Republicans Hold County Convention

Cheyenne County Republican leaders met in convention this week, choosing its leadership and delegates to the state convention in June.

Part of the lightly-attended gathering included discussion to draw more participants into the party fold.

"It's a non-election year, so there isn't a very big turnout," said Bernie Fehringer, a long-time member of the party's leadership team.

Fehringer said part of the party's work over the next couple of years should be to grow active members prior to the 2020 election.

"We take it for granted, being a red county," said Sharon Fehringer. The Fehringers said they would like to see the Cheyenne County, and other western Nebraska counties, develop a presence "that can be felt across the state."

"We need to be stronger to offset the votes in Omaha," Bernie said.

The party did draw a couple of newcomers into active participation. Ashley Rodewald, who attended as an observer and a supporter for candidate Sybil Prosser, was invited to serve as the party's secretary when new officers were chosen.

During election of officers, Peggy Popps was again chosen as the local party chair, while Bernie Fehringer got the nod as vice-chair. Rodewald will serve as secretary, and Sean Doyle was picked to be treasurer. All the assignments are for two years.

Prosser was the only candidate for the upcoming elections to appear at the convention, outlining her platform and qualifications. Prosser is one of two candidates for Cheyenne County Assessor. She is the current assessor, being appointed by the Cheyenne County Commissioners in 2016.

Other candidates, including Gov. Pete Ricketts, Senator Deb Fischer, Congressman Adrian Smith and others sent letters to the convention outlining their qualifications and asking for local support.

The group picked delegates to the Nebraska Convention. Popps, Bernie Fehringer and Sharon Fehringer will be Cheyenne County's delegates, whole Doyle, Rachel Forester and newcomer Prosser were chose as alternates.