Scotts Bluff County is kicking in to the upcoming Cattlemen’s Ball in a significant way with approval of a large tourism grant.
The Board last week approved a grant of $14,500 making the County the transportation sponsor, with the money going toward a bus shuttle service between Scottsbluff/Gering and the site of the event.
Tourism Director Brenda Leisy said she saw the situation as similar to prior significant commitments of county lodging funds, such as for the Champion’s Challenge rough-stock rodeo. “If I could have a dollar for every time they said Scotts Bluff County on the Cowboy Channel, we could both retire, and this is the same thing,” said Leisy. “Everybody in the state of Nebraska, plus even South Dakota and Wyoming, is going to know that this year’s Cattlemen’s Ball is in Scotts Bluff County.”
However, the vote approving the funding was split 3 to 2, with Commissioners Russ Reisig and Charlie Knapper dissenting.
Event organizers are anticipating several thousand attendees, with a good portion of those staying at local lodging in Scottsbluff, Gering and the surrounding area.
This year’s Cattlemen’s Ball will be June 7th & 8th, hosted by Scott & Kristin Schiff. Country superstar Collin Raye will headline the entertainment, along with Chancey Williams.
Details on the event and tickets can be found at https://cattlemensball.com/
