Two Thumbs Up!! That’s Saturday evening’s “Sounds of Wetzel County” concert in a nutshell. This show was presented by the WesBanco Relay for Life team and was held at the Lincoln Theater. If you did not attend, you missed a great evening of fun, wonderful local entertainment, and most importantly fund raising for a cause that has in one way or another affected most all of us.

First, Ryan Ritchea, whom I have heard several times, never fails to please a crowd of all ages. Next, Bill Ferrell, who I had the opportunity to hear for the first time, is very talented and sang some fantastic current hits! Tina West was the emcee and also performed. She has great talent with both her vocals and guitar. Last and definitely not least, the Days Later Band played a wide array of songs. The band, like always, put on a great show!

I believe the Lincoln Theater holds 300 people and there definitely wasn’t much room left by the time the concert began.

Local businesses as well as WesBanco employees donated items for gift baskets and concessions. These donations as well as the donations of entertainment help to make these events and Relay for Life such a great success. A 50/50 raffle was also held.

As for the concert itself, Teresa Rush is the one responsible for the success of the evening. She came up with this idea and was the primary organizer for the entire production. I am so proud to be able to call her my mother!

No one realizes the amount of time and effort that it takes to make an event such as this a success until they actually set out to attempt it. And a success it was!

I have heard nothing but great reviews from everyone. My mom has not been affected by cancer herself or even with an immediate family member, however she put so much work and love into that evening. She is definitely a role model for my sister and I, along with her grandson. She had a goal and with determination, effort, and help from others, she achieved it.

What a great job by everyone! Thank you to all the WesBanco employees, great entertainment, local businesses, and attendees that made the night a success!

Nicole (Rush) Fortney

New Martinsville