No shortage of entertainment, culture in our area

Southwest Nebraska is a long way from the night life in Omaha and Denver, let alone Broadway, but that doesn't mean there's any shortage of things to do.

We couldn't help but think of that point when we scanned Wednesday's front page, which carried no stories of crime or corruption, but did have six stories about special musical, historical and cultural events, some home-grown, some world class, but all worthwhile.

First, our apologies to two groups, one of which is conducting its annual membership drive, and another which was mistakenly part of the 60-point Impact headline.

For the record, the McCook Concert Association is again bringing four top-flight concerts to McCook, including a Native American bluegrass, country and Gospel band; a flute, viola and harp trio, a young Juilliard-trained piano and a folk-music singer-songwriter.

For a $45 adult, $90 family ticket ($10 for students), MCA members also have access to 10 other concerts at nearby cities, ranging from ABBA and Nat King Cole tributes, Sons of the Pioneers to John Davidson.

Check out Wednesday's story for contact information for tickets.

But that was only part of the page. The McCook Ministerial Association is bringing a life-size replica of the Tabernacle of the Wilderness to McCook Sept. 27-Oct. 6, and it promises to be an unique, memorable experience, especially for those of us who grew up hearing the story of Moses and the children of Israel. The display will occupy most of a vacant lot just south of Community Hospital, and will involve hundreds of local volunteers.

If basketball is more to your taste, the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce is bringing the Harlem Ambassadors to McCook Sept. 28 for an entertaining contest against local celebrities, as well as an inspirational example to local students and athletes.

While we're still having 100-degree high temperatures, it's not too early to start thinking about the holidays -- this Sunday would be a good time to start.

The McCook Area Community Choir will begin rehearsals at 1:30 p.m. at Memorial United Methodist Church at Norris and E in McCook. Anyone who likes to sing is welcome to be part of this local annual tradition.

Lest we rest on our laurels, planning for next year's Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival is already gaining momentum, with a welcome series of storytelling events each First Tuesday at the Bieroc Cafe. They begin Oct. 1 with college stories, followed months featuring stories about cowboys, theater, shopping, weddings, jokes and pranks, fables, folklore and fairy tales with fourth graders, and a May 6 sing-along concert with Peter, Chuck and Job.

The same page included delightful pictures of McCook Elementary students enjoying a lesson about bullying, delivered by the Nebraska Elks Kids on the Block puppet troupe.

We actually didn't have room for all the entertainment news available Wednesday, so check out an upcoming story submitted by Don Harpst about what promises to be a top-notch production of "Steel Magnolias," now being prepared by the Southwest Nebraska Community Theatre Association. We're always impressed with the quantity and quality of area talent that takes the stage at SWNCTA productions, and we're sure this one will rank right up there with the best.