Residents Guide - 2015 Island Guide

2015

A PUBLICATION OF THE MERCER ISLAND REPORTER

150407 Crossroads Live Music Island Guide 7.25x9f.pdf 1 4/7/15 4:29 PM

WWW.MI-REPORTER.COM | ISLAND GUIDE 2015 3

I Also LoveMy Job.

In the last year I have listed and sold over 16 homes on Mercer Island.

Let me know if you could use a friendly face to help sell yours.

Love the schools

Love Island Books

Love the farmers’ market

Speed traps

Fireworks in the rain

Love that you are here!

What I love about Mercer Island…W h a t I L O V E a b o u t

M e r c e r I s l a n d

[email protected] 206•383•9227

N A N C Y L A V A L L E El e t ’ s g e t m o v i n g

4 ISLAND GUIDE 2015

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Mercer Island has grown and changed over the years, but still remains a tight community at its core.

Crowds still gather for local events, like the Mercer Island High School Homecoming Parade, Mostly Music in the Park and at the Farmers Market to cheer and celebrate Island life.

In the next 40 pages, you’ll �nd everything you need to know about life on the Island. Inside are listings of Island events and activities, a handy directory of clubs, organizations, schools and local government, and places to contemplate just how lucky we are to live in such a magical place.

William Shaw, Publisher [email protected]

Mary L. Grady, Editor [email protected]

Katie Metzger, Sta� Writer

Joseph Livarchik, Sta� Writer

Melanie Morgan, Production

Theres’a Baumann, Advertising [email protected]

3047 78th Ave S.E. #207, Mercer Island, WA 98040(206) 232-1215 | www.mi-reporter.com

INS

IDE

ON THE COVER Photo by Chad Coleman

This aerial image of the of I-90 bridge was made using a technique called tilt–shift photography. Tiny camera movements and the use of special ‘tilt shift’ lenses for selective focus, are used to simulate a miniature scene.

6 Island Eats

8 Island Events

10 City Government

14 Island Parks

16 Clubs & Organizations

25 Faith Communities

2 9 Island Pools

30 Island Schools

36 Senior Living

38 Arts

2015


Greetings from Mercer Island

Photography by Matt Brashears, Chad Coleman, Mary L. Grady, Joe Livarchik, Katie Metzger, City of Mercer Island and many Island contributors.

Mercer Island by the numbers:

1.2 million dollars is the median listing price for Mercer Island homes.

93 percent of Mercer Island Farmers Market income directly supports MIFM vendors.

10Washington state wineries participated in the � rst-ever Art UnCorked event in downtown Mercer Island.

10is the city’s ranking in ZipRealty’s “best places for families.”

475acres of parks and open spaces are accessible for the public to enjoy.

250 feet is the length of a new trail at Clarke Beach, constructed as part of an Eagle Scout project.

100years - Islanders have been gathering at the Roanoke Inn.

30 people were arrested for boating under the in� uence over Seafair weekend this year.

4,318students learn, play and grow in Mercer Island schools.

95.4percent of all Mercer Island High School students graduate.

47people signed up to equip their roofs with solar panels through the city’s 2014 “Solarize Mercer Island” campaign.

500+water samples have been taken since the E. coli contamination event in September 2014.

2,571Islanders use nextdoor.com to communicate with their friends and neighbors.

58 species of birds were counted at this year’s Audubon Christmas Bird Count.

58demolition permits for single-family homes were issued in 2014, up from 14 in 2009.

26.8million was the listing price (as of April 21) for a 15,000 square foot home on East Mercer Way waterfront estate called the Butterworth Estate

A view of the Island from a dock near the Seahawks training facility.

6 ISLAND GUIDE 2015

NORTH

Anise Thai7691 S.E. 27th St. • 236-2255

Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream2900 78th Ave. S.E. • 236-2781

Bennett’s Pure Food Bistro7650 S.E. 27th St. • 232-2759

Einstein’s Bagels 7808 S.E. 28th St. • 232-8539

Franky & Dom’s 7420 S.E. 24th Street • 232-3221

Freshy’s Seafood2411 76th Ave. S.E. • 232-3028

Gourmet Teriyaki7671 S.E. 27th St. • 232-0580

Homegrown Sandwiches 3016 78th Ave. S.E. • 331-4775

I Love Pho7605 S.E. 27th St. #112 • 275-4300

Island Crust Cafe7525 S.E. 24th St., #100 • 232-7878

Lilly’s Restaurant at Aljoya2430 76th Ave. S.E. • 230-0150

McDonald’s2807 78th Ave. S.E. • 232-9175

Menchies7785 Sunset Hwy. #116 • 232-2682

Mo’s Pizza & Wine Dive2630 77th Ave. S.E. #112 • 236-6000

Oh Chocolate!2703 76th Ave. S.E. • 232-4974

Phat 12 Island Broiler2707 78th Ave. S.E. • 232-0781

Phobulous3033 78th Ave. S.E. • 232-0828

Pon Proem Thai3039 78th Ave. S.E. • 236-8424

Qdoba Mexican Grill7650 S.E. 27th St. #106 • 230-0072

Roanoke Inn1825 72nd Ave. S.E. • 232-0800

Matt Brashears / Special to the Reporter

Islanders �ock to Mercerdale Park to sample the wares of the Mercer Is-land Farmers Market or the goodies at Summer Celebration!

Island Eats & Treats

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Roberto’s Pizza & Pasta7605 S.E. 27th St. #111 • 232-7383

Seven Star Chinese Restaurant2885 78th Ave. S.E. • 230-8665

Starbucks7695 S.E. 27th St. • 230-8847

Starbucks Drive-Thru 7620 S.E. 27th St. • 275-3115

Subway 7679 S.E. 27th St. • 236-2734

Sushi Joa Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar2717 78th Ave. S.E. • 230-4120

The Islander7440 S.E. 27th St. • 232-6676

Tony Maroni’s Pizza2885 78th Ave. S.E. #102 • 232-6400

Tully’s Coffee7810 S.E. 27th St. • 236-2959

Tuscan Stone Wood

Fired Pizza2885 78th Ave. S.E. • 440-9189

Zaw Pizza 7635 S.E. 27th St. • 232-0515

SOUTHEl Sombrero Mexican Restaurant8451 S.E. 68th St. #101 • 275-4900

Georgio’s Subs8415 S.E. 68th St. #112 • 275-3720

Sahara Pizza8425 S.E. 68th St. #104 • 232-9800

Starbucks8415 S.E. 68th St. #100 • 275-1097

Toshi’s Teriyaki8425 S.E. 68th St. #118 • 232-0233

Yo Mercer8435 S.E. 68th St. #100 • 232-1802

Yuzen Japanese Cuisine8451 S.E. 68th St. #104 • 275-3310

• School-Based Counselors. Friendship, stress & anxiety, self-esteem, family concerns, anger and crisis counseling; drug & alcohol prevention/intervention experts at IMS and MIHS.

• VOICE & SVP. Teens participate in an 8-week summer program and learn � rsthand the importance of giving back through volunteer opportunities.

• Thrift Shop. Give. Shop. Volunteer. Focus on work-skill development and sustainability.

• Communities That Care. Preventing the harm caused by youth drug & alcohol use, depression, anxiety and other risk behaviors.

• Mental Health Services. Counseling for individuals, couples and families on a sliding fee scale.

• Diversion & Early Intervention. Arrested youth are re-focused on positive learning experiences while being held accountable for illegal behavior.

• Senior Outreach and Advocacy. Full range of geriatric services for issues related to aging including consultation, counseling and care management.

• Family & Emergency Assistance. Supports for rent, utility, holiday, back to school and employment assistance. Food Bank at Luther Burbank Park o� ces.

“Helping All Islanders Thrive”

2040 84th Avenue SE , Mercer Island (206) 275-7611

www.miyfs.org

YOUR MIYFS OFFERS ASSISTANCE, DEVELOPMENT AND SUPPORT TO YOU!

What about dessert? Mem-bers of the St. Monica Girl Scouts Troop No. 45242 sell their cookies to shoppers at Walgreens. Below, food trucks have begun to ap-pear on the Island. �is one set up outside Terra Bella.

Contributed Photos

8 ISLAND GUIDE 2015

January• New Year’s Day swim at Clarke Beach

• Annual Island Bird Count

February• Giving From The Heart breakfast for Youth and Family Services

• Boy Scout Pancake Breakfast

March• Mercer Island Rotary Half Marathon March 20, 2016

• Mercer Island Sogetsu annual exhibition

• MI School District’s Fine Arts Showcase

April• Leap for Green Earth Day Celebration

• Easter egg hunts at Mercerdale Park

• MI Schools Foundation Breakfast

• Little League Opening Day

• Holocaust Remembrance Day

May • Mercer Island Preschool Association Circus

• Relay for Life at Mercer Island High School

• Crest Annual Plant Sale

June • Mostly Music in the Park performances begin

• Farmers Market begins

July • Summer Celebration, July 11-12, 2015

• Shakespeare in the Park

August• Seafair Weekend, July 31 to Aug. 2

• National Night Out, Aug. 4

• Community Campout

September • Worldwide Day of Play

• Lakeridge Bike Rodeo

October • Mercer Island High School Homecoming parade and game

• Trick-or-treating in the Town Center

• League of Women Voters' Voter Forum

• Harvest Farmers’ Market

November • Ten Thousand Villages sale at the MI Presbyterian Church

• Island Youth ballet's "Excerpts from the Nutcracker"

• Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

• Evergreen Church Children's craft workshop

December• Mercer Island Lion's Club Christmas tree sale

• Firehouse Munch and tree lighting at Mercerdale Park

Island Events


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10 ISLAND GUIDE 2015

City of Mercer Island (206) 275-76009611 S.E. 36th Streetwww.mercergov.orgThe city of Mercer Island, com-prised of nearly 23,000 residents, was incorporated in 1960.

City Councilwww.mercergov.org/councilThe Mercer Island City Council is made up of Island citizens, elected to office by the public. The Council works with other local government bodies on regional issues such as transportation and the environ-ment. Seven nonpartisan City Council-members are elected to four-year terms. Elections take place every two years. Councilmembers select a mayor from among themselves to serve a two-year term. There is no term limit for Councilmem-bers. The Council holds an annual planning session in January and

authorizes its biennial budget in the autumn of even-ending years. Councilmembers receive a monthly $200 stipend, while the mayor earns $400. Council meetings regularly take place on the first and third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall. The meetings are televised on Comcast channel 21.

Noel Treat, City [email protected] city manager is responsible for the administration of city policies and serves as chief executive of-ficer of the city.

Ali Spietz, City [email protected], 275-7793

Bruce Bassett, Mayor [email protected] current term ends in 2015

Dan Grausz, Deputy [email protected] term ends in 2018

Debbie [email protected] term ends in 2015

Mike [email protected] term ends in 2015

Jane Meyer Brahm [email protected] current term ends in 2015

Benson [email protected] current term ends in 2018

Joel [email protected] term ends in 2015

Your Mercer IslandReal EstateBroker

Frank Ceteznik CRS, M. EDVoted Five Star - Best In Client Satisfaction: Real Estate Broker

Serving Mercer Island, the Eastside and Seattle

206.979.8400www.MrMercerIsland.com

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Harrison & St. Mary - Mercer Island’s Most Experienced Real Estate Team.

Our Expertise.Your Peace � Mind.

Listing and Selling Homes since 1986.Mercer Island Residents since Childhood.

JANE HARRISON206.919.9992

STEPHANIE ST. MARY206.953.8359

HarrisonStMaryHomes.com

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City GovernmentBruce Bassett

Debbie Bertlin

Jane Meyer Brahm

Joel Wachs

Dan Grausz

Mike Cero

Benson Wong


Mercer Island Sister City Association

Connect ing With Our Sister City

Thonon-les-Bains, France CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF JUMELAGE

Advancing educational, cultural & other relationships between Mercer Island and its Sister City, Thonon-les-Bains, France.

French conversation evenings in private homes.

Complimentary French movie nights on Mercer Island.

Soirée Gala, a French-inspired, wine-paired feast.

Educational exchanges between MI & Thonon youth. Adult cultural trips to Thonon & nearby historical areas.

For more information: www.mercerislandsistercity.org Linda Todd, President: 206-232-4570

Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce

SUPPORTING THE GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT & ADVANCEMENT OF THE BUSINESSES OF MERCER ISLAND WHILE PROMOTING THE ISLAND AS A

SPECIAL PLACE TO LIVE, WORK & PLAY.

We are the front door to Mercer Island. We publish a comprehensive Mercer Island Map and Community Guide. We help Mercer Island businesses thrive and grow through events and programs including Shop Mercer Island, Town Center Trick or Treat and Art Uncorked. We sponsor monthly membership luncheons with in- formative speakers & co-sponsor community events. We are the official Visitor Information Center for Mer-

cer Island.

Supporting the businesses & Mercer Island community since 1946. www.mercerislandchamberofcommerce.org

7605 SE 27th Street #109 • Mercer Island, WA 98040 206-232-3404 • [email protected]

Steve Litzow Judy Clibborn Tana SennAdam Smith

State RepresentativesMercer Island is in the 41st state legislative district. The Island is represented by Judy Clibborn, Steve Litzow and Tana Senn.

Mercer Island is in the 9th Congressional District and is represented by Adam Smith.

Steve Litzow (R) Mercer Island(360) 786-7641

Judy Clibborn(D) Mercer Island(360) 786-7926

Tana Senn(D) Mercer Island(360) 786-7894

Adam Smith (D) Tacoma(202) 225-8901 and (425) 793-5181

Mercer Island Emergency PreparednessBad stuff can happen, like E. coli in the water. Are you ready?

The mission of Mercer Island Emergency Preparedness is to have Mercer Island be self-suffi-cient for seven days.

There are three important steps in being prepared for an emer-gency or disaster:

First, be informed!• Learn about what protective measures to take before, during and after an emergency.

Next, make a plan.• Prepare, plan and stay informed for emergencies. Get ready. • Build a kit to manage on your own for seven days.

Stay informed by:• Listening to AM 710 KIRO, AM 1000 KOMO, and Mercer Island Radio Stations FM 88.9 or FM 94.5.

• If there is power, visit the City’s website homepage for news.

• Connect to the City’s social media channels.

• Call the City’s information line at 275-7600.

• Tune in to MI-TV Channel 21.

Want to help or volunteer? Go to www.mercergov.org/Page.asp?NavID=2987

Questions?Contact Emergency Manager Jennifer Franklin at 206-275-7905 or [email protected].

City Boards and CommissionsCitizens serve on Boards and Com-missions that advise the Council in areas where more expertise and public input are needed.

Most appointments to boards and commissions are made by the Mayor and affirmed by the City Council. Generally, terms run June 1 through May 31, for a four-year period. They include:

Arts Council • Building Board of Appeals • Civil Service Commission • Design Commission • Disability Board • MI Library Board • Open Space Conservancy Trust • Planning Commission • Utility Board • Youth and Family Services Advisory Board

For more information, go to www.mercergov.org.


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c yo munitm .Staff Photo

Emily Fain, a third grader at Lakeridge Elementary School, gets a hand from Mercer Island Police Officer Dave Herzog at the annual Bike Rodeo held in October, at the South Mercer Playfields.

Staff PhotosAbove, �re trucks and aid units are parked in the Mercer Island Storage Court lot while the new South-end �re �re station is under construction. Below, the Mercer Island Police Marine Patrol boat, purchased in 2010, kicks up a wake.



Parks and Play

Calkins Landing S.E. 28th Street and 60th Avenue S.E.

Forest Landing S.E. 43rd Street at Forest Avenue S.E.

Franklin Landing 78th Avenue S.E. and S.E. 42nd Street.

Fruitland Landing 97th Avenue S.E. and S.E. 34th Street.

Garfield Landing S.E. 30th Street at 60th Avenue S.E.

Lincoln Landing 76th Avenue S.E. and S.E. 22nd Street.

Miller Landing Forest Ave S.E. and S.E. 48th Street.

Proctor Landing S.E. 32nd Street at 60th Avenue S.E.

Roanoke Landing W. Mercer Way at Roanoke Way.

77th Avenue S.E. Landing 7670 S.E. 22nd Street.

Undeveloped street ends include:

Freeman Landing S.E. 40th Street.

Seashore Ave/Drive Off West Mercer Way.

S.E. 20th Street Faben Point.

S.E. 36th Street Landing

S.E. 45th Street Off Forest Ave.

At top, seven-month-old Weston of Woodinville, tests the waters of Lake Washington at Slater Park last August, held by his mom, Braydi. Slater Park is one of the best spots to view the Blue Angels during Seafair.

Photo by Matt Brashears/ Special to the Reporter

Center, Eddy a weimaraner, who lives with his family in the Mercerdale neighborhood, checks to see who he can play with next at the o�-leash park at Luther Burbank Park.

Staff Photo

Bottom, a new mural featuring lake wildlife, was completed last summer on the west wall of the tennis courts at Luther Burbank Park.

Art by Natalie Oswald

City Parks & FacilitiesMercer Island has 475 acres of parks and open spaces.Some are hidden and undeveloped, others invite us to play. There are trails, ballfields, beaches, a boat launch, playgrounds and sports courts.Yet hidden away along the shore are places to wade, dive, fish or launch a kayakThere are several street ends and landing that provide access to Lake Washington. Here is a handy list.


PARKS, TRAILS, OPEN SPACEWith acres upon acres of green space and parks, Mercer Island is hardly short on urban escapes. Some are hidden and undeveloped, others invite us to play. There are trails, ballfields, beaches, a boat launch, play-grounds and sports courts.Walkers and hikers alike can find solace in one of the Island’s many trails, from deep in Pioneer Park to the waterfront of Luther Burbank.

Parks & Recreationwww.myparksandrecreation.com275-7609 The Parks and Rec. Department provides recreation, athletic, social, artistic and special event programs, including Sum-mer Celebration! Services are provided for preschool-aged

children, youth, teens, adults, family and seniors through partnerships with community agencies, businesses and institu-tions. With more than 35 parks and open space areas boasting 400 acres and 50 miles of trails, the department also maintains all city park areas.

I-90 Sculpture Park7800 to 8000 block of Sunset HighwayCyclists from the Island, Se-attle, the Eastside and beyond enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Washington while flying along the Lid’s east-west bike trails. The Lid, with its ball fields, basket-ball courts and cement trails, is the perfect place for weekend leisure. It is also the connecting path between Seattle and the Eastside in the popular Lake Washington Loop bike trail. The sculpture park, about 800 meters

east of the Lid, is an outdoor gallery of vibrant statues, many of which are for sale. For more information on purchasing a sculpture, contact Parks and Rec. at 275-7609.

Luther Burbank Park 2040 84th Ave. S.E.Amphitheater: “Shakespeare in the Park,” a series of 12 Shake-speare play performances, engages audiences of all ages during evenings in July and August. Most performances are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Marina: The Luther Burbank Marina offers a safe place for chil-dren and adults to learn to sail and kayak. Sailing classes start beginning in June. Sailboats and life jackets are provided for all. For class registration, visit www.myparksandrecreation.com.

Mercerdale Park3249 78th Ave. S.E.The perfect place for children to ride their bikes, teens to skateboard and seniors to stroll, Mercerdale Park is centrally

located in downtown Mercer Island. Exercise stations — new this spring, are set up along the paved trail. The Art Council’s annual summer concert series, “Mostly Music in the Park,” draws a crowd on Thursday and Sunday evenings, July through August. The concerts feature various bands and artists from the region and play a variety of music for every taste. The concerts begin at 7 p.m. A full schedule is available at www.myparksandrecreation.com.

Playgrounds• Deane’s Children’s Park 5500 Island Crest Way• First Hill Park S.E. 32nd Street & 72nd Avenue • Luther Burbank Park 2040 84th Ave. S.E.• Mercerdale Park 77th Avenue S.E. & 32nd Street• Aubrey Davis Park 72nd Avenue S.E. & 22nd Street

PARKS | PAGE 17

Sta� Photos � is aerial view of Aubrey Davis Park, also known as the Lid Park, in-cludes open space, ball � elds, tennis courts and more. � e trail along the Sculpture Park enters the park from S.E. 24th Street and 76th Avenue S.E. and continues to West Mercer Way. Below, children crowd the play struc-ture at Mercerdale Park.

The ISLAND OUTDOORS


Kids Co. at Island Park 206-849-7686

Kids Co. at Lakeridge 206-437-8396

Kids Co. at West Mercer 206-422-0866

Before School, After School, and Summer Camp Programs

RIGHT ON YOUR SCHOOL’S GROUNDS!

www.kidscompany.org/locations

Play. Discover. Create.

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Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce7205 S.E. 27th St. P.O. Box 108Contact: Terry Moreman • 232-3404 www.mercerislandchamberofco-merce.orgThe Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce is the front door to Mercer Island. It publishes a Mercer Island map and the Mercer Island Community and Business guide. As Mercer Island’s visitor and information center, it provides community and tourism information. The Chamber spon-sors Art UnCorked, an evening of art and wine tasting, an annual Halloween Trick or Treating event for children at Mercer Island businesses and the Shop Local campaign. It works collaboratively with the other Island organiza-

tions, and is actively involved with the City of Mercer Island, state lawmakers and regional groups that deal with issues that affect the Island. It promotes Mercer Island as a special place to live work and play.

One of the oldest Chambers in the region, the Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1946. It exists to help Mercer Island businesses thrive and grow. Successful businesses are instrumental in financing the government, civic, educational, cultural and charitable needs of the community they serve. The Chamber plays an important part in making Mercer Island the special place it is.

The Chamber office is home to the Mercer Island Sister City Associa-

tion and the Chamber Art Gallery, which features local artists.

Meetings: first Thursday of every month, Mercer Island Community and Event Center, 8236 S.E. 24th St. A member-funded nonprofit group of business, the Chamber holds monthly membership luncheons on the first

Thursday of every month. The speakers at the luncheons include government and elected officials, motivational speakers and business educators. The luncheons are open to the public with advance reservations.

Clubs & Organizations

File Photo

�e bright red sign at Mercerdale Park stands out in a�er a rare snowfall to remind Islanders about the upcoming ‘Giving from the Heart Breakfast ‘which-funds programs through the city’s Youth and Family Services department.

CLUBS | PAGE 23


• Secret Park S.E. 27th Street & W. Mercer

• South Mercer Playfields S.E. 78th Street & 84th Avenue

• Roanoke Park 70th Avenue S.E. & W. Mercer

Bicentennial Park77th S.E. & S.E. 32ndThe park ascends into a hillside of wooded trails and stairs above Mercerdale Park.

Clarke Beach Park7700 E. Mercer WayThis nine-acre park on the water features a beach and dock.

Clise ParkS.E. 40th & Island Crest WayA shortcut for many high school students, this wooded trail cuts from busy S.E. 40th into the neighboring S.E. 39th Street.

Deane’s Children’s Park5500 Island Crest WayThis favorite children’s park includes a picnic area, wooded trails and the famous dragon in the playground.

Ellis PondS.E. 47th & 90th Ave. S.E.The Island’s famous pond is home to various birds, the odd turtle and dozens of neighbor-hood children. A short trail encircles the pond, which is a popular winter attraction for local kids when the pond freezes over for skating.

Gallagher Hill3701 S.E. Gallagher Hill Rd.The Gallagher Hill park features 11 acres of trails, including con-

nections from 40th Avenue to East Mercer Way. The hill run is popular with locals for a fast but thorough workout.

Homestead Park 82nd Avenue S.E. and S.E. 40th StreetHomestead Park, which sits near Island Park Elementary, features several public tennis courts and baseball fields and trails.

Island Crest Park5500 Island Crest WayThe little sister of Pioneer Park, this wooded Island escape has ball fields, a family picnic area and several winding trails.

Luther Burbank Park2040 84th Ave. S.E.

The Island’s North-end nature escape, Luther Burbank boasts three miles of trails that mean-der through a natural habitat preserve, off-leash dog park and along the Lake Washington shoreline.

Mercerdale Park77th S.E. & S.E. 32nd The Town Center park has a paved loop trail, an open picnic area, skateboard park, play-ground and sprawling field.

Aubrey Davis Park72nd S.E. & S.E. 22nd Arguably the best viewpoint on the Island, the Lid has several paved trails for cyclists and walk-ers alike.

Pioneer ParkS.E. 68th & Island Crest Way Pioneer Park, with 120 acres of thick woods and deep ravines, is the largest natural space on the Island with dozens of trails and a wide variety of activities for Islanders. Walking trails are popular, frequently used by horse riders and bikers.

Contributed PhotoDeer have become a common sight on the Island, including this black tailed buck spotted by an Island photogra-pher in 2010. Story has it that deer swam across Lake Washington’s East Channel from what is now South Bell-levue, Newport or Renton to reach the fruit in the orchards in the Appelton neighborhood or at Luther Burbank Park.

PARKS | FROM 15


7605 SE 27th Street, Suite 154 Mercer Island, WA 98040

206-232-2366

www.barkavenuemi.com [email protected]

Dog Daycare • Grooming Salon

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Reasons why employers choose Colonial Life6

Source: Colonial Life Proprietary Research: 2013© 2014 Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company | Colonial Life insurance products are underwritten by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company, for which Colonial Life is the marketing brand. NS-13701

■■■ end-to-end service Need enrollment assistance? Want to reduce administrative burden? We can help every step of the way.

■■■ money-saving strategies We’re constantly thinking about ways to save you money. Sound familiar?

■■■ personalized benefits counseling We meet 1-to-1 to help everybody get the benefits that are best for them. Which is also best for you.

■■■ education and communication We help make sure everybody knows how to make the most of their benefits. Which is a benefit in itself.

■■■ fast and easy claims process When people need us most, we’re at our best. Isn’t that what benefits are really all about?

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Island seasons�

Halloween at the Roanoke

Da� odils at Island Park Elementary School

Girls at Summer Celebration Snowy 42nd Street S.E. trail


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� e Roanoke Inn has witnessed a lot of change since its construction in 1914. Horseback was the principal mode of transportation and patrons came to visit via ferry from the Leschi neighborhood in Seattle. Two World Wars were fought, abolitionist policies have come and gone, great depressions were weathered, and � oating bridges were constructed to support the growth of automobiles. � e introduction of both radio and television and now the evolution of the computer generation has changed many things. But no matter what the Inn has witnessed, � e Rowy has always been the community’s extended living room to discuss all the topics of daily importance.

� e Reeck family purchased the Inn in 1941 and worked hard to continue the legacy. In 1976, the State of Washington registered the Roanoke Inn as an o� cial historic landmark. With such a rich and vibrant past, it isn’t hard to see how the Roanoke Inn has become a place “Where Friends Meet Friends.”

� e Rowy cherishes its role as the informal gathering spot for all class reunions from those who graduated from the local schools. � e place to be for all those attending college to come back home and reunite with their buddies, and in many cases the place to have your � rst beer when

celebrating your 21st birthday.

the topics of daily importance.

We’re 101 years oldEstablished in 1914 by George MacGuire,

the Rowy is the oldest business on Mercer Island.

Where Friends Meet Friends for 101 Years 1825 72nd Avenue SE, Mercer Island / 206.232.0800

Open 7 Days a Week / Monday - Friday Open at 11am / Saturday and Sunday Open at 8am @tRoanokeInn

JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR(Monday - Friday 4pm to 6pm)

$1 per Wing

$5 Mini Nachos

$1 off Regularly Priced Draft Beer & House Wine

$650 Weekly Special Cocktail

Enjoy our outdoor seating

on the warm days ahead!

1) Owner Dorothy Reeck grows pumpkins in a small garden just north of the tavern. The orange squash are hundreds of pounds heavy.

2) Legend has it that when the Roanoke used to accept boarders on the second story, some of the rooms operated as a brothel and a favorite spot for gambling during the Prohibition era.

3) The Roanoke’s covered porch is heated, but Reeck admits while a popular refuge during the winter months, it’s not too effective when the wind blows. Even further back, the Roanoke used to have a wrap-around porch, like many old houses in the craftsman style.

4) The Roanoke operated as a grocery store for a number of years, even opening an ice cream window after Prohibition, where kids, who weren’t allowed inside, could buy cones or other small grocery items. During WWII the Roanoke had one of the only grocery stores accessible to Islanders.

4 things you didn’t know about the Roanoke Inn:

WWW.MI-REPORTER.COM | ISLAND GUIDE 2015 2120 ISLAND GUIDE 2015

� e Roanoke Inn has witnessed a lot of change since its construction in 1914. Horseback was the principal mode of transportation and patrons came to visit via ferry from the Leschi neighborhood in Seattle. Two World Wars were fought, abolitionist policies have come and gone, great depressions were weathered, and � oating bridges were constructed to support the growth of automobiles. � e introduction of both radio and television and now the evolution of the computer generation has changed many things. But no matter what the Inn has witnessed, � e Rowy has always been the community’s extended living room to discuss all the topics of daily importance.

� e Reeck family purchased the Inn in 1941 and worked hard to continue the legacy. In 1976, the State of Washington registered the Roanoke Inn as an o� cial historic landmark. With such a rich and vibrant past, it isn’t hard to see how the Roanoke Inn has become a place “Where Friends Meet Friends.”

� e Rowy cherishes its role as the informal gathering spot for all class reunions from those who graduated from the local schools. � e place to be for all those attending college to come back home and reunite with their buddies, and in many cases the place to have your � rst beer when

celebrating your 21st birthday.

the topics of daily importance.

We’re 101 years oldEstablished in 1914 by George MacGuire,

the Rowy is the oldest business on Mercer Island.

Where Friends Meet Friends for 101 Years 1825 72nd Avenue SE, Mercer Island / 206.232.0800

Open 7 Days a Week / Monday - Friday Open at 11am / Saturday and Sunday Open at 8am @tRoanokeInn

JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR(Monday - Friday 4pm to 6pm)

$1 per Wing

$5 Mini Nachos

$1 off Regularly Priced Draft Beer & House Wine

$650 Weekly Special Cocktail

Enjoy our outdoor seating

on the warm days ahead!

1) Owner Dorothy Reeck grows pumpkins in a small garden just north of the tavern. The orange squash are hundreds of pounds heavy.

2) Legend has it that when the Roanoke used to accept boarders on the second story, some of the rooms operated as a brothel and a favorite spot for gambling during the Prohibition era.

3) The Roanoke’s covered porch is heated, but Reeck admits while a popular refuge during the winter months, it’s not too effective when the wind blows. Even further back, the Roanoke used to have a wrap-around porch, like many old houses in the craftsman style.

4) The Roanoke operated as a grocery store for a number of years, even opening an ice cream window after Prohibition, where kids, who weren’t allowed inside, could buy cones or other small grocery items. During WWII the Roanoke had one of the only grocery stores accessible to Islanders.

4 things you didn’t know about the Roanoke Inn:

WWW.MI-REPORTER.COM | ISLAND GUIDE 2015 2120 ISLAND GUIDE 2015


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EdmondsDate: October 03 (Thursday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: Edmonds Conference Center, Edmonds WA. BothellDate: October 05 (Saturday)Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pmVenue: Country Inn & Suites, Bothell WA. Gig HarborDate: October 05 (Saturday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: The Inn Hotel, Gig Harbor WA.

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EdmondsDate: October 03 (Thursday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: Edmonds Conference Center, Edmonds WA. BothellDate: October 05 (Saturday)Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pmVenue: Country Inn & Suites, Bothell WA. Gig HarborDate: October 05 (Saturday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: The Inn Hotel, Gig Harbor WA.

OlympiaDate: Sep 21 (Saturday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: Red Lion Hotel, Olympia WA. TacomaDate: October 01 (Tuesday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: Marriott Hotel, Downtown Tacoma WA.

Federal WayDate: Sep 21 ( Saturday)Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pmVenue: Aging Options Campus, Federal Way WA.

IssaquahDate: Sep 17 (Tuesday)Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmVenue: Hilton Hotel, Issaquah WA.

FeaturingElder Law Attorneyand Aging Options Radio Show Host

RAJIV NAGAICH, JD & LLM




If you are thinking about retirement, please attend a free Life Planning seminar covering how planning di�erently today can help you to:




Retirees experiencing longer life spans are faced with �nancial threats stemming from uncovered medical and long term care costs. The traditional estate planning that retirees rely on to protect their assets is leading most of them to bankruptcy!

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Mercer Island Children’s Hospital Guild Contact: Tracy Landsman • 232-0409 • [email protected] guild has been publishing the Mercer Island Directory as a fundraiser to benefit Children’s Hospital since 1943. Established in 1928, it was the first guild on the Eastside. Sales of the directory benefit the hospital’s uncompensated care program. New members are welcome.

Meetings: noon, third Friday of each month.

Mercer Island Craft GuildContact: Rick Tydings • 232-6916Founded in 1940 by four East Seattle men as a cooperative to provide tools and a shop to use while building their homes, the Mercer Island Craft Guild is for woodworkers.There are about 60 members in the craft guild who share tools. Members also receive a storage locker and key to use the shop at any time.

Meetings: one formal meeting each year when members get together, pay dues and discuss guild business. 2832 61st Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Girl Scoutswww.girlscoutsww.orgThe Girl Scouts program focuses on developing courage, confi-dence and character in girls. Girl Scouts of Western Washington offers programs for troops and individuals in grades K-12. Mer-cer Island units are part of the East King County region.

Mercer Island Historical SocietyContact: Susan Blake • 232-9442www.mercerislandhistory.org The Mercer Island Historical Society encourages interest in the history of the Island and collects and preserves historical memorabilia about the Island

and its residents.

Meetings: six times each year, 1 p.m., third Monday of the month, Mercer Island Community and Event Center, 8236 S.E. 24th St.

Mercer Island Kiwanis Clubwww.kiwanis.orgThe Mercer Island Kiwanis Club is a nonprofit, community service organization of men and women who primarily focus on helping children. The club raises money and puts it back into the com-munity. Since its establishment on Mer-cer Island in 1960, the Kiwanians have raised funds from selling fireworks during the Fourth of July, shaved ice at the Summer Celebration and putting up the U.S. flag on national holidays at subscribing merchants and busi-nesses on the Island.Contributions are awarded pri-marily to Mercer Island organiza-tions such as the Boys & Girls Club, Youth and Family Services, CHILD school and others.The club sponsors the Key Club at the high school and awards scholarships to MIHS students each year.

Meetings: Thursdays at noon, Aljoya, 2430 76th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Lions Clubmercerislandlions.lionwap.orgThe Mercer Island Lions Club sells Christmas trees each year to support its various philanthro-pies.The local club is a chapter of the largest service organization in the world. The Lions focus on community service and helping those with impaired vision or hearing. Since 1972, the club has supported Island organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Mercer Island Youth and Family Services, Social Service Program (adult day care), MI Boy Scout Troop #647, as well as honor-ing outstanding students and teachers.

Meetings: 6:45 p.m., first and third Tuesdays of the month, Aljoya, 2430 76th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island League of Women VotersContact: LWV office • [email protected] Mercer Island League of Women Voters is part of the Seattle League of Women Voters. The LWV is nonpartisan and does not support political candidates. Instead, the purpose of LWV is

to educate citizens and encour-age participation in the electoral process.

Mercer Island Masonic LodgeContact: Dean Quigley • 232-8957Freemasonry is a fraternal soci-ety of men bound together by ties of brotherly affection.The Mercer Island Lodge pro-vides two $1,000 scholarships

CLUBS | PAGE 24

Matt Brashears/Special to the Reporter�e Mercer Island Lion’s Club, parading in 2014’s Summer Celebration!, also sells Christmas trees each year in the Town Center. �e sale funds many youth and community activities.

CLUBS | FROM 16


to Mercer Island High School seniors, sponsors an awards program for the MIHS juniors, works with the Mercer Island

Police Department on the Kids’ ID program, and contributes man-power and financial assistance to the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Emergency Assistance Program.

Meetings: first Thursday of the month, except July and August, at the VFW Hall, 1836 72nd Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Radio Operatorswww.mirohams.orgThe Mercer Island Radio Op-erators (MIRO) was formed to provide emergency communica-tions for the Mercer Island Public Safety Department in the event of a disaster or communication systems failure.

Meetings: 7 p.m., third Thursday of each month, North end fire station, 3030 78th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Rotary Clubwww.mirotary.orgRotary, the largest service organi-zation on Mercer Island, supports youth and social service activities on the Island. It also provides services and grants for nonprofit organizations and scholarships for individuals. Rotary Run is

the club’s annual spring event to raise money for colon cancer research and awareness.Rotary supports food banks, career awareness programs, vaccination programs, student awards and scholarships, Mercer Island Youth and Family Services, international youth exchanges and the Boys & Girls Club.

Meetings: 12-1:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Mercer Island Community and Event Center, 8236 S.E. 24th St. Though membership in Rotary is by invitation only, anyone interested in service to the community is welcome to attend a meeting.

Mercer Island Sister City AssociationContact: Linda Todd • 232-4570www.mercerislandsistercity.orgThe Mercer Island Sister City Association shares a relationship with Thonon les Bains, France, a city on the south shore of

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TIME TO MOVE?Donovan Realty Group offers skilled representation for buyers and sellers on Mercer Island and beyond. Call, click or email us to discuss your real estate options.

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CLUBS | PAGE 26

CLUBS | FROM 23

Matt Brashears/Special to the Reporter VFW Post 5760 members Dean Quigley, front seat, Richard Kloppenburg, back le�, and Brian MacKinnon wave to the crowd during the 2014 Sum-mer Celebration Grand Parade.


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Mercer Island Clergy Association: The Mercer Island Clergy Association holds an annual student-led Bac-calaureate service for high school graduation in June and an all-Island interfaith Thanksgiving service in November. Contact Greg Asima-koupoulos at [email protected].

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 4001 Island Crest Way, 236-2957.

Congregation Shevet Achim: 685 S.E. 47th St. 275-1539, www.shevetachim.com.

Congregational Church of Mercer Island: 4545 Island Crest Way, 232-7800, www.ucc-ccmi.org.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church: 4400 86th Ave. S.E., 232-1572, www.emmanuelmi.org.

First Church of Christ, Scientist: Meets at United Methodist ChurchP.O. Box 406, Mercer Island, WA 232-0175, www.fccsmi.com.

Christian Science Reading Room:7605 S.E. 27th St. #106, 232-5850.

First Taiwanese Presbyterian Church: 3605 84th Ave. S.E., (at the MI Presbyterian Church), www.1tpc.org.

Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation: 3700 East Mercer Way, 232-8555, www.h-nt.org.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church: 8501 S.E. 40th St., 232-3270, www.htlcmi.org.

Evergreen Covenant Church: 3200 78th Ave. S.E., 232-1015, www.evergreenchurch.cc.

Mercer Island Presbyterian Church: 3605 84th Ave. S.E., 232-5595, www.mipc.org.

Mercer Island United Methodist Church: 7070 S.E. 24th, 232-3044, www.miumc.org.

MI Bahai’s: P.O. Box 1271, www.mibahais.org.

Redeemer Lutheran Church: 6001 Island Crest Way, 232-1711, www.redeemerlutheranmi.org.

St. Monica Catholic Church: 4311 88th Ave. S.E., 232-2900, www.stmonica.cc.

Flavia Markiewicz/Contributed Photo Jon Newman and Aaron Sandor� y parade with Congregation Shevet Achim’s two Torahs to the synagogue’s new home in the former Christian Science Church on Island Crest Way.

Faith Communities


Lake Geneva, and is a member of Sister Cities International.The MISCA hosts French-related events throughout the year, such as French conversation eve-nings, wine and cheese tastings, raclette dinners and more. The association also hosts an annual “Soiree a Thonon,” an evening of desserts, wines, entertainment and a silent auction to help raise funds for activities.

Board meetings: 12:30 p.m., fourth Wednesday of the month, Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce, 7605 S.E. 27th St., #109.

Mercer Island Women’s Clubwww.mercerislandwomensclub.comOne of the oldest and largest organizations on the Island, the Mercer Island Women’s Club welcomes women who are current residents of the Island. Founded in 1963 as a Welcome Wagon, it became the Mercer Island Women’s Club in 1981. Today, from September to May, more than 350 women of all ages enjoy a wide variety of activities, including a monthly luncheon. Primarily a social organization, the group also raises funds for local nonprofit organizations. An-nual dues of $25 cover the news-letter and the club directory.Meetings: monthly luncheons, usually held on the second Monday or Tuesday of the month at an area restaurant, private club or place of business.

National Charity Leaguewww.nclevergreen.orgThe National Charity League, Ev-ergreen chapter, is an education-al and philanthropic organization of mothers and their daughters in grades seven through 12. The aim is to foster mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic group committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experience.

Meetings: monthly.

National League of Young Men www.nlymmercerisland.orgThe Mercer Island Chapter of the National League of Young Men, Inc. was founded in May 2014. It is open to young men and their mothers who reside in or attend school on Mercer Island. Its founding membership consisted of 56 mothers and 54 young men in sophomore and freshman high school classes.

Pacific Northwest Audio Societywww.audiosociety.orgPNWAS is dedicated to the exploration and enjoyment of fine audio and music since its founding in 1978. Meetings: 7:30 p.m., second Thursday of every month, Kirkland Woman’s Club, 407 1st Street, Kirkland.

Probus Club of Mercer Islandwww.probus.org/usmercer.htmMercer Island Probus Club members are professional and business retirees. Probus pro-motes fellowship and intellectual stimulation for club members. There are monthly speakers on various subjects, and day trips are taken throughout the year.

Meetings: 10:30 a.m., first Wednesday of the month, Mercer Island Presbyte-rian Church, 3605 84th Ave. S.E. The public is welcome to attend.

Stroum Jewish Community Center 3801 East Mercer Way • 232-7115www.sjcc.orgOn Mercer Island since 1968, the SJCC is dedicated to the enrichment of life for the Jewish and general community in the greater Seattle area. Membership is open to everyone. Programs include community-wide events, a premier Early Childhood School, summer camp, school’s out program, before- and after-school care, kids and adult sports leagues,

adult and senior activities, and social, cultural and recreational programs. The SJCC has a fitness center, racquetball courts, indoor running track, gymnasium and indoor swimming pool, in addi-tion to a newly renovated audi-torium, the SJCC has a children’s library, kitchen, classrooms and meeting rooms.

TrailmatesContact: Fran Call • 232-4032Lace up your lightweight hiking boots. Trailmates offers moderate five to seven-mile hikes for se-niors in the beautiful Northwest. Call 275-7609 with questions. Hikes require pre-registration.

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 57601836 72nd Ave. S.E. • 232-6390www.vfwmercerisland.orgMercer Island VFW Post 5760 supports and protects the rights of veterans and promotes patriotism. The VFW participates with other posts in support-ing patients at the Veterans Administration Hospital. The VFW Hall is available for lease by other organizations.Meetings: 6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of the

month (except for August and Septem-ber), VFW Hall, 1836 72nd Ave. S.E.

YMCA Adventure GuidesContact: Darcie Flynn • 425-644-8417 ext. 15, [email protected] The Y-Adventure guides program, formerly known as Y-Guides and Y-Princesses, en-courages relationships between parents and their children. Parent and child pairs are grouped with other pairs in the same grade and schools to make up neighborhood circles that meet monthly for adventures and activities that include games, sto-ries, snacks and crafts. They also have the opportunity to attend three weekend campouts during the year as well as other monthly community outings.

Mercer Island Saddle Club8635 S.E. 68th Street • 232-7548The Mercer Island Saddle Club runs the only horse stable on the Island. The club has a riding arena and offers riding lessons.

CLUBS | FROM 24

CLUBS | PAGE 27

Contributed Photo�e SJCC has operated the largest Jewish camp in the Paci�c Northwest since 1959, welcoming nearly 1,000 campers in summer 2014.


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ElectrolysisRegistered Nurse and nationally certi�ed professional, Alanna has been in practice 28 years, 23 on Mercer Island. She is the past president of the Washington State Electrolysis Association board. O�ce hours are Monday through Friday with Saturday by appointment.Electrolysis is blending of science and skill where safety and permanency are

the outcome. Electrolysis is the only process hair removal approved by the FDA. New products & procedures are being marketed daily but the consumer must be informed! Be aware of new methods for permanent hair removal that are not proven.“My role is to keep the skin lovely while removing the hair permanently.”

ALANNA BURDELL, R.N.C.P.E

236-76687420 SE 24th #1

HAIR IT IS!(Next to Franky and Dom’s)

Mercer Island Schools Band BoostersContact: Kris Kelsay, Chair www.misbb.orgThe Band Boosters is a nonprofit that hopes to raise money to be used for all band needs at Mercer Island School District schools.

Mercer Island Schools Foundation275-2550 • www.mercerisland-schoolsfoundation.comThe Mercer Island Schools Foun-dation is a nonprofit corpora-tion organized to enhance the quality of education by raising money for the Mercer Island public schools.

Community Fund232-8897 • www.micommunity-fund.org

The Mercer Island Commu-nity Fund, established in 1985, serves as a channel for dona-tions to art and music programs, social services, youth group activities and other all-Island events. Grants are awarded by the 15-member board of direc-tors. Mercer Island nonprofits may apply.

Senior FoundationContact: Leslie Scott • 232-4597 The Senior Foundation of Mer-cer Island was founded in 2002 to raise funds to develop and empower community-based programs that enhance the health, safety and well-being of Mercer Island seniors.

Youth and Family Services Foundation275-7611 • www.mercergov.orgDonations to the fund help sup-port the mission and outreach of the city’s Youth and Family Services programs.

CLUBS | FROM 26

Sta� Photo�e annual Truck Day held at the Stroum Jewish Community Center not only had big trucks for kids to climb on, but also cement mixers, a pony, �re engines, boats and motorcycles. King County Library System’s bright red ‘Library to Go’ van might have had the biggest crowd of all.


The Mercer Island LibraryThe Mercer Island Library4400 88th Ave. S.E. (206) 236-3537www.kcls.org/mercerislandThe Mercer Island Branch of the King County Library System (KCLS) sits at the highest point on Mercer Island at the former site of the Allview Heights school that opened in 1890. The library � rst established on the Island at Emmanuel Episco-pal Church, then was located in East Seattle. Built in the 1950s, the current building has gone through four expansions. The branch, one of the busiest of the 48 libraries in the the King County Library System, was the � rst to add computers for public use. The library has two public meeting rooms, a large children section, several computers and a teen section. There are programs for children and adults. See the Mercer Island events calendar on kcls.org for details.

Friends of the LibraryThe Friends of the Library, an Is-land nonpro� t group composed

of local volunteers, help to raise money to fund and implement programs for the library. Funds are raised through various book sales, membership dues and contributions. Donations of books and other media may be left at the Library Circulation Desk while the library is open.For more, email [email protected].

Mercer Island Library Board The city voted to re-establish the Library Board in July 2014, after a KCLS proposal to spend $3.4 million and remodel the library was met with commu-nity opposition. The remodel project has been placed on hold while KCLS and the city gather more community input on what Islanders want to see in their library. Present members of the Library Board include: Bryan Cairns, Bart Dawson, Lenore De� iese, Sandi Lindstrom, Sayuj Narayan, Lea Reule, Lori Robinson, Leann Tse, Mary Kay Woolston and Dan Grausz (Council liaison). The Board meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 6 p.m., at the library.

Oh! Chocolate will host “Chocolate” classes at our Mercer Island chocolate shop for those who

want to know more about their favorite indulgence and for those who just want to

“PLAY IN THE CHOCOLATE!”Classes are held SATURDAY evenings • 7:30 p.m.

2015 SPRING/SUMMER SCHEDULEAPRIL: 4, 18 • MAY: 2, 16 • JUNE: 6, 13

JULY: 11, 25 • AUGUST: 15, 29

The price is $79 per person and includes the art of tempering chocolate and dipping special treats

to take home.

Students also receive 10% OFF any purchases made at the class. Sign up early in-store or by telephone as

class size is limited and is sure to � ll up!

Small Private Parties Are Also Available for Groups of up to 10 with a minimum fee.

Like us on FACEBOOK and receive a free treat!

(206) 232-49742703 – 76th Ave SE, Mercer IslandFacebook.com/ohchocolateMI

Summer Hours:Mon–Thu: 10:am–6pmFri and Sat: 10am–7pmSundays: 12pm–5pm

Oh! Chocolate Classes


There are �ve pools on Mercer Island. All o�er lessons and exercise classes. Mary Wayte Pool is a public pool named after Mercer Island's own Olympic champion. The other four are private clubs that o�er a variety of sports and activities.

Mary Wayte Pool8815 S.E. 40th Str.206 588-1117mercerislandpool.comMary Wayte Pool is open to the public and is operated by the Olympic Cascades Aquatic Club. There are lessons, space rentals for parties and a variety of classes at the indoor facil-ity. Mercer Island High School aquatic athletes train here. The pool is named after Island Olympic champion, Mary Wayte who won four Olympic medals including two golds, at two

Olympics; the 1984 Games in Seoul and the 1988 Games in Los Angeles.

Stroum Jewish Community Center3801 East Mercer Way. 232-7115www.sjcc.orgThe SJCC indoor pool includes a 2.5-feet deep preschool pool area, and lap lanes for adults. It is within the SJCC campus. SJCC memberships are open to the public.

Mercerwood Shore Club4150 East Mercer Way232-1622www.mercerwood.comThe Shore Club's outdoor pool features a bubble cover for swimmers in the winter and fall. The members-only club offers lessons, free and lap swims and

holds meets for local teams.

Mercer Island Country Club8700 S.E. 71st st. 232-5600The members-only Mercer Island Country Club has a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and other amenities.

Mercer Island Beach Club8326 Avalon Drive232-3125www.mibeachclub.com The Beach Club located at the southern tip of Mercer Island has a clubhouse, pool, tennis and a beach area. It is also members only.

Island Pools

Mary Wayte Pool • 8815 SE 40th Mercer Island, WA 98040 • (206) 588-1117 • www.mercerislandpool.com

Come Jump In The Pool!!Safety, Fitness, and Family Fun!

Mary Wayte Pool is the located on Mercer Island near the high school. The pool is a public resource for all Mercer Island residents. It is owned by the Mercer Island School District and managed/operated by Olympic Cascade Aquatics (OCA) with support from the City of Mercer Island.

Please call or stop by the pool with questions, or � nd all scheduling, pricing, and convenient online program registration at www.mercerislandpool.com.

• Family Swim and Lap Swim seven days a week! Mary Wayte Pool offers indoor recreational and � tness swimming opportunities for all ages.

• OCA Swim School provides the best curriculum and instructors in the area! Lessons are available for children six months to adult instruction. Experienced instructors follow a

technique focused developmental curriculum tailored to individual students. Flexible scheduling every day of the week.

• Aquatic Fitness activities for the whole family! Programs include Shallow Water Fitness, Deep Water Fitness, Senior Swim, Riptides pre-competitive team,

OCA competitive USA Swimming team and OCA Masters swimming. These full body and low impact exercise opportunities are great for an everyday workout or to supplement a diverse � tness routine.

• Special Birthday Party and special event rentals at the pool! Parties include exclusive use of the facility with professional lifeguards. Pizza, birthday cake, or a movie during the party will be arranged for a wet and memorable occasion.

File PhotoMercer Island High School swim and water polo teams practice and com-pete at Mary Wayte Pool on S.E. 40th Street, north of the high school.


F rom the first school established on the Island in 1890 to the last one built in 1971 - there have

been 15 public schools on Mercer Island.

Of those schools, seven are gone — either demolished or burned down.

But of those that remain, the newest school now operating on the Island is Crest Learning Center at 4150 86th Ave. S.E. which is part of Mercer Island High School. It was first established in the East Seattle School, then moved into the old Mercer Crest Elementary School library and was remade into its present form in 1998.

Islanders have a long history of refining, repurposing and remodeling schools as a completely new school has not been built on the Island since 1962, when the West Mercer Elementary School opened.

The schools have all been remodeled over time including Mercer Island High School, originally built in 1955. It was

extensively remodeled and expanded in 1998. It is now undergoing another tran-sition —primarily to expand it to handle more students and more programs.

Islander Middle School, which opened in 1958, has undergone two major remod-els in 1994 and 2000.

In February 2014, Island voters approved a $98.8 million bond issue to build ad-ditional public school facilities on Mercer Island.

Now, a fourth elementary school, still unnamed, is under construction at the site of the old North Mercer Island Junior High School, which became the location of Youth Theatre Northwest, CHILD School and preschool and daycare centers. Those building have been razed to make way for a 54,000-square-foot school to house between 480 and 550 students.

Also underway is an expansion of Is-lander Middle School, with 14 new class-

rooms and lab spaces, larger commons and cafeteria spaces, a gymnasium, music rooms and administrative space.

The bonds will also fund the construction in progress of 10 additional classrooms at Mercer Island High School, including four science labs and six general education classrooms.

The state of Washington is providing $3.8 million in matching funds.

The Mercer Island School District cur-rently has more than 4,120 full-time equivalent students in the district’s three elementary schools, middle school, high school and alternative program. The district uses 34 portable classrooms to help accommodate the current number of students.

School officials moved to expand the facilities to accommodate more students, but also to provide the facilities to ensure that the school district delivers a 21st Century education to Island youth.

Island Schools

Images courtesy of Mercer Island School District


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Mercer Island Preschool Association www.mipreschoolassociation.orgThe Mercer Island Preschool Association (MIPA), established in 1937, is a private nonprofit organization of volunteers dedi-cated to enhancing the lives of children from newborn through kindergarten in Mercer Island and the community at large. The organization holds four major events each year, including a kid-friendly Halloween party,

Preschool Fair, Toy Swap and an old-fashioned ‘Circus’ each spring.

Mercer Island PreschoolsCountry Village Day School: 9423 S.E. 36th St., 236-2417Early World Montessori School: 3027 80th Ave. S.E., 232-2400

Little Acorn Sprouts: 8236 S.E. 24th St. Room 4, 232-0940

Northwest Montessori School: 4025 86th Ave. S.E., 232-4595

Emmanuel Day School: 4400 86th Ave. S.E., 232-5663

Little Acorn Day School: Current location at 4030 86th Ave. S.E. #E, 236-0480. Future location at 8236 S.E. 24th Street, Room #1 in the Annex.

MIPC Preschool: 3605 84th Ave. S.E., 232-5596

Creative Learning Center: 8236 S.E. 24th St., 232-8900

Mercer Island Learning Lab:

4120 86th Ave. S.E., (206) 436-1948

Pixie Hill Preschool: 4025 86th Ave. S.E., 236-1380

Sunnybeam School: 8635 S.E. 68th, 232-5776

Special Education Preschool ServicesThe Mercer Island School District

offers special education services to preschool children three to five-years of age. The services are designed to provide support to children with a documented disability.

For more, go to www.mercerislandschools.org.

Matt Brashears / Special to the Reporter

�e students of Mercer Island’s Early World Montessori School take car-rying their custom-made sign very seriously as they march in the Summer Celebration! Grand Parade in July.

Preschools


Mercer Island School District: 232-3330 www.mercerislandschools.org

Superintendent: Gary Plano, 230-3300, [email protected] over 4,000 students, the district is made up of six schools: Mercer Island High School, Is-lander Middle School, Lakeridge, Island Park and West Mercer el-ementary schools, and the Crest Learning Center. The MISD strives to offer differentiated instruction and learning activities for all stu-

dents. Volunteers work in school PTAs and classrooms, and sup-port the Mercer Island Schools Foundation. The pre-K-12 arts program includes dance, music, photography and drama.

Mercer Island School Dis-trict Board of Directors: 4160 86th Ave. S.E., 236-3330, www.mercerislandschools.org

Janet Frohnmayer, President: [email protected], current term ends 2015

Adair Dingle, Vice Presi-dent: [email protected], current term ends 2017

Pat Braman: [email protected], current term ends 2015

Dave Myerson: dave.meyerson@mercerisland-

schools.org, current term ends 2017

Brian Emanuels: [email protected], current term ends 2015

The School Board sets district policy and hires and oversees the superintendent. The board meets every other Thursday evening unless otherwise posted. School Board meeting agendas can be found online at the dis-trict’s website.

Mercer Island High School: 9100 S.E. 42nd St., 236-3359

Principal: Vicki Puckett

Mercer Island High School, home of the “Islanders,” serves 1,400 students in grades nine through 12. A standard day at MIHS includes six periods, although

students may elect to have a seven-period day. Parking at the school is limited. Most MIHS students are active in extracur-ricular activities and sports. The school has an extensive music program, drama club, National Honor Society, a monthly newspaper, photography and art, vocational programs, a marketing and business program called DECA, a radio station and a number of service clubs. A multitude of competitive sports are offered every season through the high school. The school offers a special education department with transitional school-to-work opportunities and has English as a Second Language (ESL). The curriculum also includes honors and Advanced Placement courses in science, art, econom-ics, English and world languages. Counseling for each student is provided and college admissions and career planning assistance are available to all students. The vast majority of MIHS seniors are college-bound, attending either two- or four-year institutions.

PUBLIC | PAGE 34

Mercer Island Public Schools


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French American School of Puget Sound:3795 East Mercer Way, 275-3533

Founded in 1995, the French American School of Puget Sound offers a preschool through eighth-grade education. The school enrolls 423 students, who learn reading, writing, language, math, history and science in both English and French, with an aver-age of 16-20 students per class. The school now offers bus service

Northwest Yeshiva High School:5017 90th Ave. S.E., 232-5272

Founded in 1974, Northwest Yeshiva High School provides a college preparatory education for Jewish students. The school's mission is to foster integrity,

strength of character, respect, service to others, a lifetime love of learning, commitment to the State of Israel, and adherence to the traditional ideals and practices of Torah Judaism. NYHS is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Col-leges.

St. Monica Parish School:4320 87th Ave. S.E., 232-5432

The mission of St. Monica Parish School, pre-K through eighth grade, is to teach Christ-like val-ues, assist students in achieving academic excellence in all areas, and to maintain a warm, safe, nurturing and loving learning environment. The school, accred-ited by the Western Catholic Edu-cational Association, has been in operation for over 50 years.

College Nannies and Tutors:7605 S.E. 27th St, Suite 101, (206) 659-4156

College Nannies and Tutors builds stronger families by providing role models through full-service childcare solutions and customized tutoring for college-bound students. From the time children are small until they take off for college, families can depend on educated roles models to help, whether it be the assistance of a part- or full-time nanny, a professional babysitter for a night or a qualified tutor to help with calculus.

The Privett Academy:9311 SE 36th St #230, 232-0059

The Privett Academy is a fully

accredited diploma-granting in-stitution for grades 6-12, offering personalized learning with regu-lar progress reports and flexible scheduling. The academy aims to provide a small-school environ-ment as well as a small class size, committed to never exceed-ing ten students in a class. It’s personalized learning approach is designed to meet the needs of the individual student.

Yellow Wood Academy:9655 SE 36th St Suite 101 236-1095

Yellow Wood Academy is an ac-credited independent school for K-12 students, providing custom-ized education. The curriculum, instruction, and school culture are responsive to the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each student. Founded in 1981, Yellow Wood Academy became a state-approved private school in 1992.

Private Schools and Tutors


Crest Learning Center:4150 86th Ave. S.E., 236-3390Crest is part of Mercer Island High School, operating as the district’s alternative program for students. The school offers flexible courses with different instructional approaches, as well as traditional classes. Crest welcomes a full spectrum of students, from high-achievers to at-risk youth. The school is a block away from MIHS.

Islander Middle School:8225 S.E. 72nd St., 236-3413Principals: Mary Jo Budzius, Aaron Miller

Islander Middle School, home of the “Gators,” offers a traditional and differentiated curriculum for students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. In addition to its core curriculum, IMS offers a broad range of electives, such as speech, Spanish, science, debate, drama, advanced writing, physi-cal education, choir, art, band, orchestra, and science and tech-nology classes. The school also

has special education classes. Many IMS students participate in after-school clubs, intramural and interscholastic sports.

Island Park Elementary School: 5437 Island Crest Way, 236-3410Principal: David Hoffman

Island Park Elementary School, home of the “Eagles,” is located in the middle of the Island, adjacent to Island Crest Park. Island Park is home to the district’s English Language Learner’s program and offers a tuition-based foreign language program, along with a student council, after school clubs and before school choir. Students are involved in arts and cultural experiences through curriculum, an artist-in-residence program funded by the PTA and the Mercer Island Schools Foundation. Island Park is also the current home of the district’s Keeping Pace program, a series of classes during the summer to help students with reading and math skills.

West Mercer Elementary School: 4141 81st Ave. S.E., 236-3430Principal: Carol Best

West Mercer Elementary School, home of the “Wolves,” has a traditional kindergarten through fifth-grade education program. The school prioritizes the integra-tion of writing throughout the curriculum; providing purposes and audiences for student writ-ing. West Mercer also has a popular chess club, art classes and science adventures program and other clubs. Each year, West Mercer puts on a school play and a barnyard hoedown, where stu-dents learn professional square dances. The West Mercer campus is also home to the district’s spe-cial education preschool class.

Lakeridge Elementary School: 8215 S.E. 78th St., 236-3415

Principal: Andy Labadie

Lakeridge Elementary School, home of the “Lions,” is located at the South end of the Island. The school’s mission is to increase student achievement in writing and math and to facilitate strong interpersonal relationships with-in a positive school climate. The school is also home to the school district’s Spectrum program for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The students learn in both regular and specialized classes. The school prides itself in the arts. Each year, Lakeridge 5th graders put on a musical operetta, and the P.E. curriculum welcomes professional dance instructors throughout the year.

Elementary Number 4Principal: Aimee Batliner-Gillette

In the fall of 2016, the Mercer Island School District will open a fourth elementary school on the North Mercer campus site. Currently under construction, the two-story facility will span a total of 75,000 square feet and will be able to house 500 students.

Staff Photo

First-grader Dheekshithaa Pulukaruppa Ayyanar looks up before dig-ging in with some of her classmates at the Mercer Island School District’s groundbreaking ceremony for Elementary No. 4.

Staff Photo

Mercer Island School District maintenance and operations director Tony Kuhn leads a group of elementary students to the future site of the new Elementary No. 4 for a groundbreaking ceremony in March.

PUBLIC | FROM 32


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The City of Mercer Island encourages and sponsors several activities to focus on sustainabil-ity. Check www.mercergov.org or contact Ross Freeman, Sustainability & Communications Manager at 275-7662 or [email protected], for news, events and updates.

City conservation and sustainability resourceswww.mercergov.org Click your way to �nding out more about solar power, the plastic bag ban, recycling, garbage, and yard waste, the city’s water conservation program, electric vehicle charging stations, how to do natural yard care and employ sustainable practices for a healthy environment.

Earth Corpswww.earthcorps.orgEarthCorps restores parks and open spaces while providing lead-ership and community service.

Friends of Luther Burbank Park Visit: www.lutherburbankpark.orgFriends of Luther Burbank is a group of Islanders devoted to the upkeep of one of the Island’s most beloved parks, from organiz-ing park activities to pulling out invasive plants. The organization is focused on maintaining a natural park where everyone can coexist.

Green Ribbon Commission www.mercergov.org/GreenRib-bonCommissionThe MI Green Ribbon Commission is developing ways to educate the community to encourage sustain-able behaviors to improve the environment by reducing waste, transportation emissions and home energy usage.

IslandVisionVisit www.islandvision.org IslandVision began with a few people interested in sustainability. Today, its purpose has expanded

to a number of areas in an effort to create conditions for sustainable prosperity on Mercer Island.

Mountains to Sound Greenway mtsgreenway.orgThis nonprofit helps manage and preserve open space along the Greenway from Puget Sound to the Cascades, including Mercer Island.

Farmers Market Boardwww.mifarmersmarket.org Visit the Mercer Island Farmers Market, starting in June and end-ing in October.

EV Charging StationsThere are four city-owned and six school district-owned 240v charg-ing stations for electric vehicles on Mercer Island. There is also a station at Walgreens.

Staff Photo

�e view looking southeast from ‘Kite Hill’ above Luther Burbank Park.

Environment/The Green Teams


City of Mercer Island Youth and Family Services programs: MIYFS is your first stop for help finding services, a place to live or other help for a loved one or yourself. For those 55 and over, MIYFS provides outreach for home-based assessments and counseling and support groups for those who have suffered loss or are caretakers for someone with a debilitating condition.

For these and to find out about other services, contact geriatric specialist Betsy Zuber at 275-7752 or [email protected].

Parks & Recreation senior adult programsContact: Parks and Recreation specialist Jeannette Eggebrecht 275-7841 For seniors over age 55, the Parks and Recreation Department offers fitness, exercise, Trail-mates and Solemates walking programs, dancing, Tai Chi, golf, summer softball, pickleball and

other “master” sports, and much more. Senior Social Days for persons with limited abilities are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with lunch and transportation provided; $40.

Transportation to the Com-munity and Events Center programs is offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The Meals-on-Wheels delivery, lunch at Covenant Shores, adventure trips and a foot care clinic are also offered.

Housing options just for seniors

As many as 4,000 citizens age 65 or older live on Mercer Island. Here are some local offerings geared for them.

Ellsworth House: (50 units) Reduced-income housing for those who qualify, 2720 76th Ave. S.E., 232-7447.

Island House: Retirement com-munity with both independent and assisted living, 24-hour staff, open dining, 7810 S.E. 30th St., 926-9732.

Covenant Shores: Continuum of care including residential re-tirement, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitative care and skilled nursing on a 12-acre cam-pus by the lake, 9150 Fortuna Dr., 268-3000, www.covenantretire-ment.com.

Sunrise Senior Living: As-sisted care and memory care, 2959 76th Ave. S.E., 232-6565, www.sunbridge.com.

Aljoya: (114 units) For seniors “looking for sophisticated living with a wealth of services and amenities.” Includes a restaurant and assisted care options for persons over age 62, 2430 76th Ave. S.E., 230-0150.

Health care/services

Puget Sound Hearing Aid & Audiology: 7700 Windermere Building, Suite 202, 1-800-500-8243.

ElderCare Link: an online service to help find nearby group homes, assisted living centers, in-home care, adult day care, [email protected] or call 275-7752.

Mary Wayte water fitness: 8815 S.E. 40th St., 588-1117, www.mercerislandpool.com. The pool holds classes for seniors and public swims.

Other services, clinics and work-shops are coordinated through the City of Mercer Island Youth & Family Services department. Go to www.mercergov.org or call 275-7752.

Senior Living

Staff Photo

Powered by a fresh breeze, a sailboat glides along the shore just around the corner from the East Channel bridge.

Staff Photo

John Weinberg delivers a pitch for the Mercer Island Rockers, the Island’s senior coed so� ball team.

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Looking for a bargain, a unique piece of art, a toy for a child or just the right out�t for a night on the town? Or looking for a place to donate clothing, jewelry, books or other items you no longer need? Do you want to help others?

The Mercer Island Thrift Shop is a revenue-generating program of Mercer Island Youth & Family Services. MIYFS services are supported by a public/private partnership through the City of Mercer Island, the Mercer Island School District and Mercer Island Thrift Shop revenues. Services o�ered include counseling, senior adult outreach, substance abuse prevention/intervention programs, juve-nile court diversion services, family assistance — including food through the MIYFS food bank, housing assistances and JobLink. The shop employs over 50 volunteers.

The Thrift Shop is located at 7710 S.E. 34th Street, at the southeast corner of Mercerdale Park. For more informa-tion, call 275-7760.

Staff Photo

�ese vintage but fabulous steeds were spotted outside the Mercer Island Youth and Family �ri� store earlier this year. Each were in �ne shape, springs and tack were in �awless condition.. �e Palamino in the fore-ground, (a Flexible Flyer), and the Pinto were priced $25 each. �e Pala-mino was gone by mida�ernoon the same day.

YFS Thrift Store


Mercer Island offers a wide vari-ety of art and artistic experiences for all audiences.Soon, a new Mercer Island Center for the Arts (MICA), located at the old recycling center by Mercer-dale Park, will be a focal point for the visual and performing arts. The Island is full of galleries that boast sculptures, paintings, photography, ceramics and many other forms of art. Live entertain-ment also adds to the Island’s artistic palette. Mostly Music and Shakespeare in the Park are favorite summer activities.

Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce Chamber Art Gallery: 7605 S.E. 27th St., Suite 109

Pon Proem Restaurant: 3039 78th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Visual Arts League Gallery at Avellino: 2836 78th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Library: 4400 88th Ave. S.E.

Mercer Island Commu-nity and Event Center Main Floor Gallery: 8236 S.E. 24th St.

Mercer Island City Hall: 9611 S.E. 36th St.

Aljoya Mezzanine Gallery: 2430 76th Ave. S.E.

77 Central Apartments: 2630 77th Ave. S.E., Suite 100

Outdoor I-90 Sculpture Park: Along Sunset Highway between 77th Avenue S.E. and 80th Avenue S.E.

Third Thursday Art Walk: Town businesses, north and south, May through October

Performance

Youth Theatre Northwest: 232-4145, www.youththeatre.org. Youth Theatre Northwest is a school and theater that empha-sizes intellectual, artistic and personal development through drama education, performances and live theater. YTN provides a wide range of classes and pro-grams for children ages 3-18.

Island Choral Experience: 232-8007 www.islandchoralexperience.com

The group has three choirs: Island Children’s Choir, Island Pre-paratory Choir and Island Sound.

Children’s Dance Conservatory & Youth Ballet: Susan Valencia, 8635 S.E. 68th St., 522-9399

Pacific Sound Chorus:Gayle Robinson, 425-820-9825, www.pacificsound.org

Mercerart Dance: 7513 S.E. 27th St., 232-6237

Above right, art from the MIVAL Holiday Show was on display at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center. Middle right, preliminary designs of an outdoor performance space show how MICA will be integrated into Mercerdale Park.

Bottom right, steel and concrete salvaged from the World Trade Center in New York City will be used for a public sculpture outside the new South-end Fire Station.

Staff Photos

Visual and performing arts

Representing Mercer Island, the Eastside and Seattle. Connecting you to the World.EwingAndClark.com | 206.232.5700 | LuxuryRealEstate.com

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7853 SE 27th Street, Suite 180 - Mercer Island, WAO� ce: 206.232.8600 Fax: 206.236.5162

www.mercerislando� ce.johnlscott.comMonday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm Saturday-Sunday 9:00am-3:00pm

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7853 SE 27th Street, Suite 180 - Mercer Island, WA

Office: 206.232.8600 Fax: 206.236.5162

www.mercerislandoffice.johnlscott.com Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm Saturday-Sunday 9:00am-3:00pm

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Daryl Summers Nina Li Smith

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Debbie Constantine

Lou Glatz

Conner Holden

Julie Mermelstein Andrea Pirzio-Biroli Jimmy Pliego

Empowering Our Brokers to Serve Their Clients to the Highest Level of Industry

Mark Anderson

Gloria Lee Sandra Levin

Shawn Elings

Lauren Fournier Mark Eskridge Kevin Gilchrest

Craig Hagstrom Helen Hitchcock Dieter Kaetel Elizabeth Kenny Lori Holden Scott Megan Javidan

Joe Armitage Jane Ceteznik Oordt

Frank Ceteznik

Tim Conway Betty DeLaurenti

Claudia Allard Julia Nordby Branch Manager

Tim Lyon Brad Noe

7853 SE 27th Street, Suite 180 - Mercer Island, WA

Office: 206.232.8600 Fax: 206.236.5162

www.mercerislandoffice.johnlscott.com Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm Saturday-Sunday 9:00am-3:00pm

Tony Salvata Megan Shay Millie Su

Tony Tran

Wade Rowley

Jason Watabe Cindy Verschueren Petra Walker Martin Weiss

Daryl Summers Nina Li Smith

Gloria Wolfe

Karla Souza

Huy Tat

Debbie Constantine

Lou Glatz

Conner Holden

Documents

Residents Guide - 2015 Island Guide