To the Editor:

The mystery surrounding the Potsdam Building Blocks Day Care Center’s fall from grace is one that would make a good thriller if it weren’t so sad. We have bags of lost money, lost checks and lost dignity, along with reams of denial from all the unfortunates who are responsible for this fiasco. It is ironic that the new director of the center, along with the executive assistant, are the ones who have lost their jobs, while the true culprits and architects of our communities loss continue to blither along in denial of any wrongdoing.

I hate to be the bearer of sad tidings to Ms. Dr. Halimatu Muhammad, as well as the other members of the board of directors, but you are the responsible individuals for the failure of the organization, as well as for any missing, lost or misappropriated funds. Yes, you are responsible for the daycare’s closing and the inconvenience of your clients. I hope that you have learned a valuable lesson and will carry it into the future with you

I know that it is very difficult for any volunteers to sit on a board, but once you accept the position there are responsibilities accruing to you for doing so. I will not go through a listing of all the responsibilities you have as a director, but your primary responsibility is one that charges you with the fiduciary responsibly for the entire organization. You and the rest of your directors are directly responsible for all financial matters as they relate to the daycare center financials and its fiscal reporting accuracy to appropriate agencies.

This fiduciary responsibility does not come under the purview of the executive director, as many executive directors would like you to believe. Executive directors have a great deal of responsibility, but all their actions take place with the concurrence of the board. They have no authority to act in any manner or in any fashion that is not approved by the board of directors.

The North Country community is quite forgiving of those who admit the error of their ways, as well as to those who take responsibility for their actions. Volunteer board members take on enormous responsibilities that at times they are ill prepared to do. I have seen the same situation with various boards that I have had the pleasure of serving on both here in the North Country, on my Long Island, as well on international boards upon which I presently serve. I would suggest to all members of our community who are or are now considering sitting upon a board to do your research and due diligence before agreeing to serve as a director. There is a great deal to know regarding board member responsibilities, you are not filling a small place at the table of board meetings- be informed before you agree to do becoming a board director.

Alan J. Leo

Canton