Allen withdraws from Jackson selectmen's race

Too late to remove name from ballot, though

There may be two names on this year's ballot for Jackson Board of Selectmen, but one candidate only Rich Johnson is actually running for the office. John Allen is withdrawing from the race and is actually urging people to vote for his opponent."I have to withdraw at this time for personal and professional reasons," Allen, who is a teacher at Kennett High, said by phone Thursday night. "My schedule at the moment simply does not afford me the time to do the position justice therefore I'm bowing out. I'm bummed. I was surprised I received a huge amount of phone calls wishing me good luck when I announced I was running (three weeks ago). I have to tell you I was humbled by the amount of people who approached me and offered their support it was a fun ride while it lasted."Allen's name will remain on the March 8 ballot because it is too late for candidates to have their names removed. He said he may still attend a Meet the Candidates Forum on Feb. 28, but will not be participating. "I may go just to hear Rich and I may even ask him a question or two," he said. "... I hope Rich does a good job for the town. I'll be telling people to vote for Rich."