





Welcome to Spring! Can you believe it is already April 2025? We can’t either. In fact, as I write this letter the last remnants of the most recent snow have finally melted away as a result of recent rains and higher temperatures. In short, Spring is on the way and by the time you are reading these words, it will most certainly be evident.
This month we feature the theme INVEST and by virtue of you reading this letter you are investing in Snohomish as a community and we hope you find it rewarding. In learning about upcoming events in our Events Calendar and recent growth with local businesses in our Business Monthly section, you are investing your time in staying up to date on the community happenings and those who serve. Attend those events and engage those businesses and the dividends will be obvious to both of you.
We too have invested recently in providing you with a better overall magazine to enjoy. If you’ll notice, we have increased the number of pages to include more editorial content for you and to create a more beautifully finished magazine, we’ve added a different binding (gone are the staples). Look further and you’ll find a regular recurring theme showing off the best in food, dining, and beverage from one of our staff writers, Amber Schultheis. In future publications look for additional features regarding style, gardening, and finance topics like mortgage.
As for this issue, we hope you enjoy reading about the wisdom in investing in family, taking time to invest in adventure, some insight into why two successful individuals decided on a wholesale change in career and invested in a local startup, the inherent value a community enjoys when businesses and individuals invest in the Boys and Girls Club, and finally a cocktail to try once your taxes are done, but not before then. Tell us what you think! Cheers,
Correction for our March Issue: Bottom of Pg 18 should have read Celine Williams | @homeswithceline.
PUBLISHER
Shannon Coy | shannon.coy@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Teresa Coy | teresa.coy@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kelly Bone | kelly.bone@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michelle W. Parnell, Amber Dawn Schultheis, Courtney Evans
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dawning Memories, Lawson Coy
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Eric Lambour brings over 20 years of experience building custom homes across the Pacific Northwest to his role as Project Manager at M3 Decks. A former firefighter turned builder, Eric transitioned his passion for construction into a successful career. Having lived in Monroe for many years, Eric is dedicated to delivering high-quality projects and creating lasting relationships with clients. Outside work, he enjoys the outdoors, developing his property, and spending time with his black lab, Bailey.
just a career — it’s a way of life. Olga possesses outstanding connections as her family is heavily involved with real estate and was introduced to the full range of real estate including multi-family, new construction, and investment property at a young age. Knowing she wanted to get her license, she is proud to be part of the nationwide Compass brand that hires elite brokers in the top U.S. markets
Scan to read more
Cascade Concrete Coatings is honored to receive the prestigious Penntek Amplified Award, recognizing their dedication to amplifying and embodying the brand’s core values and high standards. This award highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence in concrete coatings and customer satisfaction, demonstrating their leadership in the industry. Penntek acknowledges Cascade Concrete Coatings as a prime example of the level of quality and service the brand strives to uphold.
For years, Karen Cleveland wanted to go on an African safari, but she believed it would be too expensive and she had no idea where to begin planning. So when a friend mentioned going on safari, Karen jumped at the opportunity to join her.
“She made it so easy to go because she planned it and all I had to do was tag along,” shared Karen. “Not only did that trip change my life because I met my husband, Patterson [Nomvyo], on the trip, but I also realized while I was on safari that I wanted to bring others so they could have the same meaningful experiences. I wanted to make it easy for people to do it because I was shocked at how easy it was for me to go once someone was telling me what to do.”
Karen began taking friends on safari trips with her, and after she and Patterson married, they founded Nunu’s Kenyan Safaris with the goal of making safaris accessible and affordable for travelers. They combine Patterson’s background as a safari guide, Karen’s familiarity of what travelers expect as far as safety and comfort, and insider knowledge from their team in Kenya to offer group and private safaris. Nunu’s routinely schedules group safaris that accommodate up to 18 people and vary in length and experiences. For private safaris, Karen and Patterson work with individuals,
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY NUNU'S KENYAN SAFARIS
couples, and groups to decide on the details, ensuring personalized experiences. Travelers simply browse options and choose which dates and excursions best fit their dream safari while Karen takes care of the logistics of booking lodging, tours, excursions, and ground transportation. Participants simply need to book their flights, get excited about their adventure, and leave the rest to the experts.
“Each trip is going to be a little bit different on which excursions we take, but we do game drives twice a day, unless we’re moving from park to park. We make sure to go to several parks because they each have unique properties,” explained Karen. “We offer some kind of a cultural visit as well. It might be during the Safari or after just depending on where we’re going and where we’ve been, but it’s important to both of us that people understand the culture, not just see the animals.”
The team happily assists travelers who wish to integrate beach time into their trip as well. Honeymooners, especially, enjoy combining seeing animals on safari with heading to the coast for snorkeling and observing marine life such as dolphins and exotic fish.
From initial bookings to helping clients obtain travel paperwork to step-by-step preparation checklists, Karen and Patterson strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible. Lodging, parks, and guides are vetted and trusted partners of
Nunu’s to ensure travelers have positive experiences and safari guides are English-speaking, very knowledgeable, and make sure to answer questions.
While travelers create life-long memories during safaris, they in turn invest in the global community. “It is more than going on a safari and seeing the wildlife,” shared Patterson. “It is also having an opportunity to create jobs for the people in Kenya. If the clients visit parks and hotels, people are being hired to work there, so this is also creating job opportunities for people on the other side of the world.”
For more information and to begin building a dream safari experience, visit nunuskenyansafaris.com, call 833-867-2327, or email: Hello@NunusKenyanSafaris.com . Also view sneak peeks of adventures on the Nunu’s Kenyan Safaris Facebook page.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
The Youth Market Makers Experience will inspire your youth entrepreneur with education, empowerment, and experience, creating a lasting impact.
In partnership with In partnership with In partnership with
Details & Registration Details & Registration
Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
Chris & Andrea Hansen's mission to help homeowners choose the best flooring for their lifestyle.
When Chris and Andrea Hansen renovated their home a few years ago, they found it frustrating to be presented with so many options but lacking the resources to be educated on which choices would be the best for their project. So, when the Hansens bought a franchise of Floor Coverings International, they entered the business with a very customer-oriented attitude.
“We did a very large renovation of our home, and I was really flabbergasted at how poor the experience was for someone like me,” shared Andrea. “I was not looking for the cheapest solution and I’m not a do-it-yourselfer. I was hiring contractors to do the work but not using an interior designer or an architect. I still have flashbacks of walking into the big box store looking for samples and education but not getting it.”
Now, they use their own consumer experience combined with a love of problem solving and the desire to provide excellent customer service to walk clients through choices while giving them the information and education to decide what best fits their lifestyle and needs.
Floor Coverings International offers flooring services that range from floor repair to floor design and installation. Whether the project is a renovation, new build, or in preparation of selling a home, Chris and Andrea help homeowners find the best solutions for their flooring needs by bringing the showroom to the client.
“The entire business model is based on in-home consultations. We have a few Ford Transit Connects that have been retrofitted inside with multiple racks and each carries 3,000 samples of carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, tile, rubber, cork, bamboo…. you name it,” explained Andrea. “We bring the samples right into the home, so they actually get to see the materials in the rooms where they are meant to be installed, which is completely different than looking at something under fluorescent lighting in aisle six of a box store.”
CONTINUED >
“When you're in the home to stay, the best investment is the type of flooring that is going to give you the most joy, the best usability of the space, and will last the longest for your lifestyle.” - Andrea Hansen
Bringing the product to clients and having one-on-one conversations enables clients to ask questions and explore options with a knowledgeable resource in real time. It also allows Chris and Andrea to see the space, get to know the client and their lifestyle preferences, and make suggestions on which materials are the best fit for the space and budget.
According to Andrea, there are often two reasons why people replace flooring in their home. One is to prepare the home for sale and the other is renovating to enhance the current owner’s quality of life.
“When you’re in the home to stay, the best investment is the type of flooring that is going to give you the most joy, the best usability of the space, and will last the longest for your lifestyle. By that, I mean, do you have pets or kids, are there mobility issues, or do you entertain a lot,” she said. “The best investment when you’re selling is determined by what people are looking to buy in our market and what buyers will value most. For example, there is generally a rule of thumb that if a home has hardwood floors, it can add up to 2.5% equity value on the sale.”
To stay current with market trends, Andrea meets with local real estate agents and continually educates herself concerning new materials and technologies in the flooring
industry. “Flooring is really the foundation of everything. So, we are seeing the use of more water resistant and waterproof materials such as water-resistant wood laminates and even engineered hardwoods that are very durable against water damage,” Andrea said. “We’re also looking at a growing interest in eco-friendly products that are certified green, including carpet made from recycled materials.” Aesthetically, flooring is also trending towards bringing the outdoors into the home with the use of warm-toned wood and natural stone colors.
Although Chris and Andrea enjoyed their previous careers, they truly relish this new phase of life where they are cultivating deeper roots in the community by developing relationships with clients and other small business owners. “I love that sometimes I drive by a neighborhood, look at a home, and remember when I helped that family,” shared Andrea. “It brings a smile to my face every day when I remember all those projects and the people that I met doing them.”
Floor Coverings International is a licensed general contracting company with expertise in flooring repair, design, and installation. To find out more and schedule a free consultation, visit fcifloors.com, call 425-229-8529, or email: andrea.hansen@floorcoveringsinternational.com . Also follow @FCISeattle.eastside on Instagram.
ARTICLE BY AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWNING MEMORIES
A Spring Classic Perfect for Sunday Brunch
These Carrot Cake Muffins have a rich depth of flavor - They are scrumptious as-is or can be topped with a simple cream cheese frosting for a delightfully balanced dessert.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) - prep the muffin tins with liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, molasses, and oil. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking into the sugar-oil mixture until fully combined.
3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt. Slowly add the sifted ingredients to the wet mixture, stir until smooth.
YIELDS: 24 MUFFINS
PREP + COOK TIME: 1 HOUR
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ½ cup molasses (or dark brown sugar)
• 1 ½ cups avocado oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking flour)
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 ½ cups finely grated carrots
• ½ cup roughly chopped pecans
• ½ cup shredded, unsweetened coconut
7 Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, enjoy them just as they are or top them off with a simple cream cheese frosting. Enjoy!
4. Add carrots, pecans, and shredded coconut, stirring only until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Evenly distribute batter into the lined muffin tins. Leave ½” between the batter and the top of the muffin liner.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden. Insert a toothpick into the center of the muffin. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY EVANS
When we think about investing, money often comes to mind first. But what if investing in our community didn’t require a financial commitment at all? The Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish is a shining example of
Beyond structured programs, the B&G Club quietly supports local families in ways many might not realize.
“YOU’RE NOT JUST HELPING KIDS, YOU’RE INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF SNOHOMISH.”
how small acts of support can make a huge difference in shaping the future for a better tomorrow.
The B&G Club is more than just a place for before and after-school care. It provides affordable, state-licensed childcare, ensuring that parents can continue working while their children are in a safe and enriching environment. The B&G Club never turns a child away due to financial hardship, working with families to ensure all kids have access to the programs.
The B&G Club offers recreational sports: basketball, flag football, soccer, and even track. These programs are designed to be fun, inclusive, and affordable, giving every child a chance to experience teamwork, competition, and personal growth.
The Adopt-a-Stocking program provides holiday gifts to kids in need while ensuring parents maintain dignity in how those gifts are given. The newest way the BGC team have come together to support families, is by creating access to basic needs items like laundry detergent, shampoo, toothpaste, and more.
“The reality is that sometimes, something as simple as having clean clothes can impact a child’s confidence at school,” says Marci Volmer, a leader at BGC. “We do our best to step in and help where we can.”
Want to make a real difference?
Unrestricted donations are like the MVP of giving—they help the B&G Club cover what matters most, from sport gear and art supplies to sunscreen and
Otter Pops for those hot summer-camp days. The best part? You can make a lasting impact, no big check needed! In addition to donating money, here are just a few fun ways you can invest in the future of local kids:
• Donate (new) essential items –Laundry detergent, toiletries, socks, and other everyday necessities go a long way in helping families.
• Sponsor a sports team, field trip, or collaborate on a special workshop— whether it’s art, coding, or cooking, your skills can inspire local kids! Sponsorships help ensure every child gets to participate. Businesses can even host them for a field trip to share what you do!
• Volunteer your time – Whether it’s coaching a team, teaching a skill, or helping with events, volunteers are always needed. Plus, it’s a great chance to have fun, connect with the kids, and relive some of your favorite childhood moments!
• Attend fundraising events – The B&G Club hosts several fundraising events throughout the year, including an annual Gala and golf tournament. These events are a great way to get out, have fun, and support a great cause!
• Spread the word – Many families don’t realize the Boys & Girls Club is open to all kids in the community, or that teens can hang out at the Teen Center for free. A simple social media post or conversation can help more families discover these life-changing opportunities!
With the Teen Center now open, the Club’s biggest goal is filling it with engaged, excited middle-highschoolers. With features like a DJ booth, podcast studio, e-gaming technology, and even a disco ball, the space is ideal for creativity, learning, and social interaction. Teens can participate in programs focused on life skills, workforce readiness, and healthy lifestyles—all completely free of charge.
As the Boys and Girls Club continues to grow, it’s clear that the investments being made ensure that every child who walks through its doors has the potential to become someone great; a future business owner, community leader, or changemaker. By supporting the Boys & Girls Club, you’re not just helping kids today, you’re investing in the future of our community.
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit the Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish at 402 2nd Street, and discover the many ways to make a difference!
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions –movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.”
- Benjamin Franklin
Wealth Wave and Planswell have partnerned to bring you a powerful financial planning program for free. Follow the QR code to start your plan today!
2025
APRIL 3RD
Thomas Family Farm - 9010 Marsh Road, Snohomish, WA | 7:00 AM
The Snohomish Education Foundation is transforming lives! At this breakfast, you will see how funding is used in innovative classroom projects, supporting scholarships and learn about the new trades-focused pathways initiative. This community and the generosity it demonstrates every year make a tangible difference for students and teachers.
Please register by March 31. This event is FREE to attend.
APRIL 5TH
Machias Meadows - 14607 Ok Mill Rd Snohomish | 12:00 PM
Whether you are newly engaged or finalizing the details, this event has it all. Your one-stop shop for planning an unforgettable event. Bring your soon-to-be, your bridal party, and family and make a day of it! 45 vendors will be present, all wanting to help you create a day to remember.
APRIL 5TH - 6TH
Dearborn Family Farm, 1208 South Machias Road, Snohomish | 10:00 AM
Join the Dearborn Family for a funfilled day of shopping, food, and entertainment. Browse through a variety of unique vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats. Don’t forget to stop by the Easter Bunny’s booth for a photo op! Bring the whole family and enjoy a day out in the beautiful countryside. Can’t wait to see you there!
>
CONTINUED
APRIL 12TH
Snohomish on the Rocks
Thomas Family Farm, 9010 Marsh Rd., Snohomish | 1:00 PM
Snohomish on the Rocks is a one day event bringing together local premium craft distillers and lovers of fine spirits crafted to perfection. Come taste whiskey, spirits, and liqueurs with the opportunity to purchase your favorites for off-premise consumption. All proceeds from ticket and alcohol sales benefit the Snohomish Senior Center. For tickets visit https:// www.snohomishontherocks.com.
APRIL 13TH
Self Defense Class at Snohomish Sports Dome
Snohomish Sports Dome - 511 Maple Ave. Snohomish | 11:00 AM
Learn essential self-defense skills in a supportive environment. Gain confidence, increased awareness, and learn practical techniques for any situation. Proceeds benefit Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County - $15/ person. Hosted by Snohomish Sports Dome, Snohomish Sky, Spark Hot Yoga, and Wildstyle Gym
APRIL 25TH - 27TH
Evergreen State Fairgrounds - 14405 179th Ave. SE Monroe, WA | 10:00 AM
Attend the Spring Home Show and meet some of our partners including M3 Decks, Core Contractors, Celine Williams, Asset Roofing, American Patio Covers, Energy Exteriors, NW, Floor Coverings International, NorthLight Custom Builders