The Wood County Commissioners and the Mayors of Parkersburg and Vienna met Tuesday, December 22nd in the Wood County Courthouse, to honor Parkersburg native Nick Swisher, now a Major League Baseball Player and World Series Champion of the New York Yankees.

Swisher was presented with Proclamations from the County Commission as well as the Mayor of Parkersburg, each proclaiming their own “Nick Swisher Day”. He was also presented with keys to the cities of Vienna and Parkersburg. In addition, he was awarded a framed certificate naming him as a Distinguished West Virginian by Governor Manchin’s office. Finally, Swisher was presented with a limited edition Wood County Fenton Vase from the County Commission, inscribed with the number 33, the same as the jersey number he wears for the New York Yankees.

Swisher expressed his gratitude for the plaques and awards, stating “This is way too much… The plaques and awards are amazing. Thank you.”

The County Commission also announced a joint venture to raise funds to purchase an all-weather bronze plaque, which will display Nick Swisher and his father, former Major League Baseball Player, Steve Swisher, and will be similar to those used in the Hall of Fame. The plaque will be erected in the Parkersburg City Park next to the same baseball fields which both Nick and his father played on as youths. Commissioner Modesitt stated that they will be accepting contributions to go towards the nearly $7,500.00 project, which is expected to be unveiled this spring. For additional information on the fundraising effort, please email info@woodcountywv.com

Nick was accompanied by his parents and girlfriend, actress Joanna Garcia. He was greeted by numerous friends and supporters, signed several autographs, and posed for pictures with fans.

Limited Edition Fenton Vases for Sale to the Public

The County Commission has ordered 150 custom made limited edition vases, crafted by premiere glass artisan Dave Fetty of Fenton Art Glass Co., Williamstown, WV. Each piece is hand numbered and stamped on the bottom depicting the Wood County Courthouse and scripted with a Fenton “F” in the middle. The vases are iridized with a ruby vase with Frit being used to create the different colors.

County officials have set the cost of the vases at $195 each, which will include the actual piece and also a DVD which shows the production of the vases. All costs associated with the production of the vases and DVD will be built into the price so that the county will have no funds into the project in the end. Those purchasing a piece will be entitled to purchase another piece with the same number should the County Commission decide to make another run in a different color.

There will be 20 vases reserved for visiting dignitaries and business people, to promote the area and what Wood County has to offer.

If you are interested in ordering, please call the Office of the Wood County Administrator at
304-424-1976.