Happy New Year!!
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Shannon Coy | shannon.coy@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Teresa Coy | teresa.coy@citylifestyle.com
The New Year always brings with it a sense of a fresh start, an opportunity to do better in the coming months than this time last year. Let me be the first to encourage you as you launch into the new year with new goals and ideally, a fresh perspective for what is possible but let me also encourage you to encourage someone close to you who is also starting on a new resolution. Take a moment to learn about what they hope for and, more importantly, why they are taking the risk in the first place, knowing that within 3-5 weeks, most “resolutions” have already been abandoned and replaced by old habits. You can do what you decide to do and so can they. It is often said that “it is in the deciding that we determine our future, and most people simply won’t continue to decide to do it, day after day, until it is done.”
In the pages that follow you’ll find stories aimed at helping you start the new year off strong, energized, and ready to reach the goals you’ve set. The feeling you have when you make the initial decision will certainly change when you face adversity or wake up sore from your first workout but go ahead and give it another day keeping in mind the result you are looking for.
Look further and you’ll see we have some new and very talented writers who are excited to bring you stories about some of the people in our community who contribute to it being a great place to live, work, and raise a family. You can expect to see us write more about the dynamic and vibrant community of non-profit organizations who call Snohomish home as well as incredibly talented and creative people who somehow can take a few ingredients in the kitchen and make “delicious” happen.
Finally, we want to encourage you to continue to share with us those people you know who are special because of the generous way they go about their life, always thinking of and finding a way to serve others. We would love to meet them, learn their story, and maybe share it within these pages for everyone to be inspired and encouraged. Happy New Year!
EDITOR
Kelly Bone | kelly.bone@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Tasia Heintzelman
tasia.heintzelman@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amber Schultheis, Christie Thompson, Courtney Evens
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Lawson Coy
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn
Celine represented us in the buying of our new home which was contingent on selling our current home. Celine’s skills, talent and professionalism are unmatched, and we highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone to represent them in the buying/selling process.
Megan & Kenji, Buyer & Seller
Celine was very professional and easy to work with. Along with being proactive, Celine did the extra stuff that makes life much easier when making a purchase. You will be happy with your choice when you choose Celine to find you that dream home.
Kevin, Buyer
Celine and her handyman husband, Nathan, take the extra little steps to help make the selling process super easy, even if you’re trying to do it on a fast and extremely short timeline. Celine
Bryan, Seller
Celine didn’t back away from the challenge, walked with us side by side every step, and exceeded our expectations. She stayed true to promises and never made us feel like we were not her top priority.
1: Erica Cenci welcomes supporters of Snohomish Education Foundation to the annual Auction 2: In addition to Presenting Sponsor, Snohomish Storage, Diamond, Gold, and Silver Sponsors for 2024 3: Erica Cenci, Nancy Keith, Bill Keith at Snohomish Education Foundation Auction 5: The Holidays arrive in Snohomish 6: Hay Girl Coffee serves attendees at Allied Motorsport Coffee Club
JORDAN EDGCOMB
JORDAN EDGCOMB
JORDAN EDGCOMB
8: Nicole and Shelton Schuler of Cascade Concrete Coatings 9: Gloria and Darrick Philp of Lifetime Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electric
10: Denera McKnight and Josh Carter of Rockwood Interior 11: Sage Boas and Gemini Boas of Full Circle Cleaning & Restoration Services 12: Bree and Dana Swanson of Allied Motorsport 13: Cari Wellnitz, Wendy Bremer, Crystal Dickerson, and Roshane Vader from Tanya Mock Real Estate 14: Ben and Jessica Chaves attend the Snohomish City Lifestyle anniversary party
Remy Where are You?
Written & Illustrated by Katherine Castano
Katherine Castano is an artist and author living in Snohomish, WA with her husband, daughter, and dog, Archie. “Remy, Where Are You?” marks her children’s book debut as both author and illustrator. Her illustrations can be found at Trader Joe’s, American Greeting’s cards, T.J. Maxx, Hobby Lobby, in children’s books, and more. “Remy, Where Are You?” is currently for sale as both hardcover and paperback on Amazon.
VanderBeken Remodel Welcomes Mike Ferraro as their newest Project Manager
With 20 years in construction, Mike Ferraro brings a wealth of talent to VanderBeken Remodel. Growing up in a military family and serving in the Navy, Mike developed a problem-solving mindset, believing every challenge has a solution. From laborer to business owner and skilled tradesman, he thrives as a project manager, ensuring clear communication and client satisfaction. Outside work, Mike channels his creativity as a drummer in an 80s cover band.
by VanderBeken Remodel
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Snohomish Golf Course adds PGA Pro to growing staff
Gavin is Class A PGA Golf Professional from University of Idaho with a degree in Golf Management and Marketing. He works well with students regardless of age or skill level. His philosophy is to work on improving the fundamentals of the swing. Gavin played golf in high school and grew up in Washington State. Aside from golf, Gavin enjoys photography, traveling, and exploring new trails on his mountain bike.
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Photography by Snohomish Golf Course
Photography
Elevate Your Home
When you choose VanderBeken Remodel, you'll enjoy:
▪ Confidence of a fixed-price contract—no last-minute surprises, just peace of mind.
▪ A friendly, local team that understands the needs of Snohomish County homeowners.
▪ An educator’s approach that simplifies complex projects into easy, manageable steps.
▪ A design and construction process handled with precision and thoughtful attention to detail.
Faithfully Maid is thrilled to introduce our new Mother's Helper service, designed to support the bustling lives of modern families. Recognizing a growing need within our community, this service offers an extra pair of hands to assist with daily chores including laundry, dishes, errands, and organizing, allowing mothers to focus more on what truly matters—quality time with their loved ones.
Photography by Faithfully Maid
is growing stronger and gaining momentum ahead of the much anticipated FIFA World Cup visit to the region in 2026. Seattle is among host locations for the World Cup that includes Atlanta, Foxborough, Arlington, Houston, Kansas City, Inglewood, Miami Gardens, East Rutherford, Philadelphia, Santa Clara, as well as location in Mexico and Canada.
Snohomish City Lifestyle Celebrates Year 1
Many partners and supporters of Snohomish City Lifestyle joined together to celebrate the 1 year anniversary. Everyone gathered at The Petal and The Stem to enjoy great food provided by Cibo Seattle and fine wine from nationally recognized, Snohomish vintner, Gorman Winery. Funds were raised in support of Lil’ Dudes Insect Academy, a local nonprofit whose work is to engage young learners and inspire them to love science through learning about insects.
SATISFYING
SALADS
ARTICLE BY AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAWSON COY
Featuring the Best Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Here’s a fresh take on creating satisfying salads that are anything but boring. You can apply this loose template anytime you open the fridge and think, “I should really eat a salad,” without missing out on all the good stuff. Bonus: Try one of the best honey mustard vinaigrette recipes around!
SATISFYING SALAD:
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 cups Crunchy greens (Romain, Green Leaf, Red Leaf)
• 2 cups fresh chopped veggies (cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and/or Red Onions)
• 1 cup roasted veggies, cooled (Asparagus, Mushrooms, Bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts)
• 1-2 cups whole grains or rice (Quinoa, Wild Rice, Forbidden Rice, Farro, or similar hearty grain)
• 1/2 cup toasted seeds or nuts (Pepitas, Slivered Almonds, or Chopped Walnuts)
• ½ cup of something pickled! (Marinated red onions, briny olives, pepperoncini)
• 8-12 ounces (or 3 ounces per person) cooked and cooled protein of your choice (grilled chicken or steak work well here)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Whisk all ingredients rigorously or use an immersion blender to emulsify.
2. Start with 3-4 Tablespoons of dressing at the bottom of your salad bowl. This helps to dress the salad fully, bottom to top. Layer your salad starting with the crunchy greens and adding all of your ingredients on top.
3. Drizzle a bit more dressing over top and toss just before serving. Enjoy!
HONEY MUSTARD DRESSING:
INGREDIENTS: (MAKES 1 CUP)
• 1/4 cup Dijon or whole grain mustard
• 2 tablespoons (65g) honey OR maple syrup or more to taste
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) apple cider vinegar or more to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, optional
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
ARTICLE BY AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS
Simple Kitchen REFRESH
As we make our way into a shiny, new year we often look for fresh ways to declutter and enliven our homes. The experts tell us the best organization methods fit naturally into our everyday habits and routines, making the upkeep of our tidy ways more sustainable. Here’s a quick guide to help you combat the peskiest kitchen clutter all year long.
The classic three-pile method is a well-known tool for a reason (thank you, Marie Kondou). Start by making a pile for things to keep, donate, and trash. Then, be ruthless in your tidying, pulling all rogue items into one of the three piles. You’ll find that with all the donations and disposable items you eliminate, you’ll have an easier time finding a place for the things in your “keep” pile.
Your Guide to New Year's Kitchen Organization
Tackling one area of your kitchen at a time will help you thoughtfully work through any areas in need of organization, bit-by-bit. Let’s dig in!
1. Food PANTRY
First things first: finding storage containers that suit your space will save the shelf life of dry goods and help you keep track of what you have. These don’t need to be the latest and greatest; Mason jars come in a variety of sizes from tiny to surprisingly large, and can be swapped out for smaller jars when a pantry staple is running low. Find something that works well for you, and run with that!
2. Refrigerator & FREEZER
This is a great time to toss the random condiments that have accumulated in the back, front, and side-doors of your fridge. Tidying perk: this makes room for all of those tasty, local hot sauces you’ve been eyeing at the farmer’s market. It’s a win!
Remove everything from your freezer and re-organize by food type and purchase date. This will help you decide what to use now versus later and give you a better view of what you have available when it’s time for weekly meal planning.
3. Mugs & WATER BOTTLES
How many water bottles and mugs does one household need? This must be a commonly debated topic in households across the country. There are favorite mugs, sentimental mugs, gifted mugs we feel we “should” keep, and so on. Here’s something to try: Take all of the mugs out of the cabinet and set them on the countertop. Re-stock your mugs starting with your favorites, then second favorites, and when you’ve made your way through two tiers of mugs you love, those left on the counter might be ready for a new home.
Water bottles are tricky as well. We accumulate them at events and while traveling, and before we know it there are a dozen hydration vessels stacked in the cupboard, waiting to be taken to the gym. Try the mug method here, or maybe set a limit for two water bottles per member of the household to keep it simple and objective.
4. Food Storage CONTAINERS
Apply the above tactics with this additional tip: if it doesn’t have a matching lid, it will undoubtedly cause you grief. Also, if you can commit to one type of food storage brand and style and ditch the rest, you might find life gets a bit easier in a subtle but impactful way each time you reach for something to store the leftover pot roast in.
Our most beloved spaces are often the most “lived in” and the kitchen is said to be the heart of the home. It is a space many of us spend a lot of time in and is the most lingered area for our guests. Taking the time to refresh the nooks of your kitchen will ease the stress of everyday cooking and dining, making room for a bit more joy.
Macrame For The Soul
ELLE LEVINS’ JOURNEY WITH MENTAL HEALTH AND ACCEPTANCE
In the weave of existence, challenges inevitably arise— moments that knot our journey with difficulty. For Elle Levins, founder of Beyond the Knots, these knots became gateways to self-discovery and a deeper appreciation for life’s imperfections.
Inspired by her own struggles with mental health, Elle turned to macrame as a means of expression and healing. Beyond the Knots, born from an incredible mental health journey, celebrates acceptance and creativity in the face of adversity.
Elle’s artwork carries a message of resilience and understanding, challenging societal stigmas surrounding mental health.
QUESTION: CAN YOU DESCRIBE A MOMENT WHEN YOU REALIZED YOU NEEDED TO ADDRESS SOME ISSUES?
Answer: Yeah, I was having overwhelming thoughts that were deeply distressing. I have a strong awareness within myself, but it scared me when I realized something was seriously wrong. I talked to my husband about it, and he said we need to fix it because I can’t be there for my family if I’m not okay myself.
QUESTION: THAT SOUNDS LIKE A TOUGH REALIZATION. CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHY IT WAS SO CHALLENGING FOR YOU?
Answer: Well, I’ve always had this sensitivity to rejection, this fear that people would reject me for reasons beyond my control. And on top of that, there were financial concerns, my insurance wasn’t covering what I needed, and then there was the added stress of COVID. Everyone was at home, constantly around me, and it felt like all the coping mechanisms I had subconsciously developed just weren’t working anymore. Emotions were heightened, we were all stuck in the same place, and it was overwhelming. I felt like I was going to implode and explode all at once.
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY EVENS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEYOND THE KNOTS
QUESTION: CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE MAKING IT INTO TREATMENT?
Answer: The first week of treatment was really tough for me. I had this overwhelming sense of shame, constantly asking myself why I was there instead of taking care of my family at home. Even though I knew I needed help, it felt connected to deeper issues I was facing.
QUESTION: WHAT WAS IT LIKE GOING BACK HOME AFTER TREATMENT?
Answer: Well, when you return home from treatment, there’s this expectation that everything will be better. But it’s not usually the case. It’s tough because during treatment, you’re dealing with all your issues. But four weeks isn’t enough time to solve everything. So, when you return home, it feels like all these problems have exploded, and you can’t just put them back in a box. You have to adjust to this new situation. Plus, being away from the treatment environment, where everyone understands and uses similar tools, makes it even harder. Suddenly, you’re back where you were struggling, with tools that no one else understands. That is where macrame came into play. It became a healthy way for me to cope. Being artistic and having something to focus on helped me sort through my thoughts.
QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEAVE OUR READERS WITH?
Answer: That saying, “it’s okay to not be okay” is true. You’re not alone in your struggles, no matter where you are in life. It’s important to accept your story and be open about it because that’s what shapes you. Denying your struggles won’t help you heal. Everyone goes through tough times, and someone out there can understand you. I want to be relatable, not preachy. I’m still working through my own mental health issues, so I’m not completely healed. I’m right there with you in this journey. Despite the challenges, there’s beauty in pushing forward and doing the work. Keep at it. I’m learning to accept the knots because every knot is part of a beautiful whole. There is a lot of light in us if we can only look Beyond the Knots.
“I’m still working through my own mental health issues, so I’m not completely healed. I’m right there with you in this journey.”
That saying, “it’s okay to not be okay” is true. You’re not alone in your struggles, no matter where you are in life. It’s important to accept your story and be open about it because that’s what shapes you.
Elle’s vision for Beyond the Knots is clear—to illuminate the path to self-acceptance, one knot at a time. Through her art and engagement with others, she fosters a community of support and compassion, inviting us all to embrace life’s twists and turns with grace.
You can find Elle Levins with Beyond the Knots on Instagram @_beyondtheknots_ and in retail at Lamb & Co, Salish Lodge, and Black Beryl Vintage Company.
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIE
ASK THE HEALTH EXPERT
As a health and wellness coach for the past 6 ½ years and partnered with the world’s leading B-Corp in health & wellness helping people find their best holistic health for over 4 decades, I often get asked about best practices for improving overall health. Here are the answers to the top questions I receive each week:
1. WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPACTFUL HABITS IN IMPROVING MY HEALTH?
Key habits are consistency and balance. You should prioritize regular physical activity, nutrient and protein-dense meals and snacks, focusing on clean ingredients and gut health. It’s also crucial to get quality sleep, and manage stress through mindfulness or meditation. These foundational habits will significantly enhance your health.
2. WHAT ROLE DOES GUT HEALTH PLAY IN MY OVERALL WELLNESS?
Gut health is vital for digestion, immunity, detoxification and even mental well-being. A balanced microbiome supports nutrient absorption, reduces inflammation, and improves mood. To nurture
your gut, include fiber-rich and fermented foods, and prebiotic-rich vegetables. It’s helpful to add high quality pre and probiotics to your diet to help diversify the beneficial strains in your microbiome.
3. WHAT FORMS OF SUGAR SHOULD I AVOID, AND ARE THERE ANY BENEFICIAL FORMS?
Avoid refined, or “white”, sugars, such as those found in drinks, processed snacks, and baked goods as they’ll spike blood sugar and contribute to chronic inflammation and other health concerns. However, natural sweeteners like raw honey, agave, coconut sugar, stevia or organic cane sugar in moderation can offer antioxidants and trace minerals. Beware of artificial sweeteners! To avoid using the word “sugar” many companies
are using them but they can have even more harmful effects than sugar itself. Read your labels my friends!
4. ARE SUPPLEMENTS NECESSARY, AND IF SO, WHICH ONES SHOULD I TAKE?
Supplements can be beneficial, especially since modern farming practices often leave our food lacking in essential nutrients, include GMO’s and harmful pesticides being used at an alarming rate. Always choose high-quality, clean supplements from reputable brands with a trusted history and consult with a professional to tailor your needs. By focusing on holistic habits, nutrient and protein-dense foods, and mindful supplementation, you can sustainably support your best health in 2025.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 4TH
Community Breakfast - Snohomish Senior Center
Snohomish Senior Center - 506 4th Street, Snohomish | 8:30 AM
Kick off the month with family and friends and leave the cooking and clean-up to us. Join the Snohomish Senior Center for biscuits & gravy, pancakes or French toast, sausage links, scrambled eggs, juice, tea or coffee.
*$7 Suggested Donation
JANUARY 9TH
Trivia Night
Looking Glass Coffee 801 First Street Snohomish | 6:00 PM
Trivia Night is at Looking Glass Coffee! Every Thursday, 6:00-8:00PM, join host Lonney for your chance to win a prize! Seating is first come, first serve so make sure you arrive early.
All-ages. Free.
JANUARY 15TH
Engage Snohomish
Snohomish, WA 98290 | 4:30 PM
Grab your business cards and hone your elevator speech for Engage Snohomish, an after-hours networking event intended to create meaningful business connections. It's a mix-and-mingle event and all may attend. Unlike other evening networking events, admission is free of charge, and there are no boring speakers or sales pitches.
https://www.facebook.com/EngageSnohomish/ to find the next local Engage Event!!
JANUARY 16TH
Chinese Soup Dumpling Class
Culinary Immigration | 6:30 PM
Learn to make Xiao Long Bao A.K.A soup dumplings with Victoria at Culinary Immigration. For Registration and a list of all her January Classes, visit https://culinaryimmigration.com/events/category/cooking-classes/ and sign up today.
JANUARY 18TH
Snohomish Sky (Women) host Bellingham
Snohomish Sports Dome - 511 Maple Ave, Snohomish | 7:00 PM
Snohomish Sky Women will host Bellingham at Snohomish Sports Dome while the Men travel to Bellingham for an away game.
JANUARY 23RD
Snoho Art Walk
Snohomish Area | 5:00 PM
Once a month, participating Snohomish venues stay open late to welcome art lovers in, showcasing a variety of artists. Come on out for a self guided and free walking tour that has something new every month, following the interactive map on the event site. Visit https://www.snohoart.com/snoho-art-walk for more information.
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