FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Shepherdstown, W.V.) March 15, 2025 - The Corporation of Shepherdstown announces the 2025 Shepherdstown Banner Initiative to make downtown even more inviting and festive throughout the year. 

In announcing the initiative, Mayor James Gatz noted, “Local resident Jim Schmitt raised the idea of developing new banners for downtown to Town Council earlier this year. Based on his presentation, we appointed a special task force including Schmitt, Cheryl Brown, and Council Member Shannon Thomas to map out an approach for the town. We are excited to announce and move forward with this initiative today – and we will have beautiful new banners in place by this summer.”

The initial phase will focus on banners that honor our Veterans. Residents can participate by donating $150 to sponsor one or more “Hometown Hero” banner(s) in honor of Veterans in their life.  The banners will feature the Veteran’s photo, name, military branch, and dates of service. These banners will be hung downtown for such holidays as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans Day, and at other appropriate times.   Residents are also encouraged to donate to cover the costs of new brackets for hanging the banners.  

Donors must submit sponsorship forms by April 1, 2025, to allow time for producing and hanging the Veterans banners by Memorial Day. The forms are downloadable from the Town website at www.shepherdstown.gov .  Residents can also pick up the forms at Town Hall or call (304) 876-2312 for details. 

In addition, planning is underway for other new banners that will highlight the Town, our key events, and the holidays. More details will be announced soon. If you have suggestions, would like to donate, or assist in the planning, please contact Town Hall on (304) 876-2312 or via email at Comments@Shepherdstown.gov

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For further information, contact:
Gino E. Sisco

Mobile: (304) 283-0528
Town Hall: (304) 876-2312