Winter Wrap-Up 08-09

So, what else has Ellen been up to?

In September, she met Keith Lee Morris, a wonderful author who was on a book tour, reading from his new novel, "The Dart League King". Ellen got five signed copies!

Snow came to Ellensburg, along with most of Washington State, in time for a white Christmas.

New Year's Eve was celebrated at a festive house party, with good friends, good food, champagne and fireworks.

A nice winter drive in the Yakima Canyon, spotting bald eagles, big horn sheep and great blue herons. The January flood heaved up huge chunks of river ice onto the banks.

A couple weeks later, the 39th Annual Peace & Gourmet Float took place on the upper canyon of the Yakima River, with gorgeous weather and great food enjoyed al fresco. One of the best things about our valley is enjoying the outdoors, anytime of year!

The Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce and Central Washington University hosted a "Business After Hours" event, where community members had a chance to meet Jim Gaudino, new CWU President, and network with other business owners. Some lucky folks even won tickets to the "Chanticleer" performance at CWU. Here's Ellen with Mr. Gaudino and Ron Cridlebaugh of the Chamber.

The month of February was drawing to a close, and a promise of spring showed in a lovely sunset over Manastash Ridge.

Don't despair- I have returned!

Hello, world!

Ellen is back, and having more fun in Ellensburg than ever. So much has happened in my town since my last post:

I (along with my alter-ego, Robyn Hull) was appointed to the City of Ellensburg Arts Commission last summer. The Commission is busy bolstering awareness of their existence and beefing up with some new and diverse members. This six member entity oversees funds for local arts endeavors. Recently, we have helped out after-school programs at Gallery One, the Ellensburg Film Festival, and Stage Door Dance, among others. We are also in the planning stages to recognize an Arts Treasure this year, which promises to be a great event.

One of Ellensburg's greatest assets is it's arts community. Thanks to the incredible program at Central Washington University, we have a wonderful array of artists in all genres working here, and alums across the world. Our community gallery is top-notch, with an energized board of directors and numerous volunteers who make events like the First Friday Art Walk a treat for citizens and visitors alike. Speaking of the First FridayArt Walk, one of the newest venues is Hanna Marchel The Salon, 404 N. Anderson St. Their artist for February through April is Mark Berry.

Lots of cool people visit Ellensburg. One of my favorites this past year was Keith Lee Morris, an incredible author who is originally from Northern Idaho. He gave a reading from his latest novel, "The Dart League King" at Jerrol's Book & Office Supply Co. I loved the book so much, I got autographed copies for all the guys in my family!