Gov. Linda Lingle issued this statement today on the passing of Dorothy “Auntie Dottie” Thompson, executive director of the Merrie Monarch Festival:
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Auntie Dottie Thompson.

“I had the great honor of sharing the stage with Auntie Dottie at the 2004 Merrie Monarch Festival and was proud to proclaim ‘Auntie Dottie Thompson Day’ for her love of hula and her commitment to perpetuating Hawaiian culture.
“I was always impressed and inspired by Auntie Dottie’s strong determination and persistence in ensuring the continued success of the Merrie Monarch Festival, garnering support throughout the community without government funding.
“The Merrie Monarch Festival will go on this year with heavy hearts, but Auntie Dottie’s love and aloha will continue to fill the Edith Kanaka‘ole Stadium and our state forever.”