“Gordie Little was a North Country legend, whose neighborly spirit embodied the strong sense of community we value here. Folks across the North Country appreciated his love and enthusiasm for our area, waking up every morning for years to his news and weather reports on WIRY. Gordie was just as personable when you met him and a big bear hug was one of his favorite ways of saying hello. His enthusiasm was contagious and would instantly bring smiles to the faces of his friends, family and neighbors.

“Gordie couldn’t help but share his love for the North Country, whether it was telling stories on Hometown Cable specials or writing his Small Talk columns for the Press-Republican. And Gordie didn’t just tell stories — he took action, serving seven years as the Clinton County Crime Victims’ advocate and volunteering as Santa at the local fire station.

“For someone who dedicated his life to building connections with people across the North Country, it’s fitting that we name the Morrisonville bridge the Gordie Little Memorial Bridge in his honor. I sponsored legislation to pay tribute to Gordie and rename the bridge A.7220, and now that it’s passed the Assembly and Senate, I hope the governor will sign it into law and help Gordie’s legacy live on.”