On the recordJune 10, 2015
I would like to recognize someone who is a very familiar voice to readers of The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle newspaper, which is located in Okanogan County, in my district, in the State of Washington. Elizabeth Barta Widel is one of the most senior journalists in the Pacific Northwest. For 61 years, she has shared her love of the outdoors, her photography, and her passion for all things concerning the Okanogan community. Since 1954, Elizabeth has written a column for the Chronicle, titled, ``Exploring the Okanogan.'' So far, she has written almost 2,900 columns on an array of topics, and she continues to add to that number regularly. Through sharing her stories, her down- to-earth words of wisdom, and her curiosity of the world around her, Elizabeth has shown a profound connection with the Okanogan Valley and has inspired generations of readers and those who know her. Please join me in celebrating the contribution and dedication of this remarkable lady, an explorer of things great and small. ____________________
