Elena, 2005

I noticed this sign passing by one day. It belongs to an apartment complex with that name. Other apartment complexes dot the same area and are identified by such names as Crown and Willow. At the time these were constructed--probably in the 70s--it was understood that these names represented something that would cause potential renters to consider moving in. Nowdays, the naming protocol has shifted to represent different sensibilities, such as Heritage Park or Avalon at Creekside. The signs that advertise these new apartments are more elaborate and reflect a a refined appearance. When chosing the sign for the Elena Apartments they went with cutout wooden letters that paid special attention to the letter E--almost as if taking it's cue from the poodle bush below. Fonts were very expressive back then. For me the name has a more personal association; my daughter's name is Ellen.