Last night the 35th annual WBDC Country Showdown displayed a variety of performers and a range in vocal talent as well as instrumental skills.
The winners of this years show and deserving of the title of “Best New Act in 101 Country” was the Riegle Family Band of Muncie.
The band members include : 14 year old Shannon Riegle who played the Banjo, 12 year old Gracie Riegle played guitar, 11 year old Missy Riegle accompanied with the bass, and 10 year old Daryle Riegle with the vanderon.
Rodney Watts was 1st runner up winning $250 and Robert Stutsman was 2nd runner up winning $100, each with trophies as well.
The Riegle Family Band won a trophy and $1,000 cash prize.
Band members Gracie and Daryle shared their experience of what it’s like to preform for a large audience such as the Country Showdown and demonstrating their instrumental skills at such a young age.
Band member Missy talks about the excitement of picking up first place at last night’s showdown.
WBDC On Air Personalities Ty Hunter and Charlotte Olson served as MC’s for the show and provided the audience with their energetic personality and humor. Also all DC Broadcasting personnel from various departments were on hand to help with this showdown experience.
Hunter states that the reason behind the WBDC Country Showdown is to showcase talent that exists in Dubois and surrounding areas to provide a foundation of support for experienced and new talent. This is accomplished by providing a professional well rounded atmosphere from setting up a venue, filling a show with enthused audience members, a professional sound engineering, media coverage, among other elements. The value of all these amenities were possible by local sponsors.
This real-life entertainment industry experience for the performers and audience was organized by WBDC Programs Director, Brian Schwenk.
It was a true family-friendly experience as the show took a moment to celebrate DC Broadcasting owners Paul and Carol Knies, who were celebrating their 50th anniversary Thursday night and received a standing ovation from the crowd of over 600 people.
The 35th Country Showdown was a success that resonated with the active clapping and singing from the audience.
