Veteran coach deserves better

To the editor:
    For several years my wife and I have lived next to Murray Putnam. We bought our home in 2000 and for a few years, prior to our moving here, Murray would faithfully keep our lawn mowed and would never accept anything but our thanks. We are reminded of Murray’s dedication and his love for students every time we drive by the Murray W. Putnam Ball Field located at RSU 50 in Dyer Brook. We were heartened to have read the letters of support written by students which have appeared in this newspaper.
    Living next to Murray has given us a first-hand opportunity to see just how dedicated Murray has been to his job and his kids. While we were relaxing and taking in the beauty of our surroundings, Murray would be rushing off to a ballgame. It would not be an overstatement to say that Murray’s life has been about helping kids become good athletes and good citizens. It is my understanding that Murray has served this school system for over 40 years. I was quite surprised and frankly quite saddened to learn that a recent allegation made by two Board of Education members who, coincidently, happen to be from the same family, has resulted in Murray’s loss of his life’s work and has also been denied the opportunity to attend ballgames.
    One of our country’s founding principles has been that every person is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. To my knowledge, despite the efforts of some in Washington, that principle still exists.
    I pray that school officials and Board of Education members charged with administering the affairs of the school system will investigate and verify any allegations made against Murray. If the allegations made by two Board of Education members of the same family go unsubstantiated and Murray is denied the opportunity to continue his service to the kids of this school system, it will be a sad day in our community. I sincerely hope that this issue can be resolved. Murray Putnam and every citizen deserves better.
Jim Blois
Oakfield