Other commitments prevent run for 108th

Published: January 31, 2010

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To the editor: I would like to thank my family, friends and so many members of the community who have offered their support and encouragement for a potential run for the general assembly. I am truly honored and humbled.

Anyone who knows me understands that my heart is in public service. As an attorney, I provide hundreds of hours of pro bono services each year. As president of the Susquehanna Council Boy Scouts of America, the governmental affairs chairman for the Central Pennsylvania and Greater Susquehanna Valley chambers of commerce, and a founding member of Milton's Main Street program, it's been a privilege to stand shoulder to shoulder with so many dedicated individuals determined to make a difference. I am grateful for the opportunity to play some small part in helping to improve the quality of life in the Susquehanna Valley, whether as vice president of the Milton Public Library, a member of Evangelical Community Hospital's development committee, or a member of the boards of the Milton Historical Society, the Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way or the Milton High School Alumni Association.

I give of my time and resources because I believe in the Susquehanna Valley and the people who call it home, because I find fulfillment in working with others for the common good, because I know that each of us, in countless ways, can make a difference every day.

Although running for state representative seems like a natural, next step in a long career of community service, I am not yet in a position to be able to responsibly step away from my legal practice and, more important, I have already made financial and leadership commitments to several critical community efforts this year - including building a new public library and community center for the greater Milton area, assisting our local hospital with its expansion project and helping our local Boy Scout council reposition itself to better serve even more families - commitments that would be difficult to keep while running for office.

When I make a promise, I keep it. And, I believe it is through honoring these commitments that I can best serve our community right now. I know there will be other opportunities to run for office. For now, it is my hope that each of us will continue to do whatever he or she can - no matter how large or small - to make a positive difference in the lives of others. That is the essence of public service, and an ideal to which I remain committed.

John Meckley

Milton

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