Stories from Thursday, July 17, 2025

McCOOK, Neb. — The Commanders broke free for four touchdowns from 35 to 75 yards during a 33-13 opening MFL win over the Eagles Wednesday evening. Mack Bednar’s 65-yard burst and ensuing PAT run made it 7-0 for those Eagles. Yet the Commanders began countering when Jaxson Butler threw a 73-yard scoring strike to Teagan Strauch...

McCOOK, Neb. — Like many great McCook Bison teams, defense was the name of the Cowboys’ game throughout their 14-0 MFL win over the Rams Wednesday evening. The Cowboys didn’t waste any time erasing any memories of an 0-3 Cowboys team in 2024. These new players tallied two first half touchdowns both on runs from Jayce Riggs covering nine and six yards...

McCOOK, Neb. - Former McCook Public Schools teacher Sharon Bohling addressed the school board Monday night with concerns about the district’s hiring of non-certified staff. A certified educator with 38 years of experience, Bohling spoke candidly about the teacher shortage and how it has affected local districts’ ability to hire qualified, certificated staff...

McCOOK, Neb. - Fire Chief Marc Harpham has concerns about Lithium-ion batteries and he thinks we should too. Lithium-ion batteries are used in many household items—from phones and tools to vacuums and toys—thanks to their compact size and high energy capacity. Newer uses include robotic cleaners, solar storage, and backup power. Though generally safe, they can pose fire risks if damaged or overcharged, so experts recommend charging on hard, nonflammable surfaces and avoiding overnight charging...

To say “There is a lot going on in McCook right now” is an understatement. Everywhere you look, there is construction equipment, dirt piles and supply trucks. Not to mention numerous porta-potties and random holes in the ground. West First Street in downtown McCook is like an obstacle course some days, as you weave around the boom trucks and cement trucks for Community Hospital’s new student housing complex, ROOTS. ...

Last week, the City of McCook announced the temporary closure of Karrer Park, a long-standing free camping area on the city’s east side, citing “public safety concerns” and visitor reports of unsettling behavior. While officials stopped short of confirming specific incidents, they did reference vandalism to restroom locks and other security measures, and acknowledged that the park has seen an increase in long-term occupancy by individuals who were not simply passing through...

Megan Leann Hinson, age 32, passed away on July 9, 2025, in El Cajon, CA. Born on May 13, 1993, Megan had a creative spirit and a wild heart that touched many lives. Her vibrant personality and sense of humor made her unforgettable to those who knew her well. Megan faced challenges with mental health and substance use, and despite her courage and determination, she was unable to overcome the challenges she faced...

Eric T. “Smitty” Smith, 60, of McCook, Nebraska, passed away July 12, 2025, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska. He was born February 22, 1965, in Lyons, Kansas, the son of Carl and Josephine (Limones) Smith. Eric graduated from Lyons High School, with the class of 1983. After graduation, he joined the United States Army. Eric relocated to McCook, Nebraska several years ago, formerly of Lyons. He worked at Kugler Company in McCook, Nebraska...

Randy Jacob Stalder, age 70, of Beaver City, Nebraska passed away Monday, July 14, 2025, at Beaver City Manor in Beaver City, Nebraska. He was born February 26, 1955, at Norton, Kansas to Leo Jacob and Jerry Lou (Spratling) Stalder. He was raised on the family farm in the Beaver City area and graduated from Beaver City High School with the Class of 1973. Following graduation, he entered the United States Navy, where he served his country for 4 years becoming an extremely skilled machinist...