The stories of West Virginians share some common elements: a love of the place they call home and a strong bond with friends and family set against a backdrop of green hills and blue skies. The story of Alex McLaughlin is no different as long as you add a mother who was warden of a famous women’s prison; a father who was a much-beloved coach and mentor; a stint in the Peace Corps, and working for the smartest governor West Virginia ever had: all six of them during his career in state government that spanned nearly 30 years. McLaughlin grew up in Alderson, West Virginia, a town straddling two counties bisected by the beautiful Greenbrier River. He spent his working life matching West Virginia’s labor and land with companies looking for a better place to do business. In retirement, he continues his abiding interest in sports as a participant and as an observer. In Where the Rhododendrons Grows, McLaughlin pays tribute to the varied cast of characters that shaped him as well as kept him working for less money: without their entertainment value, he’d have needed a bigger salary. Where the Rhododendrons Grows recalls the events and people of a life with fondness and hilarity. McLaughlin provides additional social commentary at no extra cost. - Reprinted from the back of book.