The Custer County Ag Society board met Thursday night in the shooting sports building on the fairgrounds in Broken Bow.
The audit process, although currently incomplete, was reported to be progressing smoothly.
Troy Walz shared updates from various committees. The sheep showing has been approved to move to 4 p.m., followed by the FFA sheep showing at 5 p.m., ensuring a smoother schedule for participants. Walz mentioned a new initiative encouraging 4-H council kids to help pick up trash in barns. In a blend of education and function, the Sargent FFA will be making the new manure baskets, incorporating elements from their welding classes.
Looking ahead, the Winter Ball will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Tickets will be sold for $50 each or $360 for a table of eight. Attendees can anticipate an evening with a band, delectable entrees and appetizers, and the ever-popular “split the pot” game.
In an exciting update, the tractor pull has been scheduled for Sunday, August 10, featuring the Outlaw Heartland crew.
Plans for a demo derby, last held with the Broken Bow Chamber in 2016, are still under discussion. The Ag Society and Broken Bow Chamber are discussing splitting the costs down the middle. With an estimated total cost of $20,000 each, both entities are considering shared expenses. Before moving forward, the board decided to get more information on possible dates.
In terms of practical updates, the board approved the purchase of a new $509 laptop with Windows 11 Pro, replacing an aging model from 2009.
The meeting featured significant leadership transitions for 2025. Brian Palmer was elected the new President after just recently being added to the board. Both Casey Cooksley and Rodney Lamb respectfully declined nominations for President. Casey Cooksley accepted the role of Vice President, while Bonnie Winters was appointed Treasurer, and Blair Ryan was appointed Secretary.
Leah Peterson reached out to the board, proposing a t-shirt fundraising effort, which would launch at the Winter Ball aiming to generate funds for the fairgrounds without incurring expenses for the Ag Society.
A moment of appreciation was reserved for County Supervisor Dwain Bryner and his wife Deb, who attended their last official meeting. The board expressed gratitude for their contributions and dedication over the years.
Before adjourning at 8:29 p.m., members discussed the board’s planning workshop. The board approved the meeting for Sunday, January 12, at 3 p.m., an event open to the public.
The next board meeting is January 9, 2025 beginning at 7 PM.
