Celebrations coming at a good time

Southwest Nebraska is moving into one of the worst droughts in decades, if not centuries. The state is in a budget crisis which threatens needed services. Agriculture is in a crisis, stockholders have lost a large portion of their holdings' value, terrorism remains a threat and there is talk of a war with Iraq.

It may not be a time for optimism, perhaps, but it is not time to throw in the towel. It is time for determination, a time to plan, a time to get to work, seek the help we need and lend a hand to those who need it.

It is also a time to take pleasure in what we have. To enjoy our family and friends, honor the sacrifices and successes of those who went before, and find ways to brighten what can be dark times.

It all seems to be coming together for Southwest Nebraska as we move through county fair days, community celebrations and into the fall sports season.

McCook residents turned out in droves Thursday night to hear the Saggy Bottom Boys perform at the latest Hot Summer Nights performance sponsored by McCook National Bank and the McCook Chamber of Commerce. An estimated 900 people filled Norris Park on a rare cool, pleasant evening to enjoy the country bluegrass tunes. Upcoming concerts are set for Aug. 15 and 29 as the series continues.

But there also will be plenty of reasons for "looking up" as season continues, with two major aeronautical events added to the fall menu.

Heritage Days visitors will have a an opportunity to enjoy seeing two extremely rare, airworthy aircraft -- a B-29 and a B-24 -- which played a key role in McCook's history. The B-29, FiFi, is the only flying example of the superbomber which ended the war with Japan. Almost equally rare is the other bomber, a Liberator, which, like the B-29, was used by crews training at the McCook Army Air Base 60 years ago. The two, owned by the recently renamed Commemorative Air Force, will be in McCook Sept. 23-29, the leading up to Heritage Days. Tours of the priceless living antiques will be available for a nominal admission fee.

"Heartland of America -- McCook" is the theme of this year's Heritage Days celebration, set Sept. 27-29.

If that weren't enough, as many as 30 balloons could turn out for the second annual High Plains Freedom Flight, set for Oct. 18-20. Organizer John Kugler has invited his friend, Steve Fossett to attend. Fossett recently set a world record by flying around the world, solo, in a balloon, and is currently attempting to set an altitude record in a glider.

So, let's pray for rain, a rebound in the stock market, a peaceful settlement to conflicts in the Middle East and safety from terrorism.

And, let's get ready to enjoy ourselves at some exceptional upcoming community celebrations.