Choose Monroe Fall/Winter 2019

monroe A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO MONROE AND SKY VALLEY

FULL STEAM AHEAD WHERE TO GET YOUR JOLT FUEL UP YOUR BREAKFAST HIDDEN HIKES

Fall/W

2019 EATS & TREATS | OUTDOOR ADVENTURES | NIGHT LIFE

inter

PRSRT STD US Postage Paid Seattle, WA Permit No. 1 ECRWSS Postal Customer

FALL WINTER 2019

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MAYOR’S WELCOME

5

VISITOR INFORMATION

6 FUN FACTS 8

WHERE TO GET YOUR JOLT: OPHC GOODNESS

12 EATS & TREATS 14 FUEL UP YOUR

BREAKFAST: SKY RIVER BAKERY

20 EATS & TREATS 22 HIDDEN HIKES:

LORD HILL PARK

27 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES 26 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: SPLIT SECOND IMPROV

27 NIGHTLIFE 31 MONROE MAP 32 EVENTS

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WELCOME made in monroe, WA

monroe FALL/WINTER 2019 Volume 2, Issue 2

Choose Monroe is published by Philips Publishing Group for the City of Monroe.

Publisher Peter Philips 206-284-8285 • peter@philipspublishing.com Advertising Sales Julie Applegate 206-753-7250 • julie@philipspublishing.com Production Colleen Rhay

Welcome To Monroe

Monroe is a growing city nestled in the Sky Valley with its picturesque Cascade Mountains and its scenic Snohomish River. From its small town beginning in 1902 where the population was 325 people to today’s bustle of just over 18,000, Monroe is your place to get your adventure started.

Lord Hill Park (pg. 22) is a great hike rain or shine. Hike down to the river for lunch or enter on the south end for a different experience. Don’t forget to grab your Sky River Bakery (pg. 14) goods before you go. Delicious scones, cookies, butterhorns, and more await to tantalize your taste buds. After your hike, cozy up on a couch with a steaming latte from Original Pilot House Coffees (pg. 8). The owners love chatting with people and you will instantly feel like they’re friends. At the end of the evening catch a show from Split Second Improv (pg. 26) who performs at Wagner Performing Arts Center,. You’re sure to have a good laugh.

For more information about events and activities throughout the year, check out the Monroe Chamber and visitor website at www.choosemonroe.com Whatever your adventure is or wherever it takes you, Monroe is the place you want to be because “The Adventure Starts Here!”

Mayor Geoffrey Thomas

Accounting Crystal Alaniz Editor Pamela Baker 360-863-4524 • pamb@monroewa.gov Contributing Writer: Chris Hendrickson Contributing Photographers: Chris Hendrickson, Jim Scolman, Michael Gentry, Janelle Drews, Katie Darrow, Deborah Knight, Pamela Baker

On the Cover: Inside the Original Pilot House Coffees Shop

Choose Monroe

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Chamber President Mike Buse

WELCOME TO MONROE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER The Visitor Information Center is located at 125 S Lewis Street. It is open year-round and run by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. Make sure to download the Sky Valley Insider app, it will help you explore recreational opportunities and events around Monroe and Sky Valley and earn points that can be spent like cash at local businesses! Visit choosemonroe.com to learn more about our beautiful town and how to get your adventure started today.

Where to Stay in Monroe EVERGREEN INN & SUITES 19103 US 2 Monroe, WA 98272

Monroe is treasured by its residents for its healthy, active and outdoorsy lifestyle.

The sports capital of Snohomish County, Monroe is a destination for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Featuring NASCAR and demo events at Evergreen Speedway, premier wakeboard and triathlon competitions at Lake Tye and year-round events at the Evergreen State Fair Park. Take a hike at one of our many trails, go fishing in the Skykomish River and check out the Northwest’s most beautiful scenic drives: the Cascade Loop!

Monroe is home to a vibrant downtown filled with dining, vintage shops, a historic museum and arts theatre. Whether you are coming to attend one of our free concert series like Music in the Park, experience the Vaux’s Swift spectacle, discover a new craft brewery, or savor that cup of espresso from one of our local coffee roasters, your adventure doesn’t stop here—it’s where it begins.

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Choose Monroe.com 5 monroewa.gov

FUN FACTS HERITAGE TREE PROGRAM

Monroe has a that identifies and honors unique and significant trees in the community.

Take a self-guided walking tour or watch for guided-tour dates. Contact the Monroe Historical Society, Parks Department or visit www.monroewa.gov/266/Events-Programs for more information.

Lord Hill Park

just west of Monroe is 1,480 ACRES with 32 miles of trails. This park is a favorite among equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers.

Sky River Bakery

has been a fixture in Monroe for over 32 YEARS. Their pink cookies have a $70/lb ingredient which makes them wonderfully delicious. (pg. 14) The mugs that

ORIGINAL PILOT HOUSE COFFEES carries are locally made in Monroe by 5 LINES POTTERY. They are also available for purchase and make excellent gifts.

The Frank Wagner Performing Arts Center building has been around since 1937. Its original art deco remains today and is home to the Monroe Arts Council and is used for performances throughout the year.

Split Second Improv performs monthly

at Wagner Performing Arts Center located on Main St. in Monroe. They have been performing in Monroe since 2005, but officially became part of the Monroe Arts Council in 2018.

Choose Monroe

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Valid only at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA. No Cash Value.

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EATS & TREATS

Where to Get Your Jolt

OPHC GOODNESS

T

BY CHRIS HENDRICKSON

here is something special about the Original Pilot House Coffees (OPHC) shop. You can feel it the instant you step inside. From the hand-crafted live edge wooden accents, to the custom-built walls, to the tantalizing smells emanating from Pilot’s signature coffee blends.

The entire place breathes life.

Owned and operated by Jeff and Heather Rousey, OPHC specializes in organically grown, certified fair-trade coffee beans, custom roasted to achieve Jeff’s unique signature flavor profiles. In addition to its one-of-a-kind line of artisan coffee blends, sustainable business practices and welcoming atmosphere, OPHC serves up home-baked cookies, fruit and other sumptuous snacks, teas, Italian sodas and more. Stock up on a few OPHC classics while you’re there, including the innovative whiskey barrel coffee, or OPHC’s famous cold brew, which is unlike any other cold brew you’re likely to encounter.

Jeff, known by many as “Pilot,” embraced the nickname when naming the business.

OPHC offers free coffee delivery service during the week, in which “the caffeinator”— sometimes OPHC staffer Michelle Walker and sometimes Jeff—takes to the Monroe streets in a branded WATV festooned with the vibrant, coffee themed OPHC logo.

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Freshly baked cinnamon rolls every Saturday morning have become an OPHC tradition.

“Heather and I like to work Saturday mornings together because it gives us an opportunity to really connect with our customer base in the community,” Jeff said. “I feel like Saturday mornings are the finish line for the week. We get to just smile and laugh and have fun. There’s no structure in here.”

Saturdays are truly an example of community at its finest, Heather agreed.

“We’ll inevitably get a phone call on Saturday mornings asking, ‘Do you deliver today?’ and I say, ‘No, come down in your PJs,’” Heather said. “And they do.”

All the coffee served at OPHC is roasted on-site at Rousey Roasthouse, which adjoins the café and adds to its ambiance. Ask for a tour the next time you’re in, for an experience you won’t soon forget. Known for his infectious zest for life and passion for the Monroe community, Jeff can typically

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be found in the Roasthouse—hard at work on whatever coffee-related idea has him captivated at the moment—whether it’s developing a custom blend for a client or inventing something entirely new.

One thing is for certain: he won’t be sitting still.

Jeff and Heather are deeply rooted in the Monroe community and devoted to community service. Heather is a fourth generation Monroe resident, while Jeff moved to Monroe with his mom and stepfather when he was in the second grade. Their lives became intertwined when Heather was three and Jeff was 13, as their families became close.

“His little brother was one of my closest friends growing up,” Heather said. “So, Jeff was always Tony’s cute older brother.”

Married since 2013, their story might seem typical. But Jeff earned the nickname “Pilot” while serving nearly 28 years in prison for first degree murder—a crime he committed while living in California, immersed in the tumultuous lifestyle that often results from drug use. He was given a sentence of 25 years to life, and at 22 years old, became the property of the California Department of Corrections. When his mom came to visit him in Folsom Prison, she tried to take responsibility for his decisions.

EATS & TREATS

Original Pilot House Coffees and Rousey Roasthouse are located at 408 W. Main St. in Monroe. For more information about Pilot’s coffees, please visit: www.ophc.biz.

It was a pivotal moment for Jeff. He experienced a fundamental shift in his being. It was irrevocable.

“I made a promise to my mom that I would never ever drink again, and I would never do another drug, ever,” Jeff said. “And I haven’t. It’s just not who I am anymore.”

His mom finessed an interstate compact in 1989, which conveyed him to the Washington DOC. The years passed, and Jeff didn’t know if he would ever be released.

But despite repeated rejections from the parole board, he still lived life. He reveled in the art of accomplishment, building programs inside the impenetrable prison walls that healed himself and others.

He was an innovator, even while shackled and confined to a cement box.

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EATS & TREATS pick up his coffee from the docks and take it to a roaster in Olympia who agreed to help him. It was packaged and distributed.

He steadily built his business on a carefully crafted foundation of signature coffees— that he wasn’t permitted to touch, smell, see or taste. It wasn’t until 2012, when he donated 50 pounds of coffee to the DOC for a holiday event, that he was finally able to experience his own creation.

It was like drinking life.

“YOU ARE THE ONLY HUMAN BEING I HAVE EVER MET WHO CAN TAKE A DREAM, TURN IT INTO A GOAL AND MAKE THE GOAL A REALITY.” On the outside, his losses stacked up.

He lost his father while incarcerated. His mom passed away in 2008. In 2009 his grandfather Rousey passed away, leaving him a modest, $2,500 inheritance. It was inspirational to Jeff, who immediately set a new goal. It was an unshackled goal, barely fathomable after 23 years in prison.

But he was used to obstacles, and, by this time, was quite adept at overcoming them.

“I had been in prison for so long that I had no knowledge of the streets, the community or how things work in today’s world. I mean no knowledge, nothing,” Jeff said. “But I knew that I wanted to invest this money, and make it work for my future.”

He needed something tangible to invest in. He settled on coffee, and immediately set out to become an expert. He asked the prison for interlibrary loans. He got books. He read voraciously. He devoured information, absorbing that knowledge like a sponge. Breathing it in. He taught himself about green coffee bean distribution, shipping, customs, roasting Choose Monroe

and marketing. He wrote 27 letters to 27 farmers. He repeated the drill with roasters. He forged relationships, he built, he achieved.

His very first investment netted him 900 pounds of coffee beans from a farm in Costa Rica. He developed his flavor profile and calculated exactly how the beans should be roasted.

And he did it all from inside the walls of the Monroe Correctional Complex.

He hung huge pieces of paper on the wall of his cell and mapped out his vision.

“I built the entire business on a piece of paper on the wall of my cage,” Jeff said.

Original Pilot House Coffees was formed in 2010. Every word on his website, all the descriptions of his coffees, all the custom labels, all the roasting was done based on specifications he developed in prison.

“I did every single thing from inside my cage,” Jeff said. “Everything.”

He had help from the outside. His brother built his website. Friends would

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“Finally,” said Jeff. “It was the first time I ever tasted it!”

Heather had reentered his world around that time, eventually becoming an integral part of the business. She never went anywhere without a supply of Pilot’s coffee to pass out to potential customers.

“I made up little two-ounce packages and gave them out everywhere,” Heather said.

The couple married on Jeff’s release from prison in 2013. After a few bumps in the road, they settled in and began to build their dream. During the daytime, Jeff worked for a construction company in Seattle. At night, the two completely renovated and refurbished what has become the coziest coffee shop in all of Monroe. Jeff did all the work himself, from the custom woodworking to the floors to the painting. The result is a one of a kind environment reflective of hard work and perseverance.

Jeff knows the enormity of what he did 33 years ago, and he knows he can’t

EATS & TREATS

ever change what happened. And even though he knows that the scales will never be balanced, he’ll never stop trying. Jeff and Heather are both tireless supporters of the community, from the city to the schools, to their memberships in various service organizations. Jeff is a staunch and passionate supporter of Monroe VFW Post 7511, which expressed its gratitude in May of 2019, presenting him with a

commemorative military shadowbox and certificate of appreciation.

“I try to make a difference in other people’s lives on the daily. I don’t mean that every once in a while, I help somebody across the street. I mean on the daily, I will drop what I’m doing to help somebody,” Jeff said. “And it’s genuine. It’s from my guts. It’s not superficial.”

Jeff takes nothing for granted. He

recognizes that without the help he received from his family, including Heather; Heather’s father, Ken Fulcher; business associate and boss, Jim Barger; and all the others who believed in his vision, his success would have been less assured.

He’d have undoubtedly gotten there, but the path would have been different.

He credits his mom, who always believed in his gifts and infused that belief into the air around her.

“My momma said, ‘You are the only human being that I have ever met who can take a dream, turn it into a goal and make that goal a reality,’” Jeff said. “Those were her words.”

“I have never seen anyone more driven,” Heather said. “He’s more driven from his time on the inside than most people are who have had a life filled with freedom and opportunity. I can’t exactly explain what makes him that way, but I know he is that way.”

Yes. Thirty-three years ago, Jeffrey Mark Rousey took a life. But today, he is life. CM

Enjoy all things local—eat, drink, shop!

Visit us in Downtown Monroe—our streets are lined with unique, locally-owned shops and boutiques. Come for lunch and pick up a one-of-a-kind keepsake or handmade gift. Or better yet, craft your own at one of our many DIY art classes or workshops. See you soon!

Find out about upcoming events and follow us:

facebook.com/DMAWA/

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EATS & TREATS

I

t’s time to wake up and smell the ...

Coffee! Everybody knows that the Pacific Northwest is a regional champion when it comes to the cherished, aromatic beverage, and fortunately, east Snohomish County has not missed a beat. Monroe and its surrounding communities host a collection of coffee shops that are unique, inspired and eclectic—our rural region is truly a java lover’s paradise. Whether you favor blends that are rich and robust, smoky and smooth, or sweet and chocolatey, we’ve got a coffee shop that you’ll fall in love with.

SHARINABEAN’S ON MAIN 103 W. Main Street, Monroe

Owned and operated by coffee aficionado Sharina McCrain, Sharinabean’s offers all your favorite coffee drinks, chai tea, Italian sodas, Red Bull spritzers, smoothies, hot chocolate and blended coffee drinks.

She has expanded her food menu to include biscuits and gravy, breakfast sandwiches, wraps and freshly made grilled sandwiches. She even offers a classic tried and true—peanut butter and jelly. Sharinabean’s provides free delivery service within a 10-mile radius from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and features a custom line of specialty treats and pies.

PAESANO’S COFFEE & CAFÉ 4655 Fryelands Blvd. #109, Monroe

With its friendly and experienced baristas, relaxed atmosphere and gorgeous view of Lake Tye, Paesano’s is the perfect place to catch up with friends old and new. The sit-down coffee shop features an array of comfortable seating, with a welcoming mix of couches, tables and chairs, plus convenient drive-through service for those on the go. Guests never feel rushed at Paesano’s, which offers a variety of alternative milks, all your favorite coffee beverages, both white coffee and traditional coffee, discounts for veterans, free wifi, toasted bagels with cream cheese and other tasty eats.

VISIT OUR OUTLET STORE

Kookaburra Licorice Co 14512 167th Ave SE, Ste. 192 Monroe, WA 98272

(Next to Iron Master and across from Paesano’s Coffee)

Phone: 360-805-6858 www.kookaburralicorice.com Open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm

Choose Monroe

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EATS & TREATS VINACCIO COFFEE 14751 N. Kelsey Street, Monroe Monroe’s Vinaccio boasts 15 years of experience roasting coffee, and prides itself on forming long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with coffee growers in over 10 countries. Vinaccio enjoys a loyal fan base with customers from Monroe and beyond, and a passion for community service. Vinaccio is also a wholesale supplier, suppling Vinaccio-brand coffee and cold brew to small, locally-owned restaurants and businesses and larger companies as well.

TIMBER MONSTER COFFEE 715 Croft Ave. W., Gold Bar

The next time you’re heading down U.S. 2 towards your next skiing adventure at Steven’s Pass, don’t forget to stop by Timber Monster! Located on the north side of the highway in Gold Bar, the roadside coffee stand is owned by Sky Valley residents Mike and Brandi Varnell, who also own Timber Monster Brewing in downtown Sultan. Timber Monster Coffee offers a signature coffee roast blended just for Timber Monster by Honeymoon Bay Coffee Roasters in Oak Harbor. The beans are roasted every Monday and delivered to Timber Monster Brewing and Timber Monster Coffee every Tuesday.

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EATS & TREATS FUEL UP YOUR BREAKFAST

Sky River Bakery F

BY CHRIS HENDRICKSON

Choose Monroe

Sky River Bakery is located at 117 W Main Street in Monroe’s historic downtown core.

It’s open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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or over 32 years, Monroe’s Sky River Bakery has been an emblem of community, marked by a vibrant timelessness that welcomes customers with a reassuring familiarity the instant they step inside.

Its imprint on the Monroe community is indelible and forever. Bakery owners Andrew Abt and wife Mary Thorgerson have baked across generations, serving parents, children, grandparents, grandkids and great grandkids.

The Sky River Bakery is where the Monroe community goes to gather, laugh, love and cry, and hatch great schemes in hopes of someday changing the world. All while enjoying the freshest, most expertly crafted baked goods in Monroe and beyond.

To its loyal customers, the Sky River Bakery is a priceless community treasure.

But, while the couple loves what they’ve worked so incredibly hard to build, the time has come to pass the torch. The Sky River Bakery is currently up for sale, and Andrew and Mary are working hard to secure just the right buyers.

It’s a long, slow process, said Andrew, but finding the right fit is crucial.

“I’d like to see the new owners use our success as a springboard to their success,” Andrew said.

“We’re willing to train them and stay here for a while to introduce them to the community.”

A worthy offer that the community greatly hopes the bakery’s new owners will take advantage of.

Established in 1987, the Sky River Bakery was initially owned by Andrew, Mary and a third partner, Karen Clifton. The three were pondering their futures on a beach in West Seattle in 1986 when they decided to go into business together. Mary and Karen had been baking for a few years, and the idea of opening a bakery appealed to all of them. All they needed was a home base.

Luckily for Monroe, Mary’s cousin Richard Lowell was a dentist in town, and he happened to know two of Monroe’s greatest advocates; local lawyer Ken Berger and Ben Franklin owner Adrian Taylor.

“Richard got those two together and we sat down and talked about Monroe,” Andrew said.

EATS & TREATS “They were the cheerleaders for Monroe that brought us here. It was a good decision all around.”

They settled in at 117 West Main Street and went to work, gutting what was previously a real estate office and tailoring it to their needs. Sky River’s compilation of signature recipes formed its earnest beginnings, some brought in by Mary, with others introduced

by Karen.

“Others they found along the way,” Andrew said. “But very rarely is any recipe in our recipe books the same that you’d find anywhere else, because they always change things.”

Andrew achieved a perfect balance of generosity and reticence as he carefully revealed a few of Sky River’s trade secrets. The recipe for the “Lotta Lemon” muffins originally called for yogurt, but Mary and Karen replaced it with sour cream. The result was flavor-filled success, and the much-loved lemon muffins remain one of the bakery’s bestselling products to this very day.

The maple bars are made from cinnamon roll dough and are baked, rather than fried. This nuanced twist in the basic design of the recipe elevates the maple bars to a whole new level, resulting in a much richer and denser treat that is remarkably different from traditional maple bars.

Other secrets are destined to remain a mystery until Mary passes along her recipe books to the bakery’s new owners.

The famous pink cookies, as an example, have a secret ingredient that costs $70 a pound, which is the most that Andrew was willing to divulge as far as what makes them so delicious.

Anyone who has indulged in one of the bakery’s famous pink cookies knows that they most definitely contain a bit of magic. As you bite into the freshlybaked sugar cookie, you’re immediately struck by the contrasting textures—the pink frosting is thick, smooth and decadent, while the cookie is flavorful, moist, and ever-so-slightly chewy. “Those Pink Cookies” are divinely elegant and widely loved by Sky River customers.

The pink cookie is what enticed Robin Barker Jorgensen to first try the bakery 15 years ago.

“Everything they make is delicious,” Robin said. “I no longer live in the area and they were sweet enough to offer to ship pink cookies to me.”

Other favorites include the snickerdoodles, carrot cake, butterhorns,

Morning Glory muffins, raspberry white chocolate scones, cinnamon rolls and cupcakes. The custom wedding, birthday and special occasion cakes are sheer artistry, beautiful in appearance with unsurpassed flavor profiles.

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EATS & TREATS And on top of everything else, the bakery receives high marks for its consistently above-and-beyond levels of customer service.

Two hope-filled customers happened by the bakery on Labor Day, thinking it was their lucky day when they found the front door open. But the case was empty because the bakery is closed on Mondays, and Mary was off buying supplies for the coming week. Andrew happily plied them with free day-old baked goods and sent them on their way.

This is not uncommon and similar experiences are echoed by Sky River customers. Monroe residents Vicki Fisher and Corrie Jones-Swalwell both recently recalled times when Andrew served them free treats despite the fact that the bakery was closed. He and Mary are both known and cherished for their willingness to serve their customers in extraordinary ways.

When Windermere Broker Jesse Fish received a dinner party invitation and was asked to contribute a dessert, he approached Sky River for some help.

“They went so far as to ask for the dinner menu for our evening, and created a custom lemon citrus cake with a raspberry layer and cream cheese icing to pair perfectly with our meal,” Jesse recalled. “Amazing, amazing service and world class quality all around.”

As much as Sky River customers love the bakery’s collection of custom confections, they are equally enamored with Andrew and Mary’s selection of savory snacks. The ham and cheese biscuits earn rave reviews, as do the breakfast burritos, the artichoke-feta pizza and the homemade quiche, which showcases the most buttery, flakiest pie crust you’re ever likely to experience.

Seasons are intensely embraced at the bakery, as are birthdays, graduations and holidays.

For many locals, it wouldn’t be Christmas without the Sky River Bakery’s

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DID YOU KNOW? Andrew is an avid long-distance runner!

In 2005 Andrew earned the unique distinction of having placed 402nd out of 777 runners in the Moroccan “Marathon des Sables,” a grueling 154-mile ultramarathon across the Sahara Desert. He ran distances ranging from 13 to 42 miles every day for six days, carrying a 30-pound backpack containing his food, shelter and other belongings. He endured temperatures reaching 120 degrees, and sandstorms that stole his ability to see where he was going. He was 52 years old at the time.

custom Christmas cookie trays, which are a labor of love for Mary and Andrew and worth every ounce of effort. Christmas is a beautifully frenetic time, said Andrew, but it’s a time he holds dear and one of the seasons of business ownership that he’ll miss the most.

“Christmas is the craziest time in here,” Andrew said. “It’s an extremely busy time but it’s a fun time.”

The bakery’s deeply rooted position in the community has withstood the test of time. Food service is a notoriously fickle industry, but the Sky River Bakery has outlasted every health craze, fad diet and economic downturn that the last 32 years have presented and has done so with grace and authenticity. Andrew attributes their success to three key factors: great prices, exemplary customer service and an uncompromising dedication to freshness.

“We’re nuts about freshness,” Andrew said. “We will not sell something if it’s not fresh.”

But mostly, he credits his customers, which are the greatest customers in the world, he said.

EATS & TREATS Indeed, from the time it opened its doors, Sky River customers have viewed the bakery as home. For Bill Davisson, it became an extension of his living room. Truly a Monroe dignitary, Bill was in the bakery so often that he was practically a permanent fixture. Over the years he and his wife Carolyn became close friends with Andrew and Mary and are the godparents of their two children, Emily and Timothy.

Bill passed away unexpectedly in 2017 and his loss is still deeply felt by all who knew him. Carolyn has remained close with Andrew and Mary, who mean the world to her.

“I am so glad I have them in my life especially now that Bill is gone,” Carolyn said. “We all miss him, but we often quote some of his humorous sayings just to remind us of how he always had something funny to say about the goings on about Monroe and life.”

Monroe resident Trisha Kok Love recalled Bill’s penchant for bakery life with fondness. She would arrive to find Bill settled in at his table reading the newspaper, sometimes pausing to enjoy his company.

“My favorite memory is having coffee with Bill Davisson. He and I would sit and talk about how amazing Andrew and his wife were, and just talk business,” Trish said. “Memories I will forever cherish.”

There is no definite timeline in terms of the bakery’s impending shift in ownership, but Andrew is taking that in stride. Both he and Mary want to set the new owners—whoever they might be— up for success. And, really, to Andrew, coming to work isn’t such a terrible thing.

“After 32 years I still like coming to work,” he said. “Even after all these years, I still enjoy it.” CM

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Experience the culture of care at Rairdon’s of Monroe.

“A huge, huge shout out to Rairdon’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Monroe … I now have a vehicle that is much better suited to what I do. This is by far the best car buying experience I have ever had.”

— PATTI G.

“The best and easiest car buying experience I have ever had. I have purchased a lot of vehicles before and I have never had a deal go so smooth … I would definitely recommend this auto dealership without hesitation.”

— TERRY H.

“Second vehicle I’ve purchased here. I will purchase here again. No games and left with what I wanted both times, no one tried to sell me anything I wasn’t interested in.”

— JOE J.

“We could not be happier working with all these wonderful people! They put us in our dream car, we can’t thank you enough.”

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EATS & TREATS

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tart your adventure off right with breakfast served the east Snohomish County way. Whether you’re interested in big eats, decadent treats, something spicy and exotic or food that’s a little on the lighter side, Monroe and its surrounding communities have you covered.

MADISON GRAND CAFÉ 101 West Main Street, Monroe

Open in March 2019, Madison Grand Café is the newest addition to Chef Adam Hoffman’s trifecta of gourmet downtown Monroe eateries and brewhouses. While Adam’s Northwest Bistro and Brewery is known for its custom, farm-to-table style dinner menu, Madison Grand Café features breakfast, lunch, desserts, coffee and snacks, all served with Chef Adam’s signature dedication to excellence. Menu highlights include sweet and savory crêpes, eggs benedict, croissants, homemade quiche in a variety of flavors, salads, panini sandwiches, house-made granola, bagels and lox and much more. Chef Adam’s distinct touch can be easily discerned on the menu, with discreetly offered highlights like honey-thyme butter, mixed berry compote, white chocolate mousse and house made thousand island dressing.

JAKE’S CAFÉ ON SECOND STREET

709 2nd Street, Snohomish Breakfast is served all day long at Jake’s Café on Second Street, a nostalgic diner known for generous servings and tasty food.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Snohomish, the diner offers fun, vintage décor, with lots of Betty Boop, Marilyn Monroe and the Blues Brothers. Specialty items include eggs benedict with house made hollandaise sauce, biscuits and gravy, Belgian waffles, French toast, pancakes and more. Jake’s loyal customers rave about the custom omelet menu, which features items like the “Jake’s Gut Buster,” a deluxe omelet with ham, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions and cheese. The pancakes are rumored to be as large as one’s head, and mouthwateringly delicious to boot. n For more information about JAKE’S CAFÉ ON SECOND STREET, please visit: www.facebook.com/Jakes CafeSnohomish.

n For more information about MADISON GRAND CAFÉ, please visit: www.facebook.com/Madison-Grand-Cafe-394978587744412.

SULTAN BAKERY 711 W Stevens Ave., Sultan

At first glance, the Sultan Bakery might not seem like much to look at. But a second glance almost always reveals tables filled with happy diners and a parking lot packed with cars. The bakery features a tasty selection of freshly made donuts, cookies, muffins and maple bars, plus custom omelets, breakfast burritos, Belgian waffles, chicken fried steak, biscuits and gravy and other classic breakfast items both sweet and savory. The Sultan Bakery is a great place to stop on your way to and from Skykomish, Leavenworth or Steven’s Pass.

Did you know…? The Sultan Bakery is also great for lunch.

Its sandwiches are uncommonly delicious, made on exquisitely thick and fluffy homemade bread that is unapologetically stuffed with meats, cheeses, veggies, crispy bacon and much more. Whatever your favorite sandwich may be, if you order it at the Sultan Bakery it’s guaranteed to be elevated to an entirely new level. n For more information about the SULTAN BAKERY, please visit: www.facebook.com/SultanBakeryWA.

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EATS & TREATS HWY 2 FUSION DINER 19721 U.S. 2, Monroe

The Hwy 2 Fusion Diner is located inside Monroe’s historic Red Barn, a true piece of Monroe heritage. The Sno-King Dairy Red Barn originally opened its doors in 1977, offering a full line of dairy products, fresh meat from a local meat-house, bakery products and “computerized, self-service gasoline pumps.” Today, the iconic red barn still offers fuel, and along with that, freshly prepared Mexican and MexicanAmerican fusion food. Breakfast is served all day, with an intriguing blend of traditional and Mexican specialties, including huevos rancheros, huevos con chorizo, machaca, cheddar cheese omelet, corned beef hash, biscuits and gravy and eggs benedict. Head Chef Octavio Bravo perfected his cooking skills in the Jalisco region of Mexico, eventually setting in the Seattle area. The Hwy 2 Fusion Diner is open seven days a week. n For more information on the HWY 2 FUSION DINER, please visit the website at: www.hwy2fusion.com.

THE DUVALL GRILL AND TAPROOM 15602 Main Street N.E., Duvall

If you happen to find yourself in Duvall and are hungry for breakfast, the Duvall Grill and Taproom serves up a custom selection of savory scrambles, plus breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, French toast, corned beef hash, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes and more.

Breakfast is served weekdays until 11 a.m. and on weekends until 2 p.m.. The Duvall Grill offers free parking for both cars and bicycles, is family-friendly and offers patio seating. n For more information about the DUVALL GRILL AND TAPROOM, please visit: www.facebook.com/DuvallGrill.

BUZZ INN STEAKHOUSE MONROE 18960 U.S. 2 #112 Monroe

Remember when you were growing up and breakfast for dinner was a special treat worthy of celebration? Well, at the Buzz Inn you can enjoy any of your favorite breakfast dishes for dinner, lunch or any other time of day. The all-day breakfast menu includes all your classic favorites, with biscuits and gravy, Buzz Inn benedict, minced ham and scrambled eggs, waffles, country benedict and French toast. The popular steakhouse also features a selection of meat-and-eggs dishes, breakfast skillets and a series of three-egg omelets.

12/01/19.

n For more information about the BUZZ INN STEAKHOUSE IN MONROE, visit: www.facebook.com/BuzzInnMonroe.

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

HIDDEN HIKES:

Lord Hill Park

Lord Hill Regional Park is located at 12921 150th St. S.E., Snohomish. For more information about Lord Hill Regional Park, visit: https://snohomishcountywa.gov/ Facilities/Facility/Details/LordHill-Regional-Park-35.

1,480-ACRE PARK 32 MILES OF TRAILS Choose Monroe

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ess than eight minutes from downtown Monroe and only 10 minutes from downtown Snohomish, Lord Hill Regional Park is your way to get away …

With its lush, thickly forested trail system and series of quiet, natural lakes and rippling ponds, Lord Hill Regional Park in east Snohomish County is the perfect place to experience the outdoors without having to worry about long drives, always congested parking areas and expensive day passes.

Tucked in between Monroe and Snohomish, the unassuming 1,480-acre park offers 32 miles of multiuse trails, welcoming hikers, equestrians, mountain bicyclists, trail runners and wildlife enthusiasts. Parkgoers have their choice of two convenient access points—one at the northwest corner of the park on the Snohomish side, and another at the southwest portion of the park on the Monroe side. The heavily wooded nature reserve is maintained by Snohomish County with help from local nonprofits including

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Friends of Lord Hill Park and the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington.

As the only public park in Snohomish County that invites horseback riders, Lord Hill Park is cherished by local equestrians who value its easily accessible rural trails.

The trail system features varied elevation gains, making it a great workout for both horse and rider.

“One of my favorite things is being able to ride next to someone else briefly to chat and visiting with other user groups,” said parkgoer and equestrian Cathy Nelson.

“Kids love horses and it’s one of the rare opportunities they may get to interact and see one up close.”

The diversity of the scenery is another distinct attraction of Lord Hill Park. Traverse densely wooded thickets to discover panoramic vistas, while owls perch and industrious beavers labor craftily.

As you wander the trails, the heavy tree canopy creates a soft, protective buffer that increases your separation from the busy outside world. Depending on the day of

the week, encounters with other users at the park may be rare. The result is a peaceful, meditative experience that restores your mind, body and spirit.

Parkgoers who can’t imagine an outdoor experience without a flowing waterway will want to enter at the southwest portion of Lord Hill, which is framed by the Snohomish River. Hike the trails in a northwesterly direction for an accompanying river view, or find the meandering, grassy path that brings you to a tiny riverside beach. Additionally, there are multiple access points for avid fishers.

Lord Hill Park is great for dogs who need some exercise, but always remember to keep your pet on a leash.

News users should be aware that the trail system at Lord Hill Park is extensive.

Always bring a map so you can easily find your way through the park. Lord Hill Regional Park is located at 12921 150th St. S.E., Snohomish. Equestrian parking is available at the park’s northwest entrance.

The southwest entrance is located off Tester Road. CM

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

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hile the autumn and winter months ply us with shorter days and cooler temperatures, these seasonal changes carry a distinct beauty that is undeniable. Fall is revealed in a showering cascade of dramatic red and gold, as oak and maple leaves kiss their host trees goodbye and float gently to the earth. It is one of the most invigorating times of the year, and the perfect time to enjoy the health benefits that come from experiencing the outdoors. Time and time again, studies have shown that connecting with nature has significant health benefits, including lowered stress levels, improved mental health and increased physical activity. Here are a few of our favorite Hidden Hikes, for those glorious fall days in which Mother Nature serenades us with brilliant sunshine, vivid fall foliage and mild temperatures that simply beg us to come outside and play.

SNOHOMISH RIVERVIEW WILDLIFE REFUGE 1805 First Street, Snohomish

This popular local birding attraction is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, easy-to-access riverside respite. The Riverview Wildlife Refuge is operated by the City of Snohomish and the Pilchuck Audubon Society and is located on the north banks of the Snohomish River, with a smooth, flat walking path surrounded by grassy areas, towering cottonwoods and riparian habitat.

The entrance to the park is tucked in near the wastewater pump station at 1801 First Street and is easily accessed in front of the City shop. Commonly sighted birds include owls, Steller’s jays, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, red-tailed hawks and many others. Exciting occasional sightings include colorful wood ducks and Peregrine falcons, which are among the world’s fastest birds.

AL BORLIN PARK 615 Simons Road, Monroe

Located within walking distance of Monroe’s historic downtown core, Al Borlin Park offers riverside walking paths and numerous park amenities including a beach, expansive parking areas, picnic tables and river frontage. The 90-acre park is framed

by Woods Creek and the Skykomish River, offering stunning river views, a secluded, easy-to-navigate 1.2-mile network of softsurface trails and tons of fun corners to explore. The park is named after a former Monroe City Councilmember and Monroe schoolteacher, Al Borlin, known for his love of parks and environmental advocacy.

OSPREY PARK 800 1st Street, Sultan

Truly an undiscovered treasure, Osprey Park’s 85-acre area features over two miles of flat, easy to navigate trails that explore the Sultan River. The trail system is wheelchair and baby-stroller accessible, offering interpretive signage and riverside views. The park is located just seconds away from downtown Sultan and is an excellent place to view migrating salmon who return to the region to spawn. The park was dramatically enhanced by the Snohomish County Public Utility District (PUD) in 2013 with 10,000 feet of added habitat for juvenile salmon, including a series of new side channels and logjams crafted to provide safe havens for migrating fish. The project also expanded the network of riverside trails and added new pedestrian bridges for improved accessibility.

RIVER PARK “NEW” SUSIE’S TRAIL

Connecting River Park and Osprey Park, Sultan

Corner of First and Main Streets, Sultan

Susie’s Trail is a newly constructed compacted gravel trail that connects River Park to Osprey Park as it follows along the Sultan River. The trail ranges from about 50 to 100 feet from the waterway as it twists through the lush, wooded area and features a small footbridge to help users traverse an area of wetlands in River Park. Susie’s Trail is named after spirited community advocate Susie Hollenbeck, who lost her battle with cancer in 2015. Raised in Sultan from the time she was two years old, Hollenbeck was known for her extensive volunteerism and unending passion for her community. Susie spent her childhood enjoying the Sultan River and would ride her pony into the water and use the small horse as a diving platform. She was a force to be reckoned with and is remembered with fondness by all who knew her. Susie’s Trail was made possible thanks to grant funding from the Snohomish County Conservation Futures program and the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

Located just two blocks from downtown Sultan, River Park is considered by some to be the hub of the community. Its features include the All Veterans Memorial Wall and the Main Street Gazebo, which is highly utilized during community events and festivals. The park offers picnic tables, grassy places to relax and a view of the Sultan and Skykomish rivers, and is home to the entrance of Susie’s Trail, a brand-new trail connecting River and Osprey parks.

Choose Monroe

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LAKE SERENE AND BRIDAL VEIL FALLS Mt. Index River Road, Gold Bar

If you are up for a challenge, look no farther than Lake Serene, a visually stunning eight-mile excursion that features an elevation gain of roughly 2,000 feet.

Bridal Veil Falls beckons as you twist your way up the mountainside, offering a neat little half-mile jaunt that brings you face to face with the cascading waterfall.

Once you resume your upward climb, the pathway to Lake Serene offers a steady, relentless ascent crafted from rugged stairs, rocks and tree roots. Once at the top, your reward is unprecedented and beautiful beyond comparison. The aptly named lake boasts a muted, uplifting atmosphere, as all who gather cannot help but meditatively absorb its uncanny beauty.

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NIGHTLIFE It keeps things interesting because no matter what it is, we have to work it in somehow.”

Split Second’s competition format adds an additional layer of audience participation.

Not only does the audience get to decide what happens on stage, the improvisors work in two teams of two or three and go head to head performing similarly themed games.

“The audience gets to applaud, and their applause determines which team wins that round,” Robert said. “It’s another great way of involving our guests.”

Improvisational comedy is incredibly accessible and extremely nimble, said Robert, which enables Split Second to take the Split Second Improv show on the road with brings an inspired form of great ease. The group comedy to east Snohomish County. routinely performs at Shows at Burnt Barrel make for a Monroe’s Burnt Barrel perfect date night activity, while fullWhiskey Bar, offering length productions at Wagner are wonderful for the entire family. For more a product that is edgier information on Split Second’s next than the family-friendly show, visit: www.facebook.com/ shows held at Wagner.

SplitSecondImprov.

Improv night at Burn Barrel Its construction gives Split Second fans the was made possible only chance to truly experience the through a generous donateam’s versatility, while enjoying a tion by community advocate and style of comedy that is more gritty and raw. businessman Frank Wagner, in honor of his Currently, Split Second Improv is made up late father, George. The Wagner family of about 20 highly skilled actors and actresses, is prevalent throughout early Monroe history, who perform on a rotating schedule.

In its two with both Frank and George well known for years in Monroe, the group has developed a their keen business acumen, generosity, civicstaunch fan base that is steadily growing. One mindedness and gracious care for improvisor in particular—Carter Atkin—has even the community. warranted his own hashtag with fans going so Today, the Wagner Performing Arts Center far as to have t-shirts printed with #teamcarter hosts various concerts, events and theatriboldly festooned across the back. cal productions. A Split Second Improv “He’s the youngest performer we’ve ever performance finds itself quite at home in the had and an amazingly talented improvisor,” vintage theater, offering guests a hilarious Robert said. departure from the ordinary inside a true Carter has been performing with the group Monroe legacy. since he was 15, joining his father, Denny, who Split Second typically performs short-form is also a part of the team. The early shows improv, a high-energy style of improvisathey performed with Split Second marked the tional acting in which a show is made up of first performances they ever did together, several short sketches, which are referred to Robert said, which were so successful they as “games.” To make things more interesting, formed their own improvisational offshoot. the games are entirely informed by sugges“They’ve performed all over,” Robert said. tions from the audience, making them a vital “Including Alaska and Utah.” part of the show. The resulting performance Split Second Improv brings an inspired is nonlinear, completely spontaneous and form of comedy to east Snohomish County. unpredictably random, because the actors Shows at Burnt Barrel make for a perfect never know what’s coming next. date night activity, while full-length productions “Everything we do is based on audience at Wagner are wonderful for the entire family. suggestion, so no two shows are ever the For more information on Split Second’s same,” Robert said. “When we ask for somenext show, visit: www.facebook.com/ thing from the audience, we take the very SplitSecondImprov. CM first thing we hear, with very few exceptions.

Arts & Entertainment:

SPLIT SECOND IMPROV

BY CHRIS HENDRICKSON

Y

ou never know what might happen during a Split Second Improv comedy show. In one instant, the actors may be hurtling through space on a complex, intergalactic mission. In the next, everything that comes out of their mouths must be in the form of an original song, made up on the spot.

One thing is for certain: wherever the performance ends up, it will most definitely have the audience rolling in laughter.

Split Second Improv is Monroe’s first ever improvisational comedy group, operating under the umbrella of the Monroe Arts Council (MAC). The MAC is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of vibrant artistic expression throughout the Monroe community. A welcome addition to the fold, Split Second was founded in 2005 by Monroe resident Robert Bogue, who is not only a performer and a host, but serves as the group’s artistic director and as the president of the MAC Board of Directors.

Originally based in Redmond, Bogue brought the group to Monroe in 2017.

Split Second typically performs at the historic Wagner Performing Arts Center, a timeless, 600-seat auditorium built in 1939.

Owned by the Monroe School District and maintained by the MAC in partnership with the district, the auditorium is a living treasure and a breathing piece of Monroe heritage.

Choose Monroe

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NIGHTLIFE

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s the days grow shorter and autumn begins to assert itself with its annual display of swirling leaves, gusty rain clouds and chilly temperatures, there is nothing quite like live music to soothe your soul and lift your spirits. Fortunately, Monroe, Sultan and Snohomish are all home to a fun assortment of live music venues, featuring the very best that local music has to offer. Whether your musical preferences lean towards country, blues or rock ‘n’ roll, we guarantee that you’ll find something catchy and inspiring to listen to, paired with delicious bites and a selection of locally brewed craft ales and oneof-a-kind signature cocktails.

AMARILLO RESTAURANT AND TAVERN 116 West Main Street, Monroe

Located smack in the middle of Monroe’s historic downtown core, the Amarillo serves up a mouth-watering array of barbecue delicacies including corned beef, ribs, brisket, pulled pork, succulent smoked chicken and much more. Friday and Saturday nights feature headline performers, with live music often offered on Sundays too. The stage has been graced by numerous locally famous musicians and bands, such as Monroe native Dakota Neuman, local strummer Paul Jenkins, delta blues performer Brett Brenton, up-and-coming singer Darin Jones, and popular country bands Hard Knocks ‘n’ Country, Highway 9, Low Down Drifters, and many others. n For more information about the AMARILLO or to find out who’s playing, please visit: www.facebook.com/TheAmarillo.

TWIN RIVERS BREWERY 104 N Lewis Street Monroe

The great news about the Twin Rivers Brewing Co., is that the craft alehouse is an extension of Adam’s Northwest Bistro and Brewery, so Adam’s signature menu of custom cuisine can be enjoyed there too. Along with the Bistro, Twin Rivers is the intersection of passion and purpose for Chef Adam Hoffman, who received his first brewing kit from his mother many years ago.

Twin Rivers strives to provide compelling IPAs, stouts, saisons and more, taking deliberate care to note how the brews pair with different menu items. In addition to the exquisite options for eats, Twin Rivers offers live music and open mic nights on the weekends. n For more information about ADAM’S NORTHWEST BISTRO AND BREWERY AND TWIN RIVERS BREWING CO., please visit the website at: www.adamsnwbistro.com.

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NIGHTLIFE DREADNOUGHT BREWING

TIMBER MONSTER BREWING COMPANY

16726 146th Street S.E. #153, Monroe Dreadnought Brewing is a familyfriendly, dog-friendly, veteran-owned and operated craft brewery situated in Monroe’s industrial area near Lake Tye Park. Named after a type of acoustic guitar, Dreadnought strives to provide amazing beer brewed on-site, and a great selection of local live music meant to get your feet tapping and your head bobbing. Thanks to recent partnerships with local eateries including Monroe Pizza and Pints, the Amarillo, Anthony’s Finn Food Truck and Tijuana Restaurant, Dreadnought serves up an ever-changing kaleidoscope of delicious eats. The musically inspired establishment features open mic nights every Friday, hosted by the J. Badders Band and other performers.

n For more information about

DREADNOUGHT, including upcoming events, please visit the Facebook page at: www. facebook.com/dreadnoughtbeer.

BUBBA’S ROADHOUSE BAR & GRILL 924 Stevens Ave, Sultan

If you’re looking for BIG FOOD and BIG ENTERTAINMENT, Bubba’s Roadhouse is the place to go. Fridays and Saturdays are all about live music, featuring every genre from metal to country. Musical performances this year have included popular cover band, the Shortcutz, Irish crooner Mark Daly, and Ten Miles Wide’s Jake Carden, who stopped in to play a solo acoustic show.

And to keep things interesting, Bubba’s offers Karaoke, football parties, and pinup pageants. The menu offers a variety of delectable eats served up Bubba’s style, including specialty sandwiches, custom burgers and traditional barroom appetizers. Breakfast is served seven days a week at Bubba’s, so if you’re feeling a little low energy after a night of live music, pop in for traditional flapjacks, French toast, eggs and more!

n For more information about BUBBA’S or to find out who’s playing, visit the Facebook page at: www.face book.com/bubbasroadhouse barngrill.

Choose Monroe

401 Main Street, Sultan

STEWART’S RE-ESTABLISHED 2017 709 1st Street Snohomish

A labor of love for owners Brandi and Mike Varnell, Timber Monster is Sultan’s newest addition to the Sky Valley nightlife. The restaurant and alehouse features craft beer brewed on-site and freshly prepared classic pub fare, often with a Mediterranean flair. In their quest to create a destination date-night haven, the couple has added live entertainment, including regularly scheduled trivia nights (every other Thursday), bingo, open mic nights (Friday nights) and live performances by local musicians. Stop by Timber Monster to enjoy Mike’s custom brews, including the famous Sultan Savage, Timber Monster IPA, the Tree Knocker Coconut Milk Chocolate Stout and many others.

n For more information about TIMBER

Tucked within Snohomish’s vibrant downtown hub, Stewart’s has been revitalized and transformed thanks to a recent change in ownership. The menu features a variety of hamburgers and cheeseburgers, which boast handpressed 1/2-pound beef patties, grilled to perfection with a variety of sides. If you visit on a Saturday, you’ll enjoy halfpriced burgers all day! Customers rave about the prime rib dinner, which features prime rib that’s been house-roasted until it’s succulent and juicy. Guests enjoy two dinners for just $21 on prime rib nights, which take place every Sunday. Stewart’s features live music Friday and Saturday nights, so stop in for dinner and stay for a show!

MONSTER, please visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ TimberMonsterBrewingCompany.

n For more information about Stewart’s

Re-Established 2017, including upcoming shows, please visit the Face book page at: www.facebook. com/stewartsplacesnoho.

THE OXFORD SALOON 913 1st Street, Snohomish

Established in 1910 and located in the heart of downtown Snohomish, the Oxford Saloon is known for its full bar, lively music and packed dance floor. Live music is featured nearly every night of the week, offering headline performances, low-key dinner shows, acoustic open mic nights and much more. The historic venue, built in 1900, is reputed as being home to a few mischievous haunts, including Henry, a fallen law enforcement officer killed in a knife fight. The incident is rumored to have occurred in the 1920s or 30s, and there are those who believe that Henry never really left. The Oxford offers a full menu of delectable items including New York steak, prosciutto mac and cheese, custom burgers (one of which is called “The Ghost”), specialty sandwiches and more.

n For more information about the OXFORD, including dates and times of upcoming shows,

please visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/OxfordSaloon/ or the website at: www.oxfordsaloonsnohomish.com/events-calendar.

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onroe and its surrounding communities offer culture at its finest, with various opportunities to enjoy live music, theatrical productions, musicals and more! This holiday season is filled with compelling live theatrical experiences including classic productions of “Cinderella” and “A Christmas Carol,” both of which showcase Monroe’s iconic Wagner Performing Arts Center. The holidays are the perfect time to establish new family traditions, while supporting local artists.

We’ll see you at the theater!

TIM NOAH THUMBNAIL THEATER 1211 4th Street, Snohomish Tim Noah Thumbnail Theater hosts a diverse repertoire of live music, theater, open mic nights and classes, all set in a historic, 100-year-old church that’s been converted into a theater venue. The intimate event space seats 86 adults in the main auditorium with space for an additional 50 adults in the adjoining “Gold Room.” Tim Noah Thumbnail Theater is known as “a cozy home for the performing arts.” It’s a 501c3 nonprofit organization that embraces and promotes the freedom of self-expression that comes from participating in the performing arts.

n For more information about TIM NOAH THUMBNAIL THEATER, please visit: www.thumbnailtheater.org.

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NIGHTLIFE

CASCADE COMMUNITY THEATRE

SKY PERFORMING ARTS

Cascade Community Theater (CCT) is a Snoqualmie Valley-based organization that provides budding and experienced actors and actresses of all ages the opportunity to participate in the theatre. The CCT produces four shows a year with performances held at various locations including Carnation Elementary School and the Wagner Performing Arts Center in Monroe.

Cascade Community Theater is excited to present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” as its 2019 holiday production. The show is based on the classic fairy tale and features Split Second Improv Creative Director Robert Bogue as King Sidney.

Sky Performing Arts invites you to join them for this year’s holiday production of “A Christmas Carol,” based on the novel by Charles Dickens. This holiday classic is directed by Chuck Young, with musical direction by Michelle Choate. Sky Performing Arts operates under the umbrella of the Monroe Arts Council as a member organization. It was created about a decade ago when the board members from two separate performance groups, Take a Bough Productions and Off the Wall Theater, decided to merge, forming one community theater. The group presents two shows per year, featuring a range of theatrical genres spanning musicals, comedies, dramas and kids’ shows.

Duvall

Monroe

n Cinderella will be performed at the Wagner Performing Arts Center! For more information about CASCADE COMMUNITY THEATER, please visit: www.facebook.com/cctplays.

LUDUS PERFORMING ARTS Lake Stevens

Based out of Lake Stevens, Ludus is a nonprofit youth theater group that focuses on highquality productions. The family-operated theater was founded in 2013 by Steven Ortiz, who manages the organization with help from his mom, dad, brother and other volunteers. His vision for Ludus is to provide a way for kids and young adults to improve their self-confidence and pursue artistic endeavors, by giving them the opportunity to perform in professional-level theatrical productions.

Ludus, which serves kids and adults age six through 26, is funded through parent donations, tuition, ticket sales and fundraisers. The group rehearses at Lake Stevens Middle School and performs at the Snohomish County Public Utility District (PUD) theater, located at PUD headquarters in Everett.

n For more information about LUDUS, please visit: www.ludusperformingarts.org.

n Showtimes: November 8, 9, 15 and 16 at

7:30 p.m. and November 9, 10, 16 and 17 at 2 p.m. For more information, visit: www.skyperformingarts.com.

SKY PERFORMING ARTS holds performances at the historic Wagner Performing Arts Center, located at 639 W. Main Street in Monroe.

MONROE COMMUNITY BAND Monroe

The Monroe Community Band, formerly known as the Monroe Concert Band, is a long-standing Monroe tradition, backed by esteemed, talented professional musicians dedicated to sharing their music with the community. The Monroe Community Band is excited to present its 15th season! The band invites you to attend its Christmas concert, which takes place 7 p.m. Friday, December 20, at the Wagner Performing Arts Center. The festive, holiday theme is “Ring the Bells, it’s Christmas,” and all are invited to attend. It’s also performing at the Lights of Christmas celebration in Warm Beach at 5:45 and 7:45 p.m. on Saturday December 21. Check the band’s webpage for exciting updates about its 2020 performances, which are slated for Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, June 21.

n All Monroe Community Band performances are free of charge, with donations encouraged. For more information on the Monroe Community Band, please visit the website at: www.monroecommunityband.org.

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EVENTS OCTOBER

10.19 20

FIBER FUSION NORTHWEST Commercial Building #400, Display Hall #500, 4H Building #501 Evergreen State Fair Park fiberfusion.net

10.19

SPLIT SECOND COMEDY IMPROV 7 p.m.

Wagner Performing Arts Center

10.19

PANCAKE BREAKFAST 8–10 a.m.

Every third Saturday of each month Monroe Community Senior Center

OCTOBER

10.26

11.1 2

seattlepugs.com

thegreatjunkhunt.com

PUG-O-WEEN Pavilion #600 Evergreen State Fair Park

10.26

YMCA SKY VALLEY CLASSIC 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Route through Monroe and Sky River Park ymca-snoco.org/sky-valley-classic

10.31

TRICK OR TREAT 3–6 p.m.

Lewis Street, downtown Monroe

mcsc.org

10.26

MONROE HARVEST CARNIVAL 5–9 p.m.

Speedway Grandstands Evergreen State Fair Park

10.26

OCTOBERFEST BINGO 5:30 p.m.

Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org

Choose Monroe

NOVEMBER

32

THE GREAT JUNK HUNT Gary D. Weikel Event Center #604 Evergreen State Fair Park

11.8 17

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Wagner Performing Arts Center skyperformingarts.com

11.23

THE F STREET PROJECT 7:30 p.m.

Wagner Performing Arts Center

EVENTS DECEMBER

12.1

LIGHT UP MONROE 4:30 p.m.

Traveler’s Park

12.6 14

ROGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S “CINDERELLA” 6:30–9 p.m.

Wagner Performing Arts Center cctplays.org

DECEMBER

12.20

RING THE BELLS! IT’S CHRISTMAS! 7 p.m.

Wagner Performing Arts Center monroecommunityband.org

JANUARY

1.25 26

URSULMAS MEDIEVAL FAIRE AND TOURNAMENT Equestrian Arena Evergreen State Fair Park ursulmas.net

1.26

JAYME BIENDL MEMORIAL RUN 9 a.m.

Sky River Park

12.7 8

HOME SPUN HOLIDAY BAZAAR Commercial Building #400 Evergreen State Fair Park

12.7

HOLIDAY BAZAAR 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org

12.14

YMCA – KIDS NIGHT OUT 5:30–8:30 p.m. Pajama Party Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA ymca-snoco.org/monroe

33 monroewa.gov

EVENTS FEBRUARY

2.14 15

BUZZ INN HELL ON HOOVES ROUGH STOCK RODEO Equestrian Arena Evergreen State Fair Park wildwesteventsinc.com

MARCH

3.7 8

CASCADE MOUNTAIN MEN SHOW Gary D. Weikel Event Center #604 Evergreen State Fair Park cascademountainmen.com

APRIL

4.10 11

THE MAKE SALE – A HANDCRAFTED MARKET SPRING EDITION Gary D. Weikel Event Center #604 Evergreen State Fair Park themakesale.com

2.14 15

4.11

THE GREAT JUNK HUNT Gary D. Weikel Event Center #604 Evergreen State Fair Park thegreatjunkhunt.com

COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT 9 a.m.

Lake Tye Park

2.22 23

4.14 18

UNW MODEL TRAIN SHOW & SWAP MEET Gary D. Weikel Event Center #604 Evergreen State Fair Park

JBF CONSIGNMENT SALE Commercial Building #400 Evergreen State Fair Park everett.jbfsale.com

unwclub.com

4.26

TROUT UNLIMITED KID’S FISHING DAY 8 a.m.

Lake Tye

Choose Monroe

34

35 monroewa.gov

Choose Delma when you Choose to buy or sell in Monroe DELMA SILVA Real Estate Broker 10+ years working in Monroe BUY | SELL | COMMERCIAL Call/Text (425) 737-8676 Legacy 1129 W Main Street, STE 150 Monroe WA 98272 Office (360) 294-8106 Email delmasilva@remax.net Web www.delmasilva.com / www.facebook.com/delmasilvarealtor