Integrity

The term 'integrity' has been used a lot in this election. How do you define it?

According to Merriam-Webster, integrity is the "firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : incorruptibility." (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/integrity). It can also be defined as a personal code…an honor code if you will…that defines your moral values. Just as important, it defines who you are as a person. For a working definition, it might mean that:

--your word is your bond
--you don't sacrifice your values for personal or professional gain
--you don't sacrifice your values even when pressured by outside forces
--you don't sacrifice your values even when it may be expedient to do so
--taking a line from Shakespeare, "to thine own self be true" or being true to yourself so you can be true to others (as one interpretation).

So what does this mean for the election?

I think one's integrity or moral code is a roadmap that defines the way you live…the way you act toward others. As a judge, I believe this takes on heightened meaning since you are now charged with the public trust…and this is a trust that must never be broken.

As a candidate for judge, integrity is not just a word that I throw about. It is and has been a way of life for as long as I can remember. It means that

--my word is my bond
--I have not and will not sacrifice my values for personal or professional gain
--I have not and will not sacrifice my values even when pressured by outside forces
--I have not and will not sacrifice my values even when it may be expedient to do so
--I am true to myself…which has helped me be true to others, in my personal and professional interactions

If I am fortunate enough to be elected to the office, I will continue to follow these lifelong values. They are also fundamental truths, and such truths stand the test of time.

Candidacy Announcments in the Paper

Citizens Voice

Times Leader

UPCOMING EVENTS

Volunteer Meeting Swoyersville American Legion on Shoemaker St. Time: Monday, March 14, 5:30. Light refreshments will be served.

Watch for us in the Sons of Erin Parade in Freeland on Saturday March 12 and the Wilkes Barre parade on March 13.

Candidacy Announcement

I'm officially announcing my candidacy today for Judge of Luzerne County. I'm making it on Sue Henry's show...to be followed by an emailing to regional media outlets. The announcement is as follows:

I am announcing my candidacy for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Luzerne County.

Luzerne County has been in the news for the last two years. It has been a challenging time, but also a time of change. While we still face daunting tasks, I’m confident that we can work together to keep the county moving forward. The Court has implemented some positive changes and other changes are yet to come. I believe I can best contribute by running for and serving as judge.

John Kennedy once said that candidates should submit their records and views to the voters. I agree. And an important part of this picture is a candidate’s experience—experience in the courtroom and experience working with the law on a day to day basis.

I have this experience.

As an Assistant District Attorney, I prosecute criminals…I work with crime victims and their families... I collaborate with law enforcement officers and agencies.

In my private practice, I advise and represent families and clients on numerous legal matters. I have been a practicing attorney in Luzerne County for over 22 years.

When applied fairly, the law is the great equalizer. It protects society, and it protects the individual. A judge must have integrity and experience with the law …and understand the impact it has in each of our lives.

I expressed these words and ideas in the last election, and I’m repeating them now. I believe they are fundamental truths…and such truths stand the test of time.

Thank you, and I look forward to meeting and talking with you over the coming months.