To the editor:

Following a brisk Sunday morning walk on Willard Beach, our refuge, I am writing to express our appreciation.

My husband, Scott, and I are so grateful to the people of South Portland for continuing to allow dog access on Willard Beach. 

This neighborhood beach is why we live in South Portland and established our business here too. We share the joy of watching our labrador, Leroy, run and swim (believe it or not, he goes in the water, even in winter), and marvel at the winter birds that return every year. We also share a unique camaraderie with folks we meet along the way. We call them “beach friends,” and are grateful for the community bond they extend.

We live on a busy street, several blocks from the beach. We love our postage stamp back yard oasis, but it is so nice to stretch our legs on the sandy shores of Willard Beach. We probably wouldn’t walk there as often if we didn’t have a dog, particularly on cold January mornings. But we love our dog and even though we don’t have kids, we call ourselves a family. On behalf of our little family, thank you South Portland for sharing this treasure.

Pamela Thomas

South Portland