Pastor regrets use of word immoral

To the Editor

On Oct. 16 the selectmen in Ashburnham held a forum about the Stevens building which is currently leased to the Fredericks' Historic Pianos. It has since been brought to my attention by Mr. James Whidden that at the meeting I expressed that it would be immoral for the town to not keep its lease with the Fredericks through 2010. That may have not been the best choice of words on my part. What I wished to convey was that as the town had entered into a contract with the Fredericks through 2010 regarding the Stevens Building, I believe it a matter of keeping our word to honor the agreement if at all possible.

During the inevitable conflicts within the community, I think it better to assume the best of those with whom we are in disagreement. I appreciate Mr. Whidden speaking directly to me with his concern, commend his service to the town, his commitment to preservation, and his pursuit of saving the town revenue. In no way did I mean to imply that he was immoral, we simply disagree as to whether the town ought to keep the contract made with the Fredericks' Historic Pianos. Respectfully yours,

Dale Proux, Ashburnham