I was impressed with Nok-Noi Hauger’s article on Bangor’s new police chief, Ron Gastia, “New chief in town,” (BDN, May 30). I recognized him (from news pictures) standing next to me at the recent graduation of new law enforcement officers from Maine Criminal Justice Academy, and offered congratulations on his appointment. His personable response to me, a total stranger, was refreshing.

The $26,000 salary difference between a seasoned law enforcement officer responsible for 100 employees in a town the size of Bangor ($79,000) and a comparatively young and inexperienced basketball coach at UMaine ($105,000) is a sad commentary on our times and misplaced values, but I guess that’s show biz.

Paul W. Davis

Exeter