Congratulations and kudos to Jon Fortin for his work wih kids at River Valley Village (Sept. 10).

I have spent most of my life trying to keep young people out of jail or off the streets, or somehow engaged in some worthwhile pursuits. Here’s a young man (he is 24) who is already doing it by engaging young people in basketball. He has even gotten a police officer (Craig Johnson) involved as referee, which shows those young people that police officers have a “kid” oriented side to them, not just a “punishment” side.

It would be wonderful if more people took an interest in youngsters, which might keep some of them out of jail or off drugs and alcohol.

So, may Fortin live long and well, and continue his good work.

Rosemary Poulson, Chesterville