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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy New Year! Bring on 2024! Dear Readers, I'm thrilled to announce that Sharon Perez has joined me as Editor of Mercer Island City Lifestyle. A respected Mercer Island community leader and tireless advocate, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our publication. Together, we truly want to forge this publication as a community asset and It is an honor to partner with her in serving you, our readers. In this month’s issue, we’re shining a spotlight on health, wellness, community, and the arts – integral parts of the Mercer Island lifestyle. We start by highlighting Yuan Ru Art Center’s winter exhibition curated by Julie Hsieh. Showcasing works by Louise Hankes, Marni Sheppard, Sophie Stilon, Motoko Kodera, Kouji Kodera, and other regional artists, it reflects on our interconnectedness through creativity and nature. Quite the Mercer Island dedication. Check it out! Julie is not only an advertising partner, she will also do double curation duties by publishing a monthly art editorial! Be on the lookout for our events in partnership with Yuan Ru Art Center! Join Dean Jones, CEO of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty as he explores the restorative shorelines of Puget Sound at Alki Beach. A recent visit to the new Infinity Shore Club Residences, by James Wong on Alki Beach reminded him of Mercer Island’s beautiful waterfront. Alki Beach is "Mercer Island's Surrogate Shoreline" and living along the sea promotes well-being through activity, family bonds, and tranquility. Try our exclusive paella recipe from Robin Holland and Suzie Mulligan of Fuudi. Packed with seafood, chicken and veggies, this hearty dish proves healthy cooking can also bring people together. If you haven't heard of Fuudi and you consider yourself a "Foodie", please stay tuned. You are going to see big things to come from this dynamic duo. If you're looking for Holiday (business) gifts, look them up at Fuudi.com! Our final story is "We Are Islanders". Thanks to Mellissa Hill, from MIHS 1993, the whole concept of inclusion and belonging has reached heights that she would've never imagined 20 short years ago. "We Are Islanders" is a testament to the needs of today's society. As we begin 2024, I hope these stories inspire you to nourish your whole self – mind, body and spirit – while appreciating the rich culture of Mercer Island. Wishing you health, passion, togetherness and creativity in the year ahead. Sincerely, CHRIS ISHII, PUBLISHER @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

January 2024 PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Hsieh, Robin Holland, Suzie Mulligan C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Laura Ohata, Robin Holland, Suzie Mulligan

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mercer Island area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for

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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

16 18

Featured

16 18 20 28 10

Yuan Ru Art Center

Presenting Five Mercer Island Artists

Once Upon a Shoreline Mercer Island Extended Intro

Mercer Island Extended

Alki Beach: Mercer Island’s Surrogate Shoreline

A Culinary Fiesta

28 On the Cover

Departments

In Spain, New Year's Eve is celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and community. While paella is enjoyed throughout the year, it holds a special place during festive occasions. A symbol of sharing and togetherness.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Open House REAL ESTATE

Local Limelight REAL ESTATE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Must See LIFE + CULTURE

Traditional Paella with Seafood and Chorizo for New Year Photography: Robin Holland & Suzie Mulligan of Fuudi's

Mercer Island cIty lIfestyle™

S TAY W E L L

stay cOnnected tO yOUr cOMMUnIty

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Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

Good news in your neighborhood.

Local content by local creators.

Inside scoop on all things local.

Locally-inspired food & drink recipes.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

JANUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

@TAKAIBYKASHIBA

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

5 @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

1: Salon NUR November Gratitude & Rest Dinner before Candlelight Class at Take Care Yoga 2: Suzanne Zahr at Salon NUR Rest, Renew & Shine for Mind, Body & Spirit 3: Salon NUR Sava Simbe and Marianne Parks 4: Sharon & Anthony, Sara Bowen & Bill Radke, Julie Hsieh & David Figatner @ Takai 5: Dean Jones and Yael Pina Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty at Infinity Shore Club, West Seattle 6: First Friday Art Walk Paramita Mukherjee , Claudia Harner-Jay, Sharon, Anne Hritzay, Jennifer Flood 7: Dean Jones and Tadashi Shiga Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty

C I T Y SC E N E

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

@COREHAVN

8: First Friday Art Walk Tammy Shoop and Artist Lisa Nordale 9: MIHS Jazz Combo First Friday Art Walk Sidh Shroff, bass and Lukas Floodwallin, sax 10: MIHS Jazz Combo performing at Art Walk Julian Jay piano 11: MIHS Jazz Combo performing at Art Walk, Kellan, Julian, Sidh, Lukas and Daniel Marcus, Bass 12: MIHS Jazz Combo performing at Art Walk Kellan Wu, drums 13: Cat DeHaven in Praying Mantis on XFormer at Core Havn MI 14: Pilates Principles w/Modern Exercise Science, Megan B on XLunge at Core Havn MI

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

city scene CONTINUED

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

LAURA OHATA

MELLISSA HILL

15: Chris w/Irene Ishii Wu, MIHS Grad & Senior Attorney @ Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation 16: Sharon, Chris, and Julie | Artwork by Kevin Cosley at Yuan Ru Art Center 17: MIHS Band at Belonging Assembly

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Yuan Ru

ART CENTER: PRESENTS FIVE MERCER ISL AND ARTISTS

Marni Sheppard | Marni's works explore the symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity.

Yuan Ru Art Center’s current exhibition “2024 Contemporary Artists Preview” features a joint exhibition of 9 Pacific Northwest artists, including 5 artists from Mercer Island, curated by gallerist Julie Hsieh. This exhibition started in November and will be extended until January 7th, 2024. Hours are weekends noon to 4pm and weekdays by appointment. Please call (425) 5828878 or email info@yuanru.gallery. Address: 12737 Bel-Red Rd, Suite 100, Bellevue, WA

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

ARTICLE BY JULIE HSIEH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA OHATA

Sophie Stilon | Sophie's work has been selected for The Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition in London.

Motoko Kodera | Motoko is a contemporary impressionist painter.

Louise Hankes | "The shapes I use in my artwork are inspired from my childhood exposure to Norwegian folk art."

Kouji Kodera | Kouji has been inspired on an exploration of different combinations of natural elements.

the

Artists

“Art is a way to express creativity and emotions. It is not only ceramics, painting or what people think traditionally art is. Cooking, writing, coding, or anything expressing personal feeling or creativities are also art. Art transcends many boundaries and is a powerful tool of self-expression to anyone.” - Kouji Kodera “My artwork is a juxtaposition of tightly structured and loosely playful. I enjoy the journey from the right hemisphere of my brain to the left and back again, in the process producing an invitation for the viewer to engage with color, shape and the way they interact with each other.” - Louise Hankes “Everything is connected in nature. All we need to do is follow the line with our eyes and our heart.” - Marni Sheppard JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

Jame sW on ga nd

n ea

ith Sm

Once Upon a Shorel i ne Infinity Shore Club

place is the design priority. The hallways are wide and have ample storage. The living spaces celebrate open design and accessibility with views that are spectacular and enduring. James grew up with the Seattle skyline etched into his memory, a constant backdrop to a childhood of modest means. Now, he infuses his memories into a tangible legacy of his journey from the humble streets to the peak of construction innovation. James Wong’s Infinity Shore Club is more than a new place to live – it’s a new way to live. It is an extension of Mercer Island’s lakeside ethos. Where the ocean meets the city, where luxury is not just found but lived, and where each resident has a piece of nature to call their own. Infinity Shore Club is already more than James’ legacy; it has become the backdrop for the many stories that will unfold within its embrace, a testament to life lived at its finest.

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII

Sited upon an enviable perch in West Seattle, where the skyline meets the rippling waves of the Puget Sound, a visionary named James Wong set out to create a legacy, a beacon of luxury and exclusivity. This residential enclave is called “Infinity Shore Club Residences.” Infinity Shore Club is not just a cluster of condominiums; it’s a mosaic of individuality, with 37 homes and 17 unique designs, a testament to bespoke living. On the penthouse floor, a crown jewel awaits. It boasts over 3,200 square feet of interior and exterior living spaces, with three bedrooms, a den, and 3.5 baths. Each guest room is graced with an ensuite bathroom, a nod to the convenience and comfort James values. The primary suite is a sanctuary, featuring a morning coffee and cocktail sunset patio, a grand walk-in closet, and a five-piece, spa-like bathroom with radiant floor heating and private water closet. Below, a single-level flat caters to those seeking a life without stairs. Aging in

"Bringing a lifestyle to Seattle unlike anything else." - Dean Jones, CEO Realogics Sotheby's International

O PE N H OU SE | REAL ESTAT E

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Infinity Pool

ALKI BEACH: MERCER ISLAND’S SURROGATE SHORELINE

Mercer Island Extended ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | R E AL ESTATE

“

T h e re's m o re t h a n 14,0 0 0 s q u a re fe e t of i nt e r io r a n d ex t e r io r l i v i n g s p ac e s . - D e a n Jo n e s

Amongst the best-kept secrets in Puget Sound is the unique ocean shoreline of West Seattle. As the region’s most famous stretch of sand, Alki Beach is just 12 miles west of Mercer Island, and a convenient seaside refuge for a day trip or increasingly, as a primary address. It may be the answer for those Islanders seeking single level living without compromising the waterfront. Dean Jones, CEO and owner of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, was the tour guide. As an empty-nester and former resident of Mercer Island’s waterfront since 2010, Dean made the move westward. He originally hailed from Vancouver BC and has always loved California and that sort of Venice | Santa Monica oceanfront vibe. He is a lifelong aficionado of fun beach communities in the Vancouver area like Kitsilano Beach and Ambleside Beach on the North Shore. He’s living that lifestyle at the recently completed Infinity Shore Club Residences – a 37-unit condominium estate on the prow of Alki Point with panoramic views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. As Dean reminisces of his time in B.C., reflects on living on Mercer Island waterfront, and he vividly describes the opportunity for West Seattle. “And there are condominium offerings where you can live right on the beach. But do you realize that on the oceanfront here, there's only one like community in a metro of 4 million plus people? I loved living on Mercer Island’s lakefront, but the single-family entry point is steep and there are no condominium offerings. Totally different. This is a lock-andleave lifestyle, it’s Puget Sound, and it’s truly a waterfront theater!” Dean passionately elaborates on the relative rarity. “You can go down to California and

there are hundreds of miles of waterfront and dozens of very large beach communities all the way down to San Diego where you can do this. In both markets of Vancouver and in California, homes like this would trade at $2,500 to $3,500 a square foot and one thing that I do know from the research is once they sell out, they rarely change hands. Often because they end up being true legacy investments for families and they know how rare it is. They don't let go of an heirloom very easily. There's an appreciation built in on multiple levels. Emotionally and financially. It's kind of baked into the culture, but you know what? It has never existed here with this sort of design and quality.” Perhaps it was the long uncertainty of the West Seattle Bridge or simply an overlooked area because of the upsurgence of the Eastside and the abundance of lakefront. Real estate agents, neighbors, appraisers, and lenders all what the developer, Vibrant Cities, was doing over there? Dean surmises, “They always viewed West Seattle differently for what it has offered, until now. I looked at it amongst a world class city on the rise and where we could walk to the West Seattle foot ferry and be in downtown Seattle. That is an elegant lifestyle with a matchless view.” So even if the area made sense, there wasn’t a lot to choose from to attract the resident who places a high value on a bespoke lifestyle with the amenities of a world-class metropolitan culture. Dean explains, “The product didn't exist and as a result, there were no immediate comparable sales. Right? So quite literally what we've done here is Vibrant Cities had this vision to bring that resort-like style to Seattle. There's only one place to do this. Golden Gardens? Not so much. They don't have the zoning, there are CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

train tracks. You know, Des Moines doesn't have the same demographic. You know, you can't get this close to the water on Bainbridge Island. So there just is not another place to do it, and even Alki Beach is elusive.” Dean sees it as Mercer Island’s westward extension noting the zoning and product doesn’t exist on the “rock”. “And now with the West Seattle bridge reopening, and lots of great restaurants and lifestyle attractions in West Seattle. It's kind of the island you can drive to.” Vibrant Cities’ James Wong had a vision that took more than a quarter century to assemble the land, seek entitlements, and build through the pandemic, bridge closures, and other challenges. "I knew the moment I saw the plans for this development that it was bringing a lifestyle to Seattle unlike anything else," Dean says. With resort-level amenities, private outdoor spaces, and finishes and design befitting a five-star hotel, Infinity Shore Club offers homeownership akin to a vacation getaway, all while feeling intimately connected to the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. “It permeates the beach into the interiors but also infuses into your lifestyle.” Dean calls the building a “horizontal high-rise” because of the steel and concrete construction quality, but also because it’s five lots wide when most developments are perhaps one, two, or three lots, and more typically built of wood framing.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | R E AL ESTATE

The property is worth a visit as a work of art, let alone a potential homestead. The namesake for the property is the infinity pool. The exterior space is one of a variety of common spaces that extend the lifestyle of the 37 owner residents. Another attribute of extension is the extension of family. As children start their own families and grandchildren enter the picture, the amenities of Alki and West Seattle really give your mind cause to wander and wonder. Such a cool thing for your grandchildren to be in the trap as Dean calls it. Simply put, the family kids visit the grandparents and never want to leave the resort-like amenities. On the other side of Elliott Bay, the Four Seasons Private Residences in downtown Seattle was delivered in 2010. Dean carefully remembers, “We were fortunate enough to represent a lot of sales and many of our clients are in there. It was the first of its kind bringing this luxury brand and such inspired spaces to Seattle. Obviously, they trade at a very high price point. You might think of these as large formats with taller ceilings, gracious windows, and volumes of space. They don't feel like apartments. They're condominium estates. It's a new product category, but we have the same designer that did the infinity edge pool, one of only a handful like it in all our cities. And then we have the same interior designer, which is Susan Marinello, who interestingly has roots in West Seattle and Mercer Island. We have the

“

We have the same st r uct ural integ r it y and qualit y bec ause of our concrete and steel. I like to say that we have the Five Sea sons now bec ause we have a beach.

”

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

same structural integrity and quality because of our concrete and steel. I like to say that we have the Five Seasons now because we have a beach.” As you enter the building it’s as if the beach is brought into the community. Sand dollars adorn the wall with custom-loomed carpets that resemble tidal pools. As if you were across the street on the sandy beach. A concierge welcomes you home. You can go straight to your elevator or if entertaining, you can climb the oak stairs with a wrought iron railing to a Great Room amenity area – a twostory space on the poolscape. All cool and very bespoke. The property is truly resort-style and frames the type of sanctuary that we all need for peace and tranquility and the occasional social event. The proximity lends itself to the active Mercer Islander: Cycling, walking, running, the best cold plunge possible, rollerblading,

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | REAL E STAT E

windsurfing, swimming, kayaking, and not to mention an enviable commute of 20-minutes to SeaTac Airport.More lifestyle and less domestic management. So, oceanfront living at a price point that is about half the comparable beachfront values along the harbinger Canadien and California coast, and more similar to the high-rise condominiums found atop recently completed towers in downtown Seattle, for now. But the process of downsizing and selling a longtime family home, especially on Mercer Island, can be complex. That's where expert relocation agent Robyn Kimura-Hsu of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty proves invaluable. “I work closely with builders like Infinity Shore Club Residences to secure early occupancy options while a current home is for sale,” explains Robyn.

Robyn and her business partner, Rachel Schindler, and team conduct thorough market analyses, professionally staging and hosting open houses to maximize exposure. Their network of fellow agents helps expedite sale transactions. This sometimes allows residents to purchase their new Infinity Shore Club home contingent on their previous sale closing, avoiding dual housing costs or extended stays elsewhere. To be sure, Mercer Island is well known for an aging population and high percentage of single-family homes with longtime residents who enjoy significant equity positions, but truly, there are few options for downsizing, and none on the shoreline. Perhaps that’s why so many retirement communities are established, but real estate agents agree many residents seek an interim residency in a nearby, single-level condominium allowing one to age in place. Another trend is to cash in on the home equity with resources to buy multiple homes, perhaps one on the beach and another in the mountains or in the desert. As Dean finished our tour on the rooftop to showcase the panoramic sound view and Seattle skyline, one couldn’t help imagining the entertainment possibilities. The possibilities for lifestyle expansion. Infinity Shore Club has a seamless indoor-outdoor flow that immerses homeowners in scenic Puget Sound views without excessive yard work. The resort-worthy common spaces encourage social bonds across ages, just as on Mercer Island

neighborhoods of lore. An “infinity-edge pool dances with sun and water and guests can lounge on the lush, professionally designed roof deck. Dean reminds us, “There's more than 14,000 square feet of interior and exterior living spaces that are common for the use of only 37 homeowners.” He also points to expansive patios for most homes that feature Nanawall window systems, effectively extending the interior living spaces to the exterior with terraces large enough for outdoor dining and entertainment. Above all, on the rooftop, luxury reached new heights with private decks engineered to support hot tubs and outdoor kitchens, where the Space Needle loomed on the horizon like a sentinel in the distance and a setting sun over the Olympic Mountains cast a silhouette that is quintessentially, Seattle. The ground floor and lower level was a concourse of conveniences—a puppy grooming area humorously dubbed by Dean’s nicknames such as the "Gucci Puppy Clinic," a “Garage Mahal” with generous parking, and an “REI room” for the adventurers at heart. For flexible living done right, Infinity Shore Club is an attractive option. As evening sunlight paints the sky and frolicsome children remind Dean of future families creating memories here, he smiles knowing this development honors the Northwest beachfront lifestyle cherished for generations yet to come. Expanding horizons in so many ways. All at the shoreline of a global city on the rise. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | R E AL ESTATE

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Seafood Paella

A CU L I NA RY F I E STA

Traditional Paella with Seafood and Chorizo for New Year

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN HOLLAND & SUZIE MULLIGAN

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

"The clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari make for a seafood dish rich in protein, B12, and iron. These components, while satisfying the palate, also offer a low-saturated fat profile and are high in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health. Together with the vegetables in the dish, they create a harmonious fusion of flavor and health, making Seafood Paella a delightful and nourishing culinary experience." - Robin & Suzie

SPANISH PAELLA WITH SEAFOOD AND CHORIZO Serves 6

Fixings: • 6 c seafood or chicken stock • 1/4 c extra-virgin olive oil • ½ lb prawns, peeled, tail on • ½ lb mussels, cleaned, beards removed. Toss any that are open. • ½ lb clams, washed (soak in salty water to remove grit) Toss any that are open. • 8 oz calamari • 8 oz chorizo link sausage cut into ½“ slices • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 1 tsp sweet or smoked paprika • 1 pinch saffron threads • 1 bay leaf • 1 c onion, finely chopped • 1 c bell pepper, red and green, finely chopped • 1 c Roma tomato, very fine dice • 2 c Spanish Bomba Rice • ¼ c white wine • ¼ c fresh parsley, finely chopped • 1 lemon cut into wedges for garnish Preparation: 1. Heat the chicken stock in a pot over medium heat and reserve, keeping warm. 2. Add olive oil to a spacious skillet or paella pan. Quickly sauté the shrimp, on both sides until pink, set aside. Next quickly sauté calamari, and set aside. 3. In the same pan, lightly brown the chorizo sausage, and set aside.

4. Adding a touch more olive oil if necessary, add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing until the onion turns translucent. Next add the chopped garlic, paprika, saffron, bay leaf and chopped tomato and reserved chorizo. Stir together & cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the seasonings to become fragrant. Add parsley, salt & pepper, taste, and adjust as needed. 5. Now add the rice to the pan, thoroughly coat the rice in the sofrito mixture. Pour the white wine over the rice, allowing it to reduce slightly, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the hot fish or chicken broth to the pan, distributing it evenly over the rice. 6. Nestle the mussels, clams and reserved prawns and calamari into the rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low. Give the pan a gentle shake to incorporate all of the ingredients, then continue to cook, without stirring, and for approximately 5-7 minutes until the mussels and clams gracefully reveal themselves. 7. Continue to cook over a medium-low flame until the liquid is absorbed. Test the rice to see if it is tender, if not, add a ¼ cup of hot stock and continue cooking. It’s important to refrain from stirring, so that a crisp, golden crust, the coveted socarrat, forms at the bottom of the pan. 8. Remove pan from heat and cover with a lid or aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot. Notes: • The chorizo sausage can be omitted or substituted with 2 boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks. • Bomba rice or paella rice is optimal, but if you can’t find it, use a short-grained round rice and reduce the stock by 1 1/2-2 cups. • The fresh seafood can be substituted with frozen. There are mixed bags including shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops and calamari available in the grocery store freezer section. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

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Mellissa Hill MIHS Cheerleader 1993

ARTICLE BY ROBIN LI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA HILL

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“The band is so much more than a performance group - it is a community that welcomes everyone and helps every student thrive.” For anyone who has been to a Mercer Island High School game, the drum cadence signals that the Islanders are playing at home. On November 1, the sound filled the gym of West Mercer Elementary School and the chanters were ages five to eleven, but the cadence still signaled that Islanders were at home. The event was the first in a series of student-led Belonging assemblies, and the cadence was courtesy of the Mercer Island High School Marching Band, invited by the newly-founded group, “We Are Islanders.” Composed of parents and school staff from across the district, they have a clear goal: Through joyful connections and camaraderie, our mission is to cultivate a sense of belonging and unconditional value for students and families that celebrates our diversity and pride through the statement, “We Are Islanders.” The MI Band Program was an obvious partner, known for creating community, fostering belonging, and cultivating pride rooted in collaboration and joy. As clarinet section leader Julius Perez observed, “The band is so much more than a performance group - it is a community that welcomes everyone and helps every student thrive.” While we celebrate the differences we all bring to Mercer Island, our shared home connects us; we play in the same parks, walk the same woods, and shop in the same stores. Like all island-dwellers, we cross paths frequently and depend on each other when challenges arise. “We Are Islanders” reinforces this spirit and the connection that comes with it. The group found focus through the vision of the West Mercer PTA Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Mellissa Hill. When Mellissa moved to Mercer Island from Washington, D.C. in 1988, she went from a community where people assumed she belonged to a new home where she often had to explain her presence. As one of only four or five Black students

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at Islander Middle School, Mellissa recalls feeling self-conscious and isolated, “I used to wait by the classroom door for lunch to end.” Mellissa waited years to find belonging on MI, for a peer to approach her with openness, warmth and welcome. That year, she worked with other high school students to put on a talent show, finding belonging through collaboration, music and joy. Through commitment and discipline, Mellissa became an MIHS cheerleader, achieving a sense of belonging for herself. Research shows that “the presence of belonging, specifically school belonging, has powerful long- and short-term implications for students’ positive psychological and academic outcomes.” [1] Having a durable sense of belonging insulates kids from the ups and downs of life and lowers the stakes of achievement culture, separating self-worth from individual accomplishment. Now raising her son on Mercer Island, Mellissa’s vision was to use DEI as a way to help us understand how belonging to a place, and each other, is worth celebrating separately from achievement. The “We Are Islanders” group works to instill in every child a sense of belonging and islander pride by bringing students together around joy and camaraderie, to tell them that they do not need to prove themselves; they are already home. If you would like to be a part of “We Are Islanders,” contact Mellissa at diversity@ westmercerpta.org. [1] Allen KA, Gray DL, Baumeister RF, Leary MR. The Need to Belong: a Deep Dive into the Origins, Implications, and Future of a Foundational Construct. Educ Psychol Rev. 2022;34(2):1133-1156. doi: 10.1007/s10648-021-09633-6. Epub 2021 Aug 31. PMID: 34483627; PMCID: PMC8405711.

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