I am the volunteer who typed the letter for state Rep. Peggy Rotundo that Robert Macdonald referred to in his letter Sept. 26.

I type letters for her on my own time, using my own computer and printer. I am not reimbursed for that. I do it because I am delighted to assist a public servant who cares about her community and wants to stay connected in such a wonderful, positive way.

The congratulatory letters that Rotundo sends out to constituents are either typed by a volunteer or hand-written by her. She does not have a paid staff to do that, nor would she ask them to do such work if a staff existed. The letters are sent throughout the year to connect with and show appreciation to her constituents.

I take issue that Macdonald feels that being nice precludes being competent. Rep. Rotundo is, indeed, a deeply caring person, as Macdonald states, but she is also recognized on both sides of the aisle as one of the most effective and ethical legislators in Augusta.

I appreciate Macdonald’s zeal; however, if the worst that can be said about Rep. Rotundo is that she cares enough about her constituents to take time to recognize them for the birth of a grandchild, or to extend best wishes on a 50th anniversary, people should consider themselves privileged to have such a person representing Lewiston.

Barbara McAllister, Auburn