Special assignments reap valuable rewards for bargain hunters

Two Gazette staffers were sent on a special assignment yesterday morning. They were sent to the streets of McCook with a mere $20 each and asked to find the best bargains and most unusual items available at the annual Crazy Days sidewalk sales. One bargain hunter came back with 75 cents in change after purchasing four (yes, four) shirts for $19.25. The other one returned 95 cents after purchasing a purple and green chip-and-dip bowl complete with black bean-and-rice-chips and corn relish dip.

The McCook Area Chamber of Commerce and participating merchants are to be commended for their efforts to make this year's Crazy Days events something special. Going above and beyond the call of duty, the retail committee and chamber staff have worked hard to be sure the annual shopping extravaganza includes something for everyone.

The three-day promotion began yesterday with many stores opening early to serve the shopping strategists who are willing to sacrifice a few hours of sleep for the reward of the very best deal. Those determined bargain hunters were greeted by sales staff who embraced the spirit of craziness by dressing up in costume. Congratulations go to the staff of Sehnert's Bakery and Bieroc Café for winning the costume contest with their '80's music tribute. Totally gnarly, dudes!

Tonight's performance at the Fox Theater, which begins at 8 p.m., is a new addition to the festivities and is sure to live up to its moniker, Crazy Nights. Crazy Cal Siegfried and Fabulous Fannie Roe will be acting as host and hostess for the evening, so expect the unexpected. You set your own price for admission through a free will donation to benefit the Fox renovation project.

Job Vigil, Peter Rogers and Chuck Salestrom of North Platte will add their musical talents to the night's entertainment. The musical trio plays a broad range of music in a laid-back, sing-along style. They will be joined by the musical and comedic antics of the Prairie Statesmen Chorus. A highlight of the evening will be a mystery award presentation by Mayor Dennis Berry.

Saturday also promises to be a fun time in McCook. Hot temperatures and hot bargains continue - if you don't see anything outside, be sure to check inside where the air conditioners are sure to be on full force.

In addition, Schmick's Market is hosting BBQ, Bands, & Brew Festival in their parking lot starting at 5 p.m. Circus tents will provide a shaded place to mingle with friends while eating barbecue ribs, steak sandwiches, hamburgers and hot dogs; and a large portion of the parking lot will be paneled off for dancing and listening to the bands. Co-sponsoring the activities with Schmick's are McCook National Bank and Crop Production Services. Jesse Stevens of DJ Express will provide sound services.

Wednesday's Gazette contained our annual Crazy Days insert, highlighting some of the outstanding bargains being offered by McCook retailers. And just to add a little fun to the insert, be sure to fill out the "Here's the Scoop Scavenger Hunt" form on page 2 of the insert. Return it to the Gazette by next Wednesday to be entered into a drawing for Nook e-reader.

These types of activities don't just happen. The leadership of the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce and the initiative demonstrated by local businesses are responsible for the fun and excitement. While they are here to serve us every day, their extended efforts for this year's Crazy Day and Crazy Nights events have not gone unnoticed.