North side is scene of progress

Tuesday night's meeting of the McCook School District 17 Board of Education calls attention to the advance of work on the district's new $5.8 million kindergarten through third grade school building.

At the session, the board will get an update on construction and will discuss construction bids for pre-cast, steel material and steel erection.

Weather so far has been cooperating, so chances are good the construction crews will meet the August target date for completion of the structure at 1500 West Third Street.

This fall, the north part of town is where the action is from a construction standpoint. In addition to the school project, workers are in the midst of putting up an all-new building for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation at 1706 West Third.

When considered with the $5.8 million school project, the $1.7 million in building costs for the Bureau office adds up to $7.5 million in construction within the space of two and a half blocks. In combination, the projects represent a significant investment in the future of McCook.

Giving the United Way -- In the past few years, McCook has made a major turnaround with the United Way. In the not too distant past, making the goal was a problem, with the drive repeatedly falling short of goal despite the diligent efforts of volunteers.

But -- thanks to business, industry and bank support and teamwork by volunteers and employees -- the annual campaign has risen to new heights, surpassing the goal with generous, united giving.

Once again this year the McCook United Way has set a challenging goal. The target for giving is $87,000, up $2,000 from a year ago. It can be done. It should be done.

Eighteen different non-profit community services rely on the United Way for a major portion of their support. Let's do our part. Let's join in support of the essential worthy agencies which extend services to those in need.

Welcome Home, Jeff! -- All-American Jeff Kinney returned to the place where he started his athletic career, McCook High School, Sunday to offer his congratulations and best wishes to the Bison.

Do as you have been doing, Jeff said. "Play with passion." Throughout his career, which started at McCook Junior High and McCook High School, Kinney said he went all-out because of his love for the game. Add teamwork and unity -- which the Bison have in their 36-game winning streak -- and you have the winning combination.

Following graduation from MHS in 1968, Jeff went on the the University of Nebraska. His career culminated with selection as an All-American and a national championship for the Cornhuskers.

Kinney was in McCook for the opening of pheasant season and stopped by to visit the Bison at the suggestion of friends.