Serving your Mercer Island neighbors since 1984
Live in the lap of modern luxury with our stunning homes. Our unique designs seamlessly blend form and function to create a living space that is both beautiful and practical. Don’t just live in a house, thrive in a home that is as extraordinary as you are.
“As
Homeowner — Lea Anne
Elevating Dreams, One Home at a Time.
As
- Kelly, Evi & Christine
Kelly
-J.H., Mercer Island
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW
Reflecting on a year of guiding clients through seamless sales and new beginnings—thank you for making us a part of your journey home. Here are some of my featured home sales of 2024.
Love Local: Celebrating Community and Connection
Dear Readers,
This month, we’re turning the spotlight on what makes Mercer Island truly special—the power of local love. It’s not just about the places we gather; it’s about the people and stories that bring us together and remind us why we call this Island “home.”
In our opening story, Nikki Baidwan, a Mercer Island resident, immigrant, and Head of Google Cloud Global Marketing Technology, captures the magic of Mercer Island as the “feeling of home.” Her reflections remind us that home is not just where you are—it’s who you’re with.
Speaking of community, we’re proud to support Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) as a table sponsor for their 23rd Annual Fundraising Breakfast. Frank Scott and Sharon bring us an inspiring interview with Executive Director Amy French and the MIYFS Board, shining a light on their unwavering dedication to supporting our neighbors in need.
We’re also thrilled to introduce a new partner this month: Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery. A.J. Amadi, MD, and Maria Amadi, PA-C, share their insights on the rising bifurcation between corporate-owned and family-owned practices, offering a refreshing take on why the personal touch matters in today’s world.
On the cover, “Who’s a Good Dog?” takes us on a heartfelt journey with service dogs, celebrating the extraordinary bond between these devoted companions and those they serve. Prepare to be inspired by their stories of calm, compassion, and unconditional love.
Larry Snyder’s Legendary Sock Drive reminds us of the joy in giving back. Now in its 9th year, Larry shares the “why” behind this cherished tradition and the difference it makes in the lives of so many.
As you sip this month’s feature cocktail, the Earhart, courtesy of Northwest Spirits, take a moment to raise a glass to the creative spark behind Julie Hsieh’s curated art at the Yuan Ru Art Center. In collaboration with Bellevue Lifestyle, Publisher Taylor Robinson joins us to showcase Julie’s artistic journey and the vision behind her stunning work.
This issue is a love letter to the people, businesses, and causes that make Mercer Island extraordinary. Together, we are building a community defined by compassion, creativity, and connection.
Here’s to living local, loving local, and celebrating all that makes Mercer Island the home we treasure.
Warmly,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nikki Baidwan, Taylor Robinson, Frank Schott, Northwest Spirits
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
J Garner Commercial Photography, Alan Hsiao, Laura Ohata, AnneMarie Zarba, Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: MICL’s intrepid photographer, Jim Garner, and assistant in action, shooting the cover in Pioneer Park 2: Multi-talented dancers! Island Youth Ballet’s 2024 Nutcracker featured many MIHS Drill Team members. 3: It was cold and wet, but MIFM volunteers brought the warmth for the Harvest Market 4: The SJCC had children’s crafts at the MI Farmers Market end of season Harvest Market 5: Salon NUR got the art out in November. 6: Mercer Island High School Bands filled the PAC with for the Winter Concert. 7: Chris, Suzanne Vannatter, and Andrew Baklinski at on a stormy night for the Release Party Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
8: PIAR designer, Caroline Hughes and Sharon with the comfort heels at the MICL Issue Release Party 9: MI and family history come together: Kate Monroe, Aiko Fujii, Kelly Goto, Nellie Fujii-Anderson, and Dee Goto 10: Hardworking Ballet moms! Heather Galgon, Julie Lamb, and Suzanne Vannatter Photography by J Garner Photography
Mercer Island Voices
Love Local: Mercer Island is the Feeling of Home
The concept of home has always been elusive for me. I grew up as an Army brat in India, moving every two years to a new city, a new house, a new school. This nomadic childhood made me adaptable in my approach, but also left me craving a sense of stability and permanence.
The rootlessness persisted after I moved to New York City as a newly wed. As young immigrants eager to establish ourselves in a new land, we moved frequently, chasing convenience and affordability in our living situation over everything else.
However, once we had kids, we decided to move across the country to the Pacific Northwest for a new job opportunity for him. While I loved the excitement of my job at People magazine in New York City, we were all ready for a change of pace. We landed on Mercer Island while we searched for a more permanent home. The manager of our apartment building gave us a very prescient Hotel California warning, “Once you arrive on Mercer Island, you never leave. “ And of course, she was right! We didn’t think we could afford to buy a house on Mercer Island, but when we walked into this 1960 house, I instantly fell in love with the wall of windows looking out onto a beautiful willow. We stretched ourselves to buy the house and I’ve been grateful for that ever since.
ARTICLE BY NIKKI BAIDWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PERSONAL FRIENDS
My children grew up in that house - walking to the park in the summer for Music in the Park, sledding at Homestead during snow days, having birthday parties at home and learning to drive in the island school parking lots. I didn’t realize how much the island traditions meant to the children until we were planning a summer trip to Europe and my daughter burst out crying because she didn’t want to miss the Mercer Island Summer celebration. We planned our trip so we could come back for the second day of the celebration.
I loved the sense of community that is such an integral part of life on the island - bumping into my children’s teachers on a walk, running into friends on a trip to the grocery store, even donating and shopping at the Thrift Store. When COVID hit, I spent countless hours just walking the island with my labradoodle, sitting by the lake or spotting woodpeckers in the woods by West Mercer elementary.
Nikki is a Salon NUR Founder
Gathering in the park with our dogs was a lifeline for so many of us, and I ended up meeting and forming deep bonds with my “dog group”, many of whom are like family to me now.
As idyllic as life on the island has been, it’s still life - full of transitions and changes. The past few years have felt to me like I’ve been trapped in an earthquake where the aftershocks just keep coming. My marriage ended, my children both left for collegeleaving me with a completely empty nest. And then, I had a house fire that significantly damaged even that empty nest.
During these challenges, my absolute pillar of support has been my community on Mercer Island. I cannot even list the ways my friends have
shown up for me - they’ve been there for late night talks, shown up at my house when I called them sobbing in the middle of the day, cooked me food, helped me set up my temporary house, welcomed me into their homes. My dog hater friend walked my dogs when I was sick, another friend drove over to pick me up when my new giant puppy decided to sit down in the middle of the road and refused to walk home.
During this time of change, it has been tempting to seek a fresh start. To perhaps downsize and move off island or even to a different part of the world. “You can do anything, go anywhere now,” my friends have said. But, I’ve realized, I’d rather be here. I am now rebuilding my home on the island. I’m doing it because that feeling I get when I turn off the freeway onto the island is the feeling of home. It’s the feeling I’ve been seeking all my life.
ARTICLE BY FRANK SCHOTT & SHARON PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIYFS FOUNDATION
GIVING FROM THE HEART
NO ONE LOVES LOCAL LIKE MERCER ISLAND YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
MICL connected with Amy French, Executive Director, Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) Foundation and Board members prior to their 23rd Annual Fundraising Breakfast.
Amy French joined the Foundation as Executive Director earlier this year and she has been busy getting to know the Mercer Island community and the Foundation’s partners.
MICL: AMY, YOU ARE FINISHING YOUR FIRST YEAR AS THE MIYFS FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. HOW HAS THE FIRST YEAR GONE FOR YOU?
It’s been fantastic. The Community is so supportive of the Foundation and helping us keep MIYFS programs and services funded over many decades. MIYFS does such great work supporting Island students, seniors and families that need short-term assistance.
MIYFSF Executive Director Amy French
This community truly embodies why I wanted to raise my family on Mercer Island
-
Steffenie Evans
HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SURPRISES?
Amy: Yes, but mostly good ones. Any Executive Director that steps in expects to find some things that are broken. That has not been my experience so far. The Board functions at a high level and they are fun to work with. Our major fundraising activities like the Breakfast and the Tree Lot are well planned and we get a lot of help from community partners like MI Trade Inc., the City and our sponsors. My predecessors on staff, as well as the Board, laid a solid foundation for us to build from. We just need to continue to find ways to communicate that even affluent communities, like Mercer Island, have food insecure residents and need mental health and other supports offered by a social-service department like MIYFS
THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR’S BREAKFAST IS “TOGETHER WE HELP ISLANDERS EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.”
MIYFS touches the lives of every Islander in one way or another. It might be parenting resources for young children. Or the amazing work that the YFS Counselors do with students at each of our Island’s public schools. Or programs like Death Café and Seniors Living Alone for seniors and their caregivers. It’s also great that the community and MIYFS recognize that some Islanders fall on tough times and need short- term assistance. The MIYFS partnership with Hopelink is very innovative and helps to provide food-insecure Islanders with fresh and healthy food options via a mobile food market that visits the island twice a month.
CONTINUED >
MIYFS Board Members
MIYFS Foundation Board Members
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN THE MIYFS FOUNDATION BOARD?
Cindy Goetzmann, Board President
I joined the MIYFS Foundation Board because I have a strong commitment to community service. MIYFS’ mission to support the mental health of Islanders and to help those Islanders experiencing financial distress only strengthens our community. As someone who has experienced firsthand how MIYFS can help children who struggle with anxiety and overwhelming emotions, I want to ensure that every child continues to have access to that support in schools, now and in the future.
Terry Moreman
MIYFS in not just youth services. It’s one of the only social service providers that serves community members of all ages. I joined the Foundation Board because I wanted to support the range of services provided by MIYFS that includes resources for seniors.
Frank Schott
I wanted to honor my mom who worked at the Thrift Store for 35 years and got occasional help from YFS so that she could keep living on her own until age 101!
WHAT HAVE YOU LIKED MOST ABOUT WORKING ON THE MIYFS FOUNDATION BOARD?
Dr. Liz Evans
I like helping out at our community events. My favorite event is the Tree Lot and working as a lumberjack. I love seeing my patients, neighbors and meeting community members. It’s also fun when the students comment that their doctor is actually using a chainsaw!
Steffenie Evans – Hands down, the people. Everyone involved with MIYFS Foundation, from other board members, the staff and leadership to the major donors, are wonderful. This community truly embodies why I wanted to raise my family on Mercer Island.
Board Members Liz Evans and volunteer with the Mobile Market
Terry Moreman, Amy French, MIYFS Director Derek Franklin,Ivy Suzuki-Jenkins
MIYFS touches the lives of every Islander in some way.
WHAT CHALLENGES DOES MIYFS FOUNDATION FACE?
Steffenie Evans
The structure of the MIFYS Department vs the MIYFS Foundation, the complicated funding mechanisms (Thrift Shop, City funds, private donations, tree lot) and the breadth of the community we serve (children, adults, and seniors) make our story a complicated one to convey quickly and easily. As the mental health crisis continues, and costs for service increase, we have to get better at telling our story and make sure more islanders know about MIYFS.
WHAT’S A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU THAT MANY DON’T KNOW?
Cindy Goetzmann
Is it possible to grow up living all over the world and yet be incapable of fluently speaking any language other than English? Yes, that would be me. Vietnamese, Swahili, Amharic, Arabic, Sinhalese, and Tagalog all stumped me.
Frank Schott
My wife and I both went to Sunnybeam School at the same time and we both graduated from MIHS, Our 50 year reunion is this year!
Amy French
I cold plunge in the Puget Sound on average about 3X a week – rain, sleet or sunshine!
MIYFS Staff members
Michelle Ritter and Marina Gonzalesat the Food Truck
SENIOR RESOURCE FAIR
A J and Maria
LOVING Local
ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMADI AESTHETICS PLASTIC SURGERY
Picture this: You’re standing in front of the mirror one morning, sunlight streaming through the windows, and you catch your reflection. It’s not about spotting flaws—it’s about that spark, the confidence you want to see staring back at you. Maybe it’s a subtle shift you’re craving, a little refresh. Or maybe it’s a bigger transformation that matches how vibrant you feel inside. You’ve heard about the rise of Plastic Surgery, Med Spas and aesthetic treatments—Botox, fillers, body contouring— and you’re curious.
But with so many new clinics and glossy ads promising quick results, you can’t help but wonder: Will they really care about “me”?
That’s the question I found asking myself recently while exploring the world of aesthetic medicine. And it’s the question that brought me to A.J. Amadi, MD, and Maria Amadi, PA-C, the dynamic duo behind Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery. Their story, and the care they provide, offers a refreshing reminder that beauty isn’t just about results—it’s about relationships.
THE CHANGING FACE OF AESTHETIC MEDICINE
Let’s pause for a moment. Have you noticed how self-care has evolved? It’s no longer just about a spa day or a good skincare routine. For many, it’s become a deeper investment in feeling good, looking refreshed, and embracing confidence.
This shift has turned aesthetic medicine into a booming industry. Treatments like injectables, body contouring, and surgical enhancements are more accessible than ever. And it’s not just individuals taking notice—Private Equity (PE) firms have entered the chat.
Why? These clinics are goldmines to Professional Investors. Think loyal clients returning for regular maintenance, cashbased services that avoid the hassle of insurance, and scalable models that can expand quickly. From a business perspective, it’s a no-brainer.
But here’s the catch: When clinics are driven by corporate investors, the focus can shift from patient care to profit margins. For patients, that can mean feeling less like a person and more like a number.
CORPORATE CHAINS VS. LOCAL CARE
This is where the real choice comes in. PE-backed clinics often prioritize efficiency, scalability, and fast growth. Their branding is polished, their processes are streamlined, and their reach is wide. But there’s a tradeoff: The personal touch can get lost.
On the flip side, local, family-owned practices like Amadi Aesthetics take a completely different approach. It’s not about standardizing care—it’s about customizing it.
Maria Amadi summed it up perfectly when she said, “It seems like we get a call or email every day from a Private Equity firm asking if we want to sell. But for us, it’s not about the business—it’s about the patients. It’s about building relationships and delivering results that last.”
And when you meet the Amadis, you can feel that commitment.
“IT’S ABOUT helping you LOOK AND FEEL LIKE THE best , MOST natural VERSION OF YOURSELF WITHOUT CREATING a caricature ."
- A.J. AMADI, MD
MEET THE AMADIS: EXPERTS WITH HEART
A.J. and Maria Amadi are the kind of people who instantly make you feel at ease. They’re not just experts in their respective fields—they’re passionate about forging genuine connections with their patients.
Dr. Amadi is a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with almost 25 years of experience. His area of expertise is plastic surgery of the eyelids, face, and neck, most commonly in the pursuit of natural, facial rejuvenation. Originally from N.Y.C., Dr. Amadi’s extensive medical training took him through some of the most elite East Coast medical institutions such as New York University and Harvard Medical School until he changed coasts to complete his Oculofacial Plastic Surgery training at the University of Washington Medical Center. Upon completion of his training, he was recruited to become a faculty member at UWMC, treating some of the most challenging trauma and cancer patients, while teaching his craft to aspiring plastic surgeons and ophthalmologists, among other surgical specialists, while also advancing the field through clinical research. After a decade of academic medicine, he transitioned to
A.J. Amadi, MD
Maria Amadi, PA-C
private practice, initially joining a friend’s practice where he met, Maria…his future wife and life partner. Though his standout medical and surgical training placed him on the path of success, what really stands out is his surgical philosophy: “My goal is not to change who you are,” he told me. “It’s about helping you look and feel like the best, most natural version of yourself without creating a caricature. If someone asks my patient ‘so…who’s your surgeon???’ after not having seen them in a while, I feel like I’ve failed”
Maria Amadi, PA-C, is a medical aesthetics expert known for her artistry with non-surgical treatments like Botox, fillers, and advanced laser therapies. A Mercer Islander since elementary school, Maria only left the Island to attend and graduate from the University of Washington all the way in Seattle! She then continued her passion for medicine in a laboratory at the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center before becoming a certified Physician Assistant at UWMC, and returning to Mercer Island. She then joined a plastic surgery practice honing her skills in cosmetic dermatology and medical aesthetics. With over 16 years of experience under her belt, she has become one of the region’s most respected and sought after injectors and laser providers. Her approach is all about balance and subtlety. “The best results,” she shared, “are the ones where people say, ‘You look amazing!’ without being able to pinpoint why.”
Together, the Amadis have created something truly special at Amadi Aesthetic Plastic Surgery—a place where cutting-edge treatments meet old-fashioned care.
WHY PERSONALIZED CARE MATTERS
At Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery and Medspa, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Every face, every story, every goal is unique. And that’s exactly how you’re treated.
Maria explained it beautifully: “Your face is a reflection of your life. Our job isn’t to erase that—it’s to enhance it, to celebrate it.”
Whether it’s a subtle tweak with injectables or a transformative surgical procedure, the Amadis prioritize results that are natural, balanced, and completely *you*.
A NEW STANDARD OF CARE ON MERCER ISLAND
When I heard Amadi Aesthetics was expanding into a new clinic and plastic surgery center on Mercer Island, I couldn’t help but feel excited. (Ask Maria how long I’ve been bugging her.) This isn’t just another clinic—it’s a place where expertise and compassion come together to create something truly special for our community.
At a time when so many clinics feel transactional, Amadi Aesthetics reminds us of what care really means.
"Getting ready" Maria Amadi, PA-C
"In action", A.J. Amadi, MD
“THE best RESULTS ARE THE ONES WHERE PEOPLE SAY, ‘You look amazing! ’ WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO PINPOINT why.”
- MARIA AMADI, PA-C
It’s not about trends or numbers. It’s about relationships. It’s about trust. And it’s about really listening to you before guiding you on your journey to confidence.
READY TO INVEST IN YOU?
If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step—whether it’s refreshing your look or embracing a bigger transformation—Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery just might be the place you’ve been looking for. They’re not here to change you. They’re here to help you feel like *you*…a more refreshed version of *you*.
Because at the end of the day, aesthetic care isn’t just about how you look. It’s about how you *feel*. And you deserve to feel amazing.
So, what do you think? Maybe it’s time to explore what’s possible—because loving local isn’t just about supporting your community. It’s about finding care that’s as personal as you are.
Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery and Med Spa is now open on Mercer Island. Learn more about their personalized approach to beauty and confidence at www.amadiaesthetics.com or just drop by.
Who’s a Good Dog?
MERCER ISLAND HIGH SCHOOL COMFORT DOGS BRING CALMING LOVE TO MIHS STUDENTS
ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY
Finley
Teacher Andrea Confalone with Finley
Guinness
Mercer Island schools provide many unique benefits and ways to support students, including the immensely valuable Youth & Family Services counselors in each school, but none are as warm and furry as Finley and Guinness, Mercer Island High School’s beloved comfort dogs.
At Mercer Island High School, two furry heroes, Finley and Guinness, are making a difference in the lives of students and staff alike. These comfort dogs have become a cherished part of the school community, offering unconditional love and support to everyone they encounter.
Finley, a lovable golden retriever, and Guinness, were introduced to the school to promote emotional well-being and help students navigate the challenges of high school life by their human, special education teacher, Andrea Confalone. Whether it’s easing test-day nerves, providing a soothing presence during stressful moments, or simply brightening a student’s day, these dogs are always ready to lend a paw.
Studies have shown that therapy and comfort dogs can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental health. Finley and Guinness embody this, often found lounging in “their” classroom or greeting students in the hallways with wagging tails and friendly eyes. Their presence encourages students to open up about their feelings, creating a safe space for conversations that might otherwise be difficult, or just a quiet snuggle - no questions asked by these two!
Teachers and staff also benefit from these canine companions. Many have noted that the dogs help foster a sense of community and calmness throughout the school.
Mercer Island High School’s decision to include Finley and Guinness as part of their wellness initiative reflects Mercer Island’s recognition of the vital role mental health plays in education. In the fast-paced world of high school, these comfort dogs remind everyone to pause, breathe, and take a moment to enjoy the simple joy of a wagging tail.
Andrea helps pose Finley and Guinness
SHARE THE LOVE, SUPPORT LOCAL
SHARE THE LOVE, SUPPORT LOCAL
This February, the Robyn & Rachel Group is spreading Local Love! We believe in giving back to the community we call home by shining a spotlight on the incredible small businesses that make Mercer Island and Bellevue so special. Here’s how you can earn a gift:
DISCOVER: Check out our curated list of 14 amazing local businesses.
VISIT: Stop by at least 3 businesses this month—grab a coffee, shop local, or enjoy a meal!
SHARE: Snap a photo, post to your IG stories, and tag @robynandrachelgroup!
RECEIVE: As a thank-you, we’ll send you a special gift for participating!
Let’s celebrate the heart of our community together. By supporting these small businesses, we’re helping our neighborhoods thrive.
• Island Books
• Terra Bella
• Hip Zephyr
• La Ree
• Gin & The Banker
• Barrels Wine Bar
• Whisk
• Hedge & Vine
• Sano Café
• Pagliacci Pizza - Mercer Island
• Mioposto - Mercer Island
• Crawlspace Gastropub
• Allister - Mercer Island
• La Fete Patisserie
Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways. Hidden gem alert!
Good news in your neighborhood. Local content by local creators. Inside scoop on all things local.
Locally-inspired food & drink recipes.
LARRY SNYDER AND ETHAN YARBROUGH
9th Annual Legendary Sock Drive
Local Love from Larry at Starbucks, Keeping Mom's Spirit Alive
ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY J. SNYDER
Larry Snyder, barista at the Drive-Thru Starbucks, has turned a simple act of giving into a phenomenon that extends far beyond the island.
The story of the 9th Annual Legendary Sock Drive began back in 2007 when Larry and his publisher, Ethan Yarbrough started handing out socks in a Union Gospel Mission rescue van. “We had 200 pairs and ran out,” Larry recalls and the two made a pact. “These vans will never run out of socks again.”
Starting with a goal of 500 pairs quickly grew. “Over 6,000 pairs in 24 hours!” Larry exclaimed referring to the sock drops at Mary’s Place and the Children’s Fund. “The joy goes to the giver,” he says. It’s amazing that the involvement isn’t just local. Participation now comes from South Carolina to Ethiopia to Australia.
The Sock Drive is a deeply personal tribute to his mother, a woman whose boundless compassion defined his childhood. “She recycled glass to buy food because food banks didn’t exist.” Larry says, referring to her commitment to care for others. Her focus was running a preschool/daycare center in Holly Park, one of Seattle’s toughest neighborhoods.
This is where the most extreme example came when two young girls, ages 2 and 3, were abandoned. Despite unscalable challenges, his mother took them in, raising them for 12 years. “She knew she had to be the answer to these kids,” Larry reflects. This unwavering commitment to doing what’s right left an indelible mark. These girls “are” two of his five sisters.
The Sock Drive is Larry’s way of keeping his mother’s spirit alive. “I was shown, at an early age, how you establish your care of community,” Larry says.
As Mercer Island celebrates the success of another Sock Drive, Larry remains humble. “It’s such a blast to do this with a group that is doing it for the right reasons,” he says. And while the drive officially runs for only 30 days, its impact— like the spirit of the woman who inspired it—lasts a lifetime.
One-touch
Seamless
The Earhart
ARTICLE BY NORTHWEST SPIRITS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNEMARIE ZARBA
Love Local: Northwest Spirits Premier Pour of the Month
February calls for a cocktail as bold and beautiful as love itself. The Earhart, with its delicate pink hue and floral notes, is a guest favorite and a modern take on the classic Aviation. Perfect for Valentine’s, it’s a toast to adventure, elegance, and romance.
ingredients:
• 1.5 shots Savor Spear® Gin
• 1 shot fresh lemon juice
• ¾ shot rosemary rose syrup*
• ¼ shot Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
• 3 dried rosebuds for garnish
directions:
Step 1. Fill a shaker with ice.
Step 2. Add all ingredients except garnish.
Step 3. Shake well (15-20 seconds) and strain into a coupe glass.
Step 4. Garnish with three dried rosebuds.
Pro Tip. You can purchase our handcrafted rosemary rose syrup and dried rosebuds at our Tasting Room in Woodinville.
TRANSCENDING BOUNDARIES
Discover How Curator, Julie Hsieh, Curates Transformative Art that Fosters Creativity, Culture and Community Connection
Islander, Julie Hsieh, is a dedicated advocate for arts in all forms: an active leader in MISD arts and MIVAL; she also owns and curates Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue. In a special collaboration between MI City Lifestyle and Bellevue City Lifestyle, we honor Julie for her love of local arts. Bellevue Publisher, Taylor Robinson, shares her interview with us.
Artwork by Deng Zuoli at Yuan Ru Art Center
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA OHATA AND ALAN HSIAO
“I seek pieces that evoke happiness, transforming both my gallery and your home with positivity and inspiration.”
- Julie Hsieh
WHAT IS THE GUIDING PHILOSOPHY BEHIND YUAN RU ART CENTER’S CURATION?
I aim to showcase contemporary artworks that inspire and soothe, creating a lasting positive impact. My background as a family doctor has shown art’s healing power for both creators and viewers.
HOW DO YOU SELECT ARTISTS WHOSE WORK ALIGNS WITH YOUR VISION?
Discovering and selecting artists is an organic, multi-faceted process. I’ve found many talented local artists in the Pacific Northwest, at gallery events, referred by friends, or seen on social media. For our current Lunar New Year exhibit, I curated ink artworks that capture the energy of a new year. Each exhibition, while seamless and beautiful, requires months to a year of preparation.
HOW DOES THE GALLERY FOSTER MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ART, CULTURE AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
Art and culture are intertwined, connecting communities beyond boundaries and nationalities. Yuan Ru Art Center embraces international and local Pacific Northwest artists, offering a vibrant platform for exhibitions and community gatherings. I also invite musicians to perform creating an immersive experience that celebrates the many forms of art.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING OR MEMORABLE EXHIBITION YOU’VE CURATED?
The inaugural exhibition “Transcending Boundaries” marked the opening in October 2022, showcasing five contemporary artists from Taiwan. This premier exhibition was memorable and vibrant, as friends, supporters, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the arts.
Artist Julie Hsieh in Yuan Ru Art Center
PET OF THE MONTH
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on an extraordinary little one named Chika. This charming pup has captured the hearts of everyone at Island Animal Hospital. Chika came to us in need of a MPL surgery.
Medial Patellar Luxation (MPL) is a common orthopedic condition in small dogs where the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its normal position.
Chika is recovering well and will be back to bouncing through the parks and chasing small sparrows very soon.
Chika loves apples and going shopping with her owner.
FEBRUARY 2ND
Year of the Dragon
Mercer Island Lunar
New Year Celebration
Mercer Island Community & Event Center | 10:00 AM
Mercer Island Chinese Association and the City of Mercer Island, invite you to a Lunar New Year celebration 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, for families and all ages to experience the beauty and joy of Chinese culture with incredible performances, creative activities, and a chance to connect with the community! Free admission, but advance registration is required @ www.michinese.org
FEBRUARY 7TH
First Friday Art Walk:
Explore, Discover, Support
Mercer Island Town Center | 5:00 PM
End the week on an artistic note and take a walk around Mercer Island’s Town Center to visit the 9 locations featuring changing art exhibits and meet the artists, share some food drink and conversation with our creative community. More information @ www.mercerislandartwalk.com
