Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper
Amanda Easterly and Vivinne enjoy the special evening.
Brixton Butts
Hazel Goding
Robinson Family write down their vote for either Team Red or Team Green.
Theo Jessen enjoys taking his time at the coloring table.
Kelsey Arrington
Sidney Sun-Telegraph
There is much to be said about a small town during the holidays; from the warm greetings from strangers to the simplicity of Christmas magic in the evening air, all are welcome home. Working to incorporate this sense of holiday spirit and cheer into the lives of all who call Sidney home, Kendra Mitchell has created a winter wonderland, welcoming everyone, with the help of countless helpers and volunteers.
For its second year at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds, the All is Bright holiday tour is sparkling in its 2024 season. Filled with new sights and precise details, the program has received extensive donations from individuals and businesses to create a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience. Going the extra mile to make this an extra special holiday season, Mitchell envisioned incorporating a sensory night into the holiday calendar.
Originally inspired by an article about the El Paso County Fair, the native Texan who jokes about never having been to El Paso, decided to try and integrate the concept into Sidney's own Christmas event. "In the article, they mentioned that special hours were held during their carnival where loud noises and flashing lights were dimmed to allow people that require special accommodations the opportunity to enjoy that type of environment since they would not normally be able to do so". Mitchell recounts, "That's when the gears began to turn and I thought, what if Sidney offers a similar experience?"
As this was the first year of offering the sensory night, Mitchell says it will serve as a trial run. "I contacted local Special Ed teachers and guidance counselors," Mitchell comments, "We planned for a Thursday on purpose, to avoid large crowds."
According to medicalnewstoday.com, sensory overload is described as: "An overstimulation of one or more of the body's five senses." Symptoms can include: anxiety, agitation, loss of focus, discomfort, and fear but can vary in all cases. Sensory overload is most commonly experienced by people with: autism, ADHD, PTSD, sensory processing disorder, or other conditions.
Sensory overload occurs when the brain struggles to interpret, prioritize, or process sensory inputs. The brain then communicates to the body that it is time to escape the sensory inputs causing feelings of unease and panic.
Symptoms for persons experiencing sensory overload may include:
- Irritability and restlessness
- Avoiding specific places or situations
- Closing the eyes
- Covering the face
- Extensive crying
- Placing hands over the ears
- Inability to converse or connect
- Running away
According to autismnebraska.org, the CDC reported in March of 2023 that one in 36 children received an autism diagnosis. A continued increase, while diagnostic screening and identification are improving in some ways, the prevalence rate continues to rise. It is reported that children who receive an autism diagnosis by age four are more likely to receive services that lead to improved long-term outcomes.
But why is it so important to create a sensory night? By creating a calming environment with controlled sensory imparts like dimmed lights, soft sounds, calming textures, and relaxing activities, the experience becomes possible for everyone. Helping the brain to wind down and relax helps decrease sensory overload.
All is Bright Sensory Night premiered Thursday, December 12, 2024, to a warm and receptive crowd. According to the positive feedback already received, the special event is sure to delight next season as well. Mitchell is adamant to point out the numerous volunteers and donations that have contributed to the continued success of All is Bright, "There's a tree sitting on my porch at home right now," she comments with a laugh.
This weekend will be the final night of All is Bright for the year with an Open Mic Night on Saturday 21st and a live nativity scene on Sunday, the 22nd.
Cheyenne County native, local business owner.
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