Wetzel County Sheriff Eric Daugherty poses with Safety Pup during the Sheriff's Family Picnic.

On Saturday, June 7, Wetzel County Sheriff Eric Daugherty and his department once again held the annual Wetzel County Family Picnic. The yearly picnic was started by Sheriff Mike Koontz who believed it was a good way to give back to the community and establish positive relationships with kids and families. Each year over one-hundred children, along with family’s descend on the Wetzel County 4-H Grounds.

Those attending the event can take part in games, inflatable rides, and events. Food and drinks are available for everyone. Door prizes are a big part of the day’s events. A lot of smiles could be seen as new bicycles were being ridden from the event.

Sheriff Eric Daugherty said that this program would not be possible without the help of the many volunteers and sponsors who spend their time and money to fund the inflatables, games, events, and door prizes. Sponsors for this year’s picnic included; Bridgeport equipment; Ace Hardware; J.W. Tire, Klug Excavating, Wendys, Tractor Supply, Mensore Disturbing, McDonalds, Riesbecks, Gumps Portable Restrooms, New Martinsville Parks and Recreation, Wetzel County Circuit Clerk’s Office, Quinet’s, The Honda Shop, The Lady Rebekah Lodge, Masons Filling Station, NMS Art Department, Four Sisters, Neffs, Green Acres Exxon, Hero Plumbing, Yoho Creations, Tim Bassett for Delegate District 8, and Tenants Funeral Home.

Both former Sheriff Koontz, and Sheriff Daughtery are proud of the annual event and the fact it helps to bring families together for a free day of fun and enjoyment. The county’s sheriff, deputy’s, and other county agency’s hope that these types of activities give the citizens reassurance they are here to serve the residents of the county in many different ways.