County Commissioner-elect Kelly Emerson included me in a photograph on her recent political flyer. Several people have asked me about the picture and I feel compelled to set the record straight.

I was never asked for permission to be included in her political literature, nor do I endorse her candidacy. Quite honestly, I resent this use of my picture, however inadvertent it may have been.

On the day that particular photo was taken, many Whidbey Island residents were enjoying an expanse of open space that is being protected by the action of the Conservation Futures Fund. The money for this fund comes solely from county property taxes.

People who know me best know where I’m positioned on the political spectrum, and a drive by our property will confirm that by the candidate yard signs.

As president of the Whidbey Audubon Society, I cannot publicly take part in politics. Rather, I zealously work to promote and protect human health and the health of wildlife on Whidbey Island.

Steve Ellis, president

Whidbey Audubon Society