I am writing to endorse the candidacy of Jim Surkamp for re-election to the Jefferson County County Commission.

Two years ago Jim heard about activities we were creating involving the National Parks, youth, and community and approached me with an offer of help and support to move these initiatives forward and bring them on the radar of the County and the State. Specifically Jim was instrumental in gaining county support for a proposed trail between Shepherdstown and Morgan’s Grove Park. Jim facilitated this complex process and we are waiting approval from the State now.

Jim has also been an enthusiastic promoter and supporter of activities revolving around Freedom’s Run. Our mission for the run is to build trails and gardens at local elementary schools and promote the rich history of our region. Without Jim and the County Commissions support on these initiatives, we would have a difficult road. The Commission has supported grants to complete these projects and a large volume of technical assistance for mapping projects, which will make citizens more aware of all there is here.

Jim advocates for fitness, youth, preservation, healthy eating and farms, history . . . essentially all the components of why we live here and features we want to sustain. So please vote on May 11 and keep West Virginia Wild and Wonderful with Jim’s continued leadership.

Mark Cucuzzella, M.D.

Shepherdstown