Education

Mercer Island Voices

Cycling for a Cure: 4,200 miles for ALS Cure Article by Tim and Jan Gillespie | Photography by Timm Fenton On May 1, Mercer Island resident Timm Fenton dipped his rear wheel in the Pacific Ocean, strapped on his helmet, mounted his bike, and began a remarkable solo 4,200-mile cross-country ride---all for a charity close to his heart.  After months of training, the 59-year-old cyclist left the Oregon coastal town of Florence headed east. For the next 67 days, he followed the classic...

Style + Beauty

Style with Soul

Where Curated Fashion Meets Connection on Mercer Island Article by Chris Ishii | Photography by J Garner Photography Every stylish woman deserves a place where she feels seen—not just sized and styled. For many on Mercer Island, that place is Hip Zephyr. It’s not just a boutique; it’s a fashion experience. Owner Dana Smith and Store Manager Amy Patton have built more than a retail destination—they’ve created a community of confident, vibrant women rediscovering their edge. Style for Real...

Arts + Culture

Style as Identity

Lin Yang as the Example: Art and the exercise of self portraiture and reinvention. Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by Yuan Ru Art Center Yuan Ru Art Center: Elevating the Power of Artistic Style Showcasing artist Lin Yang’s series of self portraits At Yuan Ru Art Center, founded by Islander Julie Hsieh, style is more than just a visual signature—it’s the defining element that gives each work its character, mood, and meaning. The gallery is committed to presenting artists whose...

Food + Beverage

Sit, Stay, Dine

The Island’s Best Pet Friendly Patios Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle 1. The Crawlspace Gastropub Dogs are welcome to lounge on the lively patio at The Crawlspace Gastropub, featuring creative pub fare, craft cocktails, and a laid-back vibe. 2. Pagliacci’s Pizza Grab a slice and settle in with your pup at Pagliacci’s Pizza. Enjoy signature pies, salads, and seasonal specials next to an outdoor fireplace. 3. Allister’s Allister’s heated sidewalk...

Life + Culture

Happy Summer Market Season!

A Fresh Dishing of Delicious at Mercer Island Farmers Market  Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle Every Sunday through September 28, 2025, the Mercer Island Farmers Market showcases local produce, arts, community organizations and live music at Mercerdale Park—from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—with all the charm market shoppers love, plus some game-changing upgrades aimed at families, foodies, and fan favorites. Rolling in Style: Mini Shopping Carts for Kids One of...

Health + Wellness

Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know Article by Dr. Blanchette Medical Director | Photography by Island Animal Hospital As pet owners, we cherish our furry companions and do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. However, emergencies can happen when we least expect them. Know the Location of Emergency Veterinary Clinics: One of the most important aspects of emergency preparedness for pets is knowing where to go in case of an emergency. At Island Animal Hospital, we are always...

Education

Back to School

Islander Spirit Style Article by Sharon Perez | Photography by J Garner Photography Island pride is in full swing as West Mercer, Island Park, Northwood, and Lakeridge Elementary Schools, Islander Middle School, and Mercer Island High School gear up for an exciting new year! The 2025 school year begins August 27—get ready for fresh starts, new friendships, and unforgettable Islander memories. Go MI!  

Health + Wellness

Tools, Tears, Triumph

How Therapy Is Helping Kids Build Emotional Strength Article by Chris Ishii | Photography by Therapy Lab When a child starts melting down at preschool, refuses to go to school, or explodes into tears in the cereal aisle, parents are often left wondering: Is this just a phase, or something more? Dr. Chandler Chang, clinical psychologist and founder of Therapy Lab, hears this question often—and believes that families don’t need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. “Usually it’s one of two...

Sports + Recreation

Mercerwood Shore Club

Where Community, Recreation and Family Thrive Since 1953 Article by Paul Von Destinon, Ferguson Neale | Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle 1.  A Foundation Built on Family and Recreation Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Washington, Mercerwood Shore Club has been a cornerstone of community life on Mercer Island for generations. Built on a foundation of family and recreation, the Club offers year-round opportunities for connection and fun—from social gatherings and beach days to...

Travel

Exploring Morocco

A Journey Through Harmony, Heritage, and Hospitality Article by Brenda El-Ghazzawy | Photography by LUXXE Travel Some places don't just leave an impression, they shift your perspective. Morocco is one of them. My recent journey through this North African country was a study in contrast and connections: from the vibrant energy of Marrakech to the stillness of the Sahara, the historic medina of Fes to the serene luxury of Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains. Morocco is more than just a...