MONROE Magazine is published by Colibri Northwest and the City of Monroe P.O. Box 13130
Des Moines, WA 98198 www.ColibriNW.com (206) 284-8285
Peter Philips, Publisher peter@colibrinw.com
Advertising Sales
Katie Higgins (206) 914-4248 katie@colibrinw.com
Dear Readers,
Monroe is a place that values connections, opportunity, and a strong sense of community. The city’s vision statement, Imagine Monroe, envisions a place where local businesses thrive and offer a variety of choices for dining, shopping, arts, services, and activities. In Monroe, we seek to create a place where everyone feels at home, and everyone feels they belong.
As part of our mission to realize this vision, I am happy to introduce MONROE, the city’s annual community magazine. Formerly known as the Choose Monroe Magazine , this relaunched publication continues to promote local businesses, events, and unique experiences that make our community special. With this new name and format, MONROE magazine serves as a year-long guide to our community. This re-launched magazine will now feature even more opportunities for residents and visitors to shop, play, and dine local. Additionally, the city is expanding our digital reach by sharing content from the publication and other businesses on the city’s Facebook and Instagram. We hope you will enjoy the changes we’ve made.
In this issue of MONROE, learn about the Wagner Theater and Sky Performing Arts productions, dog-friendly adventures, history of the Monroe Steamstack, savor and sip opportunities, and experiences unique to Monroe. No need to travel far for what you are looking for. Then for fun, you can test your Monroe knowledge with local trivia such as where the city’s first hospital was located and what is there today. As always, don’t miss the events calendar for your go-to list of community events.
We hope MONROE serves as both a resource and an invitation to experience all our city has to offer. If you have any feedback or suggestions for future issues, please reach out to socialmedmonroe@monroewa.gov.
Thank you,
Geoffrey Thomas, Mayor
RICHARD PORTER
City Hall, Municipal Court Redesigned with Monroe’s Culture In Mind
Monroe’s newly remodeled and expanded City Hall and Municipal Court showcase the community’s vision and are expected to reopen to the public this summer. When asked to “Imagine Monroe,” the local community envisioned Monroe’s culture as friendly, natural, inviting, welcoming, and vibrant. These characteristics are reflected throughout the design of improvements to Monroe’s Municipal Campus.
City Hall, the administrative wing of the campus, features interior earthtone colors of grey, blue, and green, reflective of the natural landscapes of mountains,
forests, and waterways. Exposed wood beams and interior planters with rocks will give a sense of being outdoors when indoors. A welcoming foyer for customer assistance, ample seating along planters and a central conference room are at the heart of the building. City Council Chambers will have more seating, improved audiovisual equipment, better acoustics and multi-purpose room capability.
Monroe Municipal Court, which formerly operated from the council chambers, has dedicated space adjacent to the police department, joining the justice wing of the campus. Court customers will be assisted in the foyer by administration and security personnel.
Exterior improvements include more parking, including accessibility spaces, and new pathways leading to various entrances. Native landscaping and public art will greet campus visitors.
The remodel improves safety with seismic upgrades, fire protection, back-up power, upgraded network and security operations, enhanced air quality, sound buffering and energy and environmental efficiency. These types of improvements have not been made in over 30 years; city services have occupied the campus since 1977.
Visit MonroeWA.gov/cityinfo to learn how to receive information on the public opening date.
Reopening Summer 2025
We look forward to serving you from the newly remodeled Municipal Campus located at 806 W. Main Street. Reopening date will be shared soon.
Monroe City Hall
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24/7 Emergency Room Care
Urgent Care in Monroe
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Spring is here and it's nature’s reminder to rejuvenate—so why not make this the season to take charge of your health? EvergreenHealth Monroe is here to help you feel better this season.
As your community-owned hospital, EvergreenHealth provides the comprehensive services you want with the convenience you need, no matter how busy life becomes. Our compassionate, expert doctors are always here to provide the high-quality care and personalized experience your family deserves.
Learn more about your primary and specialty care teams at evergreenhealth.com/monroe.
Creating Community Camaraderie
On a freezing February evening, past, present and future converge on the Wagner Performing Arts Center at 639 W. Main St. Onstage in the historic theater, built in 1939, members of the Sky Performing Arts (SPA) group are rehearsing for their initial foray into edgy productions aimed at adult audiences.
Alexandra Clark, a Sky Performing Arts member and co-founder of Last Leaf Productions, says Monroe is becoming a bedroom community for Bellevue, Redmond, and Woodinville. “We want to attract people to entertainment here,” she said. “We want to offer new stuff that’s challenging.”
“SPA After Dark” fits that bill. The new series, which kicked off in February, will feature presentations aimed at adult audiences. “We
started ‘SPA After Dark’ to produce more grown-up theater, something edgy,” Clark said. SPA has also started improv performances from 7-9 p.m. each Wednesday at the Wagner Performing Arts Center. It’s a chance for experienced and novice performers alike to hone their skills and stretch creativity. “This is a place
May 9-11 and 16-18
Puss ‘N Boots: A musical presented by Sky Performing Arts
June 21
Monroe Community Band Summer Concert ~ 7 p.m.
July 12
Shakespeare in the Park 5 p.m. ~ Sky River Park
December 13
Monroe Community Band Christmas Concert ~ 2 p.m.
December 19
Take Seventeen
Big Band Concert
For more details please visit monroeartscouncil.org
for people to get their feet wet,” Clark said. “We encourage them to come and learn.”
It’s an exciting time for performing arts in this rapidly changing city. For those looking for productions for all ages, Sky Performing Arts is the resident company of Wagner theater
Improv Night
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Monroe Community Band
where it stages multiple productions each year.
The 45-member Monroe Community Band rehearses at Wagner, taking advantage of its full orchestra pit. The all-volunteer band gives free seasonal concerts in the theater. Other dates are reserved for school and cultural performances, such as Kala Vaibhavam Indian Dance shows. “Just about every weekend is booked,” said Craig Burkhead, president of the Monroe Arts Council.
The Council is working to update the theater, which hasn’t had a cosmetic boost since the 1970s. About half of its 640 seats have been reupholstered; grant requests are out for money to replace the stage curtains. “It’s an historic gem,” Clark said. “It just needs a little love. We’ve had theater in Monroe for 40 years, and I still hear people say, ‘You’ve got theater?’”
Not all of that theater is in the Wagner Performing Arts Center.
Last Leaf Productions, a nonprofit touring company, brings “affordable, portable” plays to parks in Monroe. Its repertoire ranges from original musicals to Shakespeare in the Park. “We realized there were towns where parents couldn’t pack up their kids and take them to Seattle Children’s Theater,” Clark said. “There were a lot of areas not being reached.”
She hopes Monroe will one day become an entertainment destination that attracts audiences from surrounding cities, akin to Village Theater in Issaquah. “Community theater builds community,” said Burkhead, Monroe Arts Council president. “It’s something that pulls us together.”
“People in community theater are remarkable,” said Clark, who grew up in a Los Angeles acting family. “They almost have more passion for theater than those doing it professionally.” She would scream her message from the rooftops if she could: “Monroe has theater! There is theater in Monroe!” Come check it out.
ADULT ART CLASSES
“where creativity becomes reality”
CERAMICS
Sky Performing Arts
Sky Performing Arts
Memorable Murals
By Adam Worcester
Not many artists can say they’ve painted the sky. Muralist David Hose has not only painted it, but he has captured its very essence and infused it into some of the most cantankerous old walls in the Sky Valley.
One of Snohomish County’s most prolific muralists, Hose not only specializes in indoor and outdoor murals – he also excels at calligraphy, portraiture, animal portraits, and landscapes – on canvas or walls. His latest mural, “Imagine Monroe,” will be displayed
in the newly remodeled City Hall. The mural spells out Monroe in block letters filled with scenes from the city and its surrounding scenery.”.
Through his business, American Light Studio, Hose has built a spectacular portfolio of work, much of it located in Monroe and its neighboring communities. He is well known for his unmistakable brand of sweeping colors and stunning realism, along with his unique ability to tell a story without using a word. His paintings have
For more information about Muralist David Hose, email him at: davidhose.777@gmail.com .
illuminated Sky Valley history with depth and accuracy, each mural artfully woven together with countless details, anecdotes, and little bits of local treasure.
“It all starts with a conversation,” Hose explained. When someone hires him for a mural, he meets with them face to face to better understand their vision for the work and how to best bring it to life. It’s about building a connection, right from the beginning. “I start with a client and end with a good friend,” he said.
Once he understands the vision, he spends some time at the wall. As the
JAKE CAMPBELL
overall design begins to emerge in his mind, he sketches it out, working with his client to ensure a “win-win.” If his client wants family members or historical references, they provide him with photos to work from. Other
aspects come from his imagination, or from his own life. The visual story that forms is a pastiche of true, make-believe, and a little bit of fantasy. “I started drawing on my mother’s bedroom walls when I was
three,” Hose said. “I’m addicted to art. It’s always been something that took me to a different place.”
Hose loves honoring community members in his work. “They become
icons,” he said. “These are people who are full of love and care for their community, and I want to represent that as much as I can.” He also likes to include dogs in his murals, sometimes more than one. Occasionally an owner will pay for their pet’s inclusion, but he often adds them on a whim.
His mural at the NAPA Auto Parts in Monroe features the owner’s cat TJ, famously known as the “real owner of NAPA.” As a tribute to the cherished cat, Hose painted not only TJ’s urn, but also a small golden halo above the orange tabby’s head.
Hose is far from finished, as there are many more stubborn surfaces
Find David Hose Murals in Monroe
he’d love to transform, many more snippets of the sky that he’d love to commemorate. He awaits the next big thing and hopes to someday complete a mural larger than anything he’s done to date. “I’m ready to work,” Hose said. “My dedication is stronger than it was 10 years ago.”
The Sky & Sno Adventure Guide is the Skykomish and Snohomish River Valley’s visitor publication covering Monroe and the Sky Valley region.
Read online
Have a free day but can’t decide what fun things to do? Let us help you with a day of adventuring around the city by following the day of Monroe local April and her daughter Grace.
As I wake for the day, I’m feeling a bit sluggish and, knowing Grace
and I have a fun day planned, I’m in need of my morning energy-boost. Since we live in the Fryelands neighborhood, Paesano’s Coffee & Café is a short drive or walk away and offers a delicious menu. When we arrive, I decide on a hot cup of drip coffee with a dash of flavoring. Grace takes a bit of time to
deliberate but ultimately decides on hot chocolate and a chocolate chip cookie, a savored treat for her.
Did you know, last summer, the owners of Paesano’s became the proud new owners of Vista Clara Coffee? This happens to be my favorite local coffee bean, so I was thrilled. Especially since it’s such a convenient stop for me when my stock at home is low.
The morning is a bit on the brisk side so, instead of heading across the street to take a stroll around Lake Tye as I relish my coffee, we decide to stay next to the fireplace in the cozy atmosphere at Paesano’s. Plus, Grace appears content in her chosen comfy chair, cookie in hand.
After we both finish, we head to Lake Tye Park’s newly surfaced pickleball courts. I love pickleball and want to teach Grace more about the familyfriendly game. If the south side of the city is more accessible to you instead, Sky River Park has two designated pickleball courts that were installed last summer.
After a few hours, Grace has worked up an appetite and I get the “Mom I’m hungry”. Las Tres Marías immediately comes to mind; their friendly staff, quick service, and mouth-watering queso dip & chips is one of our favorite menu items.
As we finish up lunch Grace asks, “Mom, can we go see Miranda?”
Since we are on Historic Main Street, I can’t say no – this means I can support our local businesses by shopping on Historic Main Street. Giving in, our first stop is Main Street Books . We are barely through the door when Grace cheers “Miranda!” Sure enough, the friendly black cat is sauntering around the sales counter.
High-Flyin’ Hydros
By Adam Worcester
If you head to Lake Tye Park on Sunday, Sept. 7, you can witness a uniquely Monroe event : the Radio/ Control (R/C) Unlimiteds hydroplane races. The regatta starts at 10 a.m. and includes scale-model hydros powered by electricity, gas, and nitro-methane fuel.
“It’s a great place to watch a race,” said Beau Rarig, the club’s statistician and Lake Tye race director. The event is one of thirteen in the 2025 Meyers Autotech Championship Series, and one of just two races held in Western Washington. Lake Tye “is one of the few places on our calendar that can draw a sizable crowd,” Rarig said. “It’s a tremendous lake. I’m just glad the City of Monroe is willing to have us.”
R/C Unlimiteds, founded in 1974, is “the original, and most highly regarded organization dedicated to scale radio-controlled unlimited hydroplane racing in the world,” according to its website. The organization has more than 100 registered members throughout the
state, and its popularity is growing, Rarig said. He expects to have more entrants this year than the 41 boats that raced at Lake Tye last year.
Participants compete in three classes: fast electric, nitro, and gas scale. The fast electric and nitro boats are 1/8th the size of a real unlimited hydroplane. The
gas scale boats are 1/6th scale. There is also a 1/10th scale electric class for young racers. Drivers either custom-build their boats or assemble them from kits. The hydros are painstakingly crafted to resemble their full-size originals.
Like their full-size brethren, radiocontrolled hydroplanes kick up
GEOFFRY GREMBOWSKI
GEOFFRY GREMBOWSKI
rooster tails as they race five laps around an oval course, reaching speeds of 65 mph. “People just don’t understand how fast these things are going,” said club race coordinator Steven Kinney. For safety measures, no one is allowed in the water during races, and no one can enter the pit area without insurance from the North America Motor Boat Association.
Also, like full-size unlimiteds, radiocontrolled hydros race a statewide circuit from April through Sept. in which drivers compete for points. They earn scaled points for finish position in each heat, from 400 points for first place to 71 points for 7th. Drivers with the most overall points are crowned champions of their class, and the leading rookie driver earns a Rookie of the Year trophy. Boats also earn points, even if they’re not driven that heat by their registered owner.
Kinney’s boat, a replica 1974 Miss U.S., won the 2023 nitro points title, and his daughter, Brooklyn, has topped the 1/10th scale driver standings two consecutive years. Kinney currently races four
different boats, all of which he built from scratch. He estimates he’s built 15 to 20 hydros in his seven years in the club. “It’s a fun family thing to do,” he said. “I’ve always watched unlimited hydros, since I grew up in Washington. We lived on Camano Island and my dad had friends in the club. We went to Marysville to watch them run.”
Rarig recalls coming out of his bedroom as a young boy while his parents had the Seafair hydroplane races on TV. “I thought that was the coolest thing I’d ever seen,” he said. He begged them to attend a race and wound up with a gig during COVID as a driver for the U-40, Miss Flav-RPak, in a virtual hydroplane league. He will debut his 1/8th electric remote-controlled Miss Flav-R-Pak this season.
“I’m expecting our club to grow steadily,” Rarig said. “We’re a family-friendly group.” Joining R/C Unlimiteds involves several steps, including building a boat, buying insurance, and passing a driver’s test. Annual fees are $30, and there are race-day entrance fees of $10 per heat for participants. Watching an R/C Unlimiteds race, however, is free, so, mark Sept. 7 on your calendar, round up blankets and picnic gear, and spend the day at an event you can tell your friends is truly “a unique Monroe event.”
GEOFFRY GREMBOWSKI
A Walk on the Wildside
Many trails throughout Monroe offer a fantastic opportunity to witness the wildlife living around us. Lake Tye offers a 1.63-mile paved path, providing an opportunity to observe nature and recharge. How many species you can identify? Please remember to be respectful of your surroundings and “leave it like you found it.”
Plants/Grasses:
Also referred to as wild carrot, this plant boasts a delicate white flower when in bloom. Not to be confused with poison hemlock one major differentiator is Queen Anne’s Lace’s hairy stem.
Cattail - Typha latifolia
You can see this around the lake’s perimeter. Well-known for its identifiable flower head which some say resembles a corndog. This plant provides a habitat for the beautiful Red-winged blackbird and Coot waterfowl. Historically, it was used as stuffing for mattresses, pillows, and diapers. Did you know, it can grow to be 10 feet tall?
Salal - Gaultheria shallow
Salal can be found in coastal woods or brushy places and is an evergreen shrub with white/pale pink flowers that bloom from April-July. Flowers are followed by dark-blue fruit which is a source of food for wildlife. You can find this plant around the lake and identify what season of blooming it is in.
Trees:
Norway Spruce
Recently identified by Monroe’s Parks Department’s Certified Arborist, this tree is one of the most recognizable and widely cultivated coniferous trees in the world. Although not native to our area, it is widely planted for windbreaks, reforestation projects, and erosion control. Can you find this tree and guess why it was chosen to be planted in its chosen location?
Black CottonwoodPopulus trichocarpa
Cottonwoods grow in moist areas and are fast growing. Did you know a single cottonwood tree can consume up to 200 gallons of water a day?
Willow Tree
Look for these perched on top of the cattail. The males are more recognizable with their distinguishable red shoulders. Spring and Summer are the best time of year to spot these eyecatching birds.
Queen Anne’s Lace
Birds:
Red-Winged Black Bird
Look for these perched on top of the cattail. The males are more recognizable with their distinguishable red shoulders. Spring and summer are the best time of year to spot these eye-catching birds.
Canada Geese & Cackling Geese
Both are present at Lake Tye - learn to differentiate these two species. Cackling Geese are smaller and have shorter necks than the Canada Geese. However, don’t be fooled, small Canada Geese can be similar in size to the Cackling Geese. One way to positively identify the two is by their call. Cackling Geese have high-pitched squeaks, yips, and cackles whereas the Canada Geese have more deep honks.
This is a migratory dark-gray/black bird with a bright-white bill and forehead. The legs are yellow-green and their eyes are red. They are omnivorous, meaning they eat mostly plant material, but also small fish and eggs.
Fish:
Lake Tye is home to numerous species of fish. Although hard to identify from around the lake some of these include trout, small and largemouth bass, and perch.
Monroe has a vast trail system that winds its way throughout the city.
In 2024, the Parks & Recreation Department created the city’s first Trails Master Plan. The new plan establishes a framework for improving, growing, and maintaining Monroe’s network of trails over the next 20 years. The Trails Master Plan will help guide City decision-making, set priorities, and direct the use of resources so that Monroe has a great trail system for all to enjoy.
Scan the QR Code to view the full Master Plan.
Not all of these trails are City of Monroe maintained, they may be HOA owned and maintained.
Coots
The Evolution of Monroe’s City Hall
By Dexter Taylor
Within four years of being incorporated in 1902, Monroe added a water department, fire department, and a library association. In April of 1908, the town council recognized the need for a city hall and approved a design for a two-story, 50’ by 60’ brick building. The contract went to four men: JJ Cretney, RE McKinnie, AH Lemon and DF Stephens, with a bid of $5,769.65. Work began in June. The exterior walls were of large concrete blocks made onsite, with a decorative brick veneer on the front wall. The new structure was completed that November, with the final cost being just over $7,000.
The west half of the first floor held the fire department and the east half held the police department, including a two bunk jail cell and
a holding cell at the rear. The cells, with 11-inch-thick concrete walls, still remain today, with the smaller cell still containing its toilet and sink. There was also a small office for the Mayor adjacent to the cells. A central 8 feet wide stairway was open to the exterior at the bottom to provide
unrestricted access to the upstairs. A large skylight over the upper landing let in daylight. Initially the large room at the rear of the upper floor was the council meeting room. The room has a wall of large windows facing north. The front upstairs west room was a “rest room” intended mainly for women, who were in town for business or shopping, to relax. The front east room held the town library, with a small book alcove with the librarian’s table. Built-in settees by the windows originally held dishes for receptions located under the seats, these still remain today.
1920-1940
Within a few years the skylight, which was prone to leaking, was covered over and the rest room became the firemens’ room, with a hole cut through the floor for a brass fire pole. In 1924, the library expanded into the larger council chambers, and eventually the original library room became the courtroom. In the 1930s, a kitchenette was constructed between the front upper floor rooms, mostly to serve the firemen.
1950-1970
In 1959, a new fire hall was built immediately to the west, including a new hose tower with the town siren on top. The old fire doors were closed
MONROE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
City Hall and Firemen, 1941
MONROE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
City Hall, 1970
in, partition walls were built, and the old fire hall became city offices. In 1966, the library moved to a new building on Hill Street, partly due to the noise coming from the town dog pound located behind city hall.
1970-Present
A decade later the city moved its services nearly a mile west to the remodeled Collins Chevrolet dealership building, with the fire department moving shortly thereafter. The city remained in the dealership building despite the rapidly growing city until it was re-developed this past year. The court, which had become the Evergreen District Court, remained until a new courthouse was built in 1978. The police department area was taken over by the Washington State Patrol until about the same year. At this time the city sold the building
to C.O.R.E., an umbrella group supporting arts and culture in Monroe, ending its involvement in Old City Hall. The mortgage soon passed to the Monroe Historical Society which houses its museum in part of the building.
This year, City Hall will open its doors to the public in the redesigned Municipal Campus. This campus has been designed to keep up with the growing population of the city and includes improvements that will provide a welcoming environment to the whole community.
City Hall front entrance, 2022
The Monroe Smokestack (Steamstack)
By Dexter Taylor
Travelers on US 2 through Monroe may wonder about the tall smokestack at the east end of town, perhaps thinking it was associated with an old lumber mill or smelter. But its origin stems from the condensing and canning of milk, more than a century ago. By 1907, the Monroe area supported hundreds of small dairies and there was talk of locating a condensery in town to handle the large amount of milk being produced, as well as provide needed employment. In January 1908 members of the Monroe Commercial Club met with representatives of Pacific Coast Condensed Milk Company, makers of Carnation condensed milk. Pacific Coast agreed to build a facility in Monroe if a certain tract of land adjacent to the railroads in town could be procured and donated to the project. The town quickly came up with $6,000 to procure the site and donated it to Pacific Coast, who installed water and sewer lines to the site and immediately began construction of
the 110-foot by 220-foot plant, using local lumber and labor.
Before long the condensery was processing the milk from 5,000 cows and returning much higher profits to the farmers than they received from the creamery. The condensery maintained its own horse stables and wagons. The horses and wagons were used on 11 milk pick-up routes and on a steamboat called “Carnation 1” to collect milk from farmers along the Snoqualmie River. The process consisted of placing incoming milk into glass-lined kettles where it was steamed, drawn into condensers, cooled in a refrigeration room, canned and then sealed. The sealed cans were then reheated to sterilize the contents. Once the process was complete, the cans were labeled and boxed, ready to be shipped out on railway freight cars. Each month about 26 carloads shipped. The condensery was a good employer in Monroe, offering around 60 jobs, many available for women.
Initially the facility had only one 60-foot-tall metal stack. As part of a remodel in March 1909, a second 60-foot metal stack was installed. The stacks, while venting some exhaust from the plant’s boiler room, mostly vented steam from the condensing process. Ten years after the remodel, the metal stacks were removed and a 150-foottall concrete stack was constructed. Measuring nearly 11 feet in diameter at the base, the stack sports a decorative band of triangles, initially painted red, at the top.
Steamstack Condensery, 1925
GEOFFRY GREMBOWSKI
Starting in 1914, production at the plant slowed because of nation-wide overproduction and falling prices for condensed milk. Unfortunately, by late 1920, condensing and canning milk in Monroe came to an end. Instead, local milk was skimmed at the plant and the cream sent elsewhere to make butter while the remainder was processed with acids and heated to make casein, a hard plastic-like substance. The raw casein was exported and used to make a variety of products, from combs to faucet handles to billiard balls. In 1929, the plant shut down completely and was advertised for sale.
The plant sat idle for over 10 years, until the beginning of World War II. At that time flax, used to make linen, was declared a strategic material and local farmers were encouraged to grow it. In 1942, The Pacific Fiber Flax Association purchased the condensery facility and began to remodel it into a flax processing plant. By early 1944, the remodeling was complete and the plant, which employed about 40 workers, began processing flax into linen. After only three weeks of operation, however, in the early
hours of March 23, 1944, the factory caught fire. By dawn the fierce fire had reduced the main wooden structure and its contents to ash.
The local fire department managed
to save the boiler building and other small structures on the site. The cause of the fire was attributed to spontaneous combustion of the 600 tons of flax stored in the building. Only partially insured, there was no effort to rebuild.
The remaining structures on the site were removed by 1959 to make way for the Monroe Shopping Center we know today; it opened the following year. The smokestack was deemed too difficult to remove. In the 1960s and early 1970s, an Enco (later Exxon) service station sat near the smokestack, which had the station’s emblem painted on its east facing side. Beginning in the 1970s, there was discussion of cleaning and painting the monolith, but it wasn’t until 2014 that, through the efforts of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, it was cleaned and painted.
Bed & Breakfast d Private Event Space
Women Working in Condensery
GEOFFRY GREMBOWSKI
DOWN ACROSS
Located at 126 W. Main St. and previously a hospital— what was this hospital’s name from 1903-1910?
Located at 126 W. Main St. and previously a hospital— what was this hospital’s name from 1910-1939?
The tenants of this building currently reside at 806 W. Main St.—what was this building in 1908?
Built in 1923, what is this building’s name?
What is the name of this Historic Performing Arts Center? 1 5 2 6 3 7 4 8
What was the name of this school founded in 1929 that resided at 200 E. Fremont Street?
First built in 1894 and re-built multiple times—what is the name of this bridge which still stands today?
Built in 1909, what is this building’s name?
Diggin’ For Dinos
By Adam Worcester
Matt Heaton digs digging. For as long as he can remember, Heaton has loved sifting through sandboxes and delving into dirt piles in search of fossils. Some kids want to be sports stars, some doctors. Heaton always wanted to be a paleontologist. After finding a snail fossil in Issaquah as an adolescent, he began collecting in earnest. His passion eventually became Fossilera -- “the world’s largest online retailer of authentic fossil and mineral specimens,” boasts its website.
From its 12,000 square-foot Fryelands warehouse at 16722 146th St. SE, Ste. 190, Fossilera sends fossils, crystals, minerals, and meteorites to buyers across the globe. Looking for a dinosaur bone? A billion-yearold polished sphere? A Martian meteorite? This is the place to shop.
“We have a really varied customer base,” said Heaton, from institutional collectors to “people who want something cool to put on a shelf.”
Since opening in 2013, Fossilera has shipped more than 200,000 orders to customers in 100 countries. Its inventory includes items ranging from less than $10 to tens of thousands of dollars. But Megalodon teeth are “by far the most popular thing,” Heaton said. Megalodons were gigantic sharks with teeth as long as seven inches. Other popular sellers are polished agates, crystals, and meteorites, which are relatively new.
Heaton did not unearth all these treasures himself, of course. Fossilera uses a network of trusted suppliers. It sells only material collected legally and guarantees the authenticity of each specimen it ships. But Heaton has contributed his fair share of material. He has discovered “probably several dozen new species” of trilobites, which were ancient marine arthropods.
This spring he found a pair of small mammal fossils side-by-side (photo above) that have “baffled all mammal
researchers.” He has shared pictures of the find with experts, but no one has been able to identify the fossils yet. “It’s certainly possible they might be something new,” Heaton said. “We are looking for a museum interested in acquiring the specimen.”
At Sammamish High School and The Evergreen State College, Heaton shifted focus to computer science, then founded several small startups. Yet he remained at heart a boy in a sandbox, spending almost all his free time hunting fossils. He still does.
“I want to be in the field as much as possible,” Heaton said. “Personally, I’m having fun.” He splits his time between his Monroe home and Fossil Lake Safari, a new venture launched in 2024 near Kemmerer, Wyoming, where tourists can search for fossils in a leased quarry rich with specimens. They get to keep all fossils they find, and Fossilera guides ensure no one leaves empty-handed. The site is open from late May to mid-Sept., and on peak days draws more than 100 visitors.
Due to complex international restrictions, most commercial fossils
come from private land. Misinformation abounds in the paleontology world, and fakes are common. So Fossilera takes great care in cataloging, photographing, and writing accurate descriptions of each item it sells.
“We have a lifetime guarantee on the accuracy of the information we provide,” said photography director
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Jeff Dils, “so when you buy from Fossilera, you know you’re getting authentic fossils and minerals, and you know right up front what it is you’re getting.”
The company employs 11 people in Monroe and another half dozen in Wyoming. All share the same mission: to promote paleontology and stoke the excitement of holding a billions-year-old fossil in your hands. “We have something for everybody,” said HR manager Becky Shaffer, “and that’s kind of our joy, to educate people and show them what was around this earth that many years ago.”
Toward that end, Fossilera holds a parking lot tent sale each summer in conjunction with neighboring Dreadnought Brewing. There are food trucks, and adults can crack
open beers and geodes while watching their kids dig for fossils planted in mobile sand pits.
For most of the youngsters it will be a fun one-off experience. But maybe in one of those sand pits there will be a child who is obsessed with dinosaurs. One who reads all they can about old bones and fossils.
One who wants to spend the whole summer digging soil and cracking rocks. Maybe, just maybe, there will be the next Matt Heaton.
* * * *
This summer’s tent sale event is scheduled for August 8-10. Check Fossilera.com for more details.
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Happy Heavenly Mother’s Day!
“All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”
To the best mom there ever was and will ever be -
How beyond blessed are we to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard?
Caring for you has been the highest honor of my life and I wouldn’t be who I am without these last four years. What a wonderful vision you had for this endeavor and I will always hold the memories of creating this together fondly in my heart!
Enjoy catching up with your grandma up there and I promise to make sure ours is doing well down here.
I love you always and forever, I miss you every day.
Melonie LuEll Adkinson Claybrook Founder of Adkinson
Estates AFH December 14th, 1959 ~ April 7th, 2025
The Best Café You’ve Never Heard Of
By Adam Worcester
Some of the tastiest meals in Monroe are being served at a place few have heard of. The Trax Edge Café, in a back corner of Evergreen Health abutting the railroad tracks at 14701 179th Ave SE, is not a typical hospital cafeteria.
Chef Manager Ryan Hymel and Sous Chef Karla Ramirez collaborate to produce an eclectic assortment of international specialties, most less than $10. Recent offerings have included crawfish étouffée, tom kha gai, chimichurri steak, shrimp curry, and Tuscan salmon.
“Our focus is making good and tasty food as homemade as possible,” Hymel said. “Hospitals historically have been very reliant on processed and preprepared food items to reduce labor. We avoid this whenever possible.”
Since Thomas Cuisine began managing the Food and Nutrition department at Evergreen Monroe five years ago, the focus has
been on REAL food. The acronym stands for food that has Robust flavor, Exceptional ingredients, Avoids additives, and is Loaded with nutrients. Hymel came from Evergreen Health Kirkland in 2019. Rodriguez was promoted last year.
“I have a pretty classic French/ European background, but I probably specialize in Cajun/Creole and Southern food,” Hymel said. “Karla has a broad palate and background as well but has a great knowledge of authentic Mexican food. We try to make flavorful food from around the world to keep things interesting.”
The café, which is open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Mon. to Fri., has a breakfast and lunch grill, build your own salad/sandwich/flatbread options, as well as two entrée specials, a breakfast special, and a soup of the day.
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On one Friday in February, the breakfast special was a fresh-baked scone ($2.99) that can be added to many delicious breakfast options; the market entrée was creamy poblano chicken in two sizes ($8.99/$5.99) with choice of refried beans ($1.99) or Spanish rice ($1.99); the Field of Greens was a Thai steak salad ($8.99); and the soup of the day was shrimp bisque ($3.99/$2.99). The weekly menu features delightful dishes from around the world to include Indian, Vietnamese, Thai, Mexican cuisine along with traditional recipes representing different regions of the United States.
Trax Edge can keep prices low because whole foods are generally cheaper than processed foods, Hymel said. “It’s about ordering different products and using different recipes. While it may take some more labor to cook from scratch, the food cost goes down a bit and it evens out,” he explained.
REAL food is a concept developed by Thomas Cuisine founder Thad Thomas. Before retiring, he challenged his successors to create a “unique,” “special,” and “different” company by serving scratch-made food without preservatives and other “junk.”
The company emphasizes food that is organic, grass-fed and sustainably farmed where possible. There are lean proteins, whole grains, brothbased soups, sea salt, extra virgin olive oil, fiber-rich legumes, healing spices and herbs.
“We see the need in our industry to provide service that revolves around the best tasting, most nutritious food available,” states the Thomas Cuisine website. The general public is starting to take note, too. Hymel estimates that 20 to 30 percent of Trax Edge customers come from off campus.
“We’ve been drawing outside customers more and more over the past few years,” he said. “We’ve gotten a lot of positive comments and are definitely all ears if people have
requests or suggestions. We run four specials per day, which is 80 items per month, so it’s nice to get fresh ideas from guests.” So, if you are craving fresh and flavorful dishes, be sure to stop by!
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A
“Doggy’s Day Out”
Few things are better than having a good day out with a good dog. We often need to leave our pets at home for long periods of time. Let’s make it up to our four-legged family members and take them on a “Doggy’s Day Out” on the town. Monroe’s pet-friendly environment offers many places to explore with your furry companion.
Start your day off right with your best friend with some locally brewed coffee and a leisurely stroll around Lake Tye , soaking up that morning sunshine. Take in the sounds of the ducks and their morning gossip while sipping your favorite cup of coffee. Bring a blanket, a few breakfast snacks and, if your favorite barista offers one, a pup cup.
After your breakfast settles, it’s time to burn some energy by a good
walk and some physical and mental stimulation to get your pup to switch gears. Just 15 minutes of mental stimulation for a dog is like one hour of physical stimulation. Let your dog take in all the smells along the trails of Al Borlin Park while you listen to the birds and stroll beneath the canopy of maple trees.
Is your dog shy or does it have trouble playing well with others? Maybe you want to have a private dog party? Sam’s Cats and Dogs provides rental options for their dog park! You can pick out your dog’s birthday cake from the store. Their dog park is fully fenced and offers a place for dogs to explore and play. Don’t forget to pick up some Wet Noses treats on your way out. Wet Noses is a Monroe-based company that offers a variety of natural, human-grade and non-GMO goodies.
Maybe your dog is a social butterfly who loves to show off. Have you checked out Wiggly Field Off-Leash Dog Park ? The large space with agility equipment on site will help give your dog the outlet it needs. Agility equipment offers more than just a physical work-out. It creates a mental work-out for your dog and helps build confidence. Don’t forget to bring a ball or frisbee if your dog loves to play fetch. Friendly reminder: the City of Monroe removes the wire mesh fencing from Wiggly Field in preparation for the annual flooding of the Skykomish River to preserve the rail fencing from water flow. The flooding occurs during winter months, approximately October through April. The dog park remains open to the public; however, containment for
CHRISTINE MITCHELL
the dogs is limited to the 4-foot split rail fence, and dog owners should be extra vigilant as most dogs can escape this area. The City reinstalls the wire mesh fence after the flood season is over. During winter months the Winter Dog Park at the Evergreen State Fair Park is a great covered and secure back-up option open October through February and located in the Judging Area #606.
You may notice your dog has gotten dirty and stinky after the park. Stop by Pet Pros and use their self-wash. Pet Pros offers a large tub, shampoo and conditioner, blow dryer, brushes and nail clippers. The best part is all the dirt and hair that comes off your stinky friend gets thrown away and doesn’t come home with you.
Finish the day enjoying a meal on the outdoor patio of your favorite petfriendly restaurant such as Route 2 Taproom . Watch clouds slowly drift across the sunset-painted sky and
sip a refreshing beverage. Wherever you choose to go, make sure you call ahead of time to verify the restaurant is pet-friendly and has outdoor seating to accommodate you and your doggo.
There are a few things to keep in mind as you enjoy the day with your dog.
• Be mindful of other dogs and people. Some dogs do not play well with others. Take note of different dog behaviors and the way they communicate with each other. This will give you a better understanding of when to remove your dog from an area to prevent possible injuries.
• While your dog may be friendly, it may wander and say hello to a dog that is more reserved. Always make sure collars are fitted properly and leashes are secure to avoid unwanted altercations. If your dog is in an off-leash dog park, make sure it has a solid recall. Dogs are not allowed offleash in the City of Monroe, unless they are at an off-leash dog park.
• Always pick up your pet’s waste and dispose of it properly. There are waste stations at many locations throughout the city.
• Service animals may also be out and about enjoying the day. Do not approach or distract a service
If you encounter an unsafe situation with an off-leash dog, please contact Monroe Police Department’s Community Service Officers at 360-863-4594.
animal and never allow your dog to approach a service animal. Make sure any establishment you visit is pet-friendly before entry. It is unlawful to misrepresent your dog as a service dog.
• If you are planning on running errands and the temperatures are above 65 degrees F outside, do not leave your dog in the vehicle for any length of time. Temperatures quickly rise inside a vehicle and can cause irreversible damage.
• Before you leave the house don’t forget a proper leash and collar, waste bags, dog treats, training aids and a water bowl. Check the outside expected temperatures and plan accordingly.
Now that your “Doggy’s Day Out” is complete, it’s time to head home, relax and enjoy those yummy treats while treasuring the wonderful memories you’ve made with your furry companion -- until your next adventure together!
Wiggly Field Off-Leash Dog Park
Wiggly Field Off-Leash Dog Park
A Taste of Monroe
By Adam Worcester
Feel like going out instead of cooking? Monroe has you covered. The city offers a diversity of dining options that includes Thai, Italian, Hispanic, Chinese, Indian, Hawaiian, Greek, Sushi, and BBQ – both Korean and American style – at a wide range of prices. Here is a sample of available choices.
If you enjoy Pacific Northwestfocused food or want to celebrate a special occasion, check out Lewis and Main Restaurant and Brewery at 104 N. Lewis St., featuring “American farmhouse cuisine,” craft beer, and local wines. For meat lovers, head to J & L BBQ at 19191 US-2 and try some Texas-style beef, pork, and chicken. For Hawaiian treats, Island Blends Açaí and Poke, 14655 Fryelands Blvd. SE Ste. 163,
offers bowls, sorbet, poke, and an array of smoothies, juices, and shots.
Love Mexican food? You’re in luck. Monroe boasts a quartet of highquality dine-in restaurants: Ixtapa , at 19303 US-2; El Paraíso , on the shore of Lake Tye at 14090 Fryelands Blvd.; Las Tres Marías, at 116 W. Main
St.; Taqueria La Bamba , at 14650 N. Kelsey St.; and Tijuana Restaurant , at 118 E. Main St. Monroe also has a trio of high-quality food trucks: Tacos El Rey (17630 W. Main St.); Tacos Pihuamo (329 E. Main St.); and Taquería La Michoacana (357 N. Lewis St.)
Prefer Italian? Tuscano’s Italian Kitchen , at 14919 N. Kelsey St., offers homemade pizza and pasta, rotating craft beers, wine, a covered outdoor patio, and five flat-screen TVs for sports and events. Jeno’s Restaurant serves both Italian and American dishes at 123 E. Main St Mediterranean Kabob Korner , at 19565 US-2, will make you think you’ve wandered into an authentic Greek café.
Is Asian more your style? Thai selections include Thai on Main Street (115 W. Main) and Benjarong Thai (19480 US-2 #D1). Khadi Indian (116 E. Main St.) serves
Sushi Spott
Blazin’ K BBQ
Taqueria La Michoacana
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“India’s finest flavors, delivered with passion.” Saigon Pho and Grill (19959 US-2) has a wide selection of Vietnamese delicacies, and Asian Spice Chopsticks (14655 Fryelands Blvd. SE) specializes in Pan-Asian dishes from various countries.
Two new Asian cuisine restaurants celebrated 2024 grand openings in the city. Blazin’ K-BBQ, 19191 US-2 Ste. 149, offers “authentic Korean BBQ” cuisine, ranging from appetizers to soups to fried chicken. The owner’s favorite dish is the tabletop BBQ, where diners can choose their own meat to cook. Choices include pork belly, chicken bulgogi, LA Short Ribs, and New York Steak. Chef Nicole’s favorite dish is the Soonduboo Soup Combination. “This dish is not only tasty and healthy, but it also offers a variety of choices to customers in soup, BBQ, or even a fish,” she said. “It’s a combination of tofu soup in a heated hot pot and a choice of Korean BBQ on a sizzling iron plate. The soup base can be prepared in both meat and vegan options, using beef broth or plain water. Customers can choose kimchi, beef, pork, or seafood; or kimchi and beef or kimchi and pork combinations in different spicy levels. The BBQ
choices are beef bulgogi, spicy pork, chicken bulgogi, short rib, or grilled mackerel.”
Sushi Spott , 102 E. Main St. Ste. 1, features dozens of roll choices, including a Seahawks Roll and a Kraken Roll. The chef’s favorite is the BTS Roll, a blend of spicy crab meat, shrimp tempura, and avocado. The inside is topped with seared unagi and salmon, jalapeños, and a hint of house habanero. Customers’ favorite is the Spider Roll, a mix of soft-shell crab, crab meat, avocado, cucumber, and sprouts, topped with tobiko and eel sauce. The Super Spider Roll adds spicy tuna, crunch flakes and spicy mayonnaise.
Sushi Spott also has traditional Asian noodle plates, as well as salads, drinks, and desserts.
So, if you don’t feel like cooking, put away the pots and pans and start searching your phone or computer. Try one of the restaurants above or a place you’ve never been. Get out and explore all Monroe has to offer. It’s more than you imagined.
Island Blends Açai
A Tasty Tour Savor & Sip
By Adam Worcester
In a region renowned for craft beers and excellent wines, Monroe offers a smorgasbord of delectable delicacies. You need not venture to Seattle to sample superb suds or to Woodinville to sip vintage vino. You can do so right here -- each with a unique atmosphere.
If you’re not sure where to start, try this suggested tour of Monroe staples. They are listed in alphabetical order, but you can design your own path. Sample them all in one evening or spend an evening at each one. Either way, we think you’ll agree: Monroe has good taste. Cheers!
Bugu Brewing Company
14751 N. Kelsey St. 360-243-3364 bugubrewing.com
Patrons love this family-run brewery, which won the 2024 Seattle Times People’s Choice as Best in the Pacific Northwest. “Each drink is brewed according to the house Bugu ratio, achieving the
perfect balance of sweetness to bitterness,” the Times enthused.
There are screens for sports and movies, as well as free classic table games. Bugu does not serve food but welcomes customers to bring their own. A unique tradition is “Paint Your Pet” nights, in which artists make paintings from photos of your dogs, cats, birds, fish, rodents, and reptiles.
Burnt Barrel Whiskey Bar 102 E. Main St. 360-863-3104
burntbarrelwhiskeybarmonroe.com
Located in the heart of historic downtown Monroe, Burnt Barrel boasts more than 200 bottles of whiskey to sample, as well as nonalcoholic options and a curated menu.
Bugu Brewing Company
Burnt Barrel Whiskey Bar
RICHARD PORTER
It breaks from serving whiskey-only for wine tasting on the first Thursday of each month.
“Chandeliers, loungy furniture, and Prohibition-era jazz create an inviting ambiance,” said owner Bridgette Tuttle, “pairing perfectly with smoked Old Fashioneds, peaty Scotches, and expertly crafted signature cocktails.”
Crooked Label Brewing
773 Village Way
360-217-8741
crookedlabelbrewing.com
Open seven days a week, Crooked Label has open mic nights and taco nights, live music on the weekends and food trucks on a regular basis. Nearby Monroe Fish and Chips offers free delivery.
“We love malt in our brewing style. We are very malt forward,” owner Dan Haff says. “My influences are German beers and British beers. We have a wonderful beer garden, and we are family and pet friendly. Can’t wait to pour you a cold one.”
Dreadnought Brewing
16726 146 St. SE, Ste. 153 360-863-2036
dreadnoughtbrewing.com
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this venerable family-friendly facility now offers food and, soon, much more. New ownership vows to expand beer selection and entertainment options, including live music, comedy, and monthly bingo and trivia.
Joining the Dreadnought Mug Club nets discounts and invitations to private events.
“Dreadnought takes pride in being a family-friendly space that offers refreshments for everyone and ensures a safe environment for all,” said spokesperson Sabrina Willard. “Feel free to visit Dreadnought any day of the week!”
Route 2 Taproom
19837 US-2 360-863-2036
route2taproom.com
If you’re a trivia fan, mark Wednesday nights on your calendar and head to Route 2 Taproom at 6 p.m. for competition on subjects such as TV through the decades, one-hit wonders, pets, and think green. Or come for Tuesday Brewer’s Nights, or Saturday for live music. There are also game nights and karaoke nights at this socially oriented establishment.
There is also plenty of beer – about 30 Northwest craft selections -and food – a surprising range that includes blackened salmon Caesar salad, barbeque bison burger, chicken & waffles, veggie flatbread, a full kids’ menus, and desserts.
Dreadknought Brewing
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Route 2 Taproom F4 PHOTOGRAPHY
Crooked Label Brewing
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Take Care of Yourself
By Adam Worcester
In our fast-paced world of work, family, and social pressures, it’s easy to overlook the importance of self-care. Yet taking time for beauty and wellness treatments can significantly bolster mental health. It’s not a luxury; self-care is a vital part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
A study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that people who treat themselves to regular cosmetic treatments or spa visits are less stressed and happier. Time spent pampering yourself also fosters relaxation and rejuvenation, key weapons against burnout and anxiety. A facial, for instance, not only cleans and invigorates the skin but also seems like a mini vacation, lying back and letting a pro take control. Likewise,
many spas use aromatherapy and soft music to promote a sense of well-being that lingers long after treatment is finished.
Makeup can be a tool for selfexpression and boosts confidence, transforming self-perception along with outward appearance. And personal grooming, including nails and waxing, provides a sense of bodily control that can lead to improved self-esteem and greater personal pride.
Ready to get started? Fortunately, Monroe has a slew of selections to help you help yourself. Whether it’s a simple haircut, a facial, new nails, waxing, body sugaring, energy healing, or even weight-loss management, the city is filled with wonderful self-improvement options.
At Peace Salon & Spa
15194 Woods Creek Rd. 360-794-4247
Though its official hours are 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., owner Tara Walsh advertises on Facebook that At Peace Salon & Spa is “always open.” It offers hair styling, full body waxing, a variety of facials, reiki energy healing, micro-dermabrasions, and eyebrow/eyelash tinting.
Breeze Esthetics LLC
125 E. Main St., Ste. 203 425-315-3093
Run by Brianna Gaspar, a licensed esthetician, Breeze specializes in full body sugaring, hard wax, facials, lash lift and brow lamination. It is open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays, though evening appointments are available upon request.
D’Lux Salon & Spa
14711 Fryelands Blvd. 360-217-8442
dluxsalonspa.com
This family- and woman-owned business boasts more than 35 years’ experience. Besides standard hair styling, its team is certified for Brazilian blowouts, sanitization, barbicide, tattoo removal, balayage, and ombre. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, and evenings by appointment.
Golden Bough Day Spa
125 E. Main St., Ste. 204 425-879-6181
goldenboughdayspa.com
Billed as “a relaxing little getaway in the heart of Monroe,” Golden Bough
offers full spa treatments, facials, energy medicine, and reflexology. Its website informs two new treatments coming soon: a tesla plasma chamber and terahertz wand. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or by appointment.
The Grayson Salon & Spa
114 S. Lewis St.
360-794-1618
thegraysonsalonspa.com
Hair styling, body waxing and facials are specialties at this venerable salon, which has been serving Monroe since 2000. Its hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, with free two-hour parking on both sides of Lewis Street.
The Lounge 20012 US-2
360-805-8763
This establishment houses three businesses -- All Eyes on Me Beauty Lounge, Mau Loa Beauty, and Julieonny Esthetics – and specializes in lashes, brows, airbrush tans, sugar waxing, and facials. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Peachy Clean Skin Care Studio
209 N. Blakely St., Ste. 101 425-667-5381
peachycleanskincarestudio.com
Opened in 2019, Peachy Clean advertises itself as “a fresh approach to skin care.” Esthetician Kayla grew up with bad acne and dreaded treatments, so she strives to make her studio “cheery, bright, and rejuvenating.” Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, or by appointment.
Raw Beauty by Bre
101 E. Main St., Ste. 102
425-239-0429
rawbeautybybre.com
Master Esthetician Breanna
Lashbrook offers a variety of unique services, from custom facials to chemical peels to dermaplaning to hydrodermabrasion. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, and by appointment.
This combination women-menchildren’s hair salon, medical spa and beauty salon offers B-12 injections, BOTOX and weight-loss management in addition to hairstyling, facials, and a wide selection of lip, brow, and scalp treatments. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday or by appointment.
Mental Health Resources in Monroe
By Rachel Adams and Katelyn Harrigan, City of Monroe Human Services & Joe Neigel, Monroe School District Director of Prevention Services
Recent economic and social challenges have increased the demand for mental health support and resources to support those in times of need . Fortunately, there are a variety of resources in Monroe to help individuals and families navigate these challenges.
Crisis Support
Beginning in 2023, the City of Monroe partnered with Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOA) and the City of Sultan to provide mental health services to individuals in crisis. Behavioral health professional Jessi Beyer works alongside 9-1-1 first responders, offering critical support on calls where someone may be experiencing a mental health crisis. Beyer, who is stationed at the Monroe and Sultan Police Departments, works Sunday through Wednesday from 2 p.m. to midnight, providing services in de-escalation, crisis intervention, and connection to ongoing care. “We have built incredible and supportive relationships with both first responders and local human services
organizations in order to provide the best crisis intervention and resource navigation services that we can,” states Beyer. “Though we only currently offer 40 hours of coverage per week, we hope to expand to 24/7 coverage to ensure that anyone can reach skilled, trauma-informed care in the Sky Valley any time they need it.”
Additionally, 988 is the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, offering free, confidential support 24/7. Trained counselors provide callers with immediate assistance, resources,
and connections to local services for support. To contact this service, simply dial or text 9-8-8 from any phone or visit 988lifeline.org to chat with a counselor who can help.
Counseling Services and Local Mental Health Support
Body Therapeutic Healing Center
117 W. Main Street, Monroe WA
Janaki Rose. OTR/L 360-863-2701 or 206-799-6771
Monroe, Index and Seattle Stress & Tension Relaxed Balance
In addition to crisis resources, Monroe is home to a variety of supportive services for mental health and behavioral well-being. Sea Mar Community Health Center provides a wide range of culturally competent behavioral health services, including individual, family, and group therapy, case management, recovery support, health education, and other specialized services for both outpatient and inpatient care. Conquer clinics offers comprehensive mental health services, including assessments, talk therapy, psychiatric medication management, and intensive outpatient programs tailored to individual needs. Take the Next Step , Monroe’s Family Resource Center, connects people by referral
into support programs that fit their individual needs. Cascade Church extends support programming to the community, including through mental health resources and grief groups for individuals and families. For those in need of a safe, welcoming environment, Scooter’s Place, Miracles and Memories, Compassionate Friends , and the Monroe Senior Center offer community-driven programs that foster connection and healing. For a complete list of these resources and contact information please scan the QR code.
support advocates, social workers, and school counselors. Community events and trainings sponsored by the Coalition include the “Hope on the Horizon” mental health panel on May 6, 2025, or the Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Training at the end of May. If you missed the panel and want to watch it or are
As we recognize Mental Health Awareness this Month, it’s important to remember that help is available, and you don’t have to face challenges alone. View and download the City
Monroe School District
Partnering with the Monroe Community Coalition to ensure a comprehensive response to behavioral health and suicide prevention, the Monroe School District teaches students essential skills. K-8 students learn self-control and responsible decision making and 6-12 grade students learn how to recognize and link peers experiencing emotional distress or substance use with helping adults. Evidence-based programs like the Pax Good Behavior Game, Second Step, Botvin’s LifeSkills Training Program, and Signs of Suicide were chosen to teach these skills because they have been shown, by years of careful research, to positively influence lifelong wellbeing without causing unintended harm.
In addition to student-focused programming, the District has specialized staff available to students for 1:1 and small group support, including trained substance use interventionists, licensed mental health counselors, student
of Monroe Community Resource & Support Guide
Events Calendar
Wednesdays May 28–Sept 24
Monroe Farmers Market
3 - 7 p.m.
Galaxy Theatres choosemonroe.com
MAY
May 9-18
Puss ‘N Boots: A musical presented by Sky Performing Arts
Wagner Performing Arts Center skyperformingarts.org
May 10, 17, 31
Miracle League
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rotary Field
May 10
Master Gardener Plant Sale
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park snomgf.org
May 10
Republic Services’ Annual Community Cleanup Event
8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Evergreen Speedway
May 17
VFW Flags for Our Fallen 5k
9 a.m.
Lake Tye Park monroe5k.com
May 17-18
Early Ford V8 Club’s Auto Swap Meet
8 a.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park monroeswapmeet.com
JUNE
June 7, 14
Miracle League
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rotary Field
June 7
Lake Tye Challenge
5 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Lake Tye Park laketyechallenge.com
June 7-8
Fiber Fusion Northwest
9 a.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park fiberfusion.net
June 8
PRIDE
12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Sky River Park monroeequitycommunity.org
June 12
Monroe High School Senior Parade
6 p.m.
June 14-15
Kaci Edelbrock Memorial Tournament
All Day
All fields
June 21
Monroe Community Band Summer Concert
7 p.m.
Wagner Performing Arts Center monroecommunityband.org
June 28
Tilted Thunder Roller Derby
5 p.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park tiltedthunder.org
JULY
July 8:
Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue Water Safety Camp
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lake Tye SRFR.org
July 11
Music in the Park: The Machine (70’s disco)
6 p.m.
Lake Tye Park choosemonroe.com
July 12
Shakespeare in the Park
5 p.m.
Sky River Park lastleafproductions.com
July 18
Music in the Park: Jackie and the Holograms (80’s pop & rock)
6 p.m.
Lake Tye Park choosemonroe.com
July 19:
Hawaiian DJ Bingo
5 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org
July 19:
Lake Tye Science Day
8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lake Tye
July 19-20, 26-27
Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sky Meadows Park
washingtonfaire.com
July 25
Music in the Park: Hair Nation (80’s rock & roll)
6 p.m.
Lake Tye Park choosemonroe.com
Events Calendar
AUGUST
August 1
Movies Under the Moon: Despicable Me 4
Dusk
Lake Tye Park monroewa.gov
August 2
Lake Tye Triathlon
8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Lake Tye Park laketyetri.com
August 2-3, 9-10, 16-17
Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sky Meadows Park washingtonfaire.com
August 5
National Night Out Against Crime
5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Lake Tye Park
August 8
Movies Under the Moon: Moana 2 Dusk
Lake Tye Park monroewa.gov
August 9:
Walk to Remember
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sky River Park
August 15
Movies Under the Moon: Mufasa: The Lion King Dusk
Lake Tye Park monroewa.gov
August 16
Kiwanis Golf Classic
8 a.m. kiwanismonroewa.org
August 21-26, 28-Sept. 1
Evergreen State Fair
Evergreen State Fair Park evergreenfair.org
August 22
Movies Under the Moon: Captain America: Brave New World Dusk
Lake Tye Park monroewa.gov
August 23
Monroe Fair Days Parade & Market
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. West Main Street choosemonroe.com
August 23-24
FairFest 3on3
Galaxy Theaters starsunlimited.team
SEPTEMBER
September 6
Belonging
12 – 6 p.m.
Sky River Park monroeequitycommunity.org
September 6
Swifts Night Out
4:30 – 8 p.m.
Wagner Performing Arts Center pilchuckaudubon.org
September 6, 13, 20, 27
Miracle League
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Rotary Field
September 7
Color Walk/Run
9 a.m.
Sky River Park
September 7
R/C Unlimiteds Model Boat Racing
8 a.m.
Lake Tye
Lamond Owner Operator
CHRISTINE MITCHELL
SARAH MAC PHOTOGRAPHY
Pancake Breakfast
Fun Run • Parade
Seattle Cossacks
Open Air Market
Bouncy House
Pie Social
Mini Train Rides
KCLS Program
BBQ Fundraiser
Explore a fire engine!
SHS Museum
Silent Auction
Icecream
Knotty Knitters Yarn Bomb Installation
TunnelDaysofSkykomish.org
Saturday
August 16
Skykomish Ballpark
An unforgettable day of live music, local flavor, and community spirit!
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cascades, MIP brings people together to celebrate summer with great tunes, open mic talent, and good eats. Local artists, fresh mountain air, and a whole lotta soul.
Bring your friends, bring your family, and don’t forget your picnic blanket. Let’s make memories in the mountains! Good vibes required.
Free
Donations appreciated to support next year’s festival!
Local Art in the Cascades
Located in the Cascade Mountains, SkyArtworks features local artists and offers seasonal workshops for all ages and skill levels.
Come explore our gallery and gift shop, highlighting local art celebrating the beauty and history of the region.
Hours: Noon–5pm / Thursday–Sunday / March–December SkyArtworks.org / 104 W. Railroad Avenue Skykomish, WA 98288
Exhibits / Workshops
Events Calendar
September 13-14
Seattle Spartan Trifecta Meadow Wood Equestrian Center race.spartan.com
September 19
Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser 5 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org
September 27: Legacy Farm Fall Festival Opens thelegacyfarm.org
OCTOBER
October 4
Miracle League
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rotary Field
October 4
Rotary Barn Dance & Auction
5 p.m.
October 4
SRFR Fire Prevention Week Open House Station 31 SRFR.org
October 4-5
Rocktoberfest
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park marysvillerockclub.com/events
Evergreen State Fair Park 4H Building
October 25
Halloween Drag Bingo 5 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org
October 31
Downtown Trick or Treat
3 – 6 p.m.
Historic Main Street choosemonroe.com
NOVEMBER
November 7-16
Into the Woods: Presented by Sky Performing Arts. Wagner Performing Arts Center skyperformingarts.org
November 8
Holiday Bazaar 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org
November 8-9
Oddmall Emporium of the Weird Evergreen State Fair Park oddmall.co
CHRIS HENDRICKSON
SARAH MAC PHOTOGRAPHY
Events Calendar
November 21
Drive-Thru Thanksgiving Dinner
5 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center mcsc.org
November 21-22: The Great Junk Hunt Evergreen State Fair Park thegreatjunkhunt.com
November 22
Monroe’s Mistletoe Market
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. fbcmonroe.org
November 29
Small Business Saturday
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Downtown Monroe
November 30
Light Up Monroe
4 p.m.
Traveler’s Park choosemonroe.com
DECEMBER
December 4-7
Holiday Spark at the Evergreen Fair Park
Evergreen State Fair Park evergreenfair.org
December 6
Legacy Farm Christmas Festival Opens thelegacyfarm.org
December 13
Monroe Community Band Christmas Concert
7 p.m.
Wagner Performing Arts Center monroecommunityband.org
December 13-14
Artisans Holiday Fair
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Evergreen State Fair Park evergreenfair.org
December 19
Drive Thru Christmas Dinner
5 p.m.
Monroe Community Senior Center
mcsc.org
December 19
Take Seventeen Big Band Concert
Wagner Performing Arts Center monroecommunityband.org
