Dear Board of Directors for the Center for Arts,

As President of the Board of Directors of the Wellesley Symphony Orchestra, I might consider it an affront to be contacted by a non-Board member about Board Policy.

However, as Host for the Cabaret Open Mike at The Center for Arts, I feel as if I must write this email. Please understand that I write out of deep concern, and my intent is not to offend.

Recently I have become aware of the fact that Michael Moran may be dismissed as Executive Director of the Center. I am very distressed at the thought.

Originally I, a professional singer and voice teacher, went to the Cabaret Open Mike just to sing. However, I was so impressed with Michael's enthusiasm, his commitment to the Center, and his ability to stir up support for this endeavor, that I wound up hosting the Open Mike, getting the featured performers, and proselytizing in the MetroWest area for The Center for Arts.

I am far too busy to have taken on anything new! My website (www.leslieholmes.net) will tell you this! But, because of Michael, I could not help myself. I am now committed to the Center myself! My commitment could not be the same were Michael to leave.

Granted, Michael is not always easy to deal with. He can be irascible and profane. However, his vision, his intelligence, his energy, his willingness to work longer hours than anyone else, his ability to attract performers and knowledge of performers, his humor, his ability to excite audiences by just talking about TCAN at intermission, are so valuable to the Center that I cannot envision it running successfully without him.

Is there no way to have an impartial arbitrator involved in attempting to resolve the issues between the Board and Michael? I have been on many boards and, when issues come up, this has sometimes proven to be a very effective way of coming to the best solution for all involved.

I do not envy you your dilemma, and I stand ready to help in any way I can.

With sincere best wishes,
Leslie M. Holmes