Achievements announces art contest winner

The local provider for adults with disabilities recognizes their residents’ artistic talents with monthly competitions.

Darlene Elliott won the first monthly Achievements Inc. Creative Arts Contest on August 1.

When asked how she felt when she heard that she won, Elliott said, “Very good.”

Throughout the month of July, contestants submitted their pencil drawings, and out of approximately 35 contestants names, Elliott’s was drawn from the hat, Executive Director Donna White said.

“We’ve got talented people and others that want to have fun,” White said. Achievements Inc. provides supported living, group homes and employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.

Elliott, who has worked at Parkside Thrift Store since it opened in 1975, won a T-shirt, a chance to be interviewed by the newspaper and bragging rights, which, Elliott said she’s used.

“She’s a hard worker,” White said.

White said that Elliott started jumping up and down and cheering when she heard she won.

Elliott drew an apple, her favorite thing to draw, and so she was awarded a T-shirt with her design on it in her favorite color, red.

Elliott said her favorite things to draw besides apples are pumpkins and Christmas trees.

Darlene’s husband, Pat Elliott, said he’s very proud of his wife. According to Darlene, her and her husband have been together for 20 years and they met when working at the Thrift Store together.

Achievements Inc. will have a creative arts contest every month, with new themes each month. The theme for August is jewelry.

Reporter Bethany Rolfson may be reached 293-4124 or by email at Reporter@TheWesternNews.com.