Community focus turns to 2010 Bison Reunion, July 2-5

Now that the 2010 Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival is under the belt, and it was another enlightening experience in a long tradition of outstanding entertainment, it is time for the community to turn its focus to the 2010 Bison Reunion to be held July 2 to 5.

Actually, for a number of community leaders, it has been at the center of attention for many months now. While the celebration is the result of many hours of effort from a bunch of Bison alum, we would be remiss if we did not send out a special kudos to Cheri Beckenhauer for her part in organizing the event. Her vision, leadership and stamina have empowered others throughout the community to take the reins on different portions of the reunion, providing a weekend jam-packed full of a variety of activities. While the phrase may be often over-used, the 2010 Bison Reunion truly has "Something for Everyone."

Billed as the Ultimate Community Reunion Celebration, the event is for all current and former students, faculty, staff, board members and parents of alumni. Have you ever attended a Bison sporting event or musical program? Then you and your family are invited to celebrate the school that is unquestionably the glue that holds the community together.

McCook High School has helped to foster the imagination and creativity of its students, producing citizens with a variety of exceptional talents. Those talents will be apparent throughout the reunion celebration. The McCook Art Guild's Fine Arts Center will host an exhibition of alumni art work. The High Plains Museum will host an Alumni Author Adventure, where MHS authors can share their works.

Athletics are an important part of any high school experience, and the reunion is packed full of activities for the non-couch potatoes. Runners are encouraged to participate in the Culbertson Freedom Run; sand volleyball will be held in Kelley Park; softball at the Jaycee Complex; and visitors are encouraged to use the new MHS tennis courts, YMCA, Heritage Hills Golf Course, free swimming at McCook Municipal Pool, and the Kelly Park Walking Trail and Disc Golf course. Weiland Field will be open to allow Bison All-Stars to relive the glory days.

For the motor enthusiast, John Kugler will be meeting fellow bikers at Norris Park at 1 p.m. for a motorcycle fun run Saturday afternoon. There will also be a car and toy show Saturday evening in front of the Fox Theatre. A street dance and McCook Chamber of Commerce beer garden will round out Saturday evening on Norris Avenue.

Patriotism and service to our nation is another attribute that many MHS alum possess, and the Salute to America Military and Veterans is a program not to be missed. It will be held Sunday, July 4 at 2 p.m. in Norris Park. According to one of the organizers, Col. Linda Aldrich, it is a program that celebrates America and its military, all services. They are planning on recognizing all veterans, active duty and reserve and guards. The program includes involvement from the American Legion and Boy Scouts, and a patriotic musical program is also being planned by Charlie Coleman and Linda Wood. It promises to be an inspiration to all and a fitting tribute on our nation's Independence Day.

A barbeque Saturday evening at the Community Building at the fairgrounds precedes the McCook Optimist Club fireworks display.

Those are just a few of the highlights; more details will be coming in the next two weeks. If it sounds like a good time, you're encouraged to register online at www.mccook2010.com.