Annual Husker Tailgate Party showcases Husker Pride while helping children

Lorelei L. Bartling, Clerk Magistrate for Cheyenne County Court, passed away on January 11, 2022. Bartling served as Clerk Magistrate from July 1, 2010 until her death. She began her career with the judicial branch in 2006 as a records clerk in Cheyenne County Court, and throughout her years of service, she became known for her advocacy of children, particularly foster children, and her commitment to their well-being. She was one of the most highly respected and incredibly loved members of the entire community.

Bartling's family, deeply moved by her dedication, wanted to continue her legacy of supporting children. Her years of dedicated advocacy and involvement with PlainsWest CASA made a significant impact, especially as she worked on numerous cases involving foster children in Cheyenne County. So in her honor, her family established the Lori Bartling Memorial Fund.

For the past three years, PlainsWest CASA has been entrusted with administering this fund, offering scholarships to youth who have received foster care, guardianship, or adoption services in Cheyenne, Kimball, and Deuel Counties. The scholarships help cover education expenses such as tuition, books, computers, housing, and most importantly, empowering these youth to pursue higher education and job training.

The scholarships are available to students from their freshman to senior years of college or vocational training. This year, the Lori Bartling Memorial Fund is proud to support three students: a senior at Doane College, an upcoming freshman at Wayne State College, and a student attending cosmetology school in Texas.

In helping to continue Bartling's legacy and raise funds for this impactful scholarship program, PlainsWest CASA will be hosting the 3rd Annual Husker Tailgate Party on October 19th at the Lazy S Ranch. The day promises to be filled with Husker pride, delicious food, a cash bar, door prizes, games, and fun for all ages! Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for kids under 10, which includes sloppy joe, wings, games, and a chance to win door prizes. Doors open at 9:00 AM for a 10:00 AM kickoff, with a double-header event as the volleyball game follows after the football game.

Last year, nearly $4,000 was raised by the group, and the current goal for this year is $5,000+. All proceeds from the event will support the PlainsWest CASA Scholarship Program, helping foster youth in our community achieve their educational dreams.

If you are unable to attend but would still like to support the scholarship fund, donations can be mailed to PlainsWest CASA, P.O. Box 647, Sidney, NE 69162, or sent via Venmo to @PlainsWestCASA-Events (code 5658).

Ticket information is available at http://www.ticketsource.us/plainswest-casa

Applications for 2025 scholarships will be available in April 2025. For more details, please contact [email protected].