Straw poll

The Cheyenne County Ladies Chamber put on a scarecrow contest in 1999, and it has since become an annual tradition.

The contest judges entries on originality, color, design and construction, but must include straw, corn shucks or raffia to maintain some of the traditional appearance of scarecrows. The contest has three divisions: individuals, organizations and businesses.

Prizes are given for first, second and third place in each of the divisions. Fifty dollars is given to the first place winners, $35 for second and $15 for third. Entries are not allowed to have any advertising due to rules governing Highway 30, but a 3x5 index card with the name of the organization or business may be included.

Entries are due by September 27 and the scarecrows need to be up on light poles by noon on October 2 to be judged. The Ladies Chamber will contact entrants with their assigned poles for scarecrows being displayed in Sidney.

The scarecrow contest is open to all who live in Cheyenne County. Entries can be placed in the cities outlining Sidney, but need to be called in so they can be judged along with the other entries.

All entries must be securely fastened while on display and must be taken down by October 20 before the heavy snow starts.

Entries have been low the last few years, so the women of the Ladies Chamber would like as many people as possible to submit entries. This contest adds flair to the Oktoberfest festivities and shows a sense of pride for Cheyenne County.