Please let me express my sincere thanks to the thousands of voters in the 38th Legislative District who supported me in my recent campaign for state Senate.

I also wish to thank my campaign volunteers and employees who supported me tirelessly and faithfully on my campaign, especially my son, Greg, who thought it was “cool” that Dad was running for state Senate; Jennifer, who is the definition of patience; my sister and campaign manager, Diana; my treasurer, Don; my marketing manager and graphic artist, Jack; and my many loving family members and friends who were a constant source of inspiration for me.

Additionally, I want to thank the many civic groups who invited me to speak to them about the various issues facing us today. I want to thank the high school students in Everett and Marysville who invited me into their classrooms to give my opinion on current events. I was overwhelmed by their grasp of the issues, as well as their candid insistence that if my generation cannot or will not solve today’s societal problems, then they will. It has become fashionable to reminisce about the “greatest generations” of our time. There is no doubt that our young country has witnessed the inception and passing of the most incredible and determined generations of people this world has never known. However, when I spoke to these students and answered some of the most difficult questions that were tossed at me during this campaign, I realized I was staring straight into the eyes of the next “Great Generation.” They have the talent, energy and the opportunity to do the most wonderful things that are just barely imaginable to me.

Finally, I’d like to congratulate Jean Berkey on her re-election to the Senate. I enjoyed the forums and the debates, and I learned that while she and I may have different approaches to the problems we face, we both share common concerns for our community. She has many challenges ahead of her, but I know she will confidently and proudly represent the best interests of all the citizens of the 38th District. Godspeed to her and her staff. I’m sure I’ll see her again on the campaign trail.

Timothy M. Hanley

Marysville