2016 Scotts Bluff
COUNTY
A Star-Herald Publication
www. starherald.com
Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 2
July 31 — August 6, 2016
There’s something for everyone at the fair IRENE NORTH Staff Reporter inorth@starherald.com
The Scotts Bluff County Fair has brought together food, music, entertainment and animals for more than a century. It promises this year will have something for everyone. The fair, which runs from July 30 through Aug. 6 has been a tradition in the valley for 129 years. “I think county fairs are community events,” said Lana Hubbard, director of the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds. “It’s a time when many people catch up with each other and are visiting.” Hubbard said fairs started out with farmers and others involved in agriculture who spent a week bringing in their prize livestock and crops. “Over the years, it’s evolved into so much more,” she said. “Through the decades, it became a broader group and touched more people.” T he loca l 4 -H a nd FFA groups have helped the fair continue to be a success. Youth spend all year preparing their animals for show not only for the judges, but for the hundreds of visitors who come out to view the animals. “The Ag Societ y has worked hard to bring in a lot of things that will appea l to a whole demog raph ic of people,” Hubba rd s a id . “W hen someone’s participating, we’re fortunate in the Panhandle to have grandpas, g r a nd ma s , u ncle s a nd aunts come. It all trickles down.” This year, there are several events lined up for the
GRANDSTAND EVENTS FFA Alumni Lawn Mower Races, August 2, 7:30 p.m. 33rd Annual Rubber Check Race, August 3, 7:30 p.m. Heartland Truck and Tractor Pull, August 4, 6 p.m. Built Ford Tough Mud Bog, August 5, 7 p.m. Lonestar with special guest Forgotten Highway, August 6, 7 p.m. Demo Derby August 20, 5:30 p.m. grandstand. Lonestar will perform with special guest Forgotten Highway, August 6, 7 p.m. Tickets for the concert are $18 in advance and $22 at the gate. The 33rd annual Rubber
Check Race is expected to draw at least 3,000 people to the event. It often sells out in advance. The race will be on August 3 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for reser ved seating and $15 at the gate. The
races involves two horses, a four-wheeler, a wheelbarrow and four team members. The Built Ford Tough Mud Bog is on August 5 at 7 p.m., FFA Alumni Lawn Mower Races on August 2 at 7:30 p.m., the Heartland Truck and Tractor Pull on August 4 at 6 p.m., and Demo Derby on August 20 at 5:30 p.m. bring plenty of action and entertainment to the fairgrounds. Mud Bog tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the gate and $8 in advance, $10 at gate for 7-13 year-olds. Six and under are free. Tickets for the tractor pull are $12 in advance, $14 at the gate, $8 for 7-12 year-olds in
advance, $10 7-12 year-olds at the gate, free for six and under. The Demo Derby is $12 in advance, $14 at the gate, and $8 in advance, $10 at the gate for 7-13 year olds. Six and under are free. There is a $1 online purchase fee for all events purchased online. New this year is mud volleyball on July 31. Teams are $12 per person and teams should consist of six to 10 people. Contact Logan or Brayden at the fair office for more information. Also new this year is the Mister Cowboy and Miss Cowgirl on Aug. 4 at the free stage OVERVIEW, 15
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 3
Mexican Fiesta celebrates Hispanic heritage IRENE NORTH Staff Reporter inorth@starherald.com
After many years of talking about a Mexican Fiesta at the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, organizers put on a successful event last year and are returning for an even better show. The Mexican Fiesta helps celebrate Hispanic heritage in western Nebraska. Co-chair Vladimir Castro took on a lot of the organizing of the event last year, but realized it should be a team effort. This year, with the help of other volunteers, they have been advertising, promoting and telling everyone they know about the event. “Last year, it was very much
me, trying to put the event together,” Castro said. Castro hopes word gets out in the community so people will get used to having the event at the fair every year. Castro has helped organize other community events and two years ago, he spoke to the fair board about how much it would cost to have Mexican dancers at the fair. They gave him a price, but contacted him later with another offer. “They asked me, ‘Would you be interested in putting together some Mexican bands or a festival for the fair?’” he said. “I said, yeah, sure. Why not?” He met with the fair board, got a budget and hosted his first Mexican Fiesta last year. More than 500 people turned
I bring in different people from different parts so there’s a little more Hispanic touch.” Vladimir Castro
Co-chair, Mexican Fiesta
out for an evening of food, dancing and fun. Although the bands begin at 8 p.m. on July 30 at the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds in Mitchell, Castro is encouraging people to come at 7 p.m. to see the Los Guadalupanos, a traditional Mexican folklore dance group in Western Nebraska. Family friendly bands will be entertaining the crowds who will be encouraging the crowds
to dance. The event will also have food vendors and the beer garden will open at the beginning of the fiesta. The Mexican Fiesta is scheduled to run until midnight, but Castro said it could go longer. “Last year, it was supposed to end at 12:30 a.m., but we finished around 1 a.m.,” Castro said. “Everyone was having a nice time.” Castro said he was pleased with the event last year and how well-behaved the crowd was. He hopes this year will be even better with the styles of music that will be played. “I bring in different people from different parts so there’s a little more Hispanic touch,” he said. Music will be performed by
Alan y Roberto, Los Graneros De La Sierra and Raudales Del Norte. The bands will play three types of music - Norteño, Banda and Sierreño. Norteño is music from the northern part of Mexico. It originated in rural areas as a polka-style music but has evolved to include drums and electric bass guitar. Banda is a brass-based form of traditional Mexican music, reminiscent of polka music, but it can cover a variety of styles. Sierreño typically has a guitar and bass and usually has two or three instruments. Castro is inviting everyone to come and enjoy to event, no matter their background. “It’s nice to see lots of different people enjoying the music FIESTA, 15
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 4
July 31 — August 6, 2016
Carnival enthusiasts will enjoy new rides at fair JEFF SMITH Staff Reporter jsmith@starherald.com
Carnival rides are a staple of the Scotts Bluff County Fair and the carnival is active during most of the fair. The carnival will roll into the fairgrounds on Aug. 2 and will be there until Aug. 6. The carnival will open at 5 p.m. on Aug. 2 and close at 11 p.m. For the rest of the week the carnival will open at 5 p.m. and will close at midnight. $25 is the general admission cost for the carnival. Wristbands will be given but they only last the night they were issued. Steve Mattfeldt, owner of the carnival company Sun Valley Rides, said that the style and color of the wristbands change every night. Also on top of the wristbands the ticket sellers will stamp a person’s hand with a UV ink stamp. Each ride operator will have a UV light and will check the riders each time they come on a ride. “It’s a real shame that we’ve had to come up with these measures to stop the theft of services because that is exactly what it is when they swap or make a fake wristband,” said Mattfeldt. Sun Va l ley R ides is based out of Phoenix, Arizona. The carnival has a 42-week tour and will travel across Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, CARNIVAL, 17
IRENE NORTH/Star-Herald
Riders enjoy a good scream at the 2014 Scotts Bluff County Fair in Mitchell.
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Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 5
Food vendors offer choices for all tastes
IRENE NORTH Staff Reporter inorth@starherald.com
It’s time to stuff yourself with a variety of delicious food at the Scotts Bluff County Fair. Sixteen returning and new vendors will be at the fair this year, serving up funnel cakes, cotton candy, freshly-squeezed lemonade, turkey legs, gyros, pizza and more. Lana Hubbard, director of the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, said there isn’t one clear cut favorite among fairgoers. It depends on the day and, sometimes, the weather. “They are all popular,” she said. “There’s enough variety there that everyone offers something a little different.” The Scottsbluff Police Department is one of the oldest vendors at the fair. They have been serving up food to hungry visitors since 1976. Although they began with tacos, their menu now includes hamburgers, beef jerky, sunflower seeds, candy, coffee, tea and other beverages.
Dippin’ Dots, the ice cream of the future, can be found at fairs all across the country and are a great way to beat the heat. Cornhusker Roast will have their trailer ready for fairgoers to purchase handheld, butter-laced ears of corn, turkey legs and much more. Billy’s Baja Burritos brings a southwestern Mexican flavor to the fair with baja burritos, enchiladas, soft tacos, baja nachos, fried ice cream and baja dogs. They also offer a variety of fountain drinks to enjoy in the summer sun. The Meat Shoppe catering company in Gering brings a gourmet flair to the fair with
seasoned roast beef and barbecue beef sandwiches as well as potatoes, hamburgers and hot dogs. OomPah Tacos will have hot, fresh, Indian tacos. Pizza Point will have fresh funnel cakes, lemonade and corn dogs. Other vendors are Chuckwagon pizza, the Monument Grill, The Potato Salad, Papa John’s Pizza and Rincon Latino, the popular taco truck from Scottsbluff. “We also have Backarack’s back this year,” Hubbard said. “They have a new chef and are bringing new items.” With all these choices, it will be difficult to walk away and not be satisfied.
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IRENE NORTH/Star-Herald
Some of the food available for sale at the Scotts Bluff County Fair.
21st Century Equipment is proud to support 4-H County Fair Livestock Programs across the 43 counties in our operating area. We will be donating $50,000 to Regional County Fair Livestock Programs to county extension offices to be used towards livestock facilities, programs or wherever needed. Additional support for our youth and the Ag Industry comes in the form of a contribution, by 21st Century Equipment of over $80,000 this year towards the John Deere Ag Tech Program. This program trains students to be Ag equipment technicians while earning an Associates of Applied Science degree. Many of these students go on to full-time careers in our communities with 21st Century Equipment.
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 6
July 31 — August 6, 2016
4-H and FFA: the Demo Derby will be lifeblood of the fair well worth the wait
DEAN TORSKE Staff Reporter dtorske@starherald.com
Nothing says county fair more than 4-H and FFA. From sewing to rocketry, from rabbits to beef, the kids work hard for months preparing for the fair. 4 -H a s s i s t a nt J a n a Schwartz said, “4-H is year-round and the fair is the time where we can come show off our skills that we’ve learned during our project experiences throughout the year.” For those kids that take on the beef project, some start as early as September. “These kids are spending every day, during the summer and more, taking care of these animals,” said Schwartz. “Making sure they are being fed and that they are healthy. They groom them everyday and with a lot of the livestock, you are out there walking them and training them. It’s a really in-depth experience. All in preparation to show off what they’ve learned at the county fair.” The activities have al-
ready started. Saturday, July 23, was the clothing day and fashion show where the sewing exhibits were judged. Also, the first of the shooting competitions began with the BB gun and air rifle. “We have pretty much a full week-plus of activities,” said Schwartz. It all starts Friday, July 29 with Trap Shooting out at the Mitchell Trap Club. Saturday is the first day at the fairgrounds with the Horse Show at 8 a.m. At the same time will be the rest of the shooting competition at the Mitchell Trap Club. “Sunday we will have the dog show and all of the livestock exhibits will be checked in. Then from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, all of our static exhibits will be checked in at the event center,” said Schwartz. That Sunday evening at 7 p.m., there will be a Fair Kickoff Party. “It’s a fun event,” said Schwartz. “We all gather together in the pavilion, and there will be some dancing and
games and a rootbeer float station.” This is an exciting time for the 4-H members and a huge opportunity for growth. “They’ve learned responsibility all summer and there’s that pride in finishing a project,” said Schwartz. “Then they get their chance to come into that ring and it helps build self-confidence.” Putting yourself out there to be judged is challenging for any adult, let alone a child. But Schwartz knows that the experience builds character and confidence. “The judging is dependent upon the class, because there is different criteria for each class,” said Schwartz. “For instance, the market live show, the judges look to see how well the animal is going to transfer into a food, or how that animal has grown to be a market animal. Whereas showmanship classes, are all about how the child is with showing the animal, how 4-H, 16
AARON SEANEY Staff Reporter aseaney@starherald.com
While the Scotts Bluff County fair technically comes to a close in early August there is one event that takes place a little later but is still one of the bigger draws at the fair grounds. This year Eric Hardin will be heading up the Demolition Derby for his 17th year at the Scotts Bluff County Fair Grounds on August 20. Nearly 50 cars will take the arena to slam out there differences and awe audiences with some good old fashion destruction. Hardin got involved after taking over
for a friend. A gig that he thought would only last a couple years has turned into a tradition that he carries on. According to Hardin, roughly 90 percent of the drivers come from within a 100 mile radius of Scottsbluff, but others will travel from as far as Lincoln for a chance to compete. While some demo derbys can last a full day, Hardin and his team have become proficient in running the full gamut in three to four hours. “Depends on the car count, we try to get over within 3 and half or 4 hours. I tell the guys that they know some of these things can last all day,” said Har DERBY, 15
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Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 7
Pageants return to fair after 8 years n Staff resurrects Little Miss Cowgirl and Little Mister Cowboy contests
kids and help them develop their stage presence in front of a large crowd,” Anderson said. After an eight year hiatus, the Scotts The categories will be split into ages Bluff County Fairgrounds staff has 0-2, 3-5 and 6-8 years old. She said the decided to bring back the Little Miss judges will look for personCowgirl and Little MisThis is ality and confidence in the ter Cowboy Pageant. The really just kids. pageant will be on the free “We want all little kids in fun to stage at the fairgrounds the area to join,” Scotts Bluff have something on from 4:30 to about 6 p.m. County Fairgrounds Secrethe free stage to get on Thursday, August 4. the public involved tary Logan Williams said. Hol ly A nderson of A in something for Williams said this is a great Bridal Affair and the fair the younger kids photo opportunity event for off ice staff are look ing and help them moms as this is a fun experifor kids up to 8 years old develop their stage to wear their best cowgirl presence in front of ence as well as something for the community to enjoy. or cowboy get up while a large crowd.” Each category will have a showing off their personaltop girl and boy winner and Holly Anderson ity on stage. Anderson said A Bridal Affair there will be two overall winthe kids will have onstage ners, Mister and Miss Congequestions about their pets’ niality. names, favorite color, faThe winners of the girl vorite animal and more. “This is really just fun to have some- categories will be awarded a crown and thing on the free stage to get the public the boys will be awarded a belt buckle. involved in something for the younger PAGEANT, 19 MORGAN WALLACE Staff Intern morgan.wallace@starherald.com
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 8
July 31 — August 6, 2016
Rubber Check Race: a fair favorite DEAN TORSKE Staff Reporter dtorske@starherald.com
For most people, the Rubber Check Race needs no introduction. Now in its 33rd year, the event is the most popular event at the Scotts Bluff County Fair by far. Event director Mike Lenhart said, “It’s the number one selling event at the fair and the fastest selling event. We sell out all of tickets within three hours on the first day of early ticket sales. It has sold out as long as I can remember.” Tickets went on sale the first week of June, and sure enough, they sold out quickly.
What makes this race so popular? Well, for one it’s simply fun. “It’s a great event,” said Lenhart. “It’s got a lot of excitement and a huge following. It’s the longest running rubber check event in Nebraska.” In fact, it was pioneered right here in Scotts Bluff County by Dallas Larson. Larson had a huge impact on the growth of the county fair and the event is held in the arena that bears his name. For those who are not familiar with the event. It’s a relay race, but not like one you’ve probably experienced. “This race involves RACE, 14
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Courtesy photo
You need speed, skill and a little bit of crazy to compete in the event. But the participants seem to come back again and again for the fun and the thrill of the race.
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 9
Courtesy photo
Jim Darnell, of the JD Farms Pulling team, checks tire pressure in the Red Rider tractor. Tire pressure is important to the traction of a tire and many tractor pullers will continuously update their units.
Tractors and trucks accelerate action at fair JEFF SMITH Staff Reporter jsmith@starherald.com
In the sport of truck and tractor pulling, a sled is filled with weights and the tractor gets harder to drive as the weights travel up the sled and the tractor pulls forward. The weights in the sled get progressively heavier on a 300-foot track. Inches might separate a driver from first or second place. The goal is to get the truck or tractor to be the strongest machine on the track. Sean Blackburn, promoter for the event at Scotts Bluff County Fair, said that a driver also has to know the track well, know the air pressure on their tires, know the right TRACTOR, 18
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 10
July 31 — August 6, 2016
TAKING A LLAMA FOR A STROLL SANDRA HANSEN/File photo
Zoie Clause and her llama, Zelia, stroll around the livestock barn Friday morning while the girl’s mother and father, Samantha and Nathan, clean stalls and prepare for the final day of the 2015 Scotts Bluff County Fair. Zelia, who guards angora goats at home, placed second in the fibre quality competition.
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 11
A FAMILY TRADITION
SANDRA HANSEN/File photo
Ed Rogers began his 4-H career about 60 years ago. Today, he supports his granddaughters in their 4-H efforts. Wednesday morning he spent time with Katelan, left, and Kimberlee, and his daughter-in-law, Sharon, while son Tom watched happenings at the show ring so he could tell the girls when it was time for them to bring their lambs over.
Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 12
July 31 — August 6, 2016
Barn #4
Barn #5
Overnight Campgrounds
School Public Restrooms House
Event Center
Food Court
Ticket Booth
Info Center
Public Restrooms Handicapped Parking
Jr. Ldrshp Concess.
Fremont Motors Pavillion
4-H
Carnival Area
* 13TH Street
12TH Street
Baseball Diamonds
Livestock Complex
Livestock Vehicle Parking
4-H Dining
Public Restrooms
Sanford Hall
Barn
Arena
Beer Garden
GrandStands
Pit Crew Parking
Chute Area
Fair House
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BLUFFS BAKERY MAIN STREET MARKET
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MITCHELL FAIR OFFICE
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 13
Lonestar headlining fair concert
AARON SEANEY Staff Reporter aseaney@starhearld.com
One of the highlights of the county fair every year is the concert and this year the Scotts Bluff County Ag Society is pulling out all the stops making sure that this year is no exception. Earlier this year they announced that this year’s concert would be headlined by country music band Lonestar. Lonestar has had 10 number one hits in their illustrious career including chart toppers “Front Porch Looking In,” “I’m Already there,” and 1999’s American Country Music song of the year “Amazed.” Ag society manager Lana Hubbard said they have had success with country bands who found their start on the county fair scene and have brought their careers full circle.
“We have found a niche with these older groups, you know we’ve had Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Sawyer Brown and now Lonestar,” said Hubbard. “They are such great performers and have put a lot of time into their craft.” Hubbard also mentioned that bringing out an act like Lonestar allows them to keep ticket costs lower, making the event affordable for the whole family. Before Lonestar takes the stage, Forgotten Highway will be opening up the show for Lonestar “Forgotten Highway has been opening all summer for a lot of really large venues,” said Hubbard. “They will be a great addition to this show.” Forgotten Highway has been said to be a harmony between today’s modern country hits and yesterday’s
classics. Combining the guitar sounds of the 1950’s and integrating them with modern country and acoustic music has given them a unique voice in the country music scene. The band has enjoyed the last few years, opening for main stage acts including Phil Vassar, The Swon Brothers, Chris Cagle, Sawyer Brown and now Lonestar. Tickets are $18 in advance at Racks, The Rustic in Morrill, Scottsbluff Bakery Courtesy photo and the Gering Bakery. Country band Lonestar will be headlining this years Scotts Bluff County Fair on They can also be purchased Aug. 6. for $22 at the door. Forgotten Highway takes the stage around 7 p.m. followed directly by Lonestar. For more information you can check out the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds Facebook page, or visit its website at www.scottsbluffcountyfairgrounds.com.
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 14
July 31 — August 6, 2016
n RACE: Continued from page 8
two horse riders, an ATV rider and a wheelb a r row pu s her,” s a id Lenhart.“ Teams of four pass a baton around the track, starting with the first hor s e bac k r ider. T he second horseback rider does a partial lap on the horse and then must run the last 40 yards or so to the ATV driver, who then must complete one and a half laps, hop off the ATV and climb into a wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow pusher must then cart the ATV driver to the finish line. “ We u s u a l l y h a v e anywhere from 10 to 15 teams,” said Lenhart. The teams must qualify for the preliminaries, and then they are broken out into brackets. Lenhart has a history with the race. “I started participating in 1987 and continued to participate for 15 years,” said Lenhart. “My team won under Platte Valley Livestock one year and we won under Sandberg Implement two years.” The event’s popularity also has a lot to do with the fact that the racers are friends and family. “It’s just a good fun family event,” said Lenhart, whose father and son have also participated in the event. “It’s extremely well supported by Scotts Bluff County and the local businesses that like to sponsor the event. It’s just been tremendous. I have had to actually turn people away
Courtesy photos
that want to sponsor the event. I’ve got people that will guarantee that they will sponsor this event year to year.” The Rubber Check Race will take place Wednesday, Aug. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Scottsbluff County Fa i rg rou nd s - Da l la s Larsen Memorial Arena.
The first leg of the Rubber Check Race is by horse. The first rider completes one lap then passes the baton to the second horseback rider. The action gets even more exciting from there.
Courtesy photo
What should be the easy part, the baton pass, can give racers trouble. As most racers will tell you, adrenaline can mess with you when it comes to the little things.
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Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 15
n DERBY: Continued from page 6
din. “But we run a tight ship, we tell them that if they can’t repair their car and get back out there in 30 minutes, it’s probably not a very competitive car anyways.” Despite 40 to 50 cars coming to the event every year, Hardin said it has dwindled some due to the ability for drivers to find cars, a trend he has seen at derbies across the nation. “We used to run around 100 cars, but now we have dropped off the last few years. You know it’s
just hard to go out there and find these ‘70s cars to compete with,” said Hardin. “In fact we even added in ‘80s cars recently, which has helped jump the numbers back up a bit. When we get 40 to 50 cars it’s a good show.” No matter how many cars show up however, Hardin said the crowd is in for a good time. “It’s a good show, it’s been a pretty stable show for a lot of years and we hope it continues that way,” said Hardin. “The crowd needs to come out and support the drivers
n FIESTA:
n OVERVIEW: Continued from page 2
from 4-6 p.m. Details are still being working out, but the fair office can help with any questions. Tickets for many events are available in advance by c a l l i ng t he Scot ts Bluff County Fair offices at 308-623-1828. The office accepts debit and credit cards. Tickets can be mailed, but pick up is
encouraged closer to the date of the fair and its events. Tickets are also available at Gering Bakery - 1446 10th St, Gering, Bluffs Bakery - 1520 Broadway, Scottsbluf f, Racks - 1402 E 20th St, Scottsbluff, Rustic Tavern - 122 Center Ave, Morrill. For more information, visit http://www.scottsbluffcountyfairgrounds. com.
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who have put in a lot of hours into these cars. There is a lot more that goes into it than when I started 20 years ago.” There is no pre-registration for cars wanting to enter. For those wanting to participate they simply need to be on the grounds around 10 a.m. that morning when the pits open up. The derby itself will start at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for advanced sales, $14 at the gate. Kids 7-13 are $8 in advanced and $10 at the door. Kids File photo Cars crash during the demolition derby at the 2015 Scotts Bluff County Fair six and under are free.
Office: (308) 623-1515
Continued from page 3
and enjoy the traditions,” he said. “I’m not making any single penny on this. I just want to raise some money for the community and have some fun.”
Tickets are $18 in advance or $22 at the gate. There is a $1 online purchase fee for those who purchase them online at http://www.scottsbluffcountyfairgrounds.com/ tickets/mexican-fiesta/ .
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Good Luck to All 4-H & FFA Exhibitors at Your County Fair!
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Contact Your Local ACH SEEDS & BETASEED Representative For More Details Nebraska: Brian Specht, Hemingford, NE • 308-760-0894 Kent Mauser, (CO & NE), Big Springs NE • 308-289-5402 Mike Marker, Scottsbluff, NE • 308-631-5320 Wheatland: Dan Melcher, Wheatland • 307-331-0197 Colorado: Mike Burdette, Wiggins • 970-768-4106 Aaron Worley, Holyoke • 970-520-4900 David Blach, Yuma • 970-630-0181 Ronald Blach, Yuma • 970-630-2382 Mark Spaur, Milliken • 970-290-9298 Ed Croissant, Eaton • 970-381-4115 Dustin Schmer, Sales Manager 308-765-0384 John Dillman, Regional Sales Manager 308-631-3934
Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 16
July 31 — August 6, 2016
n 4-H: Continued from page 6
well they’ve groomed the animal and prepared it for show. Also, how the child is presenting themselves in the ring.” 4-H has grown to include a project for just about any and every interest. The visual is the livestock, because everyone comes to the fair to see the animals. However, there will be a variety of projects going on inside the building. Schwartz said, “One of them is our robotics project. It’s a project that we’ve really had a lot of fun with and it’s become really popular in 4-H. The same with rocketry. The kids will build and launch their rockets prior to the fair and record their results.” Schwartz also said that photography has become a really big project as well. 4-H has changed quite a bit over the years, but it’s mission is still the same. “4-H has always been about helping kids build life skills. We want to help
them develop into competent, caring citizens. But, we’ve had to change the way we do that over the years. If you think of the life skills as the destination,
where the project that they take on is the vehicle to get them there, we’ve just changed that vehicle over the years,” said Schwartz. 4-H has always been
Courtesy photo
Livestock judging is one of the many events that kids compete in during the Scotts Bluff County Fair.
known to be centered around agriculture, cooking and sewing. But the world has changed and 4-H has expanded into what kids are interested in and what are the skills today’s youth will need to be successful in different industries. “We have lots of computer projects, too,” said Schwartz. “We’re always thinking about how we can help kids get to college, and then help them make
that connection to a career. We’re trying to help them become forward thinkers that way so that we’re really helping them build those skills before they need them.” 4-H will continue the agriculture tradition and preserve that heritage. “We’re proud of our roots and we want to continue to respect and honor that tradition,” said Schwartz. “The skills they learn, the responsibility and the work
ethic, along with caring for a living thing that looks to you for all of its needs, there’s something really powerful about that. It transcends into all different careers that someone might go into.” Certainly, as long as there are county fairs, there will be young 4-H and FFA members showing off their hard work and commitment.
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 17
n CARNIVAL: Continued from page 4
Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska. Af ter traveling to Mitchell there is still 16 weeks left in the season for Sun Valley Rides. The compa ny w i l l be bringing 14 rides to Mitchell. In total, Sun Valley Rides will have 17 loads of equipment at the fair. This consists of amusement rides, game concessions, a food concessions trailer, a generator, a office, and living quarters for the crew. Four new rides will be at the fair this year. The new rides are called the zipper, tornado, yo-yo, and the Jakerz Farm Train. The zipper, tornado, and yo-yo are all teen rides. “The zipper and yo-yo have been very popular,” said Mattfeldt, “the silver streak also always does really well.” The zipper was requested from a lot of customers and committees so Mattfeldt decided it was time to buy one. It is believed to be the ultimate thrill ride for carnival goers. Mattfeldt said the entire center turns clockwise
and counterclock w ise. The cars pivot on each side and turn both ways. “It’s the motion and G-forces that make the ride so popular,” said Mattfeldt. The Jakerz Farm Train is another new ride which is an Italian train with a ton of LED lighting. “Parents or older siblings can ride with younger kiddos,” said Mattfeldt. Some of the rides at the carnival have been around for awhile. One of those items is the Ferris Wheel, which has been a part of the carnival tour since 1989. The carnival has been in business for 30 years. Mattfeldt said the duration of the stay is atypical for the company because they will typically be at an event for only two or three days. “Mitchell is a good fair for us. This is our seventh year for it,” said Mattfeldt. Mattfeldt said the caring crew is what sets the Sun Valley Rides carnival a part from other carnival companies. Mattfeldt said the staff is clean and really pays attention to the cus-
IRENE NORTH/Star-Herald
Workmen assemble a ride in preparation for the Scotts Bluff County Fair. The company Sun Valley Rides prides itself on its employees and the way they care about the customers.
tomers. In total, there are 35-40 people on the crew who might work two or three stations at any stop. Presale wristband tickets are available at the Scotts Bluff County fair-
grounds office until Aug. 1. These are available for $18. They can also be purchased at Panhandle Coop Association, Bluffs Bakery, and Gering Bakery.
SALES LOT
70360 Cnty Rd 18, Scottsbluff
(308) 635-7000
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(308) 623-2923
200368 City Route Rd, Scottsbluff 150114 Spring Creek Rd., Mitchell
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Scotts Bluff County Fair Page 18
July 31 — August 6, 2016
n TRACTOR: Continued from page 9
path to go down the track as well as the conditions of the track, and be able to ease off the gas when they feel it is slipping. “A good pull is a balance between horsepower and traction. More weight means more traction, more traction requires more horsepower, too much horsepower and not enough traction can sometimes be detrimental,” said Blackburn. Heartland Pulling is sponsoring the race at Scotts Bluff County Fair which will be held at the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds on Aug. 4. The event will start at 6 p.m. with local stock and the main event will begin at 7 p.m. This is the second year for Heartland Pulling to hold the event at Scotts Bluff County Fair although there were truck and tractor pulls several years at the fairgrounds prior to that. Blackburn said there has been a lot of growth in participation of the Heartland Pulling events since the creation of the company six years ago. This year there were 10 events that Heartland Pulling sponsored in
the region. Blackburn said that the attendance for the truck and tractor pull is remarkable at Scotts Bluff County Fair. “Without a doubt, Scotts Bluff County Fair has a very high attendance for the tractor pull,” said Blackburn. There will be everything from modified farm tractors to antique tractors at the tractor pull. There will be seven sanctioned classes and five non-sanctioned classes. There will be five different classes of tractors and two different classes of trucks. The non-sanctioned classes will feature two classes for gas trucks, one class for diesel trucks, a farm stock tractor class, and an antique tractor class. Modified tractor classes typically use turbocharged, stock block diesel engines depending on what is allowed for the class. The usual horsepower of modified tractors is 2003,000. The JD Farms Pulling team will be taking part in the tractor pull again at Scotts Bluff County Fair. They are a newer team with 2016 being the third year that they have participated in tractor pulls.
Courtesy photo
Jim and Daxon Darnell on the tractor Rider Rider. The JD Farms Pulling Team of Scottsbluff is one of the top competitors for the tractor pull at the Scottsbluff County Fair.
Jim Darnell, who is part of the JD Farms Pulling Team, said that it has been a good year so far with mostly first and second places at the events. He also said all the tractors have held together pretty well too. There have been about 14 pulls that his team has been in so far. He pulls with his two sons, Jon and Jeff.
This year he said there hasn’t been a lot that has changed but there is a lot more horsepower is his tractors, Crazy Horse and Red Rider. The class that they participate in is the 8,500 Limited Pro class. Darnell said there are usually six other tractors in a class. His son Jon will be with him for competitions in
Good Luck to
Nebraska. Jeff Darnell lives in Colorado and is the driver for competitions in Colorado. “We’ve been traveling a lot. There’s been events in Eastern Nebraska to Colorado,” said Jim Darnell. He expects there to be a variety of tractors from Colorado at the Scotts Bluff County Fair.
Enjoy the Scotts Bluff County Fair! Two Convenient Locations To Better Serve You!! 308.633.4440
All the Fair Participants Your hardwork and dedication is appreciated 625 W Webster St, Morrill, NE (308) 247-3300
Jim Darnell said that for anybody starting out in classes they need to go into a farm stock pulling class because it won’t cost much money and people will get a good taste for it. Tickets for the event are $12 in advance, $14 at the gate, $8 for 7-12 year olds in advance, $10 for 7-12 yearolds at the gate, and free for
THERAPISTS: Katie Hays, PT, DPT, CLT Nick Hald, PT, DPT, OCS Ramsee Hald, PT, DPT Shelly Koehler, PT, SCS
www.elitept-scottsbluff.com
1270 10th St., Suite 101 Gering
308.633.2900
214 West 27TH St., Scottsbluff
Scotts Bluff County Fair July 31 — August 6, 2016
Page 19
n PAGEANT: Continued from page 7
A nd e r s on hop e s to award the overall winners a gift that they can enjoy. All of the prizes will be donated by A Bridal Affair. All of the kids who entered will receive a free wristband to the carnival for the night. “We aren’t sure if we are going to hire a panel of judges or if we are going to have the audience judge,” Anderson said. She said since the event
was thrown together only a few weeks ago, they are still working on the details. All of the kids who entered will be given a free wristband to the carnival for the night. “We hope t h is w i l l grow over the years and would like to have a best dressed or a talent portion,” Anderson said. T hose i nterested i n registering their children or grandchildren for the event may do so at A
Bridal Affair in Scottsbluff or the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds in Mitchell. For more information, contact Holly Anderson at 308-2208790 or the Fair Office at 308-623-1828. Registration is $10 per entry. T houg h reg ist rat ion will be open until 2 p.m. on August 4, Williams and Anderson would like people to register ahead of time so they can get the numbers and lineup for the MC ready to go
Do you have something to sell? Call the Star-Herald Classifieds department at 632-9020 for assistance.
Panhandle Coop is dedicated to building future agriculture leaders! • $8,000 to eight different 4-H Councils, $7,500 to 14 different FFA Chapters! • Will be attending 7 Livestock Sales to purchase animals! • We also support the Ag Societies that put on the County Fair with sponsorships of different events! • Scottsbluff Main Street Market also is selling the Carnival wristband cards at our Customer Service Booth.
401 South Beltline Highway, Scottsbluff (308) 632-5301 or 800-732-4546