Tuesday morning Theresa Hoskins from the Family Resource Network presented the Wetzel County Commission with a certificate proclaiming their recognition and support of West Virginia Breast Cancer Awareness Day, Oct. 5, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The commission was also presented with two lovely pink wreaths to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the proclamation given by Hoskins, in 2009 an estimated 1,300 West Virginia women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 270 women will die from the disease. Breast cancer continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among West Virginia women.

Currently, the best method to reduce deaths due to breast cancer is through early detection of the disease. The American Cancer Society recommends a mammogram every one to two years for women ages 40-49 and yearly mammograms for women ages 50 and older. Yearly breast exams by a physician or nurse and monthly breast self-exam are also important in the fight against the disease.

In another matter, Rosy Cozart presented the monthly report for the Wetzel County Animal Shelter. Four dogs were euthanized, nine were adopted, and 13 rescued. One dog was returned to its owner, 25 dogs were taken in, and one dog is in approval for fostering. Two cats were taken in, however one sick newborn kitten died.

Cozart also presented a request for financial help in purchasing commercial vinyl tile for the hallway in the shelter. This addition would help in cleanliness as well as practicality and appearance. The commission agreed to pay $800 of the estimated $1,054 to furnish the concrete floor with tile.

Pending clarification over work hour stipulation, the commission also agreed to hire a new employee per diem to help better staff the animal shelter.

The Mutt Strut went very well again this year, although Cozart said they will most likely move the event back to the fairgrounds next year.

An auction is planned for Nov. 28 to raise money for the shelter. There will be a spaghetti dinner at 5 p.m. and the auction following at 6 p.m. Items up for auction are new and donated by local businesses.

Three buildings on the 4-H grounds have been found to have termite infestation. The county commission is comparing extermination companies to take care of the issue as soon as possible. Also, the commission voted to leave the grounds open a month later. The gate will now close Dec. 1.

A phone call came in regarding progress with the Air Evac project. There are currently discrepancies between the lease and plot plan. The commission has requested a new survey and lease be drawn up by Air Evac to correct the error.

The commission agreed to pay $4,140 for a new one-ton ductless heating pump for an office in the courthouse and also motioned to pay for three new doors at the War Memorial Building.