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Guest column: It’s time to talk turkey about turkeys

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REPORTER MERCER ISLAND

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VOLUME 65, NUMBER 47

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2021

Expert reveals findings on Island coyote activity Matt Stevens speaks to more than 70 residents at virtual meeting. By Andy Nystrom anystrom@soundpublishing.com

With increased coyote sightings on Mercer Island over the past few months, along with reports rolling in from concerned residents, the city contacted expert Matt Stevens

to assess coyote activity and behavior on the Island. In a virtual presentation open to the public on Nov. 15, Stevens — assistant district supervisor and urban coyote coordinator for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services Western District — revealed his findings and insight after he and a coworker spoke with residents and perused entries on social media regarding the urban coyote

phenomenon. More than 70 people attended the meeting. “People are seeing them and hearing them at night and occasionally seeing one cross the road. A cat maybe went missing or people even saw them maybe run across the road with their cat,” said Stevens, adding that a multitude of sightings took place in Luther Burbank Park and Pioneer Park. Stevens’ top recommendation is for people to bring their pets

inside, especially because they know coyotes are present. On the Island, he also found that coyotes are rarely seen, but are heard at night. Digging into his assessment, he believes there’s at least two — possibly four — coyotes roaming the Island. He added that a coyote — the second fastest land mammal in North America at 40 mph — can cover one end of the Island three times in one evening.

“My formal recommendation to the city was to, until something drastically changes, there’s no threat here to human health and safety,” he said. “Nobody has experienced anything that would lead me to believe that these coyotes are going to attack somebody.” Through his research, Stevens has found that coyote sightings are unique to the Island and there See COYOTE, Page 13

Getting to know volunteers and staff at the Thrift Shop The shop is a major funding source for Youth and Family Services. By Andy Nystrom anystrom@ soundpublishing.com

ola Deane knows a ton about Mercer Island history. In fact, she is living history. She resided on the Island from 1957-85, and during that time she helped launch Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (YFS) and was the original owner of Island Books. Nowadays, you can find Deane surrounded by books at the Mercer Island Thrift Shop, where she volunteers three days a week. The shop is one of the city’s “volunteer havens,” she said while taking a break from organizing books on a recent morning. Interim administrator Sharon Perez added that more than 200 volunteers help out at the shop, from high-school and middleschool students to adults, and are crucial parts of its impact on the community. Deane, who returned to live on the Island two years ago at Covenant Living at the Shores, said that volunteering is a life-long passion of hers and she’s impressed that the shop is a major funding source for YFS through its in-store and online sales. When Mercer Island was developing as a city during her 28-year stay, Deane said, “One of the first things that was very recognized during the ’60s was that we needed help social

service-wise with youth and families and so that’s when we started Mercer Island Youth (and Family) Services in 1970.” Peg Morgan was the YFS director then, recalled Deane, who thought it would be a good idea to support YFS again when she came back to town. Over the years, Deane worked in nursing, owned an estate book business and volunteered with various nonprofits on the state, national and local level. On the book front, two of her favorite recent pageturners are “State of Terror,” a political thriller by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny, and “The Afghanistan Papers: A Secret History of the War” by Craig Whitlock. The latter book strikes a chord because she worked with Afghan refugees in northern Pakistan in 1989-90. It was a profound part of her interesting life, she said.

Online leader Islander Jennifer Glick, who specializes in the shop’s online sales, began volunteering at the shop last March. She wanted to give back to the community that helped her family through a difficult time. “When we moved here, one of my kids had a problem. Youth and Family Services stepped in and they got him through his issues and really got him through that school year,”

ANDY NYSTROM / STAFF PHOTO

From left to right, Megan Schoephoerster, Lola Deane and Jennifer Glick in front of the Mercer Island Thrift Shop Youth and Family Services Giving Tree.

she said. Glick is enjoying her two-and-a-half days a week working with the shop staff and volunteers. It’s also family bonding time when her 13-year-old son and electronics whiz lends

a hand for a few hours a week. Her job consists of researching, cleaning, pricing and photographing donated items for the shop’s online store. Recently, they sold a high-end mountain

bike for $1,200 and rare hand-blown German Christmas ornaments for $100 each. Other high-quality donations have included jewelry and a 100-year-old stirrup. Glick, a former

biochemist for the University of Washington, volunteered for UW’s patient advocacy program about two-and-a-half years after her son was born with See SHOP, Page 2

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Council discusses diversity, equity and inclusion By Andy Nystrom anystrom@soundpublishing.com

It’s important for the community to engage in conversations about diversity, equity and inclusion, said Mercer Island City Councilmember David Rosenbaum at the council’s Nov. 16 virtual meeting. “I spoke with a family last week that their elementary school daughter got a note handed to them that was antisemitic, and I know what that feels like,” he added. Touching on its final item of regular business at the meeting, the council passed a motion to direct city staff to prepare a $60,000 appropriation request to include in the mid-biennial budget amendment on Dec. 7 in support of a 2022 community

event series on diversity, equity and inclusion in partnership with ONE MI and Do the Work MI. The series’ initial broad goals as shared by City Manager Jessi Bon, and noted in the agenda bill information, are expanding residents’ understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion; providing support for underrepresented families through these conversations; and offering a variety of events for different age groups and demographics. According to the bill documents, ONE MI and Do the Work MI will volunteer their time to facilitate the series and the city will provide financial and contract administration. Mayor Benson Wong, who collaborated with Bon on the proposal, said he’s heard from

community members that they wish to be involved in these sessions and discuss these tough issues. “One of the things that struck me was that, certainly during the summer of 2020, we heard from the entire council, we heard from a lot of young people who wanted to engage and have these discussions,” Wong said. In the proposal background section of the bill documents, it notes that Islanders spoke out in public forums against racism and discrimination in the wake of the death of George Floyd in the spring of 2020. Council has participated in cultural competency training and supported a range of community events such as Juneteenth and Sukkot, and issued public proclamations on Renewed Commitment to

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Black History Month; and Women’s History Month. Deputy Mayor Wendy Weiker said she is “fully supportive of moving forward in continuing to have these conversations around race and equity and diversity and inclusion.” In a document in the proposal package for the Nov. 16 meeting, ONE MI is described as “a community organization See DIVERSITY, Page 13

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Shop From Page 1

severe medical issues. “We talked about this a lot after my son was born. We were so grateful that he was still alive. We can’t afford to buy a wing of the hospital, so what can we do? Giving my time was it,” she said.

Welcome aboard The newest person on the staff side of the operation is Megan Schoephoerster, who filled the critical new role of community engagement and volunteer coordinator at the beginning of October. “I started volunteering again after COVID and realized that I really needed to get back into a

Mercer Island Reporter

volunteer-based organization,” she said, adding that the thrift shop was a perfect fit. Schoephoerster moved to Washington from Minnesota four years ago and now resides in Federal Way. Her long volunteering history began in middle school, where students were required to lend a hand in the community. In college, volunteering took over her life during her time with Bridging, an organization that provides furniture for people who are exiting homelessness or have lost their home. “(They) just need that steady building block for them. That was the place that really drew me in even more,” she said. At the thrift shop, she wants to help build a

community that’s warm and welcoming and is a fun place to spend one’s time. Knowing that she’s giving back to a bigger organization like YFS is a plus, along with working with volunteers and helping them find their passion, she said. The Mercer Island Thrift Shop has expanded its shopping hours by two hours each day and is now open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Thursday at 7710 SE 34th St. Curbside donation drop-offs are now accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center, 8236 SE 24th St. Also, a new donation bin has been added at Islander Middle School, 7447 84th Ave. SE.

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City council honors Mercer Island Preschool Association By Andy Nystrom anystrom@ soundpublishing.com

Mercer Island City Councilmember Craig Reynolds praised the volunteerism that the Mercer Island Preschool Association (MIPA) has put forth since its inception in 1937. Over the last year, the nonprofit organization has made an immense impact in helping steer aspects of the Mercerdale Park playground renovation project. MIPA initially stepped up with a $20,000 donation, then led a community fundraising effort that amassed an additional $34,200 toward the “Train Park” project. That act of generosity and community support is one of the many reasons why Mayor Benson Wong spotlighted the all-volunteer parent-teacher association at the council’s Nov. 16 meeting and proclaimed that day as Mercer Island Preschool Association Day in the City of Mercer Island. Along with focusing its efforts on the Mercerdale playground, which will be ADA-accessible and welcoming to people of all ages, MIPA has partnered with Mercer

Russell James Cheetham Russell James Cheetham passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his home in Mercer Island, Washington, U.S.A. on September 26, 2021 following a short but valiant battle with cancer. Russ was born October 12, 1939 in Bankstown, N.S.W., Australia, the only child of Frederick and Ina Cheetham. After graduating from Yanco Agricultural High School, Russ became the first person in his family to attend university. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Sydney. In 1961, Russ was granted an Agricultural Cadetship by the Australian government which resulted in a job in Papua New Guinea as an Agricultural Officer. In 1962, Russ married his childhood love, Fay Dyason, and took his bride back to Papua New Guinea. In 1966, Russ was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and moved with Fay to Madison, Wisconsin, U.S.A. where he earned his Master of Arts in Economics and PhD in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Russ was recruited by the World Bank in Washington, D.C. in 1969. He spent the next 27 years working for the World Bank, ultimately retiring as a Vice President. During his remarkable career, he provided significant leadership, policy advice and analysis in a variety of roles, including as a Project Advisor to the Philippines government, Director of the World Bank Resident Office in Indonesia, Director of the South Asia Country Programs, Director of the Country Department-Asia Region, Director of the Soviet Union Country Program, establishing the first operational mission to Moscow in early 1991, Director of Europe, Middle East and North Africa Region, Director of Europe and Central Asia Region, and in 1994, World Bank Vice President for the East Asia and Pacific Region, where he managed relations with 24 member governments and lending operations of $25 billion.

During his tenure with the World Bank, Russ and Fay lived in the Philippines, Indonesia and the Soviet Union. In 1985, President Suharto of Indonesia conferred upon Russell the Order of the Bintang Jasa Pratama Star of Service for his contributions to the Republic of Indonesia. Russ was renowned for his keen powers of analysis, attention to detail, and fostering diversity of thought. As he worked to improve the quality of life around the world, he authored numerous professional publications and also mentored many young professionals. Following retirement from the World Bank in 1996, Russ and Fay moved to Seattle, Washington where they established a private consulting practice. For the next 23 years, Russ continued his work with Governments of developing countries, including Timor-Leste. As Senior Consultant to the African Development Bank in Tunisia, he guided numerous teams in the design and preparation of regional, country and sectoral strategies for Burundi, Zimbabwe and South Sudan and advised on the Bank Group’s Decentralization strategy across the African Continent. He was also a frequent guest lecturer for universities and many organizations. Russ and Fay had a passion for travel, especially on cruises. Their work and personal explorations took them to all seven continents and more than 125 countries. He also was an avid reader and loved gardening, stamp collecting, genealogy and spending time with his family. Russ and Fay were married for almost 60 years. He is survived by his wife, Fay, their two daughters Debbie McBee (and John) and Kim (and Scott), their ﬁve grandchildren Brian (and Yvette), Kelli, Patrick (and Jessica), Kylie, Ryan, and great-granddaughter Sydney. A Celebration of Life was held on October 16th, and a Remembrance Event is planned on November 30th on Zoom by his World Bank colleagues. Russ will be greatly missed by his family, friends and colleagues around the world.

Artemis “Artie” Demopulos Artemis “Artie” Demopulos was born Artemis Cornelia Bougas on February 2, 1927 in Bismarck, North Dakota. She was one of four children born to Andrew and Maria Bougas, both Greek immigrants. As a child, her family moved to Glendive, Montana, relocating to find work during the Great Depression. Her life, characterized by compassion for and service to others, was shaped during these early years. The Bougas family frequently opened their home and shared their table with those less fortunate, often the homeless and hungry. After high school, she attended the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1948 with a Bachelor of Science degree followed by an additional post-graduate year to train as a medical technologist. She then moved to Boston, taking her first job in cancer research at Harvard’s Peter Bent Brigham (now Brigham and Women’s) Hospital. It was here that she met her future husband and loving partner Alexander Homer Demopulos. He was completing his training at The Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Seminary and was serving as a chaplain in the hospital where she worked. They were married in Boston, August 24, 1952. After his ordination as a priest, they moved to Los Angeles in 1953, his first assignment at Saint Sophia Cathedral. While in Los Angeles, they had their three children Peter, Gregory, and Christina. Education and love of learning were core values, which she instilled in her children and supported in her husband as he completed his doctorates in theology and psychology during sabbatical years at Claremont College. In addition to her role as heart and anchor of her family, Artie also immersed herself in parish and community life. In the summer of 1967, the family moved to Seattle with Father Homer’s reassignment to Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, making their home on Mercer Island. While raising their family, as “presbytera” and in partnership with her husband, she and Father Homer initiated youth and summer camping programs that remain active today. She sang in the church choir, volunteered in the church office, was active in philanthropic organizations such as Philop-

tochos, and coauthored and published, with fellow members of the St. Demetrios cookbook committee, Greek Cooking in an American Kitchen. Artie was also engaged in the larger Seattle community with volunteer and philanthropic work, including fundraising for the Lakeside School and chairing the Stanford Mother’s Club. She pursued her athletic passion as an avid tennis player and skier. After the sudden and untimely death of her beloved husband in May 1993, she remained active in parish life while devoting much of her time and energy to her grandchildren who she saw almost daily. Artie passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family, loving friends, her priest, and her caregivers. She will always be remembered by those who knew and loved her as brilliant, engaging, caring, and selﬂess, devoted to her family and her faith. She possessed a remarkable ability to see and connect with the best in others, particularly those who were struggling or less fortunate. She is survived by her three children Peter, Gregory, and Christina and their spouses Diane, Kate, and Gerry along with her seven grandchildren Anna, Alex, Andrew, Xander, Gregory, Alexander, and Arianna. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law Sylvia Demopulos Munroe and by her many nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to her late husband, she is also preceded in death by her siblings Dr. James Bougas, Apollo Bougas, and Eleanor Bougas Theodore and their spouses. May her memory be eternal. In lieu of ﬂowers, remembrances may be made to the Very Reverend Dr. A. Homer and Presbytera Artemis Demopulos scholarship fund at the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Seminary, 50 Goddard Ave., Brookline, MA 02445, or to the general fund of the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2100 Boyer Ave. East., Seattle, WA 98112. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday November 22, 2021 at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church with interment to follow at Evergreen Washelli, 11111 Aurora Ave., North, Seattle, WA 98133.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN HAMER

Workers laid the base for the Mercerdale Park playground last month.

Island Youth and Family Services (YFS) by donating $8,000 to $15,000 annually to fully fund the YFS emergency assistance preschool scholarship program, and has raised nearly $100,000 over the years for park improvements and other capital improvement projects, according to Wong. “Volunteerism takes many forms. Sometimes it’s with money, sometimes it’s with labor and sometimes it’s just with an idea. In particular, we saw that in the Mercerdale Park playground: The value of an idea that might not have happened had the inspiration not come from the folks at MIPA. I think there are a lot of people in this community who appreciate it,” Reynolds said. MIPA’s Laura Schaps, who was present at the virtual meeting, thanked the council for its partnership and for building a relationship with the organization. “It’s been wonderful having such a supportive council to work with,” she added. Councilmember David First Church of Christ, Scientist, Mercer Island Church & Sunday School

Rosenbaum, who has two small children, said he and community members are excited to have an inclusive play space on the Island thanks to MIPA’s efforts. Like Rosenbaum, Mercer Island City Councilmember Salim Nice is pleased that MIPA brought issues of inclusivity to the forefront that will deeply impact children and others who will frequent the park. “I’m so appreciative of being able to work with MIPA and look forward to whatever it is that you bring for the next thing that we touch because it always adds tremendous value,” Nice said. At the meeting, City Manager Jessi Bon said the city is presently doing site work on the playground, but there has been a supply chain delay in the arrival of the equipment due to the powder coating on the structure. In late summer, delivery of the equipment was delayed because of a fire at the manufacturer’s factory. Bon said the opening will likely be delayed until early in the new year. “We’re going to be super excited to cut that ribbon, finally,” she added.

Redeemer Lutheran Church

Sun 10: AM

6001 Island Crest Way 232-1711

Testimony Meeting

Sunday Worship & Kids' Church: 10:00am Fellowship & Bible Study: 11:00am

Wed 7:30 PM

www.RedeemerLutheranMI.org

Reading Room Hours M - F 10:30 - 3:00 Sat 10:00 - 1:00

St. Monica Catholic Church

2864 77th Ave SE 206-232-0175

4301 - 88th Ave S.E., M.I.

www.fccsmi.com

232-2900 Saturday Vigil: 5:00pm Sunday: 9:00am & 11:00am www.stmonicami.org

SELF STORAGE, BOAT & RV PARKING AND TRUCK RENTALS Office Hours: 9am-6pm Gate Hours: 5am-11pm www.storagecourt.com 8501 SE 68th St., Mercer Island, WA Phone: 206-905-1800 Email: mercerisland@storagecourt.com

Jim Sepic Jim Sepic, 79, peacefully passed away on November 6th, 2021, from complications related to pulmonary fibrosis. He was surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on December 8th, 1941, in Tacoma, Washington, to Stan and Grace Sepic. Jim’s wonderful and earnest life was defined by his two greatest passions: family and skiing. Countless weekends were spent between ski cabins in White Pass, Washington and Vail, Colorado, teaching his three children to become prolific downhill skiers. Off the slopes, he tirelessly worked for the family business, eventually creating his own real estate development firm. Jim also cared deeply about education and his alma mater, the University of Denver, creating an endowment supporting its business students. Jim is survived by his beloved and endearing wife of 45 years, Carmen; daughter Cara Perla (Mike); daughter Christina Roethe (Patrick); son Scott Sepic (Page); and loved by his grandchildren Chloe and Mario Perla; Caroline, Jackson and Kate Roethe; and Vincent and Evan Sepic. He is also survived by his brother Dave Sepic (Judy). Memorial services will be held at St. Monica’s Church, 4311 88th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040, on Friday, December 10th, at 10:30 AM, followed by lunch at Broadmoor Golf Club, 2340 Broadmoor Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112. Condolences can be sent to the “Sepic Family Scholarship Fund” at the University of Denver, addressed to: Aimee Mandolini, University of Denver, 2101 S University Blvd, 6th Floor, Denver, CO 80210.

Mercer Island Reporter

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

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MERCER ISLAND REPORTER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2021

Thanksgiving is time to talk turkey about turkeys S o how do you feel about turkeys? When I was 12 years old, turkey was not my favorite food. Since it was typically only served on Thanksgiving Day, I could deal with it. I found that I could mask the taste with mashed potatoes and gravy. Lots of gravy! When I got into high school and was part of a bowling league, I grew to love turkeys. If you’re a bowler, you know that a “turkey” isn’t something to eat. Rather it’s what you get when you roll three consecutive strikes. I couldn’t get enough of them. When our family moved to the Midwest, we lived at a distance from the city. I found myself dodging the gobblers on my drive to

the office. I discovered that wild turkeys can be a real nuisance. The same is true of those other turkeys in our lives. You know the ones I mean. I call them “joy thieves.” They steal your sense of wellbeing and rob you of your peace of mind. Just being around them stresses you out. They question your motives. They’re jealous of your successes. They delight in your setbacks. Gobbling gossip, they can unfairly stain your reputation. These turkeys definitely make life difficult. The turkeys in our lives are the source of much anxiety and perhaps even deep-seated resentment. In response, we find ourselves basting these birds with negative thoughts while our

GREG ASIMAKOUPOULOS anger simmers. Ironically, the people to whom we don’t want to give the time of day occupy our constant attention. But what can we do? Many years ago, I heard one of Billy Graham’s daughters make a statement that challenged my tendency to let the difficult people in my life dominate my emotions. Ruth Graham, who had suffered much hurt in her

life as an adult, discovered that refusing to forgive those who complicate our lives is like drinking poison and hoping the other person dies. It’s an axiom that remains true. In fact, I think it is a failproof recipe that provides us a way to deal with the turkeys in our lives before the impact of their hurtful actions results in cooking our goose. It’s a recipe that calls for forgiving the offender instead of being held hostage by feelings of hurt and hatred. Or as one first century rabbi suggested: “Let us forgive one another as God has forgiven us.” It’s just possible that a forgiving heart may be that secret sauce you need to make your Thanksgiving less bitter. Reading the

recipe closely will clarify that forgiveness does not mean forgetting what those turkeys have done to us. Rather, it is choosing not to let them control our emotions. After all, this is the season for setting turkeys free. Ever since George H.W. Bush’s administration, the President of the United States has pardoned a turkey at Thanksgiving. Actually, Mr. Bush wasn’t the first to commute a death sentence to such a beast destined for the dinner table. History records that former Abraham Lincoln freed a turkey someone had given to the White House that one of his sons had adopted as a pet. And President John F. Kennedy pardoned a White House turkey near the end

of his life. In fact, that act of mercy was one of the last public acts JFK did just three days before he died. In the midst of the tragedy that defined his fateful trip to Dallas, that little known fact has been lost on most historians. But it isn’t simply the purview of presidents to pardon turkeys. Each of us has the power to grant the irregular people in our lives room to roam. Each of us has the ability to forgive. And by offering forgiveness (undeserved as it might be), we give ourselves a gift. We free ourselves from the prison of resentment and stress. Guest columnist Greg Asimakoupoulos is chaplain at Covenant Living at the Shores in Mercer Island.

Honoring heroes goes beyond lowering flags to half-staff

owering our flags to half-staff seems to be an all too familiar sight these days. It is a solemn act that recognizes our fallen heroes, whether they be men and women in our armed forces, or a Vancouver police officer killed in the line of duty. It is a vivid reminder of the ultimate

sacrifice made by those who serve us. Unfortunately, after those flags return to the top of the pole and time passes, we tend to forget that the suffering for the friends and families continues. The loneliness, financial stress and emotional strain lives on. That is when those

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DON C. BRUNELL husbands, wives, sons, daughters and parents need our comfort and help the most. America’s war on terror didn’t end with our abrupt withdrawal from Afghanistan last summer. The war won’t be won like World War II with a massive invasion of Normandy and a march across Europe to Berlin. Rather, there are continued daily battles where the enemy mixes with civilians and ambushes people, explodes roadside bombs, and drives vehicles packed with explosives into mosques, busy markets and military encampments. Since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, our country has been

immersed in a war against terrorists. We cleansed Afghanistan from Al-Qaida and then watched the brutal Taliban take over the country with minimal resistance. We unwisely gave them our strategically vital high tech Bagram Air Force Base and billions in advanced military equipment for which American taxpayers paid. We sent the 82nd Airborne and Marines to tight quarters at the Kabul airport and airlifted thousands to safer places. In the process, 13 brave Americans in uniform were killed by a suicide bomber. Then, we paused to watch the returning flag-draped coffins come home to Dover Air Force Base — but didn’t hear much about those who were wounded from that brazened assault. Now, we go about our daily routines, but the suffering and anguish lasts. Consider the story of Father Tim Vakoc, a Catholic priest severely injured in a roadside

bomb attack in Iraq in May 2004. He was returning from saying Mass in the field when shrapnel from the explosive ripped through his vehicle and lodged in his brain. Vakoc, who grew up near Minneapolis, became a U.S. Army chaplain in 1996. After assignments in Germany and Bosnia, he had a brief stop at Fort Lewis before heading to Iraq in 2003. I met Vakoc at the Main Post Chapel and got to know him. Just before he was deployed, we went to a Mariners game. We talked about taking in another game when he returned. After he was wounded, his family kept a vigil at his bedside. After five years in a coma, he miraculously awoke and appeared on the road to recovery. Then on June 20, 2009, he unexpectedly died. Vakoc is one of thousands of similar stories. Unfortunately, we can’t wave a magic wand and make the terrorists

disappear. The reality of today’s world is there will be more attacks on Americans, innocent civilians and people of all faiths — or no religious affiliation. Our countrymen and women will continue to put on their military and police uniforms and put themselves in harm’s way. The tragic truth is more will die and suffer lifelong injuries and disabilities. We must not forget the sacrifices they make to keep us safe and free. So while Veterans Day will come and go, as will Memorial Day, hopefully we will not only pause to remember, but commit to support and befriend our troops, cops and their families. It is the least we can do. Don C. Brunell is a business analyst, writer and columnist. He retired as president of the Association of Washington Business, the state’s oldest and largest business organization, and lives in Vancouver. He can be contacted at theBrunells@msn.com.

Mercer Island Reporter

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Girl may be quiet, but she’s tough on the jiu jitsu mat Islander Maggie Gibson, 11, wins a pair of gold medals at premier tournament. By Andy Nystrom anystrom@ soundpublishing.com

Graeme Gibson describes his daughter, Maggie, as a quiet, polite and kind person. The 11-year-old jiu jitsu athlete considers herself to be tough. Maggie, a sixth-grader at Islander Middle School, made her mark by notching a pair of gold medals in the gi and no-gi divisions at last month’s Sport Jiu Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Championships in Dallas, Texas. Stepping on the scale at 77 pounds, the greybelter was the smallest in the light weight class that ranged from 77-90 pounds in the two divisions. Maggie especially enjoys the grappling aspect of the Brazilian style of martial arts. In gi, the athletes wear a traditional martial arts uniform, and in no-gi, they compete in a shirt and shorts. When describing the atmosphere of the matches, she added: “You can be very nervous at the start and that’s not the best, but once you do it, you get used to it and then it just gets easier and more fun.” Graeme was impressed to watch Maggie in action at worlds, where she submitted two opponents and won by points in another match. Her parents and coach Aric Wiseman of Team Wise Jiu Jitsu in Lynnwood believed in

Maggie Gibson (center) stands atop the victory podium at the Sport Jiu Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Championships in Dallas, Texas, on Oct. 30. Photo courtesy of the SJJIF

her abilities. “Her mannerisms before the match, you wouldn’t expect her to go out and do what she did,” Graeme said of Maggie’s quiet side. “I personally wasn’t surprised because I know her, but I think she surprised a lot of people with just (how) technically sound she is at jiu jitsu, especially her defense and her offense.” After all was said and done on the mat, she was excited to stand atop the victory podium with everyone sending loud cheers in her direction.

Graeme said that coach Wiseman has been a big part of the family’s lives and he was ecstatic to see all Maggie’s hard work come to fruition at worlds. During Maggie’s six years of competing in jiu jitsu, she’s gained confidence and has learned how to defend herself. She told one friend who is interested in trying jiu jitsu, “That it teaches you how to be more tough, and you get to meet a lot of people there. It’s like a big community.”

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Maggie’s brother Gordon, 15, has been involved with the sport for eight years and has reaped loads of success with his aggressive and strategic style at tournaments. Maggie surpassed her brother’s achievements at worlds, where he has never won both the gi and no-gi divisions, Graeme said. “It was pretty neat for her, and again she’s pretty quiet about it, but it was pretty exceptional,” said Graeme, who grew up playing hockey and has dabbled in jiu jitsu for the last six or seven

years. Maggie said that Gordon is the best jiu jitsu athlete in the household. Graeme added with a laugh that when they were younger,

the two kids would try moves on their mother around the house. Now that they’ve advanced to a higher echelon in the sport, they try to keep the action out of the house. Graeme noted that Maggie endured some grueling practices over the last two years and her determination grew as the tournament neared. When she first stepped into the jiu jitsu realm at age 5, Maggie wasn’t too fond of the sport, but all that has changed over the years. “Now, since I’ve gotten better, it’s been easier. It’s been more fun to me to enjoy. It’s fun to see all my teammates and just has a good feeling to it, and you can learn a lot of skills doing it,” said Maggie, whose favorite classes in school are language arts and math. When she’s not playing sports, she likes to dig into a good book. As Graeme reflected on the family’s jiu jitsu journey, he discussed what they’ve soaked up along the way. “I put them in jiu jitsu so they would have exceptional self defense in life, so they would be able to protect themselves,” he said. “The sport component for my son and daughter has just been kind of an extra bonus where it’s a lot of fun to test their skills.”

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Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

Junior football squad notches a championship season For the Reporter With a 30-0 victory in the championship game, the Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club’s sophomore tackle football squad grabbed its first title for the program. The squad finished its season with a 10-1 record and victory over a previously undefeated Mount Si team. Over the course of the season, the locals outscored their opponents 341-126. Beginning the season in August with 21 players — only six having any football experience — the coaches had expectations of having fun, helping the young men develop as people, not necessarily football players, and hopefully cultivating a culture where they could create long-lasting friendships. What transpired over the course of several months was a testament to the boys’ attitude, their heart and willpower. During their first practice, the boys picked the word “work” to symbolize their season. Head coach Mason Azose

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAY AZOSE

The Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club’s sophomore tackle football squad won the Greater Eastside Junior Football Association championship.

remembers winning their first game by a large margin and sitting the boys down and saying, “We can go through this season and us coaches can take it easy and

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we can have a bunch of fun but not put too much stock into winning, or we could chase a championship.” The boys unanimously chose to put the work in. “Our identity was speed, both on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. We found that being wellconditioned, and practicing footwork and sprinting strides was a difference maker in our preparation. We also found an identity in the film room, with the average player having watched one hour of film study per week,” Azose said. Azose added that he hopes the players learned lessons of perseverance, trust, building unwavering confidence and self-esteem and how to put in the work. The road to the championship has been a long time coming. Coach Ross Heise has been coaching in the program for 22 years, and Azose since 2016. The team raised a championship banner in the club field house.

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Chase Kelly runs up field for the Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club’s sophomore tackle football squad.

The team is: Rowan “Row Dawg” Neher: Guard Reece “Big Reece” Nekahi: Defensive tackle Ari “Big Block” Rozman: Wide receiver Alex “Middle Monster” Hanlon: Defensive tackle Reider “Avenstopper” Avenstam: Wide receiver, defensive end Axel “Avenstopper” Avenstam: Linebacker, defensive end

Peter “Coach Pete” Becciu: Guard Justin “JBo” Howard: Middle linebacker Guven “G-Man” Nguyen: Center, long snapper Zachary “Bruiser” Walzer: Tackle Eli “Last Man” Kercher: Safety Brady “Lucky Lefty” Dolence: Quarterback, captain JD “TD” Rudolf: Slot receiver, fullback

Jackson “Bloomy” Bloom: Defensive end, wide receiver Riley “Big Jug” Anderson: Tight end, receiver, defensive end, quarterback, captain Jonah “Joey Batts” Battema: Rover linebacker, kicker CJ “Greeny” Greenfield: Cornerback Mateo “Tito” AlvaradoSmith: Tackle, linebacker John “Johnny Ice” Enell: Cornerback Chase “Champ” Kelly: Running back, safety, captain John “Johnny Pops” Evans: Wide side linebacker, captain

The coaches are: Head coach: Mason Azose (MIHS alum) Assistant coach: Ross Heise Assistant coach: Connor Juneau-Wild (MIHS alum) Assistant coach: Risley Lesko (MIHS alum)

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Mercer Island Reporter

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

City will be aglow with Illuminate MI Illuminate MI will return to Mercer Island after a successful event last year.

urday (Nov. 27), Lights Up at the J (Nov. 28-Jan. 3), Menorah Lighting (Dec. 2) and more.

The city and its partners are bringing seasonal cheer to the Island with festive lights at the Outdoor Sculpture Gallery, along 78th Avenue Southeast, in Mercerdale Park and at the Mercer Island Thrift Shop.

“This is really exciting. This is the kickoff to the holiday season and to support all of our businesses,” said City Manager Jessi Bon in her report at the Nov. 16 city council meeting. Title sponsors are Island Books and John L. Scott, and event sponsors are the Stroum Jewish Community Center, Realogics and Aljoya.

Events and activities on tap are: Letters To Santa (Nov. 25-Dec. 23), Yogabliss Practices of Gratitude (Nov. 25), Lights at Aljoya (Nov. 26-Jan. 1), Youth and Family Services Foundation Tree Lot (Nov. 27-Dec. 12), Small Business Sat-

For more information, visit www. mercerisland.gov/parksrec/page/ illuminate-mi-2021

Holiday lights brighten up the city of Mercer Island in this 2020 photo. (Courtesy photo)

— Reporter staff

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Don’t be fooled by claims of achievement or enamoured by charm. Scrutinize every broker you are considering for verification of their success, many claim it but few deliver it.

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Q: I understand how important it is to hire a capable broker, but what about consideration of their ﬁrm? Does that matter? Branding…how much does branding impact a sale? Touchy territory – so I will limit my response to this: The National Association of Realtors collects data and compiles those results in a yearly publication called Proﬁles of Buyers and Sellers. For years, it was well established that full service real estate brokerages were garnering, on average, 17% more in sale value than FSBO’s (FSBO = For Sale By Owner). That says to me branding is an important consideration. I would recommend sellers additionally consider branding reach, in accessing targeted buyers, as well as branding quality, in capturing the interest of targeted buyers. If you or someone you know would like to discuss needs related to real estate and how I can help, please contact me directly at (206) 619-2175. Pamela Bellah, Realtor, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty.

Stop by Mercer Island Small Businesses this Saturday.

Start the meal off with our mouth watering Oven Baked Goat Cheese appetizer. Deliciously complimented by a glass of Dough Pinot Noir. Available Nightly while supplies last!

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Come Discover Something New WWW.MERCERISLANDNEXT.COM

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

MERCER ISLAND $593,749

FOR SALE 3418 13th Ave W | Seattle 4 Bed | 1.75 Bath | 2,796 sf Charming Light filled Bungalow in North Queen Anne. Spacious 4 bed, 1.75 bath. Upgraded kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz kitchen counters, hardwood floors, breakfast counter and open dinning area. Two bonus rooms in the daylight basement for home office and home gym. Second bedroom on main floor with a stair case to a spacious attic. Lovely balcony and patio in beautifully fenced front yard, provides extended outdoor living space. Nina Smith - 206.669.8983

Eastside

Custom built, one level, one owner, three bedroom home on just the right size lot with shared waterfront. Enjoy the open floor plan with cathedral ceiling, skylights, breakfast bar for four. Generous kitchen with abundant custom-built cabinets. Appreciate the quality of materials like clear fir doors, smooth wall drywall, designer color palette. Convenient deck off primary bedroom bath wired for hot tub. Minutes from Hunter Bay and County boat launch. Shawn Elings - 425.829.5622

Oct. New Resale Listing

Oct. Resale Pending

Nov. 1st Active Resale Listing

Months Supply (Pending)

Months Resale Supply

1M - 1.5M

165

186

0.2

89.0%

Frenzy

1.5M - 2M

0.3

91.0%

Frenzy

2M - 3M

0.4

76.7%

Frenzy

3M - 5M

0.6

Severe Shortage Severe Shortage Severe Shortage Severe Shortage

66.7%

Frenzy

5+M

2.7

Shortage

42.9%

Strong

TOTAL

344

378

127

0.3

84.5%

Frenzy

351

361

312

0.9

72.6%

Frenzy

2020 Comparison

$325,000

Renowned Gainsborough Luxury Condominium on First Hill designed by Earle W. Morrison. Antique chandeliers and lamps, black marble stair cases and leaded glass windows in the lobby. Spacious two bedroom one bath, bright corner unit with extra lighting. High ceiling with beautiful moldings, upgraded double panel windows, formal dining room. Master suite with French doors. Upgraded bathroom. Views of city, mountain and lake. Nina Smith - 206.669.8983

Severe Shortage Severe Shortage

Sales % Pending 1st 30 Days Activity (Aug List) Intensity

From all of us at

MERCER ISLAND

Happy Thanksgiving!

NOVEMBER 2021 LUXURY HOUSING UPDATE

Price Range

38 Woodhaven Lane | Lopez Island 3 Bed | 1.75 Bath | 1,360 sf

$685,000

1017 Minor Ave #1202 | Seattle 2 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,186 sf

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

JOHN L. SCOTT

$1,295,000

CONDOMINIUM

Property Tracker The resource for sellers and buyers.

Get text notices of new listings See pricing of nearby homes Get emails of market insights Save your favorite homes

Want this information sent to your inbox?

1156 Alki Ave SW #101 | Seattle 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 479 sf Stunning Alki beach location! Picture perfect sunsets await in this one bed, one bath condo directly across from Anchor Park. Indulge in the views of the Puget Sound from the living/dining area. Open concept unit feels comfortable and roomy. Corner unit at back of building means less street noise, more privacy and no shared walls. Enjoy all that Alki has to offer boardwalk, restaurants, local shops, Alki beach andmuch more! Joe Armitage - 206.302.0311

Scan QR code to Sign Up!

www.johnlscott.com/propertytracker

RECENT ACTIVITY PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

8811 Whitechuck Dr Everett

4184 Crestwood Place Mercer Island

4656 E Mercer Wy Mercer Island

3632 90th Ave SE Mercer Island

5606 90th Ave SE Mercer Island

8700 SE 47th St Mercer Island

2920 76th Ave SE #202 Mercer Island

8136 West Mercer Way Mercer Island

3520 47th St Ct NW Gig Harbor

2211 82nd Ave SE Mercer Island

3 bd | 2.5 ba | 3,134 sf | $700,000

5 bd | 3.25 ba | 4,850 sf | $2,600,000

5 bd | 5.75 ba | 6,620 sf | $4,500,000

5 bd | 1.75 ba | 2,700 sf | $1,475,000

3 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,880 sf | $1,495,000

3 bd | 1.5 ba | 1,360 sf | $1,135,000

3 bd | 3 ba | 1,857 sf | $738,000

5 bd | 5 ba | 5,163 sf | $1,800,000

3 bd | 3 ba | 2,955 sf | $800,000

6 bd | 3.75 ba | 3,430 sf | $3,180,000

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Sandra Levin - 206.949.2845 Millie S. Su - 206.799.0628

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

Tim Conway - 206.954.2437

Sandra Levin - 206.949.2845

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

4130 NW Hosman Cir Silverdale

4544 88th Ave SE Mercer Island

14821 137th Lane NE Woodinville

102 State St S #302W Kirkland

16510 39th Ave NE Lake Forest Park

612 19th St Snohomish

2929 76th Ave SE #510 Mercer Island

7004 SE 20th St Mercer Island

13557 Linden Ave N #209 Seattle

16125 Juanita Woodinville Wy NE #505 Bothell

4 bd | 2.5 ba | 2,936 sf | $750,000

4 bd | 2.25 ba | 1,800 sf | $1,500,000

3 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,560 sf | $875,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,677 sf | $1,280,000

5 bd | 4.5 ba | 4,260 sf | $1,850,000

3 bd | 2 ba | 1,279 sf | $540,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,240 sf | $610,000

3 bd | 2.5 ba | 4,019 sf | $2,375,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,267 sf | $395,000

2 bd | 2.25 ba | 1,163 sf | $555,000

Cindy E. Verschueren - 206.909.4523

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Nicholas Nordby - 425.922.6775 Kathy Gephart - 425.765.0093

Jason M. Watabe - 206.718.2866

Debbie Constantine - 206.853.5262

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Tim Conway - 206.954.2437

Martin Weiss - 425.417.9595 Betty J. Delaurenti - 206.949.1222

Jason M. Watabe - 206.718.2866

206.232.8600 7853 SE 27th Street, Ste 180 mercerisland @johnlscott.com www.mercerislandoffice.johnlscott.com

Get a FREE Market Analysis of Your Home’s Value

@JohnLScottMI #livingmercerisland

Scan QR Code!

“Our Brokers Have Deep Roots on Mercer Island” Sandra Levin, Office Leader

Hyo-Yang Ahn-White

Mark Anderson

Frank Ceteznik

Debbie Constantine

Brigitte Conway

Tim Conway

Betty DeLaurenti

Shawn Elings

Mark Eskridge

Lou Glatz

Craig Hagstrom

206.949.2845

863.224.3843

206.931.9807

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206.954.2437

206.949.1222

425.829.5622

206.251.2760

206.948.2591

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Helen Hitchcock

Lori Holden Scott

Dieter Kaetel

Cindy Kott

Gloria Lee

Eve Lee

Nick Nordby

Andrea Pirzio-Biroli

Jimmy Pliego

Tony Salvata

Nina Li Smith

Millie Su

Cindy Verschueren

Petra Walker

Gloria Wolfe

206.856.7007

206.949.5674

206.427.0863

503.330.5904

206.409.7277

425.598.5998

425.922.6775

206.930.3456

206.240.7160

206.915.8672

206.669.8983

206.779.0628

206.909.4523

206.697.9236

425.922.7675

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

MERCER ISLAND $593,749

Eastside

Oct. New Resale Listing

Oct. Resale Pending

Nov. 1st Active Resale Listing

Months Supply (Pending)

Months Resale Supply

1M - 1.5M

165

186

0.2

89.0%

Frenzy

1.5M - 2M

0.3

91.0%

Frenzy

2M - 3M

0.4

76.7%

Frenzy

3M - 5M

0.6

Severe Shortage Severe Shortage Severe Shortage Severe Shortage

66.7%

Frenzy

5+M

2.7

Shortage

42.9%

Strong

TOTAL

344

378

127

0.3

84.5%

Frenzy

351

361

312

0.9

72.6%

Frenzy

2020 Comparison

$325,000

Severe Shortage Severe Shortage

Sales % Pending 1st 30 Days Activity (Aug List) Intensity

From all of us at

MERCER ISLAND

Happy Thanksgiving!

NOVEMBER 2021 LUXURY HOUSING UPDATE

Price Range

38 Woodhaven Lane | Lopez Island 3 Bed | 1.75 Bath | 1,360 sf

$685,000

1017 Minor Ave #1202 | Seattle 2 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,186 sf

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

JOHN L. SCOTT

$1,295,000

CONDOMINIUM

Property Tracker The resource for sellers and buyers.

Get text notices of new listings See pricing of nearby homes Get emails of market insights Save your favorite homes

Want this information sent to your inbox?

Scan QR code to Sign Up!

www.johnlscott.com/propertytracker

RECENT ACTIVITY PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

8811 Whitechuck Dr Everett

4184 Crestwood Place Mercer Island

4656 E Mercer Wy Mercer Island

3632 90th Ave SE Mercer Island

5606 90th Ave SE Mercer Island

8700 SE 47th St Mercer Island

2920 76th Ave SE #202 Mercer Island

8136 West Mercer Way Mercer Island

3520 47th St Ct NW Gig Harbor

2211 82nd Ave SE Mercer Island

3 bd | 2.5 ba | 3,134 sf | $700,000

5 bd | 3.25 ba | 4,850 sf | $2,600,000

5 bd | 5.75 ba | 6,620 sf | $4,500,000

5 bd | 1.75 ba | 2,700 sf | $1,475,000

3 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,880 sf | $1,495,000

3 bd | 1.5 ba | 1,360 sf | $1,135,000

3 bd | 3 ba | 1,857 sf | $738,000

5 bd | 5 ba | 5,163 sf | $1,800,000

3 bd | 3 ba | 2,955 sf | $800,000

6 bd | 3.75 ba | 3,430 sf | $3,180,000

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Sandra Levin - 206.949.2845 Millie S. Su - 206.799.0628

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

Tim Conway - 206.954.2437

Sandra Levin - 206.949.2845

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674

Lori Holden Scott - 206.949.5674 Lou Glatz - 206.948.2591

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

SOLD

PENDING

4130 NW Hosman Cir Silverdale

4544 88th Ave SE Mercer Island

14821 137th Lane NE Woodinville

102 State St S #302W Kirkland

16510 39th Ave NE Lake Forest Park

612 19th St Snohomish

2929 76th Ave SE #510 Mercer Island

7004 SE 20th St Mercer Island

13557 Linden Ave N #209 Seattle

16125 Juanita Woodinville Wy NE #505 Bothell

4 bd | 2.5 ba | 2,936 sf | $750,000

4 bd | 2.25 ba | 1,800 sf | $1,500,000

3 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,560 sf | $875,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,677 sf | $1,280,000

5 bd | 4.5 ba | 4,260 sf | $1,850,000

3 bd | 2 ba | 1,279 sf | $540,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,240 sf | $610,000

3 bd | 2.5 ba | 4,019 sf | $2,375,000

2 bd | 1.75 ba | 1,267 sf | $395,000

2 bd | 2.25 ba | 1,163 sf | $555,000

Cindy E. Verschueren - 206.909.4523

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Nicholas Nordby - 425.922.6775 Kathy Gephart - 425.765.0093

Jason M. Watabe - 206.718.2866

Debbie Constantine - 206.853.5262

Gloria Wolfe - 425.922.7675

Tim Conway - 206.954.2437

Martin Weiss - 425.417.9595 Betty J. Delaurenti - 206.949.1222

Jason M. Watabe - 206.718.2866

206.232.8600 7853 SE 27th Street, Ste 180 mercerisland @johnlscott.com www.mercerislandoffice.johnlscott.com

Get a FREE Market Analysis of Your Home’s Value

@JohnLScottMI #livingmercerisland

Scan QR Code!

“Our Brokers Have Deep Roots on Mercer Island” Sandra Levin, Office Leader

Hyo-Yang Ahn-White

Mark Anderson

Frank Ceteznik

Debbie Constantine

Brigitte Conway

Tim Conway

Betty DeLaurenti

Shawn Elings

Mark Eskridge

Lou Glatz

Craig Hagstrom

206.949.2845

863.224.3843

206.931.9807

206.979.8400

206.853.5262

425.444.0710

206.954.2437

206.949.1222

425.829.5622

206.251.2760

206.948.2591

206.669.2267

Helen Hitchcock

Lori Holden Scott

Dieter Kaetel

Cindy Kott

Gloria Lee

Eve Lee

Nick Nordby

Andrea Pirzio-Biroli

Jimmy Pliego

Tony Salvata

Nina Li Smith

Millie Su

Cindy Verschueren

Petra Walker

Gloria Wolfe

206.856.7007

206.949.5674

206.427.0863

503.330.5904

206.409.7277

425.598.5998

425.922.6775

206.930.3456

206.240.7160

206.915.8672

206.669.8983

206.779.0628

206.909.4523

206.697.9236

425.922.7675

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

Islander to appear at ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ Festival For the Reporter

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The Reverend Greg Asimakoupoulos, chaplain at Covenant Living at the Shores, will be a featured guest at the It’s a Wonderful Life Festival in Seneca Falls, New York, Dec. 8-12. This year the annual festival in the Empire State marks the 75th anniversary of the Frank Capra holiday favorite. Asimakoupoulos will join surviving cast members of the popular holiday movie, including Karolyn Grimes, Carol Coombs Mueller and Jimmy Hawkins for the five-day event. Also in attendance will be Monica Capra Hodges, the granddaughter of Frank Capra who lives in Mount Vernon. “I was first invited to speak at the festival in 2015 following the release of my book ‘Finding God in It’s a Wonderful Life,’” Asimakoupoulos told the Reporter. “Since that time, I have made the trip each December with the exception of last year when the festival was canceled due to COVID.” During the festival weekend, Asimakoupoulos will be the guest preacher at the United Methodist Church of Seneca Falls and will give a lecture

at the First Presbyterian Church. In addition, he will sign copies of his book that has just been updated and expanded for the 75th anniversary. Asimakoupoulos will also be included in a radio documentary about “It’s a Wonderful Life” produced by the BBC that will be aired in England the day after Christmas. “A producer for the BBC saw my sermon ‘The Gospel According to George Bailey’ announced on the festival website,” Asimakoupoulos explained. “Since she is doing commemorative program about the movie and its religious overtones, she reached out to me.” The festival was established in Seneca Falls in 1996 because locals believe Hollywood director Frank Capra created fictional Bedford Falls following his visit to upstate New York in the 1940s. There are many scenes and references in the movie that are consistent with such a claim. Copies of “Finding God in It’s a Wonderful Life” are available at Island Books (3014 78th Ave. SE) and there will be a book signing with Asimakoupoulos at the store from 2-4 p.m. on Dec. 5.

Becky adesan N Your Island Realtor #1 Team 2014, 2015 & 2017 206-972-1113 | beckynadesan@cbbain.com

Despairing Hope-Filled

More than 12,000 people in the greater Seattle area are homeless. Many struggle with addiction. Photography: Lee Jeffries and Francis Catania, Retouching: Rebecca Bausher

Kristin found what she needed to start a new life and now helps others do the same at Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission. Be inspired, volunteer, or donate at ugm.org/kristin.

Mercer Island Reporter

City expands interim leadership partnership with Eastside Fire and Rescue Reporter Staff As part of the city of Mercer Island and Eastside Fire and Rescue’s interim leadership partnership expansion, an interim deputy fire chief will be appointed in the coming weeks. Following the departure of Mercer Island Fire Department (MIPD) Deputy Fire Chief Mike Mandella, Interim Fire Chief Jeff Clark will consult with City Manager Jessi Bon to fill the interim leadership position, according to a city press release on Nov. 10. Like the contract with Eastside Fire and Rescue for interim fire chief services, the interim deputy fire chief will bring leadership and administrative support to MIPD along with administrative support from Eastside Fire and Rescue staff. The contract is effective

immediately through the end of 2022 with a renewal option at that time. “Over the past 10 months, our partnership with Eastside Fire and Rescue has provided our department with expert leadership and the right scale of management,” Bon said. “Expanding this partnership to quickly fill our needs for a deputy fire chief ensures continuity for our firefighters and our community during this period of leadership transition.” The monthly cost for interim fire department leadership services under this agreement is $29,700, which includes the fulltime interim deputy fire chief position dedicated to Mercer Island, interim fire chief services, and funds to cover Eastside Fire and Rescue administrative staff that support Mercer Island. The city budgeted $485,000

for the two leadership positions in 2022 if hired directly by the department, placing this interim arrangement within the city’s budget. Bon intends to commence work on a permanent leadership strategy for the department in 2022.

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Mercer Island Reporter

Coyotes are Killing Pets and have attacked an Island resident. Time is of the essence to get rid of them The city council tells the City Manager what to do. The city council will decide on the removal of the deadly coyotes. These coyotes have killed over a score of pets, some with their owner and kids watching in horror. Read Next Door. They attacked one resident in Pioneer Park. Stay out of the parks with small dogs. Don't go in alone. Don't let your kids go in. They are terrorizing all pet owners. Killing our family members (our pets).

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“Keep your pets and kids in.” If removed they will just come back (or not, we will deal with that then). We don’t pay tens of thousands in property tax to not be able to let our pets or kids play in a fenced back yard or out and about fearing a coyote. Contact your council person and demand the coyote’s removal. Think of the peace. All info is on the M.I. City site call them or the city manager. GIVE US BACK OUR PEACE AND SAFETY. CONTACT AGGRESSIVELY YOUR CITY COUNCIL OVER AND OVER. IF THEY DON’T ACT AND A CHILD IS BADLY HURT, OR YOUR PETS KILLED, IT WILL BE THEIRS TO OWN. COYOTES ARE CHECKING OUT KIDS AT PLAY (RECESS) AT 1 ELEMENTARY IF THEY DON’T REMOVE THEM IMMEDIATELY WHO DO THEY REPRESENT? NOT MOST ISLANDERS. Paid for by Seth Landau • sdlandau@aol.com

Puss in Boots: A Holiday Panto November 27 - December 19 Our popular Panto returns this holiday season! All the elements you know and love get remixed again for a clever take on the tale of Puss in Boots. Our hero envisions a life of love, adventure, and bravery. The problem is, he has very few skills and even less money in his pocket! But a fantastical mix-up leaves him with what might just be the recipe for success: a little luck, a little magic…and a very clever cat.

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Mercer Island Reporter

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Stroum Jewish Community Center announces Hanukkah celebrations Reporter Staff The Stroum Jewish Community Center (SJCC) invites the community to celebrate Hanukkah at a variety of in-person and virtual events in November and December. These crafty, delicious and restorative

programs will take place in communities around Seattle and the Eastside. For the first time, SJCC is expanding its annual Hands on Hanukkah program to visit six neighborhoods between Nov. 21 and Dec. 5: Mercer Island, Rainier Valley, North Seattle, West

Seattle and two Bellevue locations. Families are invited to stop by to create their own Hanukkah artwork and enjoy some holiday treats. Lights Up at the J will take place from Nov. 28 to Jan. 3 at SJCC with a celebration of the Festival of Lights with

an interactive light exhibit as part of Illuminate MI. Other events include a virtual Hanukkah storytime and music event on Nov. 30, a continuation of SJCC’s popular Virtual Book Fest series; and a family night at Redmond Lights on Dec. 3, complete with Hanukkah

gift bags. For adults, SJCC is offering a virtual Hanukkah meditation class led by Rabbi Oliver BenHaim of Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue and two in-person essential oils classes — a fun twist on the oil traditionally celebrated during Hanukkah. For full details and

registration information on all events, visit https://sjcc. org/holidays. SJCC is also partnering again with Trophy Cupcakes to offer special Hanukkah cupcakes, DIY kits, and more to make all eight nights of Hanukkah deLIGHTful, delicious and easy.

a large bank of mailboxes in the 2700 block of 78th Avenue Southeast. Trespasser: A subject who became aggressive was trespassed from a business in the 7900 block of Southeast 28th Street. Nov. 5 Vehicle prowl: Someone swiped golf clubs from a resident’s vehicle overnight

in the 7800 block of Southeast 28th Street. Nov. 4 Fraud: Residents in the 7200 block of 94th Avenue Southeast didn’t apply for the credit cards they received in the mail. Nov. 3 Package concerns: Officers assisted a resident who was concerned about the

packages he ordered in the 7600 block of Southeast 27th Street. Nov. 2 Suspicious circumstances: A resident has Ring camera footage of a suspect ringing his doorbell and jiggling the door handle in the 4600 block of 84th Avenue Southeast. Nov. 1

Violation of order: A subject in the 3800 block of 81st Avenue Southeast was noted to be repeatedly violating the terms of a no-contact order issued by the court. Theft: Someone stole a catalytic converter from a victim’s vehicle overnight in the 2800 block of 75th Place Southeast.

POLICE BLOTTER Nov. 11 Animal: A resident reported being confronted by coyotes in the 6800 block of Island Crest Way. Police consulted with wildlife experts. Nov. 9 Mental health: Officers responded to a call from someone experiencing a mental health crisis and

offered resources in the 2700 block of 73rd Avenue Southeast. Nov. 7 Burglary: Someone stole three bicycles after a resident left their garage door open overnight in the 8300 block of Southeast 31st Street. Nov. 6 Theft: Someone prowled

Diversity From Page 1

focused on fostering positive identity for children of color, supporting families of color, and advancing equity in the Mercer Island community.” In the same document, Do the Work MI is described as “a group of white women committed to eliminating anti-Black racism by examining our whiteness, our role in perpetuating racist structures, and using our knowledge to promote racial equity and condemn and counteract anti-Black racism.” Danielle Damasius of

ONE MI said its partnership with the city and Do the Work MI is a natural evolution of its mission. “The event series we’re building together is designed to create local connections to broader conversations around diversity and belonging, and understand how they can help us grow as a community. Islanders are increasingly feeling enriched by the diversity of our community and we’re really excited to be creating space for exploration and dialogue,” she said.

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Example of what it can look like when you replace a grass lawn with native plants.

Matt Stevens discusses coyote activity and behavior on Mercer Island at a Nov. 15 virtual public meeting. Zoom screen shot

Coyote From Page 1

has been little to no local activity until recently. Presently, the USDA would not be inclined to remove any animals from the Island, said Stevens, adding that if coyote behavior were to escalate, his recommendation to the city could change. He doesn’t know how long the coyotes will stay, and he believes they arrived via the highway. “We intend to continue to communicate with him for support as the situation continues with the coyotes,” said City Manager Jessi Bon during her report at the Nov. 16 city council meeting. According

to Mercer Island Police Department operations commander Mike Seifert at the presentation, the cost of the assessment amounted to $1,100 ($55 an hour for 20 hours). Other pertinent information that Stevens relayed to residents at the meeting was that coyotes are not common rabies carriers; they charge pets — not people — because they believe them to be intruders; they can be scared away by air horns, paintball guns and whistles; they are attracted to food scraps in compost and fruit and berries dropped from trees; and fallen seeds from bird feeders can attract rodents and in turn bring predators, including coyotes, to the scene.

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Tired of mowing the lawn? Consider using native plants Replacing your lawn with Northwest vegetation can be beneficial to homeowners and wildlife alike. By Henry Stewart-Wood henry.stewart-wood @soundpublishing.com

Replacing your lawn with native plants can save you time and money while also helping the local environment and wildlife. Grass lawns are so ubiquitous in American suburbs that many people don’t stop to consider the alternatives, said Debbie Meisinger of the King Conservation District. “It’s become such a cultural norm that I think people just automatically assume that that’s what their house is supposed to look like — they’re supposed to have the house and the lawn and the picket fence,” Meisinger said. Grass lawns have negative effects on several aspects of the environment, Meisinger said. “They’re high maintenance, they require a lot of water and chemical usage,” Meisinger said. In order to keep a lawn green, especially during the summer, copious amounts of water and chemicals are needed because the grass in lawns isn’t native to Washington. In addition to this, grass lawns don’t provide any ecological benefits, unlike natives plant species, Meisinger said. Grass doesn’t allow water to soak into the soil, which causes a variety of problems, Meisinger said. “Lawns also tend to act as an impervious surface where the water will roll off the lawn instead of percolating into the ground,” Meisinger said. Pollutants in water are naturally filtered by the soil, but when water runs off of grass lawns and into storm drains or surface water, no filtration takes place. This means that all of the chemical fertilizers used in lawn care as well as the pollutants in rainwater go directly into the area’s streams, rivers and the Puget Sound, Meisinger said.

The best way to fix these issues is to plant a variety of native plants in your yard, Meisinger said. “Having more diversity of native plants, trees, shrubs and ground covers just provides more habitats for wildlife,” Meisinger said. “But also sometimes lawns are also not successful in certain areas where you have dead zones. Using a variety of different plants can make that area more attractive.” The easiest way to start replacing your lawn with native plants is to find a part of your lawn that doesn’t grow well or that you don’t like to mow. The next step is to identify what type of soil you have in order to determine what plants will thrive, Meisinger said. Once all that is figured out, you can sheet-mulch the area where you want to grow native plants by covering the grass with cardboard and wood chips, Meisinger said. This is simpler than digging up the sod or using chemicals to kill the grass, but the effect is the same. You can also plant your plants first and cover the surrounding grass with cardboard and wood chips, Meisinger said. Once you’ve planted the native species, nature will more or less do the rest. “It provides more diversity and vegetation where different native animals and insects are attracted to native plants. They’ve evolved together, so it will attract more wildlife and pollinators,” Meisinger said. “Having roots that are well below the surface of the soil helps create pore space where water can infiltrate into the soil.” Having strong roots also strengthens the structure of your soil so erosion is less likely to happen, Meisinger said. Choosing a variety of plants that fruit and flower at different times of the year can benefit wildlife year-round, Meisinger said. As mentioned before, native species are also good for water. They “recharge” the groundwater. This means water is stored yearround underground, even in the dry summer, which allows plants to survive during times of drought. It also means water is filtered by the soil before making its way to

rivers, streams, lakes and other bodies of water. In addition to this, native plants can also help to reduce flooding during times of intense rain, Meisinger said. Because the majority of yards are covered in grass, when it rains, most of that water rolls off and into the streets, contributing to flooding. If more people had native plants, more water would actually make it into the soil rather than into the streets, Meisinger said. Replacing grass with native plants can reduce the amount of upkeep your yard needs, Meisinger said. For the first year or two, you might have to water the plants during the summer, but once it’s acclimated to the seasons, the plant can survive more or less on its own. There’s a saying — “sleep, creep and leap” — to describe the process of planting native plants, Meisinger said. In the first year you can expect your plant to sleep and get adjusted to its new environment. In the next year or two, it will creep and slowly start to grow. After about three or four years, it will leap and grow rapidly. Planting native species in the fall is suggested because you won’t have to worry about watering until the following summer, Meisinger said. But even then, watering isn’t always strictly necessary, but it will help the plant thrive. After one to three years, you won’t have to do any watering, Meisinger said. “It’s going to save you time and effort in mowing, raking and watering or using chemicals and it’s going to be beneficial to native wildlife,” Meisinger said. If you’re planting in the fall, you can use potted plants. In the winter, you can use bareroot plants, which are a lot more affordable, Meisinger said. To make things easy for people looking to replace their lawn, the King Conservation District holds an annual online plant sale on Nov. 15 where people can buy 10 plants for around $15, Meisinger said. Visit the King Conservation District website for more information.

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

What history of homelessness in region can teach us about current crisis By Cameron Sheppard cameron.sheppard @soundpublishing.com

Homelessness has been a key issue for residents living in King County and Seattle. With an estimated 11,751 homeless people living in the greater Seattle and King County region, according to the most recent report in 2020, the area is one of the nation’s worst for homelessness. Local leaders and state politicians have been scrambling to find a solution. But how do we find a solution to a problem that we don’t truly understand? Homelessness is a highly inter-sectional and complex issue intertwined with socio-economic factors like housing affordability and stagnant wages, as well as health factors that reflect on our collective equity of access to healthcare and the way we take care of those with mental illness and drug addiction. Not to mention the public attitudes toward these issues and the homeless themselves, which ultimately influence the way we try to help these people — or how we try to forget about them.

How did we get here? Josephine Ensign, professor of nursing at the University of Washington, recently published a book through Johns Hopkins University Press called “Skid Road: On the Frontier of Health and Homelessness in an American City.” The book examines the history of homelessness in Seattle and details the policies, systems and shortcomings that are at the historical roots of the issue in the region. As it turns out, homelessness is not a new issue to Seattle. In fact, it is about as old as the city itself.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Snoqualmie Valley Shelter Services’ new bed setup at its 24/7 homeless shelter.

Ensign said in the early years of Seattle’s founding, it was the “end of the line” geographically for many who migrated west, looking for different kinds of work and ultimately a better life. She said many settlers were single men who came here for tough jobs like logging or sailing. With many of them being disconnected from family and other kinds of support, she said many of them ended up being “washed up here” when plans fell through. Ensign contextually centers the history around Edward Moore, the first documented homeless person in Seattle. He fell on difficult circumstances after he moved here for a job he was promised — but was not given — when he arrived. He was found in 1854, only 32 years of

age, sleeping in a tent on the shores of what is now Belltown, surviving on raw shellfish. Moore, suffering from frozen extremities, had his toes amputated by Doc Maynard, Seattle’s first doctor. The physician diagnosed Moore as “crippled, insane and a stranger,” meaning he had no connections in Seattle and was not a resident. With no in-patient mental healthcare institutions established at that time, or really any form of a mental healthcare system, Moore’s care was determined by what was then known as “poor laws” or policies that determined who were the “worthy poor” or the “unworthy poor” and what kind of care they would receive, if any. Ensign said the “worthy

poor” were often considered to be widowed women, especially the ones with children and people with severe physical disabilities. The “unworthy poor” were single unmarried mothers, prostitutes and able-bodied men. Much like today, there was debate over who was responsible for taking care of the poor. Was it the role of the county or the state, or was it up to charitable religious institutions? As someone who Ensign said would probably be considered to be schizophrenic by today’s medical standards, Moore’s care was determined by a practice that was then known as a “trade in lunacy.” With no governmental resources or programs to provide care for the poor, mentally ill and disabled,

the care of the forgotten and neglected homeless was auctioned off to private citizens or organizations that would accept the lowest payout. Ensign said the “trade in lunacy” practice was “widely abused” by people looking to make money and not interested in providing quality care. As a result, people would often bid to take care of the homeless just to lock them up, chain them to beds and cut corners like not feeding them properly. While this may seem like an archaic and cruel system to ensure care for the most marginalized, vulnerable and neglected individuals, Ensign said the principles of the “trade in lunacy” system draw parallels to the ways that we care for the same populations today. She used the example of

the publicly-funded Western State Hospital, which was eventually lost federal funding for the substandard and abusive care it offered to patients who ended up there as an absolute last resort. Ensign said access to quality mental and behavioral healthcare is still an issue in the region and more than likely contributes to the rates of homelessness we observe in the area. “Yes we have good healthcare if you can afford it,” she said. “Access is not always easy.” She believes that equitable access to behavioral and mental healthcare is not only important for helping those who are currently experiencing homelessness, but it will also be an important part of preventing homelessness. According to Ensign, it is often unresolved trauma that people experience in their lives that becomes a factor in mental illness, drug abuse and homelessness. She said having resources for teens and young adults to help them deal with trauma in a healthy way could go a long way in intervening and preventing an individual from becoming chronically homeless. Through studying the history of homelessness, she compared today’s chronically homeless people with unresolved traumas to real cases in Seattle’s history. Men like Moore, who had lost their connection with their family and their social safety net; others who had experienced wars and shipwrecks; young women who had endured sexual abuse and trauma at a young age; mothers who had lost their husbands. All of these things, when not coped with in a healthy way, See HISTORY, Page 15

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legals Legal Notices CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. 21-29 A N O R D I N A N C E AU THORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE YEAR 2022. O r d i n a n c e N o. 2 1 - 2 9 was adopted by the Mercer Island City Council at its Regular Meeting on November 16, 2021. A full text of the Ordinance is available at https://library.municode. com/WA/mercer_island/ munidocs/munidocs Signatories: B e n s o n Wong, Mayor Andrea Larson, City Clerk Bio Park, City Attorney Publish: N o v e m b e r 2 4 , 2021 #943545 CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. 21-30 AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO THE LEVYING OF REGULAR P R O P E R T Y TA X E S A N D E S TA B L I S H I N G THE AMOUNT TO BE LEVIED IN 2022 ON THE ASSESSED VA L UAT I O N O F T H E PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY O r d i n a n c e N o. 2 1 - 3 0 was adopted by the Mercer Island City Council at its Regular Meeting on November 16, 2021. A full text of the Ordinance is available at https://library.municode. com/WA/mercer_island/ munidocs/munidocs Signatories: B e n s o n Wong, Mayor Andrea Larson, City Clerk Bio Park, City Attorney Publish: N o v e m b e r 2 4 , 2021 #943549

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CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. 21C-32 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MERCER I S L A N D, WA S H I N G TON, AMENDING CHAPTER 4.40 MICC T O D I S S O LV E T H E YOUTH SERVICES ENDOWMENT FUND AND TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN MINIMUM OPERAT I N G F U N D B A L A N C E , P ROV I D I N G F O R S E V E R A B I L I T Y, A N D E S TA B L I S H I N G AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Ordinance No. 21C-32 was adopted by the Mercer Island City Council at its Regular Meeting on November 16, 2021. A full text of the Ordinance is available at https://library.municode. com/WA/mercer_island/ munidocs/munidocs Signatories: B e n s o n Wong, Mayor Andrea Larson, City Clerk Bio Park, City Attorney Publish: N o v e m b e r 2 4 , 2021 #943550

Lake Washington School District, Brian Buck is seeking coverage under the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Construction Stormwater NPDES and State Waste Discharge General Permit. The proposed project, Rosewood Court, is located at 10428 & 10612 134th Ave NE in the City of Redmond. This project involves 10.87 acres of soil disturbance for residential, utilities and rightof-way construction activities. The receiving waterbody is Sammamish River. Any persons desiring to present their views to the Washington State Department of Ecology regarding this Application, or interested in Ecology’s action on this Application, may notify Ecology in writing no later than 30 days of the last date of publication of this notice. Ecology reviews public comments and considers whether discharges from this project would cause a measurable change in receiving water quality, and, if so, whether the project is necessary and in the overriding public interest according to Tier II anti-degradation requirements under WAC 173-201A-320. Comments can be submitted to ecyrewqianoi@ ecy.wa.gov, or ATTN: Water Quality Program, Construction Stormwater, Washington State Department of Ecology P.O. Box 47696, Olympia, WA 98504- 7696. #942760 11/17/21, 11/24/21

G e n e r a l P ro j e c t D e scription: 3-year service contract, with an option to extend by 2 additional years, contracted on an annual basis, to provide landscape maintenance on select District property. Work will include maintenance of s t o r m wa t e r d e t e n t i o n and water quality treatment ponds, as well as planting bed maintenance and other landscape-related work deemed necessar y by the District. To obtain bid documents or ask questions: Please contact Kathy Zurawski, Capital Projects, kathy.zurawski@ mercerislandschools.org , 206-230-6186. This invitation is comprised of this Invitation to Bid, Bid Form, and Contract, which, if an award is made, will collectively constitute the Contract Documents. One hundred percent (100%) contractor’s Performance and Payment bond is required upon notice of intent to award, unless on projects estimated to cost $150,000 or less, Contractor requests and District agrees to allow use of the alternative arrangement for withholding of ten percent (10%) retainage until the later of 30 days after final acceptance of the project or until receipt of all necessary releases from the State Depar tments of Revenue, Employment Security, and Labor & Industries, as authorized by and subject to the conditions stated in RCW 39.08.010(3). Public Works contract MAY BE required. Certification of insurance IS required upon notice of intent to award. Bids must be received by District no later December 7th at 2:00 PM. Bidder is solely responsible for timely delivery of the bid. Bids deemed by the District to have been received late will be returned unopened. No electronic bids will be accepted. #943295 11/24/21, 12/1/21

Need extra cash? Place your classified ad today! Call 1-800-388-2527 or Go online 24 hours a day www.SoundClassifieds.com. CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. 21C-27 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MERCER I S L A N D, WA S H I N G TON; RENEWING THE MORATORIUM ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE NO. 20-12 AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO. 20-18; PROVIDING F O R S E V E R A B I L I T Y; A N D E S TA B L I S H I N G AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Ordinance No. 21C-27 was adopted by the Mercer Island City Council at its Regular Meeting on November 16, 2021. A full text of the Ordinance is available at https://library.municode. com/WA/mercer_island/ munidocs/munidocs Signatories: B e n s o n Wong, Mayor Andrea Larson, City Clerk Bio Park, City Attorney Publish: N o v e m b e r 2 4 , 2021 #943543

Invitation to Bid (Small Public Works) Mercer Island School District No. 400 4160 86th Avenue SE Mercer Island, WA 98040 Landscape Maintenance Services P u bl i s h e d N o ve m b e r 24th, 2021, and December 1st, 2021, in the Mercer Island Reporter. Submit Bid Form no later than December 7, 2021, by 2:00 PM to Karen Hubbert, Business Depar tment at the above Extra auto parts bring in extra cash when you place address. Note: your bid amount an ad in the Classifieds. is to be stated excluOpen 24 hours a day s i v e o f a p p l i c a b l e www.SoundClassifieds.com sales taxes.

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Mercer Island Reporter

VFW Post 5760 members make donation to food pantry For the Reporter Mercer Island VFW Post 5760 representative Robert Harper recently presented Marina Gonzales, Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) programs assistant and thrift shop supervisor, with $1,000 worth of QFC food gift cards for distribution through the food pantry.

The VFW members voted at their last meeting to make this donation, and the hope is that this will make a Mercer Island family’s holiday a little more enjoyable. Many VFW members remember their deployed status over numerous holidays and take pride in helping make this time of year gratifying for others. The VFW was able

to double its contribution this year because the post, which is a historical building across from the Roanoke Inn, is now available for rental after being

shut down due to COVID19 restrictions. During the shutdown, a major renovation was undertaken. The kitchen was remodeled, and all the

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

stoves, dishwashers, ovens and sinks were replaced along with new flooring, counters and cabinets. A variety of rentals from wedding receptions, birthdays, life celebrations, etc., are the revenue source for the post and provide for

veterans’ relief, support for the VFW National Home for Children, the Marines Toys for Tots program and local donations such as MIYFS. The Mercer Island VFW post encourages others to donate to the MIYFS food bank.

Add or update your 2022 Mercer Island Directory Listing Join your neighbors in the Island’s Directory since 1943 to benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital. Add or update via QR code or www.mercerislanddirectory.info/residents-info email: MIPhonebook@gmail.com • Call: 206-232-7527 – Mercer Island Guild –

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAMBI CORK

Mercer Island VFW Post 5760 representative Robert Harper presents Marina Gonzales with $1,000 worth of QFC food gift cards for distribution through the Mercer Island Youth and Family Services’ food pantry.

History From Page 14

can snowball into mental illness, drug abuse and ultimately homelessness. Ensign believes our understanding of the roots of homelessness is definitely a factor in our currently less-than-effective efforts to resolve the crisis. “No one agrees on the causes, much less the solutions,” said Ensign. According to Ensign, there has always been a tension that has permeated through our culture between those experiencing homelessness and those who are more fortunate. The way in which the houses blame the ones without roofs over their head for their own predicament, the “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” attitude, and the way the homeless are scapegoated as immoral drug addicts all exist today as they did centuries ago. Ensign said these attitudes come from a lack of understanding, an understanding that is not often challenged, informed, or educated. She said documentaries such as “Seattle is Dying,” which attempts to report on the homeless crisis in Seattle by framing business owners as the victims of the crisis and without interviewing any people actually experiencing homelessness, only further perpetuate the stigmas surrounding the homeless. She believes that using the lived experience of those who have survived homelessness will be valuable for public education on the issue. She said these experts by experience are in the best position to not only educate the public on the issue, but also to identify solutions that worked for them. Ensign said it is ultimately the collective responsibility of our entire community to help end the homelessness crisis and it will take economic solutions, improvements and resources in schools, improved healthcare and social and financial support to help families stay together and to maintain an adequate social safety net across the community.

“We all contribute to its causes, as well as its solutions,” she said.

SHOP AND DINE

HISTORIC FRONT STREET CHARM

HISTORICALLY HIP ARTISAN MARKET November 27-28 December 11

November 28

YULETIDE ON FRONT A celebration of the winter solstice December 21

7th ANNUAL

HISTORIC SHELL HOLIDAY SHOP Over 30 local artists 12-6pm Friday-Sunday

Celebrate in Issaquah! Visit us throughout December to experience our local charm, boutique shopping, global cuisine and celebratory events.

downtownissaquah.com

Local

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Mercer Island Reporter

Our Cultural Soul Mercer Island, and the communities where we live and work, are at the heart of everything we do.

2241 74TH AVE SE | MERCER ISLAND $2,995,000 | PENDING

9750 SE 5TH ST | BELLEVUE $3,980,000 | PENDING

5721 S EDDY ST | SEATTLE $1,850,000 | PENDING

9608 HILLTOP RD | BELLEVUE $4,000,000 | SOLD

Where you live, who your neighbors are, and your local schools are all vital considerations when choosing a home. Like you, our global real estate advisors at Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty live and work in the communities they serve. In addition to supporting Mercer Island and its neighbors through Backpack Drives, Toy Drives, and annual fundraisers, they take it one step further—they give back to the communities they’re a part of through leadership, participation, and volunteering. We understand that when you’re looking for a home, you’re also looking for a community to belong to. Because nothing compares to home.

Meet your island experts and global real estate advisors:

Michele Schuler

Denise Seavitt

Diane Barrett Tien

Pamela Bellah

Natalie Debray

Freddy Delgadillo

Becky Gray

Tammy Gwinn

206.992.2013

206.841.8788

206.673.7206

206.619.2175

206.553.9037

425.941.8688

206.605.1927

206.799.3224

Robyn Hsu

Brandon J. Kelly

Heidi Nevin

Mary Norris

Scott Richards

Emily Roberts

Rachel Schindler

206.295.2247

206.512.4686

602.369.4166

206.713.2151

206.409.2498

206.225.5490

206.250.5622

Forest Restoration Volunteer Event

Snowflake Lane

Hands on Hanukkah

Join EarthCorps and the City of Mercer Island as we build a healthy forest at Upper Luther Burbank Park. Protect the plants and soil by spreading mulch and planting. Saturday, December 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. More at mercerisland.gov.

See the region’s most festive holiday show! Nightly Parade at 7 p.m. from November 26 - December 24. Experience the wonder of falling snow, dazzling lights, festive music, toy drummers, and dancers in this complimentary nightly parade of holiday floats. More at snowflakelane.com.

Celebrate the holiday with arts and crafts and tasty treats at the Mercer Island Harvest Center, Sunday, November 21, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Stop by the SJCC booth at the Harvest Festival to create your own Hanukkah artwork! More at sjcc.org/event.

Join us at our Mercer Island branch for future community events and to speak with our local real estate advisors.

Mercer Island Branch Office 7605 SE 27th Street, Suite 102, Mercer Island

Search Our Collection Of Extraordinary Properties On rsir.com

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