Editor,

I am incredibly humbled and honored by the recent gift and tribute I received from many of you throughout the community, the naming of a hybrid rhododendron. Not only is it our official state flower, but a flower with a very unique history on Whidbey Island, home to some of the most beautiful wild rhododendrons.

Of all the tributes, this truly was the “Best of Whidbey” — each and every one of you who made this happen, those of you who attended the event on Oct. 9, and all of you who worked together on such a great event.

I am overwhelmed by your generosity, I am touched by your gesture and you could not have given a more meaningful gift. Words are not adequate thanks for how truly blessed I feel.

To Coupeville Mayor Nancy Conard and Island County Commissioner Helen Price Johnson, thank you for your friendship and organizing a wonderful reunion with friends.

To Frank Fujioka and Meerkerk Gardens, the rhododendron you selected is beautiful and the thought you put into choosing the variety you did means a lot to me and to my family as well.

To the people of Whidbey Island, thank you. It was a privilege to serve you in Olympia, however it is a greater honor to call many of you friends.

MARY MARGARET HAUGEN

Camano