Fair Board Discusses Royalty Crowns

One of the high moments of a county fair is the crowning of the Fair or Rodeo queen. 

The queen and her attendants represent Cheyenne County at other county events and fairs at other counties. 

Monday evening, the Cheyenne County Fair Board discussed the cost of the crowns. Board member Anita Pennel said the crowns cost about $250 each. Discussion included if the royalty would return the crowns or be allowed to keep them.

“The queens need their crowns. They need something for all of their work,” Pennel said.

Earlier in the meeting, James Lenzen discussed with the board, Cheyenne County Commissioner

Randal Miller and County Attorney Paul Schaub his plans for the Elks building. Lenzen said he wants a place where he can prepare and store food for his catering business. Schaub reminded him it is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure he meets state and local codes.

Lenzen said he hopes to purchase the building yet this year. Schaub said the county is required to advertise real estate sales twice before finalizing the sale. Finalizing the sale this year will require a special meeting of the commissioners to approve the sale, according to Schaub and Miller.

Miller also talked with the fair board about the water system and necessary number of hydrants.

“They are a mess,” Miller said about the water lines.

He urged the board to draw a “schematic” of the water lines, even as simple as a basic draw, so the county can track where the lines are and what condition they are in.

“We have to get it done,” Miller said. “We have to do it immediately because the lines are terrible.”

Miller said the county’s intent is to do it once and do it right. He stressed the project will probably be expensive.

Discussion included the lack of adequate water pressure and water lines under buildings. New trees will be planted that will require a drip system.

The board also discussed the use of drones during the fair. Board President Gerald Frerichs said there will be a no-fly zone over the fair grounds for drones to prevent the concerts from being recorded.