It is still early October, and, as I write this, it’s pouring out. While it’s been unusually hot and the forecast for the coming weekend has the highs around 80, we’re getting deep into fall. Crisp air. The colors. The deep red starting on the pear trees on the corners of the square is a personal favorite. And to borrow a quote, life does seem to start all over again in the fall. For us, that means we’re wrapping up the summer. Mainpoly – from the sidewalk stickers and 26 pieces to the scavenger hunt – will be around for a couple more weeks. We’re watching efforts for fall unfold. There is so much going on and so much new downtown. From the fun photo ops to new businesses and Trunk or Treat (2-4pm on Sunday, October 31st), there’s a whole lot to enjoy.

Sunrise Donut Café has opened (east side of the square) in the former Café Claudine/Waffle Shop space. The full espresso bar has been fun to try as have the endless combinations of donuts. You pick your toppings; meaning the options are limitless. Maple bacon - personally recommended. The space has been redone. I’m particularly excited about the façade. While a work in progress, Main Street Monroe provided assistance from the state’s Downtown Design Specialist on what should be done to restore it to its original design. His services are free to us and businesses downtown because we are a state recognized (and national accredited) main street program. We have also provided services for two other properties this year alone. 

Thanks to Busy Bee Floral & Gift, Edelweiss Gifts & More, and, especially, House to Home Designs, we’ve unveiled a photo op on the west side of the courthouse. Our great pumpkin patch includes seating, a good number of pumpkins (naturally), mums, and some other nice touches. We hope you’ll make use of it for a photo or two or just to relax and enjoy the weather. And speaking of Busy Bee, last year’s pop up shop will be having great specials, new seasonal merchandise, and classes into the end of the year to celebrate its first year.

West Indies Portraiture is another business celebrating one year downtown. Its owner, Brittany, specializes in studio and natural light sessions for newborns, families, and high school seniors. It’s full service – so photos are printed (including on canvas), framing is an option, newborn items are available to use during sessions, and the studio provides a variety of settings, including exposed brick walls. Dr. Amanda Stott, owner of Monroe Family Eyecare, is planning a trunk show the night of the wine walk – November 4th. It’ll be their first time participating and they’re one of 17. Tickets are on sale now. 

Additionally, a couple more stores are celebrating anniversaries. Orange Kitten Yarns (north side of the square) is celebrating 10 years in business! They currently have Swiss items and Bavarian clothing from Esther’s European Imports. Luecke’s Diamond Center is celebrating 100 years at its Freeport location. Its Monroe location (west side of the square) is celebrating 40. To mark 100 years as a same family run business, they’re having 100 days of celebration which includes weekly drawings and sales: currently 14 carat gold is 30% off and, starting on the 13th, Sterling silver jewelry will be, as well. 

October has brought new flavors. Artful Gourmet has done a complete store redesign and is filled with items for fall cooking and entertaining. There’s bulk coffee and carrot cake at Chocolate Temptation, Oktoberfest pizza and amber lager beer at Bullquarian Brewhouse, pumpkin spice shots at Everest Nutrition, and Pumpkin Red Lentil Curry Soup at Mad Charlie’s Café. 

There’s a whole lot more happening now and in the coming weeks, large and small, which leaves me with the thought: “I am so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers.”

To get complete information on any of the stores mentioned and upcoming Main Street event’s, including purchasing wine walk tickets and signing up for trunk or treat, please visit: mainstreetmonroe.org. 

—  Jordan Nordby is the executive director for Main Street Monroe. He can be reached at MonroeMainStreet@tds.net. complete details on Main Street Monroe and its efforts can be found at mainstreetmonroe.org.