Newcomer's social to feature grilled cheese contest

The Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce is holding the 16th annual Newcomer’s Social on September 26th at Sidney High School.

The Newcomer’s Social originated to help people new to town—due to Cabela’s, the hospital or otherwise—meet people and get acclimated.

“We know that it’s a big adjustment to move to a new community,” Cheryl Jones said.

The social is for those who are new to town within the last two years. Last year, around 40-50 newcomers showed up at the event. The Chamber of Commerce has sent out 300 postcards. They give the postcards to newcomers when they appear to pay for utilities for the first time.

The social consists of a meal, games and a grilled cheese contest. There are roasters of chili and tomato soup, along with chips and drinks. All the games award prizes to newcomers, which are donated by local businesses. One of the games is guessing quantities of different items in jars. Winners of the guessing jar games get to keep the contents or a different prize that’s more desirable.

The grilled cheese contest replaced the chili cook off of years past. The Chamber of Commerce decided to change the competition to a more “trendy” food item. Each team of contestants get one hour to grill 25 sandwiches to hand out to those attending the social. The winners of the contest receive a trophy and team t-shirts. To enter the contest, call the Chamber at (308) 254-5851.

At the social, booths will be set up by different organizations to share what they are all about.

Many businesses work together throughout town to put on the Newcomer’s Social. At the event, the mayor and city manager will welcome newcomers.

All those new to the community should check out the event and get a free meal.