WELLINGTON, TEXAS -- The smell of popcorn still fills the Wellington Ritz Theatre every weekend when newly released movies hit their local big screen. But movies aren't the only entertainment filling the Ritz, their renovated and restored theatre is also home to live performances.

"Classical music, symphony, orchestras, ballet, opera, country western, Christian rock, you name it, we've had it", says the Past President of the Wellington Ritz Theatre Inc., Frances Schmidt.

Built in 1928 and restored in 2007, the Ritz has always been the heart of the community.

"Now, it's so much more than it ever was with the live performances because we've brought some things in here that people here would never have experienced", says Schmidt.

"Community is a big thing and that's part of the reason this place to us so much", adds current President of Wellington Ritz Theatre Inc., Melanie Baumgardner.

From now until June 30th, the Ritz is competing in an online voting competition and the winner gets $25,000! That extra cash could bring more programs, more advertising and more people to Wellington.

"Part of it is getting the word out so all of these area communities can see what a neat theatre we have and then maybe they'll want to come visit us, support us", continues Baumgardner.

Cash or no cash, the transformation of the Ritz over the years is something the people of Wellington are proud of.

"If we can get people here, they're going, we've got a treasure and they're going to love it."

"It's really a miracle place for all of us", says former President of Historical Wellington.

If you want to help the Ritz win that extra money, vote for them online at wellingtonritztheatre.com.