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Mercer Island, WA April 2024

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EDUCATION

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS: INVESTING IN STUDENTS & SCHOOLS

The Art of Investing

APRIL 2024

THE BEAUTY AND COMFORT OF YOUR HOME IS THE GREATEST INVESTMENT IN DAILY LIFE.

INVESTMENT IN DAILY LIFE, It's not a look, but a feeling: It's the sense that a space doesn't merely fit you, but reflects you, Artala is a bespoke interior design firm. We elevate where life happens-so you can discover the art of living.

(206) 501-4448 | amy@artaladesigns.com | @artala.de signs artaladesigns.com

Nestled at the end of a quiet lane on a spacious lot, this contemporary northwest home, designed by Leo Fisher, offers two levels of modern living. Recently updated with care, the main floor boasts lofty cathedral ceilings and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light. An open-concept kitchen, complete with a sizable island, invites culinary creativity, while the family, living, and dining rooms provide ample room to relax and entertain. The primary suite, along with two additional bedrooms, offers comfortable accommodations on the main level. Descend downstairs to discover a versatile media and recreation room, a fourth bedroom, a convenient laundry area, and a flex space perfect for a home gym or office. Outside, the sprawling yard is beautifully landscaped, featuring multiple usable areas, a level grassy expanse for play, and an extended deck and patio ideal for hosting gatherings. With all the updates already taken care of, this home is truly move-in ready. Conveniently located just minutes away from schools, shops, Pioneer Park trails, and the MI Beach Club, this property offers both tranquility and accessibility in equal measure.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Elevated Living in the Pacific Northwest 6811 East Mercer Way | 4 BD | 2.5 BA | 3,020 SF | $2,595,000
GREG ROSENWALD Founding Broker | Compass WA 206.914.0417 greg.rosenwald@compass.com GregRosenwald.com Voted Best Agent on Mercer Island. 6930 96th Ave SE | 4 BD | 3.25 BA | 4,269 SF | $3,175,000 7711 SE 58th Street | 3 BD | 2.75 BA | 2,741 SF | $2,995,000 PENDING IN 1 DAY PENDING IN 1 DAY

Invest for Non-Financial Outcomes

At Mercer Island City Lifestyle, we're channeling our publication as an inspirational community asset, delivering enriching local stories and reinforcing community connections with each issue.

Embark on an investment in sensory indulgence with Brenda El-Ghazzawy, as she leads us through Sonoma County. Her curated weekend is not merely a travelogue, but an invitation to virtually immerse yourself in a unique blend of Tasting, Biking, and Dining, elevating your life experience - or follow her lead and head to Sonoma yourself!

We know the markets get anxious in an election year, and since this issue is all about Investing, we reached out to the experts at Tschetter Group.  Our MI neighbor, Peter Jacobs CFA, CFP, shares insightful analysis on stock market trends during election cycles and the financial ramifications of election years and political landscapes that can shape market performance.

Highlight your calendars for April 30th for the Mercer Island Schools Foundation's Breakfast of Champions at MIHS. This significant investment in our educational landscape impacts our community deeply, propelling the Mercer Island School District to the forefront of innovation and excellence.

Julie Hsieh's spotlight for our Arts & Culture section is on Mercer Island School Orchestra programs and is a testament to our investment in the future of arts and talent. This strategic focus enriches our community, fostering a culture of creativity and showcasing the transformative power of investing in the holistic education of our youth.

The well-being of our pets is not just a duty but a rewarding investment that significantly impacts our lives and theirs. Dr. Peter Brown's contributions emphasize this essential commitment to their health and happiness.

And, during this end of winter season, we’re so pleased to Say Si! To the Fuudi Kitchen’s enticing Seacuterie Tinned Fish Board. Thanks to Suzie and Robin for another delicious how-to recipe.

For those seeking unique experiences and enjoyment, our Monthly Issue Release Parties offer an exclusive opportunity for MICL partners. Interested in joining? Reach out to Sharon at sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com for your invitation to these memorable events!

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dr. Peter Brown, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, Robin Holland, Julie Hsieh, Peter Jacobs, Suzie Mulligan, Nathan Mumford

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Julie Hsieh, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, Fuudi, Island Animal Hospital, Mercer Island Schools Foundation, Diane Tien

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

LIFESTYLE LETTER
CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND LIFESTYLE LETTER Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mercer Island area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Proverbs 3:5-6
@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE
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2727 78TH AVE SE MERCER ISLAND 206.905.6069 BEVY FLOG | PERFECT WHITE
| PORTO |ZADIG & VOLT AIRE | MOTHER FRANK & EILEEN | GO SILK | MASONS | PHILLIPE MODEL| HAMMITT | ATM SHOP MON-SAT 12PM-5PM
& Service
TEE
CuratedStyle
inside the issue APRIL 2024 | INVESTMENT Departments Boundless Sound. Taiwanese artist Wen-Yueh Tao 2020.  Oil on canvas 130 x 162 cm. Western Art Group of the National Art Academy graduate and Master of Spaces Art, National Institute of Decorative Arts, Paris, France. Photography: Julie Hsieh On the Cover 6 Lifestyle Letter 10 City Scene 12 Business Monthly 14 Travel Journal TRAVEL 18 Must See FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES 20 Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE 24 Education Corner EDUCATION 26 Pet Care WELLNESS 30 Our Town EDUCATION 32 Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE 34 Events Investing in Travel A Curated Sonoma Wine Country Weekend: Three Days of Tasting, Biking and Dining The Art of Investing Enriching Portfolios and Souls Alike Impact Investing in Generations to Come Mercer Island Schools Foundation 20th Annual Breakfast of Champions: Funding Educational Excellence Investing in Your Loyal Companion Keeping Your Pet Happy and Healthy: Wellness Care Featured 14 20 24 26 26 24 14 20 8
© 2024 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Robyn Kimura Hsu | Principal Broker | 206.295.2247 | Robyn@RobynandRachel.com Rachel Schindler | Managing Broker | 206.250.5622 | Rachel@RobynandRachel.com RobynandRachel.com Experience traditional elegance on Mercer Island in this 3,620-square-foot home on a 15,425-squarefoot lot. A daylight basement and a large wraparound deck seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living, surrounded by enchanting garden spaces. Remodeled kitchen and baths exude modern luxury. Located close to town with easy freeway access, it balances tranquility with urban connectivity. Explore nearby walking paths and beach parks, making this Mercer Island gem a celebration of timeless living. 6400 SE 24th Street MERCER ISLAND 5 Bedrooms | 2.25 Bathrooms 3,620 Square Feet | 15,425-Square-Foot Lot MLS# 2199469 Offered at $1,998,000 Proudly supporting our Mercer Island community Elevated Living

city scene

1: Early morning KMIH high school radio crew broadcasting live from the MIYFSF breakfast. 2: MISD Orchestra Boosters gather to support MIYFS school counselors who care for MI kids K-12+ 3: MICL proud to support Mercer Island Youth & Family Services at the 22nd Annual Breakfast 4: It takes an Island…pillars of support, Greg Rosenwald, Derek Franklin MIYFS Administrator, Chris, Mina Velamoor 5: MIYFSF Dream Team who made the Breakfast beautiful! Chair Michelle Peyree, Dina Wampold, Laurie Givan 6: MIYFSF breakfast supporters, Amanda Briggs, Starbucks Larry Snyder, MIYFSF Executive Director Laura Oberto, Erin Sirianni 7: MC, KUOW Week in Review Host, and MICL cover model, Bill Radke kicks off breakfast.
APRIL 2024 CITY SCENE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE JULIE HSIEH MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE
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MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE

8: Good morning Mercer Island! Wonderful to see over 590 caring community partners and neighbors 9: First Friday Art Walk Clarke & Clarke Art + Artifacts. Jim, Courtney and Ginny Clarke 10: First Friday Art Walk Suzanne Zahr Gallery. David & Sheryl Moore with Robin Li 11: Spotting a local celebrity at The Roanoke. Colin Brandt, Anthony Perez, Bill Radke, Ulrik Wallin. 12: Party prep at J. Garner Commercial Photography. Jim & Katarina Garner, Meg Zook, Megan Atkinson. 13: Lucky auction group from The Rare Soirée benefiting research for children with rare genetic disorders. 14: Small Bandits duo, Aly Burks on vocals and Debra Brandt on keyboard, serenade Barrel’s patrons

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11 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE
BUSINESS MONTHLY Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle Scan to read more Spring Styles Landing at Hip Zephyr Lucky you - you don’t need to leave the Island to find a hip boutique for Mulligan: Fuudi; Robin Holland: Fuudi ENJOY THE JOY. VISIT US TODAY! 7445 SE 24th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040 206-800-8670 aegisliving.com 12

tastefully curated domestic and international fashion for women. Cuttingedge style and quality make your wardrobe shine. Check out daily arriving spring fashions, accessories, jewelry and with the guidance of personalized style consulting and staff with extensive fashion knowledge. New products, outfit inspirations and events & sales. Personalized shopping and gift cards available for Mother’s Day.

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Islander Orthodontics’ Dr. Borda Coaches MI Bluebirds Track & Field

Dr. Alyssa Borda, a MIHS graduate and former Seattle University cross-country and track athlete, invites all kids in grades K-8th to join the Mercer Island Bluebirds Track and Field Team. Open to all abilities for practice and competitions in sprint, middle distance, long distance, and field events. Spring 2024 practice schedule March 26 - June 20. Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30-5:30 at Luther Burbank Park, Saturdays 8:30-9:45 at IMS.  Registration and more information at mibluebirds.com

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Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle Photography by Mercer Island Bluebirds
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Investing in Travel

Three Days in Sonoma California

EXPLORING SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

With rolling hills and sundrenched vineyards, the Sonoma area is home to some of the world’s most renowned wineries. Enjoy a day of wine tasting, exploring estates: Silver Oak, Flowers Vineyard & Winery, and DaVero Farms & Winery, each offering unique experiences from cellar tours to gourmet pairings.

The natural beauty of Sonoma is best explored outdoors. Hike the scenic trails of Jack London State Historic Park or embark on a kayaking journey down the Russian River.

Cycling enthusiasts will find plenty of picturesque routes winding through

A CURATED SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

WEEKEND: THREE DAYS OF TASTING, BIKING AND DINING

TRAVEL JOURNAL | TRAVEL
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Cycling through Sonoma offers Vineyard Views
SONOMA IS KNOWN FOR ITS SUPERB WINERIES, STUNNING LANDSCAPES, AND ELEVATED CUISINE; AND OFFERS A DIVERSE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES TO SUIT EVERY TRAVELER'S TASTE.

the vineyards and countryside. A great place to rent bikes is Getaway Adventures; both their guided and self-guided tours are excellent. They even have e-bikes if you need a little extra help cycling through the rolling hills.

Explore Sonoma’s unique boutiques and artisan shops for one-of-a-kind finds. The region’s farmer’s markets are a treasure trove of local arts, crafts, and produce, perfect for souvenirs.

Throughout the year, Sonoma hosts various festivals and events, celebrating everything from wine harvests to music and culture. These events offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community.

WHEN TO VISIT SONOMA

From late spring to early fall, the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are in full bloom. Getting around by car is easy, allowing you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, if you plan on wine tasting, then the easiest way to get around is by bike.

WHERE TO STAY IN SONOMA

H2Hotel Located in the heart of Northern Sonoma Wine Country, this eco-chic hotel features rooms with private balconies, organic aesthetic, and creative amenities.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN SONOMA

Valette is a classic, gourmet restaurant with excellent service. Bravas Bar de Tapas has an excellent tapas menu and a beautiful patio with heaters. The Matheson is an upscale farm-to-table restaurant with an extensive wine list. Lo & Behold Bar + Kitchen features excellent cocktails, try the ‘Can’t Stop Won’t Stop’ cocktail, it’s topped with an aquafaba foam.

Islander, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, is a Fora travel advisor and owner of Luxxe Travel, curating the best experiences in food, wine, art, and culture. luxxe.travel

Sonoma is inviting in all seasons
15 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
Sonoma Showcases Local California Cuisine
BY PETER JACOBS AND NATHAN MUMFORD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TSCHETTER GROUP ELECTION YEAR INVESTMENT OUTLOOK Vote of Confidence MUST SEE | FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES Islander Peter Jacobs, CFA, CFP, Senior Portfolio Manager Balancing Markets with Washington Beauty Election Year Investment Outlook 18
ARTICLE
“We’re in it together for the long haul, allies who help navigate change, anticipate challenges, alleviate fear, and instill a sense of confidence about the future.

Let us help you find the signal in the noise and invest with optimism. We have immense conviction that a disciplined approach to investing in good assets at reasonable prices will produce a bright future of attractive returns over the long run. Though economic and market cycles are as sure to repeat as the rising and setting sun, we have supreme confidence in the creative and innovative human spirit, and our collective ability to find new ways to break through and achieve great progress.

Every few years, we find ourselves inundated by presidential election-related news, noise, and campaign ads. It can be a deafening drumbeat of scare tactics, exaggerations, and unattainable promises, all aimed at swaying voters one way or another. In the last presidential election cycle (2019-2020), the Federal Election Committee reported that presidential campaigns spent $4.1 billion, party committees spent another $3.0 billion and Political Action Committees (PACs) spent $12.9 billion. That’s a whopping $20.0 billion in total. We suspect a much larger amount will be spent during the current election cycle.

Looking beyond the noise and exorbitant spending, what may be on investors’ minds - however they choose to vote - are the ramifications on near-term investment returns. The short answer is: NOTHING! Looking back at the past 11 presidential election cycles since 1980, the  stock market was down in only two election years. Those years were 2000 and 2008, and the cause of the decline had little-to-nothing to do with the elections or who won. In 2000, the main factor impacting the market was the dot-com/growth stock bubble that burst in March of 2000 and carried the market lower through 2003, resulting in

the market declining 9% in 2000 and falling a total of 38% through 2003. And during the 2008 election cycle, the Great Financial Crisis had already begun to play out and carried the market lower through early 2009. The result was a 37% decline in equities in 2008 and a less severe 8% decline through 2010 as the equity markets bottomed in 2009. To be sure, these were painful periods in the equity markets, but long-term investors with appropriate asset allocation to fit their risk profile and liquidity needs managed through it just fine.

Absent of these two election year “shocks,” the average gain in the stock market during an election year was 16%, and the average annualized three-year return was 14%, as shown in accompanying chart. And in all these years, the market was positive on both a one-year and three-year basis.

At the Tschetter Group, our approach to managing our clients’ investments remains consistent this year, as it has in previous years: We prioritize building financial wealth by owning good businesses and real estate, taking care to pay a fair price for each along the way. Our focus remains steadfast on long-term results, managing risk through strategic asset allocation, and looking beyond the “noise.”

We’re in it together for the long haul, allies who help navigate change, anticipate challenges, alleviate fear, and instill a sense of confidence about the future.

With Optimism,

19 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND

The Art of Investing

ENRICHING PORTFOLIOS AND SOULS ALIKE

ARTIST’S PALETTE | ARTS + CULTURE “Fantasy Island” by Wen-Yueh Tao
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Wen-Yueh Tao’s iconic "Movement of Nature" at prestigious high-rise Fubon 777 in Taipei

In the vibrant world of investments, where stocks and bonds often take center stage, a quietly powerful player emerges, capturing the hearts and portfolios of discerning investors: fine art. Beyond the shimmer of gold and the solidity of real estate, art offers a unique blend of emotional richness and financial potential, making it a compelling choice for those looking to diversify their investments with something that touches the soul as much as it promises potential returns.

The allure of fine art as an investment lies not just in its potential for appreciation but in the intangible benefits it brings to its collectors. Unlike traditional investments, art brings color, emotion, and life into the equation. It represents a convergence of culture, history, and personal expression, making it a profoundly personal asset that resonates with the collector on multiple levels.

Julie Hsieh, founder of Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue, WA, and Yuan Ru Gallery in Taipei, Taiwan, embodies the dual role of an artist and a savvy investor, understanding deeply the multifaceted value of art. Her perspective on investing in fine art goes beyond the conventional wisdom of financial gain, highlighting the broader, more holistic benefits that art brings into the lives of those who engage with it.

According to Hsieh, "Art as an investment transcends financial gains, encompassing emotional and health benefits. Beyond monetary value, investing in art enriches one's life with beauty, inspiration, and cultural significance. Owning art can evoke joy, stimulate creativity, and foster intellectual growth, enhancing overall happiness and well-being. Studies suggest that engaging with art can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and promote emotional resilience. Thus, investing in art not only diversifies one's portfolio but also

enriches the soul, offering a unique avenue for personal fulfillment and holistic health."

Hsieh's insight sheds light on the profound impact that art can have, not just on the walls of a home or the halls of a gallery, but on the very fabric of our lives. It speaks to the heart of why fine art remains an excellent investment. By intertwining financial prospects with the enhancement of personal well-being, art offers a sanctuary for both the mind and the spirit, making it a truly invaluable asset in anyone's collection.

Wen-Yueh Tao, born in 1961 in Keelung, Taiwan, is a distinguished artist and academic. (His work is a must-see and is currently on display at Yuan Ru Art Center.) After graduating from the National Art Academy's Western Art Group in 1987, he furthered his education in France, earning a Master of Spaces Art from the National Institute of Decorative Arts, Paris, in 1994. Tao spent two decades in France before returning to Taiwan, where he now serves as an assistant professor at both the National Taiwan University of the Arts and the National Taipei University of Education. His artistic journey, marked by over twenty-two solo and numerous group exhibitions worldwide, explores the realms of abstraction, memory, and contemporary symbolism. Tao's work, characterized by a fusion of hot and cold abstract expressions, point-and-line features, and unrestricted media use, from sketches to oil paintings and composite media, reflects deep introspection and a unique narrative style. His contributions to art and academia have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Gold Painting Gold Award from the Chinese Painting Society in 2018. Tao's creations are held in significant collections both in Taiwan and internationally, highlighting his impact on the contemporary art scene.

“Investing in art not only diversifies one’s portfolio but also enriches the soul, offering a unique avenue for personal fulfillment and holistic health.”
21 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Kelly Weisfield J.D., CRS, ABR Founding Broker | Compass WA 206.355.3863 KellyWeisfield.com Puget Sound Luxury Living 4909 SW Othello Street West Seattle | Listed at $3,450,000 First Time on the Market | Custom-Built Stunner 8454 SE 44th Street Mercer Island | Listed at $3,250,000 Exceptional Luxury Representation

IMPACT INVESTING IN GENERATIONS TO COME

MERCER ISLAND SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

20TH ANNUAL BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS: FUNDING EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

The annual Mercer Island Schools Foundation, Breakfast of Champions, is a celebration and showcase of the outstanding students, alumni, educators and programs in the Mercer Island K-12 public schools. The early spring, and early morning, event brings together hundreds of parents, alumni, local businesses, and other community members, creating a vital network of support for our excellent school district.   Every member of our community has the opportunity to make an impact investment in the core of our community - our students and schools. When you donate to the Schools Foundation, you give to the ones that will give back for generations to come.

EDUCATION CORNER | EDUCATION
The Annual Breakfast Provides Vital Funds for K-12
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Mercer Island Schools Foundation Support Enables Exceptional Programs
State funds alone cannot support the rigorous, inclusive education our students deserve to reach their highest potential and achieve their dreams.
Jennifer & Tony Hsu

The Mercer Island Schools Foundation, established in 1981, stands as a shining example of community-driven support for education and has been instrumental in supporting diverse initiatives to enrich students' educational experiences and provide essential resources for teachers.

1. Enhancing Resources to fund initiatives not covered by the regular school budget and state funding; including technology upgrades, extracurricular activities, special projects, and student scholarships.

2. Promoting Equity, helping to ensure that all students have access to the tools and support they need to succeed by bridging gaps in resources and opportunities.

3. Long-Term Impact: Investing in our schools and students today, has long-term positive impacts that will pay off throughout their entire lives. A challenging, dynamic and well-rounded education prepares students for success in their future endeavors, making happier, healthier individuals better positioned to make positive contributions to our overall community.

Join the 2024 Breakfast of Champions on Tuesday, April 30th @ 7:00am at MIHS. Register at mercerislandschools foundation. com/events/breakfast-champions-2024 Your generosity, regardless of the amount, is invaluable and greatly appreciated.

25 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
Investing in Teacher Innovation

Investing in Your Loyal Companion

KEEPING YOUR PET HAPPY AND HEALTHY: WELLNESS CARE

As pet parents, we cherish the companionship and joy our furry friends bring into our lives. Ensuring their well-being is paramount, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by investing in wellness care. Just like us, our pets benefit immensely from regular check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings that can detect health issues early on.  Wellness care, or preventative care, encompasses a range of proactive measures aimed at maintaining your pet’s health and vitality. This includes nose-to-tail examinations, regular vaccination updates, diagnostic tests, parasite prevention, and dental care. Each component of preventative care is designed to address specific aspects of your pet’s well-being and contribute to their overall health and longevity.

• Nose-to-tail exams are the foundation of preventative care, providing an opportunity for your veterinarian to assess overall health and detect any underlying issues early on. During these exams, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical assessment, discuss your pet’s lifestyle and behavior, and address any concerns or questions.

• Regular vaccinations are essential for protecting your pet against a variety of infectious diseases that can pose serious health risks. By staying up to date on vaccinations, you can help safeguard your pet’s health and prevent the spread of contagious diseases within the community.

• Diagnostic tests, like blood work and fecal analyses, are crucial for uncovering hidden health issues. This data empowers your veterinarian to create custom treatment plans.

• Parasite prevention - Parasites such as fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms can pose significant health

PET CARE | WELLNESS
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Investing in wellness care is a commitment to overall well-being

threats to your pet. Some of these threats aren’t treatable, making preventative measures crucial.

• Dental care – Most pets have some degree of dental disease so it’s critical to start good oral health early with professional dental examinations and teeth cleanings.

Preventative pet care offers a plethora of advantages. Routine examinations facilitate the timely identification of subtle changes in your pet’s health, empowering veterinarians to intervene promptly and implement appropriate treatment strategies. The proactive approach of early intervention not only minimizes the risk of disease progression but also alleviates discomfort and suffering, ultimately preserving your pet’s well-being and vitality.

While the initial costs may appear daunting, wellness care is an investment and may lead to long-term cost savings. Addressing health concerns early on may mitigate the need for emergency interventions and more prolonged hospitalizations. Investing in preventative measures such as vaccinations and parasite prevention significantly reduces the risk of preventable diseases, sparing both pet owners and their companions from unnecessary pain, suffering, and financial burdens.

HOW WELLNESS PLANS CAN HELP

By enrolling in a wellness plan tailored to your pet’s specific requirements, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their health needs are consistently met without the stress of unexpected expenses.

Check with your veterinary team to see what kind of routine wellness plan they offer to consistently care for your pets within your budget for optimal quality of life.

Investing in wellness care for your pet is not just an investment in their health—it’s a commitment to their overall well-being and longevity. By partnering with your veterinary team to implement a proactive healthcare regimen, you can provide your beloved companion with the best possible chance at a happy, healthy life by your side.

Preventative pet care offers a plethora of advantages. Routine examinations facilitate timely identification of subtle changes in your pet's health, empowering veterinarians to intervene promptly and implement appropriate treatment strategies.
27 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
Nose to Tail Exams are the foundation of wellness
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hello@islanderortho.com www.islanderortho.com Mercerdale Professional Center | 3236 78th Ave SE Suite 102 | Mercer Island BOOK A VACATION www.luxxe.travel IT’S TIME TO design remodel build plant delight nwlifestylehomes.com 29 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND

Impact Investing Orchestrating

OUR TOWN | EDUCATION
MERCER ISLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT ORCHESTRA
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MISD Orchestra Directors and artists

An investment in all of us.  Our orchestra, our students, our community.  When you help the MISD orchestra, you help our community and support our shared future.  Mercer Island School District orchestras foster the growth of young musicians and artists, and multi-faceted students;  shaping the future of symphonies, composers, and wellrounded individuals. Supporting student musicians not only enriches our cultural landscape but also cultivates creativity, discipline, and teamwork.

Through music education, students develop invaluable skills that extend far beyond the concert hall, enhancing their academic performance and personal growth. An orchestra student’s journey through eight years of beautiful music is both mapped out with high expectations of outcomes and differentiated to his or her personal musical ambitions and passion.

Every orchestra student at any ability level can fully participate in the orchestra program through high school.

Investing impact now and into the future:

By investing in our district’s orchestra and fine arts programs, we invest in the future of our community, nurturing a generation of passionate individuals who will continue to inspire and contribute to the world of fine arts for years to come.

For more information, upcoming concerts and donation opportunities, please visit the Mercer Island Orchestra Booster’s website miorchestra.org.

IMS Orchestra Director, Sarah Hart MIOB Co-President Dort Lessard MIOB VP Julie Hsieh MISD Superintendent Fred Rundle MIHS Orchestra Director Bryan Kolk Sharon Singh Co-President, MI Orchestra Boosters
31 APRIL 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLAND
5th Grade Orchestra

The charcuterie board has long been a favorite for gatherings, offering an array of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. But for those seeking a lighter and more ocean-inspired alternative, the seacuterie board is the perfect solution! In this article, we'll explore how to create a delightful seacuterie board using tinned fish (conservas) instead of traditional charcuterie.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by selecting a variety of high-quality tinned fish, and opt for a mix of flavors and textures. Sardines, mussels, calamari, and tuna are excellent choices! Choose options packed in olive oil or other flavorful oils or sauces for added richness.

Step 2: Choose Complementary Accompaniments

Include items such as crusty bread, crackers, and breadsticks for texture. Add a selection of olives, capers, pickles, and marinated vegetables to provide a burst of contrasting flavors. Fresh lemon wedges can also add a citrusy brightness to the board.

Step 3: Arrange with Artistry

Presentation is key when it comes to creating an enticing seacuterie board. Use a large wooden board or platter as your canvas. Start by strategically placing the tinned fish, allowing each variety its own space. Arrange the accompaniments around the fish, and don’t be afraid to move things around to create the most artful and visually appealing display.

Say Si Seacuterie!

How to Create a Seacuterie Board Using Tinned Fish from Around the World

Step 4: Incorporate Dips and Sauces

These secondary items surrounding the fish can really bump up both the visual and palate appeal of a seacuterie board. Consider using a zesty lemon aioli, a tangy mustard sauce, or a homemade tzatziki to complement the flavors of the tinned fish. Place small bowls of these sauces strategically on the board for easy dipping.

Step 5: Add Fresh Elements

Include a handful of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to add a burst of color and freshness. Slices of cucumber, radishes, cherry tomatoes, or grapes can also provide a refreshing contrast.

Step 6: Serve at the Right Temperature

For the best experience, allow your tinned fish to come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors and textures.

Ingredients in photo - top down view:

Clockwise from top:

1. Villa Jerada Chermoula Spread

2. Jose Gourmet Sardines in Tomato Sauce

3. Rustic Bakery Flatbread

4. Mina Moroccan Non-Pareil Capers

5. Asaro Muffuletta (olive salad)

6. Jose Gourmet Smoked Small Sardines

7. Salsa Espinaler

8. Espinaler Anchovy Stuffed Green Olives

9. Matiz Espana D.O. Piquillo Peppers

10. Jose Gourmet Fried Mussels in Marinade

11. Fangst Danish Freshwater Trout Smoked with Juniper & Lemon Thyme.

All available at www.fuudi.com

Enjoy!

From the Fuudi Kitchen - Suzie Mulligan & Robin Holland

CULINARY CREATIONS FOOD + BEVERAGE
Tinned Fish Seacuterie Board
32

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