UP: To this weekend's Parkersburg Homecoming, which concludes Sunday evening with a performance by the legendary Charlie Daniels Band. Between now and then, the event offers something for the whole family. A special thumbs up to all of the hard work people have put into this event not only in getting ready this week, but during the past several months. This work helps make this event the excellent weekend it always is.
UP: To Oscar-nominated actor Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band for their concert Thursday that raised money for a "smart home" for Army Spc. Kyle Hockenberry. Hockenberry, a triple amputee, was injured while serving in Afghanistan. Sinise, in conjunction with the Gary Sinise Foundation and the Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation, raises funds for injured veterans throughout the United States. All the money raised from Thursday's concert goes toward the home being built for Hockenberry.
DOWN: To the continuing lack of work being done to finish the construction project at Emerson Avenue and 36th Street in Parkersburg that has left motorists fearing their vehicle might slip off the road or the edge of the road might crumble under their vehicle's weight, causing their vehicle to fall into the deep ditches beside the street. The construction company has said it is awaiting the arrival of traffic poles before finishing the project, leaving some to wonder why the poles were not received before construction began and if the project will be done before snow begins to fly.
UP: To all of the people who have purchased $5 rubber ducky tickets. The sales are one of the Parkersburg Homecoming committee's biggest revenue sources for the annual event. The tickets are still being sold at several area stores and at the event. The drawing will be held Sunday at the Suddenlink Stage.
UP: To the Wood County Deputy Sheriff's Association for its annual kids picnic, held Friday at City Park. The day allows the officers to meet with the youngsters in a fun setting and create a bond that, hopefully, will allow the kids not to fear the officers if they are ever needed in the future. McDonald's restaurants donated the food and the deputy's association purchased bikes that were given away as prizes throughout the day.
