Dear Editor:

I was very appreciative of the legislative recognition from Senator Dow and his colleagues (“Boothbay Harbor resident honored by Maine Senate,” June 22) for my work of almost 30 years as the architect in charge of the Maine State House renovations. I have had the privilege of working with legislative leaders from all sides of the aisle during my tenure, and I am proud we were able to bring the "Maine people's house" into the 21st century, while respecting and preserving its historical heritage.

However, Mark Twain once wrote, "The report of my death was an exaggeration," and I should make a similar correction. While my role at the State House has come to an end, I have not retired from my architectural practice. I am currently working with the non-profit organization, Inn Along the Way in Damariscotta, on their exciting multi-phase plan, as well as working with a number of private clients on homes and additions. I have no plans to retire from architecture in the immediate future and am looking forward to taking advantage of the profession's continuing advances in adaptive design and environmental sustainability.

Richard Burt

Boothbay Harbor