Erica Ellyson Named Penthouse Pet of the Year

NEW YORK - Penthouse magazine has chosen Erica Ellyson as its Pet of the Year 2008.

A 5'7", 23-year-old brunette from Mississippi, Ellyson was the magazine's January 2007 Pet of the Month.

"When I found out I said, 'Really? Are you sure?' about five times," she said. "It was the best feeling ever, once I finally got it through my head!"

"Erica is smart, sexy and a true Southern belle," said Penthouse managing editor Barbara Rice Thompson. "We're delighted to have her as our Pet of the Year, and we're sure she'll continue to charm everyone she meets with her enticing looks and captivating personality, not to mention her irresistible sex appeal."

Now residing in San Diego, Ellyson attends the Newschool of Architecture and Design, where she's pursuing a Bachelor's degree in architecture.

"I'm so grateful to my fans and friends for their support, and I can't wait to make new ones," said Ellyson. "I'm excited to get out there as the 2008 Pet of the Year and be a representative of the Penthouse brand and family."

Ellyson's Pet of the Year pictorial appears in the March issue of Penthouse, which hits stands tomorrow, Feb. 19. She will also maintain a blog updating fans on her Pet of the Year appearances and activities at www.penthousemagazine.com.