CHEYENNE, Wyo. - Cheyenne's celebration of Frontier Days this weekend includes something extra to cheer about. The city is featured today (Friday) as one of the top ten most livable cities in America.



AARP The Magazine looked at a combination of affordability and quality of life in choosing communities. Cheyenne's cowboy culture, wide-open spaces and friendly neighborhoods boosted the score. Mayor Rick Kaysen is accepting the award on behalf of the city today, at the Frontier Days kickoff luncheon.



"It does not happen by accident, it happens by commitment, caring and follow-through. This recognition is kind of like the 'A-plus' grade, if I may, for all of the hard work that has gone on for a number of years."



Cheyenne's bragging rights include a low cost of living, no taxes on pensions, the Greenway, the Botanic Gardens, easy access to hunting and fishing, and popular community events, such as Frontier Days - featuring the world's largest outdoor rodeo - and the AARP National Spelling Bee.



Dale Steenbergen, executive director of the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, says the award is appreciated and the recognition is shared with all residents.



"It takes a community effort to make a great place to live and work and do business. And what makes a great place to retire, is also what makes a great place for families to live and businesses to relocate."



Other cities on the list include Wenatchee, Washington; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Midland, Texas.

