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8260 Avalon Drive, Mercer Island
Beds
Love Lives on Mercer Island
February is often associated with hearts and flowers, but on Mercer Island, love shows up in quieter, more enduring ways.
Here, love looks like neighbors checking in on one another, generous support for our seniors, and steady encouragement for our youth as they discover who they are becoming. It’s the way our community gives - thoughtfully, consistently, and from the heart - to organizations that care for people both on and off the Island. This is a place where compassion is not performative; it’s practiced.
Love also lives in our creative spaces. In local theater productions, open mic nights, art walks, and shared moments of expression, we find inspiration, connection, and joy. The arts feed our hearts—they invite us to listen, to feel, and to see one another more clearly. They remind us that love is something we create together.
In this issue, we celebrate the many forms love takes in our community: service and generosity, creativity and courage, presence and care. Whether you’re giving your time, your talent, your resources, or simply your attention, every act of love strengthens the fabric of Mercer Island.
As we move through this year, may we continue to give—and receive—love in all its forms.
With gratitude and heart,
SHARON PEREZ & CHRIS ISHII, EDITOR & PUBLISHER @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: Kyoko
city scene
and Mia Dong promoted Island Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker
at the Harvest Market. 2: Michele and Madeline
share the love for MI at the Harvest Farmers Market. 3: With MI Farmers Market Manager, Ange 4: New Islanders, Yash Taparia and his sweet pup, 5: Youth & Family Services Program Coordinator, Marina Gonzales, enjoys the farmers market with her husband. 6: Natalie and Dan Veljovich sport their favorite teams at the harvest market. 7: Nikki and Ari Sherr show off their newest family member at the Harvest Market.
Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Horiuch-Dong
shows
Silbey
8: Abby Markus unveiled her new business at the Harvest Market with delicious Gluten Free pies. 9: Holiday Pickleball Party at the MICEC. 10: MI Youth & Family Services Foundation Board Members Michelle Peyree and President Cindy Goetzmann. 11: Mercer Island Youth Ballet’s 2025 Excerpts from the Nutcracker soloists. 12: Island Animal Hospital brought cheer and education on pet care to the Chamber Holiday Market. 13: MIHS choral students brought cheer and carols to the Chamber Holiday Market. 14: The annual Argosy Christmas Ships brought carolers and lights to the Mercerwood Shore Club beach.
1: Island Youth Ballet showcased an excerpt from The Nutcracker at the Holiday Market. 2: MI Chamber of Commerce hosted the 3rd Annual Holiday Market at MICEC with local vendors. 3: Sharon with Noire Essentials founder, Chasidy Day at the Chamber Holiday Market at MICEC. Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
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LOCAL STUDENTS USE APPAREL TO SPARK MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND SUPPORT SOUND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
988 FIND YOUR PEACE
A small group of Mercer Island students have turned a simple idea into a powerful message: sometimes awareness can start with something as ordinary as a T-shirt. What began as conversations among friends about mental health, loss, and the weight many young people quietly carry has grown into 988 Find Your Peace, a student-led apparel initiative raising awareness for mental health and supporting SOUND Behavioral Health, one of the largest providers of mental health and addiction services in King County. The project was founded by Levi
Jones, Ronan Buckley, and Connor Flume, all students of Mercer Island High School, who wanted to make it easier – and more socially acceptable –to talk about mental health.
“We got curious about how we could get people talking about this,” said Levi Jones, now a senior. “Mental health still carries a lot of stigma, and we wanted to create something that opened up conversation in a natural way.”
The idea centered on the number 988, the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which launched in 2022 as an easy-to-remember resource for anyone experiencing emotional distress. In King County, calls to 988 connect people to local, in-person support through SOUND Behavioral Health’s Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team (MRRCT) which provides on-theground intervention for those experiencing a crisis.
By placing the number front and center on sweatshirts and T-shirts, the students hoped to normalize seeing it – and talking about it – everywhere from school hallways to coffee shops.
“The reason we wanted to root this entire project in 988 was because each of us have a shared experience in dealing with mental health issues – whether it was a family member, friend, or even ourselves,” said Flume. “We thought using 988 in our design
“SEEING YOUNG PEOPLE LEAD WITH EMPATHY AND ACTION IS INCREDIBLY POWERFUL” - MICHELLE BOLLINGER
was a great way to spark conversations with our peers that might not happen otherwise, to make the conversation more approachable for everyone.”
The trio decided early on that this would be more than just a clothing project. They positioned 988 Find Your Peace as a nonprofit initiative, with 100% of profits donated to SOUND Behavioral Health, an organization that has served King County for 60 years. SOUND provides counseling, crisis support, housing assistance, and recovery services to more than 14,000 people each year.
Each founder brought a different skill set to the project. Flume took the lead on design, creating clean, understated graphics that made the message approachable. Buckley handled outreach to manufacturers and learned the logistics of apparel production. Jones coordinated shipping, website management, and social media outreach, helping the brand find its audience.
Teachers at Mercer Island High School were among the early supporters, wearing the shirts and sweatshirts and helping spread awareness organically. The response reinforced the group’s belief that subtle visibility could lead to meaningful conversations.
So far, 988 Find Your Peace has generated about $2,000 in profit donated directly to SOUND Behavioral Health. For SOUND Behavioral Health, the partnership represents the kind of boots-on-the-ground advocacy that can make a lasting difference, especially with younger audiences.
“Seeing young people lead with empathy and action is incredibly powerful,” said Michelle Bollinger, a MRRCT supervisor at SOUND Behavioral Health. “These students took something as simple as apparel and used it to elevate awareness of 988, normalizing reaching out for help. It sends a clear message: crisis support is available, and it’s okay to lean on the resources around you when you need it.”
Bollinger noted that visibility is critical when it comes to crisis resources.
“In moments of distress, people need options they can remember,” she said. “Every time someone sees 988 on a sweatshirt, it reinforces that help is accessible and just a few minutes away.”
Letitia Johnson, Director of Donor Relations & Corporate and Community Partnerships at SOUND, emphasized the significance of community-driven support.
“What makes this initiative so meaningful is that it comes directly from young people who care deeply about mental health in their community,” Johnson said. “Their commitment to SOUND shows a level of integrity and purpose that aligns perfectly with our longstanding mission of hope, healing, and recovery.”
Johnson added that partnerships like 988 Find Your Peace help extend SOUND’s reach beyond traditional channels. “When someone chooses to wear these shirts, they’re not just supporting SOUND,” she said. “They’re becoming advocates. They’re helping erase stigma and inviting others into the conversation, a conversation that people were too scared to have for a long time.”
For the founders, that sense of shared purpose is what continues to motivate them. Buckley finds peace outdoors with wake surfing, backpacking, and hiking with friends, while Flume draws inspiration from art
and connection. Those personal experiences shaped the brand’s core message: peace is personal, but support is universal.
As 988 Find Your Peace looks ahead, the founders hope to continue growing awareness, expanding their reach, and keeping the focus where it belongs: connection, conversation, and community care.
To learn more or support the initiative, visit the students’ website at 988findyourpeace.com. Donations to support SOUND Behavioral Health can also be made @ www.sound.health
We Give at Breakfast Giving from the Heart:
A MERCER ISLAND TRADITION OF CARING AND CONNECTION - MIYFS FOUNDATION ANNUAL BREAKFAST
ARTICLE BY AMY FRENCH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIYFS FOUNDATION
Each February, something remarkable happens on Mercer Island: neighbors and friends gather not just to share breakfast, but to reaffirm their commitment to our community. On February 11, 2026, the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation (MIYFS Foundation) will host its 24th Annual Fundraising Breakfast at the Mercer Island Community & Events Center—an event that has become a beloved tradition and a powerful expression of giving from the heart in support of Mercer Island Youth & Family Services (YFS).
“SINCE MOVING HERE, OUR FAMILY HAS GROWN TO LOVE AND
APPRECIATE JUST HOW UNIQUE AND SUPPORTIVE
THE MERCER ISLAND COMMUNITY IS.”
New Board Member Aaron McLear reflects on why he gives and feels connected on Mercer Island. “Since moving here, our family has grown to love and appreciate just how unique and supportive the Mercer Island community is,” he says. “I’ve been inspired by the meaningful impact YFS has on local families and seniors, and I want to help ensure that every resident has the opportunity to experience the sense of belonging, care, and connection that make this such a special place to live.”
WE GIVE TO SUPPORT ISLANDERS ACROSS THEIR LIFESPAN
With the community’s support, MIYFS Foundation contributes critical funding to the YFS budget each year. YFS’ commitment to care spans every generation. YFS partners with the Mercer Island School District to place mental health counselors in every school, offers sliding-scale counseling at its Luther Burbank Park offices, and provides critical basicneeds services—from rent assistance and food distribution to
senior services and comprehensive case management. These programs help children thrive, enable seniors to age in place, and support families.
For many Foundation leaders, this work is deeply personal. Board President Cindy Goetzmann explained, “I’ve experienced firsthand how YFS can help children who struggle with anxiety and overwhelming emotions. I want to ensure that every child continues to have access to that support in schools, now and in the future.”
WE GIVE TO SUPPORT TIMELY EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE NEEDS
Board Member Celene Richenburg shares why she thinks YFS is so impactful. “YFS provides the vital services that make our community truly unique and inclusive,” she says. “In particular, the partnership with Hopelink provides a dignified way to get fresh food to those in need. It’s more than a food truck—it’s a lifeline for our community.”
In November 2025, MIYFS Foundation donated an additional $30K grant to support very timely emergency assistance needs around rent assistance and access to food. For several weeks, YFS provided grocery store gift cards to qualified community members in addition to the continued food distributions to community members via the Hopelink Mobile Market.
WE GIVE TO HELP KEEP NEW PROGRAM OFFERINGS CONSISTENT
MIYFS Foundation also provided YFS with another $30K grant in January 2026 to sustain some newly expanded senior services—including SAIL Falls Prevention classes, the Seniors Rising newsletter, and three, monthly senior support groups— all shaped by community feedback and the 2024 Community Needs Assessment.
“YFS PROVIDES THE VITAL SERVICES THAT MAKE OUR COMMUNITY TRULY UNIQUE AND INCLUSIVE.”
JOIN MYFS FOUNDATION AT THE ANNUAL BREAKFAST THIS FEBRUARY
Please join the 500 community members at the annual Breakfast on February 11th. There is no cost to attend, and guests are encouraged to give as they feel inspired. The suggested minimum donation is $300 per person or $600 per couple, with all gifts fully tax-deductible.
Special thanks go to the Foundation’s 2026 business supporters and its generous Islanders for Islanders donors, whose leadership gifts ($1,000 or more) make this event—and year-round support—possible.
To learn more, register to attend, or donate if you are unable to join, visit miyfsfoundation.org. When Islanders give from the heart, they ensure that Mercer Island continues to care for its own—today and for generations to come.
A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E
A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH
PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,
Burrata Salad
INGREDIENTS
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
LOCAL LIGHTS SHINE
Mercer Island High School Drama Department brings Radium Girls to the stage
Experience powerful theater as the Mercer Island High School Drama Department presents Radium Girls.
Written by D.W. Gregory, produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois, and directed by Daniela Melgar. Based on true events from the 1920s, this historical drama follows a group of young female factory
workers who bravely fight for justice after being exposed to toxic radium paint. It’s a story of courage, corporate accountability, and the fight to be heard—brought to life by our talented student cast. Don’t miss this thought-provoking performance that blends history, heart, and a message that still resonates today. Appropriate for students 13 and older.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY
GOTO
Whether you're drawn to stories of history, justice, or strong female leads, Radium Girls offers a compelling mix of drama, determination, and humanity that will leave audiences inspired.
Performances run January 29-31 and February 5-7 at 7pm, Saturday matinees at 2pm in the MIHS Performing Arts Center (PAC). MISD students gain free admission with ASB cards on Saturday matinees.
Recommended for ages 13+ due to brief medical references and themes of illness and accountability.
Tickets and Cast List @ www.misdb.org
CAST PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE: Thursday, January 29, 7pm: Cast Venecine
Friday, January 30, 7pm: Cast Radithor
Saturday, January 31, 2pm: Cast Radithor
Saturday, January 31, 7pm: Cast Venecine
Thursday, February 5, 7pm: Cast Radithor
Friday, February 6, 7pm: Cast Venecine
Saturday, February 7, 2pm: Cast Venecine
Saturday, February 7, 7pm: Cast Radithor
LOVE POTION #9
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANNA BARNES
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
events
FEBRUARY 1ST
Lego Block Party at the Mercer Island Library
Mercer Island Library 4400 88th Ave SE | 3:00 PM
Sundays February 1 and 15 from 3:00-4:00. Build together at an unstructured, creative play open house. Stay for the entire session or pop in for a few minutes. We supply the bricks and other construction toys, you supply the imagination! Suitable for ages 5 and older, ages 5-7 need to be accompanied with an adult. Registration not required.
FEBRUARY 2ND
Community Coffee
Mercer Island Community & Events Center 8236 SE 24th St | 9:00 AM
Monday-Friday, 9am - 12pm
Enjoy a free cup of coffee or tea. Bring your friends, make new ones, and enjoy great conversations. Sip, socialize, and start your day in a wonderful way. For more information on current programs and offerings, visit www.mercerisland.gov/parksrec
FEBRUARY 5TH
Mosaic MI Open Mic and Listening Session
Aljoya Mercer Island 2430 76th Ave SE | 7:00 PM
There’s something kind of amazing that happens when someone shares a song they’ve written. That’s the heart of Mosaic MI, a songwriter-focused gathering. Mosaic isn’t just an open mic, it’s a listening space as much as a performance space. — Abby K, (Songwriter, Founder of Mosaic MI) Sponsors: Bread Winner, Aljoya and Barrels Wine provide baked goods and wine.
FEBRUARY 8TH
Playdate at the Library with MIPA
Mercer Island Library 4400 88th Ave SE | 3:00 PM
Join us for a drop-in play time at the Library co-hosted by the Mercer Island Preschool Association (MIPA)! 3:00-4:30, Sunday, February 8. Connect with families with kids 0-6 while playing with toys and enjoying light refreshments. Older siblings and friends are welcome. Sponsored by the Mercer Island Preschool Association and Friends of the Mercer Island Library. Registration is not required.
FEBRUARY 26TH
Mercer Island Book Group by ReVesta Group & Khue Dang
Barrels Wine Bar | 3:30 PM
Book Club meets the 4th Thursday at Barrels. Come to be social, stay the whole time or just drop in to say hi. Bring a friend or two—this is all about building community and sharing positivity.
Read either, read both, whatever you'd like! Get your copies at Island Books! James by Percival Everett & The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
FEBRUARY 27TH
MI Chamber Champions of Change Women’s Business Brunch
Mercer Island Community & Events Center | 10:30 AM
Speaker Loretta Soffee has 25+ years in retail and brand strategy. Former EVP at Nordstrom, she doubled e-commerce sales and led $2B+ in revenue. Now, she consults and recently released her first book on life, leadership, and reinvention.
Tickets for a morning of connections and inspiration @ www.mercerislandchamber.com/champions-of-change-womens-business-brunch
ARCHITECTS
Serving your Mercer Island neighbors since 1984
As someone who grew up right here, I know exactly what makes Mercer Island special, and that deep, lifelong connection gives me a perspective other agents or market reports can’t provide. You need more than just data; you need an expert with true local roots, which is why, as Mercer Island’s #1 Agent, I combine my personal insight with a proven track record to ensure your property—whether you’re buying or selling—is perfectly positioned for success. Let’s skip the stiff business talk; when we work together, you get honest advice and the clear advantage of having the Island’s deepest expert in your corner.
