered in the High Atlas Mountains, near the areas I visited. The quake resulted in many fatalities and widespread
destruction, particularly affecting rural communities and historic sites in Marrakech. The resilience of the Moroccan people in the aftermath has been remarkable, with communities coming together to rebuild and preserve their cultural heritage. Traveling to Morocco is a powerful way to support its recovery and honor the spirit of a country that continues to welcome visitors with open arms.
Travel is about more than checking off destinations. It’s about the stories we carry home and how those experiences shape us. Morocco’s beauty lies not just in its architecture, landscapes, or cuisine, but in its soul: a place where cultural diversity is honored, and human connection is at the heart of every moment.
As we embrace this season of exploration, I encourage fellow travelers to look beyond the familiar. Sometimes, the most meaningful discoveries aren’t just about the places we visit; they’re about the more profound understanding we gain.
To learn more about planning your next vacation, contact Luxxe Travel at luxxe.travel , your VIP Travel Concierge Services on Mercer Island.
Luxury Desert Tent Camping
ARTICLE BY BRENDA EL-GHAZZAWY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXXE TRAVEL
Mercer Islanders In the Wild
CURATED JOURNEYS. MERCER ISLAND STYLE.
Inspired in India
The Atkinsons explored India over the 2024 holidays, from sunrise at the Taj Mahal to rolling chapatis in Delhi, visiting ancient caves in Mumbai, and celebrating the New Year by the sea in Goa.
Swiss Peaks & Scenic Rails
Mercer Island friends explored the Swiss Alps in style. Skiing in Zermatt, viewing the Matterhorn, and breathtaking scenery aboard the Glacier and Bernina Express trains.
Saigon to Phu Quoc
The Moore family spent the 2024 holidays in Vietnam, enjoying food tours in Saigon and beach time on Phu Quoc.
Desert Moments
The El-Ghazzawys experienced the magic of Morocco’s Sahara Desert, surrounded by golden dunes, vast open skies, and a stillness that made the moment unforgettable.
Seoul Escape
The Mah Jong group traded tiles for travel, exploring Seoul with K-beauty treatments, a hanok village visit, delicious food, a DMZ tour, and a scenic day at Nami Island.
Exploring Japan
Mercer Island City Lifestyle publisher Chris Ishii explored Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, a blend of modern cities, cultural heritage, and incredible food.
ARCHITECT
Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl
INTERIOR DESIGN
Hillary Young Design Associates
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tim Van Asselt
Futurecast Forum 2025
House Bill 1110 is the largest upzone legislation in WA state history and creates an opportunity and incentive for would-be sellers, while builders deliver on new missing middle housing.
The Futurecast Forum is a real estate industry think tank offering timely insights, expert perspectives, and interactive events to help you stay informed and activated within an ever-changing housing market landscape.
This month, we unpack the affordable housing crisis and how a mandate to municipal governments will fundamentally change how we look at single-family zoning as of July 1, 2025. Watch for new product types at attractive price points in popular neighborhoods throughout larger cities in Washington State.
Inside the report:
• Considerations for consumers, builders & sellers
• High demand for infill housing priced from $500,000s
• Impacts to municipal population and school districts
• Increase to tax base and economic ecosystem
• Improvement to civic competitiveness and growth
Dean Jones President and CEO
Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
Scan to
at FuturecastForum.com
Review the Futurecast Forum held on June 5th at the “Thrive in ‘25” Industry Summit Stay informed at FuturecastForum.com.
Explore the insights and discover what’s driving the market—and how it may impact your next move.
THE MISSING MIDDLE
ADU/DADU SINGLE-FAMILY
DUPLEX, TRIPLEX, TOWNHOMES AND SMALL APARTMENT BUILDINGS MIDRISE
HIGHRISE
Explore: A Life Set to the Wind
ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY J GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
By nature and by trade, Captain Ari Sheer is an explorer.
For Mercer Island yacht broker Ari Sheer, the spirit of exploration began at seven years old—and it’s still charting his course today.
Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Ari Sheer’s love of the water came naturally. He grew up racing dinghies and ocean yachts along the Australian coast, developing a fierce passion for the sea and a hunger for adventure. By his teens, he had already claimed back-to-back Australian National Sailing Titles and spent summers teaching sailing on Maine’s Belgrade Lakes.
That early momentum led him to pursue a degree in Nautical Science at the University of Tasmania. From there, he launched into nearly a decade of life aboard: captaining and crewing luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, New Orleans, and Alaska. One of Ari’s most special experiences boating the world was in the San Blas Islands In Panama, “It was like stepping into another world,” he recalls. “Crystal water, white sand, and locals paddling dugout canoes carved from single trees.”
Today, Ari lives on Mercer Island with his wife—who grew up on the island—and their three young children. When they’re not out boating on Lake Washington or Puget Sound, they’re exploring local trails or loading up for dinner on the water. “They’ve definitely got my sea legs,” he laughs.
Settling on dry land didn’t mean the end of Ari’s maritime career. Quite the opposite—it simply evolved. As a yacht broker with Denison Yacht, Ari now helps others begin their own journeys at sea. With nearly a decade in yacht sales and over 4,000 feet of boats sold, his expertise spans from 30’ cruisers and trawlers to 300’+ superyachts.
Iconic Seattle Space Needle
“Some
of the best parts of the world,” Ari Sheer says, “are right on our doorstep.”
“Whether it’s a starter boat or a dream yacht, I help clients find the right vessel—and then support them long after the sale,” he says.
From offering advice on upgrades and maintenance to finding the right charter opportunities, Ari’s support is always anchored in personal experience. He’s also a proud member of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron and remains active on the water locally.
For Ari, exploration isn’t just about crossing oceans. It’s about staying curious, sharing adventures, and helping others experience the magic of life afloat. His compass has always pointed the same way: Explore.
Boating Tips from Ari Sheer: Explore Mercer Island by Water
Whether you’re a first-time boater or a seasoned skipper, Ari Sheer shares his insider advice for making the most of Mercer Island’s unique location on the water.
1. Start Small, Start Now
You don’t need a massive yacht to get on the water. Join a local boat club like Freedom Boat Club or Carefree Boat Club— both offer affordable, flexible access to a variety of boats. “It’s a great way to learn and explore without the full commitment of ownership,” Ari says.
“You don’t always have to go far. Some of our favorite nights are just taking the boat to dinner.”
Dock-and-dine options are plentiful on Lake Washington and Lake Union—Daniel’s Broiler, Chandler’s Cove, or Ivar’s Salmon House are local gems with guest moorage.
4. Prep for All Weather
Northwest weather can change quickly. Ari recommends packing layers, a dry bag with essentials, and keeping an eye on wind forecasts—especially in the shoulder seasons. “Even in summer, evenings on the lake can get chilly.”
5. Teach Your Kids Early
2. Use What’s on Your Doorstep
Some of the best cruising grounds in the Pacific Northwest are just a day trip away. Favorites include:
• Blake Island for picnicking and hiking
• Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge for a scenic moorage and lunch ashore
• San Juan Islands for longer weekend getaways
3. Plan Dinner by Boat
“You don’t always have to go far,” Ari says. “Some of our favorite nights are just taking the boat to dinner.”
“We live on an island—strong swimmers are a must,” says Ari. He had his kids in swim lessons early and now brings them on family boating trips regularly. “It builds confidence and makes every outing more fun.”
6. Call a Broker Before You Buy
Thinking of buying a boat? “Talk to someone who’s lived it,” says Ari. A yacht broker can help match you with the right vessel, handle inspections, and even advise on moorage options around Mercer Island and the Sound.
CLASSIC CHICKEN KATSU
Chef Jason Farrish of The Crawlspace Gastropub Shares a Taste of Hawaii
Chef Jason Farrish, co-owner of The Crawlspace Gastropub on Mercer Island, brings a rich tapestry of cultural influences to his culinary creations. Born and raised in Hawaii, Jason’s upbringing was steeped in diverse culinary traditions. His family established the renowned Yummy Korean BBQ in
1986, a legacy that deeply influenced his palate and cooking style. After a 25-year career in finance, Jason returned to his roots, opening The Crawlspace Gastropub with his wife, Robin, in September 2024 .
The gastropub’s menu is a testament to Jason’s heritage and experiences, blending
ARTICLE BY JASON FARRISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CRAWLSPACE GASTROPUB
Chicken Katsu’s best friend
Hawaiian, Korean, Mexican, and American flavors into a cohesive and innovative dining experience. Among the standout dishes is his Chicken Katsu—a nod to both Japanese comfort food and a Hawaiian staple. Jason’s rendition features crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets served over rice, embodying the fusion of cultures that defines his culinary philosophy. This dish, like
many others on the menu, reflects Jason’s commitment to honoring traditional flavors while introducing creative twists that resonate with a diverse clientele .
At The Crawlspace Gastropub, Jason Farrish invites diners to experience a harmonious blend of cultures, flavors, and memories, all served with a side of Aloha!
CHICKEN KATSU
Ingredients:
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Panko bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper
• Cornstarch or wheat flour
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Bulldog brand tonkatsu sauce
Directions:
This is one of the most famous Japanese comfort foods and an absolute staple in Hawaii. Prep your chicken by tenderizing it, poke a bunch of small holes in it, using a fork, meat tenderizer, etc. The pieces should all be approximately the same width and quite a bit thinner than what you started out with. This will ensure the middles are done before our crust burns. After tenderizing season with salt and pepper and let sit uncovered in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. Your chicken should be sweating and ready for your three step breading process.
Crawlspace Chicken Katsu
Directions Continued:
Take the chicken and cover with flour. Really get in there, bare spots are bad, and then into a beaten egg mixture. Egg wont stick well to raw chicken but it loves to stick to flour and flour loves to stick to raw chicken. Anywhere that doesn’t have egg on it wont stick to the panko and so you got to make sure your entire chicken is well coated in your beaten eggs. Place the chicken in a bed of panko, pour extra panko on top and press it into the chicken. Make sure your entire piece is well coated. Now place in the refrigerator and wait for at least 2 hours. You are ready to fry when the dried panko starts looking like fresh bread crumbs again. You can skip this step if you are in a rush but it is essential if you want the extra crispy locked in crust that we are famous for.
Get your vegetable oil into a fairly deep pan (cast iron works great) and heat to 350 degrees. Now lay each piece of chicken into your pan making sure you do not overcrowd it. Your cooking time will vary from 5-9 minutes depending on how thick you left your chicken and how well you manage your oil temperature. The biggest problem will be scorching the outside before your internal temperature hits 165 degrees. If you need to do this in batches you can keep the fried katsu in an oven at around 175 degrees until you are ready to serve. Traditionally served with rice but we have found fries are also great. Make sure to provide a generous amount of the Bulldog Tonkatsu sauce (can be found in the Asian section of most supermarkets and in literally every single Asian market) and revel in one of the best comfort foods out there.
Mercer Island’s Crawlspace Gastropub
Chicken Katsu Pairing Rice
Founder Zach Roberts is a fourth-generation builder with nearly 30 years of experience crafting PNW custom homes. From laborer to founder, he’s done everything, bringing unmatched insight, care, and integrity to every build.
Let's build something
JULY 3RD
Mosaic MI Open Mic & Listening Room
Aljoya Mercer Island 2430 76th Ave SE | 7:00 PM
Start the holiday weekend with live, local music at Mosaic MI; an evening of music connection, and community! Whether you’re a performer or a listener, there’s a place for you here. Lottery pick, 10 performers, 10 minutes each, open to high school and older - all skill levels welcome! Come, listen, be inspired and be part of the Mosaic.
JULY 6TH
Mercer Island Farmers Market
Mercerdale Park | 10:00 AM
Nothing says summer like the Mercer Island Farmers Market - connecting growers, consumers, and the Island business community to create a valuable, sustainable community asset. Every Sunday next to Mercerdale Park 10:00am-2:00pm. Fresh produce, flowers, locally prepared foods, live music, and community booths. More information at mifarmersmarket.org
JULY 11TH
Mercer Island Art Walk - the
SECOND
Friday this month!
Mercer Island Town Center | 5:00 PM
Friday Art Walk returns for the Summer Season. Venues include MIVAL, John L Scott, Caldwell Banker Bain, Barrels, Clarke and Clarke, Sotheby’s, Suzanne Zahr Gallery and Aljoya. Due to the 4th of July holiday, the July Art Walk will be on Friday, July 11. Enjoy an evening of art and neighbors, then at a local restaurant for dinner.
JULY 12TH
Mercer Island Summer Celebration
Mercerdale Park & Luther Burbank Park | 10:00 AM
Celebrate summer island-style at the Mercer Island Summer Celebration, a family-friendly festival featuring live music, food trucks, a parade, fireworks, and art and community booths. Join neighbors and visitors for a day of activities in Mercerdale Park and an evening of live music and fireworks at Luther Burbank Park. More information @ mercerisland.gov/parksrec/ page/summer-celebration-2025
JULY 17TH
Mostly Music in the Park Concert Series
Mercerdale Park | 6:30 PM
Mostly Music in the Park Concert Series runs every Thursday 6:30-8:30pm, July 17-August 21
July’s music schedule: July 17 - Paperback Writer - Beatles Cover Band , July 24 - Mercer Island’s own MIMX!, July 31 - Gimmie Shelter - Rolling Stones Tribute Band
JULY 18TH
Peak Hoops Seattle Presents Summer Island HoopJam
Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club 10:00 AM
Summer Island HoopJAM will take place on July 18th. It is an outdoor 3 on 3 event located in the Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club parking lot. Each team will be placed in the division based on their gender and grade. Max team size is four players. Players can sign up to participate in our 3 point shoot out! Want
This magazine exists because Chris said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Published by Chris Loved by Mercer Island
Experiences by
TRANSLATING EXPERIENCES
Meet Artist Heather Adamek at Clarke & Clarke Gallery July Mercer Island Art Walk
HEATHER ADAMEK “TRANSLATING EXPERIENCES”
Heather is an Oregon based artist who we discovered while searching for a special painting for Sara McAllister for her Mercer Island restaurant “Allister”. Heather’s painting is the focal point of the main dining area and she is now also one of our regularly featured artists.
As a self taught abstract artist she employs the use of mixed media including cold wax, graphite, collage and various mark making tools to translate her experiences onto canvas. She is inspired by her lifetime experiences in the outdoors and coastal areas of the PNW and it continues to be a source of inspiration. Her work represents the beauty of her life stories by employing complex layering to build history while leaving space to pause, rest and reflect. She speaks through color and movement with the intention of showing what she sees and for an opportunity to know what you see and what feelings emerge. HEATHER
Clarke & Clarke Art + Artifacts Featured Artist for July in a Special 2nd Friday Mercer Island Art Walk July 11, 2025. 5-8PM,
Meet the Artist Heather Adamek at the opening of “Translating Experiences”
“TRANSLATING
ARTICLE BY GINNY CLARKE, GALLERY DIRECTOR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLARKE & CLARKE ART+ARTIFACTS
Translating
Heather Adamek
