To the editor:

The Isle of Wight Board of Supervisors race is almost over. Albert Burckard believes it to be a high honor and privilege to serve us.

He is a VMI graduate and was decorated for combat with the Silver Star. He taught at West Point, ending his military career at Fort Monroe as a lieutenant colonel.

Having two master’s degrees, he taught at Old Dominion University and Western Branch High School. A 30-year resident of the area, Burckard is the president of the Carrollton Civic League and a regular at citizens’ association, planning commission and supervisors’ meetings.

He has made significant contributions to county tourism and economy, with tourism almost tripling since he started his first of four monthly tours eight years ago. He has volunteered thousands of hours with the Carrollton Volunteer Fire Department and at Isle of Wight Christian Outreach.

Our current board of supervisors has been overwhelmed with challenges. Albert was a leader in opposition to Isle 2040 and its subterfuge, the Gatling Point water line. Albert’s lifelong friendship with Norfolk’s mayor is our best hope to resolve the Norfolk water crisis. Albert supports reducing the storm water fee and tax rate.

Albert has financed his own campaign, which explains his limited signs and publicity. He will owe no favors to party bosses. He will let department heads accept speaking invitations without approval from the county administrator and will work to restore employee morale.

A peacemaker, Albert will stop annexation by the town of Smithfield by allowing future Gatling Pointe water to come from the town.

Nov. 3 will be the final chance for the Newport District voters to choose Albert Burckard, by far the most experienced candidate, to serve us a representative on the Isle of Wight Board of Supervisors.

Albert needs us. We need Albert.

Thomas E. Finderson

Carrollton