Daily Record PROFILE
A long history of bringing local news to the people of Kittitas County
Locals and visitors alike pass by something uniquely historic on the corner of Fourth and Main in downtown Ellensburg. The Daily Record, founded in 1883, sits to the north of Fourth Avenue. The Palace Café, founded in 1892, is on the south side of Fourth and the Fitterer’s Building, founded in 1896, sits across the street. That trio represents 397 years of local business service, dating back to when the Daily Record operated as the Kittitas Localizer. The Daily Record has a rich tradition, and though many things have changed over the years, the commitment to fair and balanced local news coverage continues to be the priority. From changing within the industry to changing views both culturally and philosophically, the Daily Record has adapted with the times as the years press on. In November 2017, Pioneer Newspapers sold its media division to the family-owned Adams Publishing Group, now known as Adams MultiMedia, based in
The Best of KITTITAS COUNTY
is published by the Daily Record
EDITOR: Brian Kelly
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION: Sabrina Nutt
Minneapolis. APG owns and operates over 155 community newspapers in 19 states.
The Kittitas Localizer, the granddaddy to current operations, printed its first issue July 12, 1883, marking this as a steppingstone to 145 years of journalistic commitment. Washington Territory wouldn’t be admitted to the Union for another six years. Kittitas County government as an entity was months away, yet residents were kept abreast of current affairs with a local newspaper. Since 1883, the paper has seen its own fair share of changes. An early change came on July 4, 1889, after a fire destroyed most of the business district downtown, including the Kittitas Localizer office. Then-Publisher David J. Schnebly was able to utilize the presses at the Ellensburg Capitol at Fifth and Pearl to keep on printing. He was proud to announce that no issue was missed, and the paper had taken on a new name, the Ellensburg Localizer, according to a story on the paper’s
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Contact us at 509-925-1414 or webmaster@kvnews.com 401 Main St., Ellensburg, WA 98926
history in the 1983 Daily Record.
F. Dorsey Schnebly took over operations in 1898 before selling to Cascade Printing and Publishing in 1903. Cascade also owned the Cascade Miner in Roslyn and the Cle Elum Echo. J.C. Kaynor and William Zimmerman purchased the property and changed the name to the Evening Record in 1909.
The first edition under the new name was released on July 1, 1909. Kaynor, who was just 22 at the time, and Zimmerman had both been employed by the Seattle PostIntelligencer before purchasing the Record. Kaynor eventually bought out Zimmerman and published the newspaper for 50 years before selling it to James McGiffin in 1958.
On March 14, 1973, the paper dropped the word Ellensburg from the masthead going
with The Daily Record and added serving Kittitas County to better reflect its expanded coverage. The paper was one of the first to move into the computer age, an early adopter to install computers to replace typewriters. In 1981, under the direction of Publisher John Ludtka, the Daily Record became the first newspaper to add a cable TV community information channel to its operation. Its online presence, printed edition, changes, adaptation and expansion are all part of the Daily Record’s rich heritage that dates back to before Washington statehood. As times continue to change, the Daily Record keeps pace with the growing interest in digital marketing and content.
To find out more, go to www.dailyrecordnews.com
Best Food & Drinks
Best Food & Drinks
Puff
Pasta
PIZZA VILLAGE PIZZA ......... WINNER BRIX Wine Bar & Restaurant ......................... 2nd Cornerstone Italian Kitchen 3rd BEST SANDWICH DAILY BREAD AND MERCANTILE ............ WINNER Kittitas Café .......................... 2nd 1201 Bagels 3rd
Best People & Things
BEST BAKER
JOEY BALE (Joey’s Patisserie) ...... WINNER
Jake (Kittitas Cafe) 2nd
Ashley Evans 3rd
BEST DANCE STUDIO
THE STUDIO BY EDE .................... WINNER
Dubstep Dance Studio ............................. 2nd
Central Washington Dance Academy 3rd
BEST DOCTOR
GINGER LONGO .............................. WINNER
Mark Larson 2nd
CompassDirect Healthcare .......................3rd
BEST ESTHETICIAN
SAVVY - SUGARED
BEAUTY BAR WINNER
Kim Wiles – 425 & Company 2nd
Amelia Montague -
Face Plant Skin Studio 3rd
BEST FIREFIGHTER
BRANDON SCHMIDT ................... WINNER
Jack Piper 2nd
Joe Kelleher 3rd
BEST HAIR STYLIST
SARA RECANZONE ...................... WINNER
Morgan Busayok 2nd
Courtney Ryckman ...................................3rd
BEST HOME INSPECTOR
JONAH STREET OF STREET HOME INSPECTIONS.. WINNER
Bullseye Home Inspections ....................... 2nd
Intermountain Home Inspections 3rd
IN KITTITAS COUNTY
BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER
STEPHANIE CASTILLO- RUMBLE
INTERIORS ......................................... WINNER
Renee Fyall - D. Marie Interiors ................ 2nd
Lisa Dupleich - Urban Interiors 3rd
BEST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
ARCHIE K9 ....................................... WINNER
Josh Bender 2nd
Trevor Rogers 3rd
BEST LAWYER
JIM DENISON.................................. WINNER
Tony Swartz 2nd
Patricia Todd ...........................................3rd
BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST
INGRID ELLIS ................................... WINNER
Lori Mahaney Rickman 2nd
Ashley Mankus 3rd
BEST MUSICIAN OR BAND
RUSTY CAGE ................................... WINNER
Under the Covers.................................... 2nd
Cobrahawk 3rd
Nicole and Riley .......................................3rd
Nicole Prigge-Taylor
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY: Nicole Prigge-Taylor’s Real Estate Journey
Nicole Prigge-Taylor, a Real Estate Broker with Coldwell Banker Central, found her calling in real estate after years in customer service, food and beverage, and marketing. These experiences shaped her passion for helping people, solving problems, and educating others— making real estate a natural fit.
What sets Nicole apart is her ability to blend technical expertise with empathy and emotional intelligence. Her clients often praise her for truly listening, offering honest guidance, and creating calm in what can be a stressful process. “It’s not just about buying or selling a house,” she says. “It’s about supporting people through major life transitions.”
Raised in Kittitas County, Nicole credits the community for her success. Locals have watched her grow and have shown their trust through referrals and continued support. “This community is proof that how you show up when no one’s watching really matters,” she says.
While many view real estate as simply showing homes, Nicole explains that most of her work involves understanding contracts, market shifts, and the human side of transactions. Her approach focuses on education and advocacy, helping clients make informed decisions every step of the way.
Being named a Top 3 finalist in the Best of Kittitas is deeply meaningful to her. “In a place where word-of-mouth still drives business, this recognition shows people see and trust the work I do. I’m truly grateful.”
With heart, integrity, and hometown roots, Nicole continues to serve Kittitas County with care and commitment
Business Name: Nicole Prigge-Taylor, Real Estate Broker (Coldwell Banker Central) Address: 508 N Main St., Ellensburg WA 98926
Phone Number: 509-859-3458
Web Address: www.ellensburghomeforsale.com
Business Contact: Nicole Prigge-Taylor (call or text 509-859-3458)
Best People & Things IN
BEST NAIL TECHNICIAN
LEXI BERGE ...................................... WINNER
Miami Pruitt – 425 & Company 2nd
Sonia Sinclair 3rd BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
JOSIE’S MISFIT RANCH .............. WINNER
Gretchen Weller Foundation 2nd
Home Care Services ................................3rd BEST NURSE
KARA HENDERSON ..................... WINNER
Jordan Simon 2nd
Kate Johnson ..........................................3rd BEST PERMANENT MAKEUP/ MICROBLADING ARTIST
A FINAL TOUCH BY ELI (Elizabeth) .............................. WINNER
Renee Krause 2nd
Savanna Myra..........................................3rd
ZACH PIERCE .................................. WINNER Cutter Pace 2nd
Reiney Meyers 3rd BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
KARI FINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY WINNER
Joy Photography - Meaghan Bickel ............ 2nd
Kailey Wallin Photography 3rd BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT
NICOLE PRIGGE-TAYLOR ............ WINNER
Stephanie Zipperer 2nd
David & Erin Chamberlin ...........................
VOLUNTEER
HARRINGTON .................... WINNER Amy Mohler ........................................... 2nd Shannon Basterrechea 3rd ...........................3rd
Best Places
BEST ART GALLERY
GALLERY ONE ........... WINNER
Nuwave Gallery ...................... 2nd
BEST DATE NIGHT
LOCATION
CANYON RIVER
GRILL............................. WINNER
Central Axe Throwing 2nd
Ellensburg Pasta Co ............... 3rd
BEST DAY TRIP DESTINATION
LEAVENWORTH ....... WINNER
Yakima Valley
Wine Country 2nd
Roslyn Farmers Market .......... 3rd
BEST GOLF COURSE
SUN COUNTRY
GOLF COURSE .......... WINNER
Ellensburg Golf & Country Club ......................... 2nd
Suncadia Resort 3rd
BEST HOTEL
HOTEL WINDROW .. WINNER
Brew House Boarding ............. 2nd
Marriott TownePlace
Suites ................................... 3rd
BEST MUSEUM
KITTITAS COUNTY
HISTORICAL
MUSEUM .................... WINNER
Ellensburg Rodeo
Hall of Fame 2nd
Valley Play Museum 3rd
BEST PLACE TO TAKE KIDS
ELLENSBURG
PUBLIC LIBRARY ..... WINNER
Dino Discovery ...................... 2nd
Valley Play Museum 3rd
BEST PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS
ELLENSBURG
FARMERS MARKET WINNER
Ellensburg Rodeo 2nd
Kittitas Cafe .......................... 3rd
BEST SENIOR LIVING FACILITY
HEARTHSTONE
SENIOR LIVING ......... WINNER
Grace Manor LLC 2nd
Pacifica Senior Living Ellensburg .................... 3rd
BEST SMALL FARM
JENSEN FARM ......... WINNER
Greenbow Farms ................... 2nd
Wilmart Farms 3rd
BEST WEDDING VENUE
THE BRICK HOUSE GARDENS & NURSERY ................... WINNER
Sweetwater Ranch 2nd
Mcintosh Ranch 3rd
At Hearthstone Senior Living, we believe senior living is more than just a change of address—it’s about finding a true sense of home, surrounded by warmth, friendship, and genuine connection. Discover a place where you belong. Start the conversation today at Hearthstone-SL.com or call 509-357-9926 to schedule your visit or speak with an advisor.
Best Stores & Services
BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM
BIVENS & WILSON ....................... WINNER
Grebb, Johnson, Reed & Wachsmith 2nd 509 Docs LLC 3rd
BEST AESTHETICS
MARIPOSA MEDICAL AESTHETICS .................................... WINNER
Sugared Beauty Bar ................................ 2nd Alente Spa / Salon 3rd
IN KITTITAS COUNTY
BEST AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS
OLD MILL COUNTRY STORE ..... WINNER
Midstate Co-op 2nd Arnold’s Ranch & Home ........................... 3rd
BEST ANTIQUES, THRIFT, OR SECOND-HAND
THORP FRUIT & ANTIQUE MALL .............................. WINNER
Habitat for Humanity Store 2nd Junk-tiquen in the Burg 3rd
BEST AUTO DEALER
KELLEHER MOTOR CO ................ WINNER University Auto Center ............................ 2nd Windy Chevrolet 3rd Ellensburg Powersports........................... 3rd
BEST AUTO DETAILER
509 MOBILE DETAIL ....................
Creative Kids Learning Center
NURTURING CHILDREN AND COMMUNITY IN KITTITAS COUNTY
Creative Kids Learning Center was founded out of a passion for early childhood education and a deep connection to the Ellensburg community. After graduating from Central Washington University, founders Mechelle Moran and her husband Trevor chose to stay in Ellensburg, drawn by the area’s welcoming atmosphere and the unique beauty of Kittitas County. What began as a small, in-home childcare service during college has since grown into a well-respected early learning center serving local families.
What distinguishes Creative Kids from other childcare providers is its strong commitment to quality early education. Since the age of 20, the founder
has been dedicated to creating a nurturing, engaging environment where children can build a solid foundation of learning and social-emotional skills before entering kindergarten. The center offers developmentally appropriate activities tailored to each child’s individual learning style and skill level. Children are also taught emotional awareness, self-regulation, and positive peer interaction—skills that will serve them throughout life.
The success of Creative Kids Learning Center is rooted in the unwavering support of the Kittitas County community. Over the years, the center has maintained strong relationships with families, with many former students returning as parents or even joining
the teaching staff. These full-circle moments are a testament to the positive impact the center has had across generations.
Being named one of the Top 3 in the Best of Kittitas awards is a tremendous honor and reflects the love, trust, and support of the community Creative Kids is proud to serve.
Business Name: Creative Kids Learning Center
Address: 102 N. Ruby St. Ellensburg WA
Phone Number: 509-962-2552
Web Address: www.cklcellensburg.com
Business Contact: Mechelle Moran
Best Stores & Services
IN KITTITAS COUNTY
BEST BANK
CASHMERE VALLEY BANK ....... WINNER
Yakima Federal ....................................... 2nd
Umpqua Bank 3rd
BEST BARBER SHOP
CW BARBER SHOP ....................... WINNER Empire Barbers 2nd The Barber Chop .................................... 3rd BEST BOOKSTORE
PEARL STREET
BOOKS & GIFTS ............................. WINNER Jerrol’s 2nd
Basecamp Books and Bites 3rd
BEST BUILDER/CONTRACTOR
TM CONSTRUCTION (previously Ponderosa Construction & Mountain Construction) ...... WINNER HandyMat Home Repair ........................... 2nd Clayton Brubaker with Cornerstone General Contracting 3rd
BUTCHER OR MEAT SHOP
Best Stores & Services
IN KITTITAS COUNTY
Anytime Fitness PROFILE
FITNESS WITH A LOCAL FOCUS
Anytime Fitness on Dolarway Road is not your average gym. “There’s nothing like watching fish jump and osprey’s hunt while you’re on the treadmill,” co-owner Jenny Kuenzli said. She and her husband, Denny, opened Aug. 18, 2008 and since, have hosted many fitness enthusiasts in a space with million dollar views.
As a massage therapist who taught spinning at Han’s Gym, Jenny Kuenzli always dreamed of owning her own gym. In 2007, when Han’s closed, the Kuenzlis decided to really look at that possibility. “Anytime Fitness was a perfect fit for us, offering support to first-time business owners, but freedom to make it our own,” Jenny Kuenzli said. The couple offer gym memberships, personal training, tanning and supplements.
In 2023 they added the Red Light Therapy and Evolt body composition scanner which is an FDA approved,
non-invasive body composition analyzer that uses a frequency to read internal human tissue. You will get a baseline measure of over 30 data points about your body! Do you know how much visceral fat you have or how much muscle mass you really have? Find out your real BIO AGE using the Evolt 360. In under 60 seconds you can get your full report and we can then talk about your goals and how we can achieve them.
The Red Light Therapy uses non-UV red light lamps to create an environment for rejuvenation and muscle toning. Kuenzli said Clean, well-maintained equipment and excellent customer service are top of the list when running their business, along with top-notch staff .”
“My staff are amazing,” she said: One staffer has been with the Kuenzlis almost a decade, and has what she refers to as “a special gift with people.” “Our personal trainers have exercise science degrees and years of
experience coupled with a real heart for helping people,” she added. They were excited to hear that their personal trainers won in the Best of Kittitas in 2024. “The staff is attentive; they really go out of their way to make sure you have the correct answer or info when you talk to them” she added. As a group, they strive to be a business that people trust to be consistently competent .
Most people don’t know that we were actually going to open in a small space on Main Street,” Jenny Kuenzli said. But that fell through in the middle of renovating.“ That’s how we ended up on Dolarway,” Kuenzli said.
“Fifteen years ago, everyone said that was nuts — too far from town. But it was the biggest blessing we could have,” she said. “The building is beautiful with the wood-lap vaulted ceiling. And the view over the lake just sells itself.”
Johnston & Williams PROFILE
With locations in Ellensburg and Cle Elum, Johnston & Williams Funeral Home and Crematory has been part of Kittitas County’s heritage since the turn of the century.
“Johnston & Williams, and its predecessor owners, have been providing quality funeral and cremation services to Kittitas County for over 100 years,” owner Henry Johnston said. “When we say that we are Kittitas County’s locally owned funeral homes, we mean it wholeheartedly and unequivocally. We live here, we work here, and we are incredibly involved in our community” he added.
Johnston outlined a rich tradition in the area. “We can trace our roots in the community back to 1913 in Ellensburg and as far back as 1899 in Roslyn. We are proud to be a small part of the legacy of care established by those who came before us - Bridgham, Honeycutt, Evenson, Cotton and Steward & Williams in Ellensburg and Stoves, Davies, Jones, Coleman and
Brown in the Upper County.”
Johnston moved to Kittitas County in November 2017 when he took over management of what was then Steward & Williams in Ellensburg and Cascade Funeral Home in Cle Elum, owned then by the Gaffney
Continuing a 100 Year Legacy of Service
Group of Tacoma. Full local ownership was achieved in July 2020 when Johnston purchased the firms from Gaffney and renamed both firms Johnston & Williams.
Since that time, Johnston has made it a point to be involved in the community, with the funeral home sponsoring and donating to events for charitable and other causes in both upper and lower county. “Being a supporter of community causes is very important to me,” he said, “I see it as reinvesting in the success of the communities that have been so supportive of me and my business over the years. Everything comes full circle.”
Johnston & Williams is also home to Inland Crematory, the only licensed crematory located in Kittitas County. “Those entrusted to our care never leave our facility in Ellensburg,” he said. “Everything is done right here in town. It is a great comfort to families to know their loved one won’t be driven one or more counties away to reach the crematory.”
As July 21 approaches, I find myself reflecting on the past five years as the owner of Johnston & Williams Funeral Home – five years filled with deep gratitude and unwavering purpose. When I took ownership in 2020, I made a promise: that Johnston & Williams would be more than a funeral home. It would be a place of service, compassion, and contribution. That promise remains at the heart of everything we do – from supporting local nonprofits and community causes to honoring veterans and their families through meaningful programs.
I believe trust is earned not just by how we serve those experiencing the loss of a loved one, but how we serve our community as a whole. Being entrusted by so many families during moments of profound grief and remembrance is among the greatest honors of my life. Each family we’ve served has left an imprint – a powerful reminder that our work is far more than a funeral. It is about care, connection, and walking alongside our community during its most sacred moments. Looking ahead, my commitment to you and your family remains steadfast. We will honor your loved one, provide a listening ear, and a full heart. I am dedicated to serving as your local undertaker – and your community neighbor.
With profound gratitude,
Best Stores & Services
BEST FLOORING COMPANY
STANDARD
PAINT & FLOORING ...................... WINNER
Perma Color Interiors 2nd
Halal Hardwoods 3rd
BEST FLORIST
ELLENSBURG
FLORAL & GIFTS ............................ WINNER
Keira Grech Floral Design ........................ 2nd The Botany Shop 3rd BEST FUNERAL SERVICE COMPANY
JOHNSTON & WILLIAMS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY WINNER
Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory (A Mohler Family Establishment) .................. 2nd BEST FURNITURE STORE
SHAW’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS................................... WINNER
Cramer’s Home Furnishings ..................... 2nd
Furnish Northwest 3rd
BEST GARAGE DOOR SERVICE UPFRONT GARAGE DOORS ...... WINNER Davis Garage Doors 2nd Cascade Door ......................................... 3rd
BEST GIFT SHOP
ELLENSBURG FLORAL ................ WINNER Covey Goods 2nd Dusty’s Nursery ...................................... 3rd
BEST GLASS COMPANY
JOHNSON’S GLASS ..................... WINNER Jim’s Glass Inc 2nd All City Glass 3rd
BEST GROCERY STORE
SUPER 1 FOODS WINNER Fred Meyer 2nd Safeway 3rd
BEST GUN SHOP
REHV ARMS ELLENSBURG ....... WINNER Sure Shot Guns & Pawn 2nd
Bi-Mart Membership Discount Stores ...................................... 3rd
BEST HAIRSTYLING SALON 425 & COMPANY ......................... WINNER
Alente Spa / Salon .................................. 2nd GG’S Salon 3rd
BEST HANDYMAN HANDYMAT HOME REPAIR ...... WINNER At Your Service Handyman 2nd A Handy Guy - Cedo Petrina ..................... 3rd
BUILT ON TRUST, QUALITY AND COMMUNITY
For over six years, Janelle Sabo managed All City Glass with dedication and heart. Taking the next step into ownership was a natural evolution—one driven by a deep connection to the team, customers and the Cle Elum community where she was born and raised. Today, All City Glass continues to thrive as a reflection of that commitment to local values and exceptional service.
As a women-owned and operated business, All City Glass stands out in the glass and construction industry for its personalized approach and focus on quality. Being locally owned means the company is accessible,
responsive and genuinely invested in every project, no matter the size.
The company’s success has been largely built on community support—through word of mouth, repeat business and long-standing trust. For over 12 years, All City Glass has been a trusted name throughout Kittitas County, thanks to the loyalty of its customers and a steadfast dedication to excellence.
Janelle leads the business operations while her husband Josh serves as the lead technician. His precision, skill and attention to detail help ensure that every job is completed to the highest standards.
Being named one of the Top 3 in the Best of Kittitas County is a testament to the company’s reputation and impact. All City Glass remains committed to raising the standard with each project, proudly serving the community it calls home.
Business Name: All City Glass, LLC
Address: 415 East 1st Street, Suite B Cle Elum, WA 98922
Phone Number: 509-674-6990
Web Address: Allcityglass.us
Business Contact: Janelle Sabo
Best Stores & Services
Best Stores & Services
Dusty’s Nursery & Company
GROWING WITH KITTITAS COUNTY
Dusty’s Nursery & Company was founded with a clear purpose—to help homeowners make excellent choices for their properties. In the challenging gardening climate of the Kittitas Valley, access to high-quality plants and expert advice is essential. That’s why Dusty’s focuses on providing top-notch plants for both landscape and edible gardens, along with proven guidance to help customers succeed. With the right plants and knowledge, people not only achieve better results, but also save time and money.
What sets Dusty’s apart is its commitment to quality and customer care. The staff takes pride
in selecting healthy, region-appropriate plants and offering friendly, experienced service. This dedication has earned the trust and loyalty of the local community.
That community support has been vital to the nursery’s success. Kittitas County is not just a great place to do business—it’s home. The ongoing encouragement from friends, neighbors, and loyal customers has made all the difference through the years.
A hidden gem many might not know about is Dusty’s unique gift shop, located in a historic barn on the property. It’s a charming spot to bring visitors
or find the perfect gift for someone special. Being named a Top 3 finalist for Best of Kittitas is a tremendous honor. Dusty’s Nursery & Company is deeply grateful for the recognition and ongoing community support.
Business Name: Dusty’s Nursery & Company
Address: 1116 E. Mountain View Ave. Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone Number: (509) 929-1854
Website: facebook.com/DustysNursery
Business Contact: Dustin Brunson
Best Stores & Services
BEST PET BOARDING
ELLENSBURG PET LODGE ......... WINNER
Waggin Tails Ranch 2nd Valley Veterinary Boarding 3rd
BEST PET GROOMER
BARK & BUBBLE WINNER
Messy Mutts 2nd
Jen’s Pet Parlor 3rd
BEST PET STORE
buddy’s barkery .............................. WINNER Ellensburg Pet Center ............................. 2nd Old Mill Country Store 3rd
BEST PHARMACY
WHOLE HEALTH PHARMACY .. WINNER Safeway Pharmacy .................................. 2nd Super One Pharmacy 3rd
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST
CANYON VIEW
PHYSICAL THERAPY WINNER Roots Physical Therapy 2nd Tamarack Physical Therapy 3rd
BEST PLANT NURSERY
DUSTY’S NURSERY & CO .......... WINNER
Loewen Greenhouses and Landscaping 2nd The Botany Shop 3rd
BEST PLUMBER
EXCEL PLUMBING INC................ WINNER
Next Ridge Plumbing 2nd
Craig Oyler with Oyler Plumbing 3rd
BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FIRM
ACCOLADE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GROUP & SALES ............................ WINNER Ellensburg Property Management, Inc 2nd Century 21 Center Point Property Management 3rd
BEST RADIO STATION
Kittitas Valley Healthcare
KARA HENDERSON: A Nurse Who Sees More Than Patients
I knew I wanted to be a nurse from my early teens. I am a people-person and enjoy helping others. I continue to enjoy being a nurse because it allows me to live and work in a community that I love as well as care for my friends and neighbors. It is important to me that my patients don’t feel like “just a number”. I want all the patients to feel seen and cared for when they engage with me as their nurse.
When Kara Henderson was named Best Nurse in the 2023 Best of Kittitas County awards, she responded with characteristic humility, immediately redirecting the praise to her team. Two years later, the community has spoken again, and Kara is once more at the top. A registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Kittitas Valley Healthcare, Kara has become a familiar face to patients in Ellensburg not just for her
clinical expertise, but for her deep-rooted compassion and human connection. “It’s important to me that my patients don’t feel like ‘just a number,’” Kara shares. “I want everyone to feel seen and cared for when they engage with me as their nurse.”
Now in her 16th year at KVH, Kara continues to bring empathy and intention to every shift. Her desire to serve was planted early, a calling she recognized in her teens, but over the years, it’s evolved into something even more personal: a commitment to care for the neighbors, friends, and families that make up her hometown. “I continue to enjoy being a nurse because it allows me to live and work in a community I love,” she says.
Being voted Best Nurse a second time is not something Kara takes lightly. “It’s humbling,” she says.
“I’ll continue to strive to live up to the honor.”
In an emergency department that sees thousands of patients each year, Kara is a reminder of the heart behind the badge, someone who brings warmth, skill, and presence to people on some of the hardest days of their lives.
Congratulations to Kara Henderson, 2025 Best Nurse, a title earned not just by expertise, but by extraordinary heart.
Business Name: Kittitas Valey Healthcare
Address: 603 S Chestnut St, Ellensburg WA Phone: 509-962-9841
Web address: www.kvhealthcare.org
Best of Kittitas County 2025 Winner
Alison’s Cleaning Service
A BUSINESS BUILT ON HEART, HOME, AND HARD WORK
Nearly a decade ago, Alison Redman launched Alison’s Cleaning Service with one mission in mind—to take charge of her future and create a better life for her young son. As a single mother and driven entrepreneur, she built a thriving business through determination and a passion for service. In 2020, like many others, her business was forced to close during state-mandated shutdowns. Despite its success, Alison realized she needed a change—not just in location, but in lifestyle and values. Originally from Ft. Worth, Texas, where she grew up in a family-owned cleaning business, Alison was drawn to Kittitas County’s big skies, rodeo roots, and small-town charm that reminded her of home.
After reaching out to the community via the “Ellensburg Connect” Facebook page, the overwhelming support confirmed what she already felt—Kittitas County was where she belonged. Within two months, she relocated, knowing no one, but quickly found herself surrounded by the kind of people she wanted to serve and grow with.
Since then, Alison’s Cleaning Service has taken off, expanding from residential homes to large commercial accounts and earning the trust of many top realtors and businesses in the county. In 2024, the company was voted Best of Kittitas County—an honor that propelled growth but never changed Alison’s commitment to quality over quantity. Now with a “tiny but mighty” team, Alison remains grateful for the community that embraced her. For her, this is more than business—it’s home.
Business Name: Alison’s Cleaning Service
Address: Ellensburg, WA
Phone Number: (509) 899-9863
Web Address:
www.alisonscleaningservice.com
Business Contact: Alison Redman
