Head elf says Toy Box best in years

McCOOK, Neb. -- The McCook Toy Box giveaway at Memorial Auditorium this past weekend was the best one in a long time, according to event coordinator Barb Ostrum.

"It was awesome. Best one we've had in a long time," said Ostrum during Monday's meeting of the McCook City Council. Ostrum thanked city leaders for use of the auditorium and said 380 area children received gifts as a result.

Mayor Mike Gonzales said he was really impressed with the event and indicated the string of bicycles lined up inside the auditorium was an impressive sight. Volunteers reported some 720 hours of time spent on bike repairs in preparation for the giveaway.

Ostrum thanked a laundry list of local businesses, volunteers and church organizations, in addition to praising help received from Work Ethic Camp inmates.

Councilors thanked Ostrum for her time and energy invested in the event and she was quick to clarify it was a community event that she simply served as a vocal advocate for.

"It's not just me. The community has to come together," said Ostrum, adding light-heartedly, "but someone has to be the mouth."

The annual Toy Box event officially starts when donation dumpsters are placed around town immediately following Thanksgiving holiday, although Ostrum collects toys throughout the year.