The following is an open letter from James Lohr, chairman of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays Johnstown chapter, to John DeBartola, a former president of the chapter:
Mr. DeBartola:
As you know, my name is Jim Lohr and I am currently the chairman of PFLAG Johnstown. I am writing this letter to inform you that on behalf of PFLAG Johnstown, I would like to sincerely apologize for any injustices that you feel were inflicted upon you.
I do not speak for anyone, including any of our members, but do apologize to you on behalf of PFLAG Johnstown as an organization. I hope that this apology will help us move on and think about the future of the gay and straight communities instead of dwelling on the past.
In turn, I would hope that any animosity that you may have will end and we can begin to heal the wounds and focus on a future to make our community stronger and more accepted within the other communities.
We both have wonderful organizations that are meant to help other people. Let us focus our energy on the good and heal the bad.
— James Lohr Chairman, PFLAG Johnstown