In review

Huskies run in packs in the 509

Think Eastern Washington is Cougar country? Think again. Husky pride is going strong in the 509, as alumni and friends gathered east of the mountains at events hosted by the UWAA. Together, we raised a glass to the purple and gold and celebrated our love for everything UW.

On February 7 and February 9, Huskies and friends old and new gathered at Husky Socials in Yakima and Spokane. Hosted in local breweries, these spirited events gave Dawgs the chance to connect and learn about upcoming alumni events, ways to get involved and the deep UW roots in their own backyard — like Yakima’s alumni-owned Bale Breaker Brewery. As one Husky Social guest enthused, “Great beer, good food and great conversation was had by all.”

The February Tri-Cities Husky Social was canceled due to inclement weather and rescheduled for Thursday, June 15. Stay tuned for details.

Spring came and with it, a Husky takeover of Walla Walla on March 31–April 1. UWAA’s Walla Walla Wine Weekend painted the town purple and gold, with pennants flying and colors worn by the Husky faithful, some of whom made the journey from west of the mountains and some of whom count among the local alumni.

A Friday night wine reception was followed on Saturday by tastings at nine wineries, all of which boasted a UW connection. Attendees returned home full of Husky spirit — and some with a few cases of Husky wine. “I enjoyed meeting other alums in a fun environment where everyone was relaxed,” commented one guest. “And the wine was great also!”

This year’s events showed one thing: the UW’s impact isn’t limited to west of the mountains. Even if we are outnumbered in Eastern Washington, Huskies are never alone.