Singer, songwriter Judy Collins will be the featured speaker at this year’s Merrill Scott Symposium Banquet.  The event is scheduled for 7pm, Thursday, August 23 at the Yakima Visitors and Convention Center.  Ticket information can be obtained by calling Sundown M Ranch at 509-457-0990, ask for Cheryl Dale.

Collins’ career spans over five decades.  She released her first album in the 60’s at age 22.  Her rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame.  And she won “Song of the Year” at the 1975 Grammy Awards for her version of the Stephen Sondheim classic, “Send in the Clowns”.

In addition to an extensive catalog of songs, Collins has authored several books, including the inspirational memoir Sanity and Grace, focusing on the death of her only son and the healing process following the tragedy.

Judy Collins, now 71, still writes, performs and speaks at 80 to 100 events a year around the country.  She continues to create music of hope and healing.  She is an accomplished painter, filmmaker, record label chief, musical mentor and in-demand keynote speaker.

More From News Talk KIT