Mercer Island, WA February 2024 by City Lifestyle

Bill Radke Love Local Giving MIYFSF 22nd Annual Breakfast F O O D + B E V E R AG E

M ARRY M E CH I CKEN A R T S + C U LT U R E

LOV E LO CAL MUSI C AT M OSAI C M I

F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

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GREG ROSENWALD Happy New Year! As I reflect upon the remarkable year of 2023, I am filled with gratitude for the moments shared and the accomplishments achieved. The clients I have helped, the friends I have made, and the community I was honored to support. Looking forward to 2024, our partnership becomes more vital than ever. Let me continue to assist you by putting my experience to work, ensuring that your next move is a seamless and enjoyable journey.

GREG ROSENWALD Founding Broker | Compass WA

Voted Best Agent on Mercer Island.

206.914.0417 greg.rosenwald@compass.com GregRosenwald.com

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

NOTABLE SALES OF 2023

4232 Hunts Point Road $14,500,000 | Seller & Buyer

7301 West Mercer Way $7,750,000 | Seller & Buyer

8236 Avalon Drive $5,249,000 | Buyer

8005 SE 34th Place $3,399,000 | Buyer

7920 SE 72nd Place $4,898,000 | Buyer

7411 SE 71st Street $3,250,000 | Seller & Buyer

9519 SE 71st Street $3,065,000 | Seller

2440 61st Ave SE $2,698,000 | Seller

3440 W Mercer Way $2,598,000 | Seller

3411 77th Place $1,550,000 | Seller & Buyer

4208 Wallingford Ave N $1,550,000 | Seller

114 143rd Place NE $898,000 | Seller

Mercer Island Luxury Expert

7270 N Mercer Way Sold For $6,750,000

3061 69th Ave SE Sold For $6,700,000

5237 Forest Ave SE Sold For $6,700,000

4879 Forest Ave SE Sold For $5,150,000

Mercer Island’s Private Waterfront Sales 2023 13

Number of Sales

$7.9M

Average Sale Price

54%

Sold in the First 10 Days

Address

Community

Sales Price (Millions)

Sq Ft

Waterfront (Feet)

4327 Forest Ave SE

West Mercer

$3.20

3,945

22'

6900 96th Ave SE

Eastside

$4.50

3,490

60'

7905 W Mercer Way

South End

$4.86

4,810

83'

4879 Forest Ave SE

Westside

$5.15

3,370

43'

8236 Avalon Dr

South End

$5.35

3,730

63'

4003 W Mercer Way

West Mercer

$5.80

700

155'

5237 Forest Ave SE

West Mercer

$6.70

4,280

112'

7270 N Mercer Wy

North End

$6.75

5,638

23'

7301 W Mercer Wy

West Mercer

$7.30

4,640

113'

3425 67th Ave SE

Westside

$7.73

2,690

67'

3310 97th Ave SE

North End

$8.10

3,884

100'

7838 SE 22nd Place

North End

$13.00

6,362

98'

6236 SE 22nd St

North End

$24.38

12,623

120'

Information & statistics derived from NWMLS & Public Records 1/1/23-12/21/2023

Kelly Weisfield J.D., CRS, ABR Founding Broker, Compass WA 206.355.3863 | KellyWeisfield.com

Elevate where life happens so you can discover the Art of Living. (206) 501-4448 | amy@artaladesigns.com | artaladesigns.com | V @artala.designs

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love Mercer Island Dear Residents of Mercer Island and Readers of Mercer Island City Lifestyle, As we step into another vibrant year, it's with immense pride that we bring to you stories that celebrate our community's spirit and connection. This month's edition, themed "Love Local," showcases how our residents make Mercer Island a unique and cherished place. Our cover story features Bill Radke, a name synonymous with community engagement and a dedicated parent of three. His role in the 22nd Annual MIYFS Breakfast, not just as an MC but as a beacon of community spirit, speaks volumes about our island's unity and compassion. Bill's dedication to Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) and his views on turning financial success into communal well-being are both inspiring and thought-provoking. In "Local Gathering," we highlight the efforts of India Harmsen, Amber Gribble, and Amanda Colburn. These three friends founded The Gathering 98040, creating a space for women on the island to learn, grow, and connect. Their wide range of workshops, from mixology to embroidery, emphasizes the power of togetherness and personal growth. Our "Love Local Arts" section illuminates the cultural vibrancy of our community. The holiday showcase at Julie Hsieh’s Yuan Ru Art Center, featuring local artists and a special piano performance by Daniel Hankes, exemplifies the rich tapestry of talent we have on Mercer Island. Music is a universal language, and in "Love Local Music," we delve into the journey of Mercer Island's own music scene. Mosaic MI, inspired by the ethos of The Moth, is a testament to the power of music and storytelling. Our local musicians and performers, echoing the transformative impact of Brandi Carlile, are creating a unique symphony of voices and stories. Lastly, we bring to you a delightful recipe from Fuudi Kitchen – "Marry Me Chicken." This dish, lovingly crafted by Suzie Mulligan and Robin Holland, is not just a culinary delight but a symbol of our island's love for great food and shared experiences. As publishers, we are humbled by the stories of resilience, creativity, and community spirit that define Mercer Island. Each story in this edition is a reminder of our shared values and the strength we derive from our community. We hope these stories inspire you as much as they inspire us. Warm Regards, CHRIS ISHII AND SHARON PEREZ @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2024 PUBLISHER

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

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

Abby Karp, Robin Holland, Carin Parcel, Suzie Mulligan, The Gathering 98040 C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Rick Barry, The Gathering 98040, Laura Ohata

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

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

he Robyn and Rachel Group has helped us buy two houses, sell one house, and they have bought and sold a number of our friends’ homes. They are a truly professional team and bring a wealth of knowledge to help buyers make an informed decision about a new property. They each have their own skill set that helps balance their group. We enjoyed working with this powerhouse team and would highly recommend them to others. – Natasha G., Mercer Island Client

RobynandRachel.com

Proudly supporting our Mercer Island community © 2023 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

18 28

Featured

18 26 28

Love Local Giving

Giving From the Heart: MIYFS Foundation 22nd Annual Breakfast

Love Local Arts

Showcasing MI Artists at Yuan Ru Art Center

Love Local Music

Mosaic MI Singer-song writer open mic night

On the Cover

Departments

Bill Radke is the host of KUOW-FM Seattle’s “Week in Review” and MI Youth & Family Services 22nd Annual Breakfast MC; supporting school counselors, emergency and senior services and vital community connection.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Must See LOCAL SERVICES

Maker’s Studio LIFE + CULTURE

Trend Setter ARTS + CULTURE

Back Stage ARTS + CULTURE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Events

Photography: Sharon Perez

Everything Possible Together Feel optimistic about life and money.

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2 OU T O F 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

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FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1: MIHS Marching Band makes the NASDAQ 2: This is Christmas in NYC! MIHS band in Time Square with the fabulous Jen McLellan 3: SJCC staff greeting guests at Illuminate MI Holiday Firehouse Munch 4: Kicking off the Holiday season with Island Youth Ballet’s Sugarplum Fairy, Santa and IYB Soldier 5: Mercer Island Emergency Management Volunteers keeping our community safe at Illuminate MI Firehouse Munch 6: Mercer Island Preschool Association serves families with children 0-5 with events, scholarships and socials. 7: Jen Dean, Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce CEO with Le’SPA owner Mikaela Kovacevich and team Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

14 13

8: Jennifer Glick looking gorgeous at the MI Beach Club Holiday Gifts & Glam event. 9: Sharon and Jennifer Flood getting in the holiday spirit at the MI Beach Club 10: Local artist, Dana Allison Wellness, wrapping handmade candles at MI Beach Club Gifts & Glam 11: Musical Islanders played to a full house at the December Mosiac MI at SZ Gallery. 12: Singer-song writer, Marni Sheppard, at December Mosaic MI open mic at SZ Gallery 13: Pianist Daniel Hankes, performing at Yuan Ru Holiday show, joining exhibiting mother, Louise Hankes 14: Michelle Janes, Sarah Hall, Nina Cuneo celebrating the 8th Annual Sunnybeam Moms Holiday Gift Exchange Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle

CONTINUED >

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city scene CONTINUED

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

@MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE @RICKBARRY

21 @RICKBARRY

@RAYSBOATHOUSE

15: Islander, Suzie Mulligan, Fuudi Founder / CEO, preps global gourmet food boxes for holiday gifts 16: Leo Longo and Nikki Baidwan at “We are Palestine” exhibit opening at SZ Gallery 17: Julie Hsieh and Dorit Lessard at Yuan Ru Art Center with Louise Hankes paintings 18: Russell Moore and Robin Holland of Fuudi, global gourmet foods, at Yuan Ru Holiday Show 19: Three generations at “We are Palestine” SZ Gallery, Muna AudiZahr, Sabine and Suzanne Zahr 20: Josiane Faubert at the exhibit opening party for “We are Palestine” at SZ Gallery 21: Chris, Amy May | Artala, Mark Elster | AOME, and Sharon celebrating a year together!

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FEBRUARY 2024

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Give the gift of chocolates from around the world! Visit www.fuudi.com to ﬁnd out more about our chocolates and other exceptional gourmet food offerings. We offer custom curated products and specialty gift collections, including gourmet subscriptions and branded corporate giftsboxes. Can’t decide what to send? We have giftcards and e-gift certiﬁcates available! Local pickup/delivery options available.

Island Animal Hospital Assisted in Emergency Parrot Evacuation Island Animal Hospital helped lend a hand to Denise’s Parrot Place when a fire broke out at a nearby business. Multiple Island Animal Hospital team members helped evacuate the parrots and load them into transportation to be moved to temporary housing. The whole ordeal was a huge community effort to get the birds to safety and support Denise’s Parrot Place employees.

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follow @fuudishop www.fuudi.com 16

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

S TAY W E L L

Carin Susann and a Reminder to Love Yourself Valentine’s Day can be polarizing, and Carin Susann reminds us of something important about the holiday - don’t leave out self-love, we can all use more of it. Celebrate who you are, what you have accomplished, or even waking up and facing the day. Valentine’s Day can be defined by your standards, make it about love in a way that honors who and where you are right now.

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Bill Radke, MIYFS Breakfast MC

M UST SE E | LO CAL S ERVICE S

L OV E LOCAL GI V ING Giving From the Heart: MIYFS Foundation 22nd Annual Breakfast

As the editor of Mercer Island City Lifestyle, I’ve witnessed numerous stories of community spirit and resilience. Yet, none resonate quite like the impact of Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) and its unwavering bond with our community. This bond is epitomized by Bill Radke, a familiar face and voice to many on the island, and a dedicated parent of three. On a bright morning at the south-end Starbucks (another amazing MIYFSF partner), I sat down with Bill to discuss the upcoming 22nd Annual MIYFS Breakfast. This event isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a symbol of our island’s unity and compassion.

I was curious about Bill’s enduring commitment as the MC for this event. “Bill, what drives you to dedicate your time to the MIYFS Annual Breakfast year after year?” I asked. Bill’s eyes lit up as he spoke. “Sharon, it’s about the connection that MIYFS fosters across Mercer Island. In a world where isolation is rampant, MIYFS acts as a unifying force. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from; MIYFS is there for everyone, creating a sense of belonging and community.” He paused, reminiscing about the diverse groups of people brought together by MIYFS. “It’s a day that goes beyond fundraising. It’s a CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

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

day where we celebrate our collective spirit and the ties that bind us.” Turning the conversation to this year’s breakfast, I asked, “What message do you hope to convey to encourage support this year?” Bill responded earnestly, “It’s about turning our good fortune into meaningful change. Supporting MIYFS is an opportunity to convert our financial success into communal well-being. It’s not just a donation; it’s an investment in our island’s future.” As our conversation delved deeper, I brought up a crucial point. “Financial stability doesn’t equate to a life free of challenges. MIYFS understands this, don’t they?” “Absolutely,” Bill agreed. “Money isn’t a shield from life’s difficulties. MIYFS provides essential services like counseling and support, not just for those facing financial hardships but for anyone in need of guidance or a sympathetic ear. Their presence in every school is a testament to their commitment to our youth’s overall health.” As our interview concluded, I reflected on the profound impact MIYFS has on our community. The upcoming breakfast isn’t just an event; it’s a manifestation of Mercer Island’s compassion and generosity. As I walked away, I felt a renewed sense of pride and hope for our community, united by the heart and soul of MIYFS. --MIYFS organization and programs are so much more than just a service provider; it’s the heartbeat of Mercer Island, bringing us all together in support, understanding, and mutual care. All are welcome to attend the 22nd Annual MIYFSF Breakfast, Tuesday, February 7 at the Mercer Island Community and Events Center - register online at https://miyfs.org/2024-annual-breakfast-registration. Find more information about MIYFS programs at www.MIYFS.org. Bill Radke is the host of “Week in Review” on KUOWFM Seattle, and Mercer Island father of three teens and two cats with his wife Sara Bowen.

M UST SE E | LO CAL S ERVICE S

As the story of Bill Radke and Sharon Perez’s conversation unfolds, it paints a vivid picture of the deep-rooted love and commitment the Mercer Island community has for MIYFS, and the vital role it plays in bringing the island together. Bill leans in, his eyes reflecting the passion he holds for the community. "MIYFS is more than just a service provider; it's a lifeline that connects the entire island. In today's world, where isolation is all too common, MIYFS brings us together, regardless of our backgrounds, ages, or financial situations.

“Money isn’t a shield from life’s difficulties. MIYFS provides essential services like counseling and support, not just for those facing financial hardships but for anyone in need of guidance or a sympathetic ear.”

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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE GATHERING 98040

THE GATHERING 98040: CONNECT. LEARN. FLOURISH.

Amanda, India, and Amber

LOVE LOCAL GATHERING 22

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Longtime island friends, India Harmsen, Amber Gribble, and Amanda Colburn, came together at a time of longing for more - more togetherness, more experiences, more time for themselves. Their goal was simple:

away with new knowledge on a topic, insider tips, and information to pursue it further if they so choose. Notes are provided to guests after the event so they can be present and enjoy their time during the workshop but still

"USE COLD WATER IN YOUR VASES TO KEEP FLOWERS FRESH FOR LONGER." help women expand their knowledge, try new skills, and explore new passions all while having quality time with someone they may know or making new friends along the way. As such, The Gathering 98040 was born. The Gathering offers a wide variety of classes and workshops. Each curated event is intimate in size and personalized to make women feel recognized and welcome. Experiences feature thoughtfully prepared nibbles and sips while experts guide attendees through hands-on instruction. “We are thrilled to be able to curate opportunities for all women to grow and are excited to broaden our experiences right alongside our guests,” stated co-founder Amanda Colburn. The classes and workshops through The Gathering provide a supportive space for women to connect with others from all walks of life and encourage women to come as they are. At the conclusion of each event, guests walk

have information to refer back to as needed after its conclusion. Since its inception, The Gathering has hosted workshops on a wide range of topics, including mixology, boat driving, container gardening, pastry making, fitness and meal prep, grilling, preparing seafood, embroidery, watercolor, and charcuterie to name a few. In late September, The Gathering hosted a workshop in partnership with Mercer Island Florist. Attendees created custom low and lush arrangements under the expert guidance of floral designer Jenna Weischedel. Guests began the evening with time to mingle and explore the floral shop while they sipped on prosecco and hibiscus flower cocktails. Once the learning portion of the evening began, they found their way to stations already prepared with their supplies and enjoyed individual charcuterie boxes while Weischedel reviewed the principles and elements of design CONTINUED >

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

and explained how they apply to floral arranging. She emphasized the importance of balance, symmetry, and rhythm when creating an arrangement. Attendees then made selections from a wide variety of fresh flowers and greenery to create their own bespoke arrangements. Some guests opted for a refined Fall color scheme while others worked in monochromatic hues including white, green and blue. Weischedel provided guidance and tips throughout the process, while encouraging attendees to experiment and express their own creativity. The results were stunning. Each arrangement was unique and reflected the individual style of its designer. Floral arranging is a creative way to add beauty to your home or office. Studies have shown that just the presence of flowers in your proximity reduces stress and promotes calm feelings. If you want to learn more about creating your own floral arrangements at home, check out the Blog page on The Gathering’s website (thegathering98040. com) for detailed tips and tricks as well as suggested products.

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | L I FE + CU LT U RE

"CHANGE WATER EVERY 4-5 DAYS." - JENNA WEISCHEDEL

TIPS FOR FLORAL DESIGN AT HOME BY JENNA WEISCHEDEL OF MERCER ISLAND FLORIST:

Cold water helps to prevent bacteria growth. Bacteria and fungus cause your flowers to rot more quickly. Give your stems a fresh cut before placing them in your vase. Follow instructions for the proper ratio of food to water. A general rule of thumb is one scoop of flower food for one gallon of water. Leave the leaves on your flower stems until you’re ready to create your arrangement. Removing leaves releases ethylene gas which shortens the lifespan of your flowers. The same gas comes off of fresh fruit like bananas and apples. Keep your flower arrangements away from your fruit too! Pull off any dead flowers or leaves to prevent other nearby flowers from wilting sooner.

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ARTICLE BY JULIE HSIEH PHOTOGRAPHY BY @YUAN RU ART CENTER

L ove Local Arts

SHOWCASING MI ARTISTS AT YUAN RU ART CENTER

T R E N D SE T T E R | ARTS + CU LT U RE

2 4

The Yuan Ru Art Center is an inclusive artistic showcase for global and local artists. 3

A harmonious blend of art and music welcomed guests at Yuan Ru Art Center for a holiday showcase, including State Senator Patty Kuderer and State Representative My-Linh Thai. A celebration of creativity featuring a diverse array of artistic expressions from the PNW, including the works of six talented Mercer Island artists in visual, jewelry, culinary, and musical arts. A special highlight was an enchanting piano performance by Daniel Hankes, son of exhibiting artist Louise Hankes.

CA PTION SUBHEA DING 1. Culinary art from MI based Fuudi 2. Kevin Cooley, State Senator Patty Kuderer, Daniel Hankes, Marni Sheppard, Louise Hankes, Sophie Stilton, State Representative My-Linh Thai, and Julie Hsieh 3. Daniel Hankes performing classical piano music 4. Artists at rest

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Love LOCAL MUSIC MOSAIC MI

Abby K and Mark Ippolito leading a group sing-a-long

Singer-songwriter, Andrew Lee Mason

Mosaic MI Founder Abby K

ARTICLE BY ABBY KARP PHOTOGRAPHY BY @CITYLIFESTYLE

B ACK STAGE | ARTS + C U LT U RE

Singer-songwriter, John Riziki

Mosaic sing and play-a-long

Singer - songwriter Brian Marshall MIHS Students, Sidh Shroff, Daniel Marcus, Elise McDonald

or me, it was seeing Brandi Carlile opening up for Indigo Girls for the first time that sent me on a transformative musical journey. Carlile’s voice, melody, and story-telling talents were just the inspiration I needed to pick up my long-neglected guitar and start writing songs. As the founder of Mosaic MI – a monthly open mic in a beautiful, attentive listening room – it is my mission to spark a musical transformation for others in Seattle’s geographic center, Mercer Island. As a professional singer-songwriter immersed in the Seattle

Music scene, I’ve spent the past 12 years leaving Mercer Island to find a thriving music community. Now, it is my ambition to build a vibrant local music scene right here in my own community and bring a unique songwriting community together like a mosaic – song-by-song, artist-by-artist. Mosaic MI draws inspiration from the live “story slam” known as The Moth, where people from diverse backgrounds share their stories in front of a live attentive audience. Like The Moth, Mosaic MI seeks people of all talents and performance levels to share their art. I hope this community will spark inspiration for other musicians and listeners, just as it did for

me. It is also for music appreciators who want to disconnect and hear live music in a beautiful space. Both will benefit from this gift of music. Anyone, high school and older, is invited to the gatherings held on the first Thursday of each month at the Suzanne Zahr Gallery. Sign-up for the fifteen performance slots opens at 6:30pm, and the program runs from 7:00-9:00pm. To join the musical movement and experience the transformative power of Mosaic MI, follow https://www.facebook. com/MosaicMIand on Instagram www. instagram.com/mosaicmusicmi. Watch the pieces come together as music and fellowship flow to the heart of Mercer Island.

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E C M H Y I C R R

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE MULLIGAN & ROBIN HOLLAND

A VALENTINE'S DAY DELIGHT

Introducing "Marry Me Chicken" – a dish so irresistibly creamy, succulent, and bursting with flavor that rumor has it a marriage proposal is practically guaranteed if you serve it to your special someone! Despite its whimsical name, this recipe stands as a contender for the title of the Best Chicken Dish Ever!

Recipe by the Fuudi Kitchen, Suzie Mulligan & Robin Holland

Servings: 6

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

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Marry Me Chicken Plated

IN GR E D IE N T S

DIRECTIONS

• 2 T. olive oil • 3-4 large chicken breasts, slice lengthwise into two cutlets • All-purpose flour for dredging • Salt & pepper • 1 T. butter • 1 T. sundried tomato oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup chicken broth • ½ tsp oregano • ½ tsp thyme • 1 tsp red pepper flakes • ½ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped • ¾ cup heavy cream • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated • 8-10 Fresh basil leaves, cut into a chiffonade

1. Season chicken generously with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess. 2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 3. Brown chicken (avoid overcrowding and work in batches if needed) for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside. 4. Add the butter and sundried tomato oil to the pan, then sauté garlic for a minute until fragrant, being careful not to scorch it. Add chicken stock to deglaze, scraping any bits from the pan with a wooden spoon. 5. Add the thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, and sundried tomatoes, and bring to a simmer. 6. Adjust the heat to medium-low, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Return the chicken to the sauce and let it simmer and thicken for a few more minutes. 8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and serve.

NOTES: • Serve with pasta, rice or polenta. • We thought adding a few handfuls of baby spinach at the end with the chicken would be a nice touch and a great way to include nutritious greens. Just toss into the sauce and let it wilt. • Chicken thighs can be substituted, but they will take a bit longer to cook. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

FEBRUARY 2024

ENJOY THE JOY.

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S FEBR UARY 1ST

Mosaic MI Open Mic Night SZ Gallery 2441 76th Ave SE, Suite 160 | 6:30 PM Mosaic MI, is a monthly open mic and listening room where emerging musicians and lyrical poets can fine-tune their works, gather, and be heard the first Thursday of every month in Mercer Island Town Center. Musicians can sign up at 6:30 for 20 available slots. Guitars and keyboard provided. Open to anyone in high school and older. FEBR UARY 1ST

Mercer Island High School Drama Show: Little Women Mercer Island High School Performing Arts Center | 5:00 PM

VISIT US TODAY!

Join the MIHS Drama department as they perform Little Women, the enduring story by American author Louisa May Alcott. The four March daughters—Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy—continue to live in the hearts of readers, causing smiles and tears, triumph and tragedy as they grow up, fall in love and face life. Tickets at www.show tix4u.com/event-details/79502 FEBR UARY 7TH

Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation Annual Breakfast Mercer Island Community & Events Center | 7:30 AM

7445 SE 24th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040 206-800-8670 aegisliving.com

EVE N TS

There’s no better way to start your morning than championing and supporting your friends and neighbors. Mercer Island City Lifestyle is proud to sponsor the 2024 Breakfast. Join over 500 Islanders for a program focused on community, connection and compassion celebrating Mercer Island Services’ vital programs for our community. Register at miyfs.org/2024-annual-break fast-registration/#gf_7

THE VIEWS WILL GO ON FOREVER,

BUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

WON’T LAST PRICE IMPROVEMENTS UP TO 20% - SAVE UP TO $800,000* *Limited to next six buyers for contracts accepted in January 2024.

Join Mercer Island City Lifestyle Magazine and special guests for an evening of discovery and a waterfront lifestyle showcase. Behold 37 condominium estates of concrete, steel,

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WHEN

Th ursday, Jan u ar y 2 5 , 2 0 2 4 6:00 to 8:00 p. m .

W HE R E

I n fi n i ty S h o re Cl u b Res id en c es 1 2 5 0 A l ki Av en u e S o u t h w es t S eatt l e, WA

MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE

INFINITYSHORECLUB.COM

R SV P

Ch r is . I s h ii@Cit y Lif e s t yl e . c o m