McCook Elementary third grader KayLeigh Steinbeck shovels dirt around the new “Little Devil” ninebark shrub that students planted Friday to recognize “Arbor Day 2018,” to observe “April: Safe Digging Month” and to honor the school’s winners of a state-wide poster contest that instructs anyone who digs a hole to “Call 811 Before You Dig.” Students and their teachers dressed like pirates — after learning how to dig safely for “treasures.” From “Nebraska811” — the state’s one-call communication point for anyone digging anywhere — Principal Greg Borland accepted a picnic bench and an underground utility safety award for the school’s practice of safe excavation guidelines.
Connie Jo Discoe/McCook Gazette
Winners of the poster contest judged by the board of directors of Nebraska811 are, from left, Jenna Niklason, Jackie Satler, Audrey Wilson and Arianna Pate.
Connie Jo Discoe/McCook Gazette