Thank you, George Smith and Amy Calder!

In November 2020, we had determined to send a letter to the editor to thank George Smith and Amy Calder for the dedication they show to the people, land and creatures of Maine. We had just read an article written by Amy about a situation in which a woman’s 4-month-old kitten had gotten out and returned home with horrible injuries from someone stomping on its hind quarters.

Thank you, Amy, for caring enough for small creatures and the people who love them to write this article (and to KJ for publishing it!) We hope that the kitten is recovering and that whoever is responsible receives justice for this act of violence toward the helpless.

Today, we are finally writing because we just learned that George passed away. This is a sad day, indeed, for the people of Maine, who benefited a great deal from his work and passion for this state.

Because of George, we raised money and walked in the ALS fundraiser a few years ago, where we had the opportunity to talk to him in person. He will always have a place in our hearts for his thoughtfulness, perspective, generosity, and dedication to place and people over party. We need more people like him, who honor what it is to be a Mainer and an American.

Thank you, and RIP George.

And thank you, Amy — keep up the great work!

Robin and Alton Stevens
Litchfield