Lifestyles - Mercer Island Reporter

Bad economy, fuel prices reduce holiday travel, says AAA

MIHS grad brings English to schools in Laos

Like many graduates from Mercer Island High School, Martin Momoda headed off to college and into the “real world” with big dreams about the future. But few could have predicted that he would wind up the sole proprietor of his own book company in the mountainous, rural Southeast Asian country of the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos.

Instructions not included | Lessons in discipline from the classroom

But babies do not arrive with instructions and effective parenting isn’t automatic. At Childhaven, we understand that all parents — even those who grew up in stable, loving families with good role models — can benefit from education and support.

Island family’s famous sauces vie for national attention

The Dore brothers, Barry and David, raised on Mercer Island, are in the top 10 of the first Homecookingstar.com recipe contest.

Lisa’s little tykes

Planes above, Island views below

The Mercer Island rooftops, cars, backyard barbecues and garden chairs looked like plastic miniatures — detailed enough to recognize but small enough to pinch together with tweezers and modeling glue. But it was not until I saw an Island mother, child on hip, stroll out of the South-end QFC behind a packed shopping cart that I realized how close we actually were to the living miniatures below. Seven hundred and sixty feet, actually. That is how close we were.

Tax tip: check your withholding to avoid surprise next year

With 2009 nearly half over, the Internal Revenue Service reminds Washington state taxpayers that there is no better time to check their 2009 federal income tax withholding levels to make sure that they do not face any surprises when returns are due next spring.

YTN summer lineup

Youth Theatre Northwest (YTN) commences its 26th season with a stage adaptation of the beloved story “Winnie-the-Pooh.” Adapted by Kristen Sergel from the popular children’s book by A.A. Milne, “Winnie-the-Pooh’s” wit and special understanding of young people make this one of the most endearing plays for children.

Island mom graduates

Mercer Island mother of two, Tracy Drinkwater, graduated from Seattle University on June 14 with a master’s in teaching degree. Her endorsement areas are in math and special education.

Teachers honored

The Mercer Island School District recognized and thanked this year’s retiring teachers on June 1, acknowledging their years of service in educating the community’s students.