America at 250: A time to respect, remember and celebrate

At this time of the year, 250 years ago, a group of curmudgeons who were frustrated with taxation found common purpose with starry-eyed idealists who were students of the enlightenment. The results of their combined efforts addressed the tax problem – for a time – but also created a form of government based on the concepts of liberty, fundamental human rights, and self-determination. The actions of the few upended millennia of feudalism, rigid socioeconomic stratification and cruelty.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, communities across the nation are preparing to mark the milestone with a variety of celebrations and educational events. Nationally, “America250” is spearheading efforts to recognize and celebrate the diverse stories that make up our nation’s history.

Nebraska has taken steps to ensure a meaningful observance through the Semiquincentennial Commission, established by the Legislature in 2021. The commission, composed of 17 members, including the Director of the Nebraska State Historical Society, is charged with developing programs and plans to commemorate the occasion. Working alongside the national America250 initiative, Nebraska’s efforts will contribute to a nationwide reflection on our past, a renewed commitment to our democratic ideals, and a heck of a birthday party.

While large-scale celebrations are being planned at the state and national levels, the heartbeat of the commemoration lies in our local communities. McCook and our surrounding villages have a rich tradition of honoring Independence Day. In recent years, however, McCook has ceded the Independence Day spotlight to very deserving Culbertson, which hosts an admirable Fourth of July celebration. Similarly, just over the border, Oberlin, Kansas, has upheld a tradition of performing John Philip Sousa marches in the park – though, regrettably, without the dramatic finale of the 1812 Overture.

Looking further back, McCook once had its own distinctive July Fourth traditions. During Phil Lyons’ tenure as mayor, the city hosted a simple yet classic celebration in Norris Park, offering watermelon and ice cream – reminiscent of the historic gatherings that once included public readings of the Declaration of Independence. Though that tradition did not endure, the spirit of community and commemoration it represented is precisely what we should strive to revive as we approach our 250th anniversary.

We now invite our local governments – city, county, and nearby villages – as well as our cornerstone community organizations to step forward with their plans and contributions to America’s 250th birthday. Schools, churches, chambers of commerce, the artistic district, the community foundation, scouting groups, veterans’ associations, and service clubs all have a role to play in creating a meaningful celebration.

The semiquincentennial presents an opportunity to incorporate history, education, and civic pride into a yearlong series of events that highlight McCook’s unique place in the American story. Whether through historical exhibits, public lectures, youth involvement projects, or community service initiatives, we encourage all groups to think creatively about how they can contribute to this once-in-a-generation observance.

The McCook Gazette is eager to serve as a hub for sharing these plans with the community. We invite organizations to share their initiatives, calls for action, and scheduled events – not only for July 4, 2026, but for any activities leading up to and throughout the anniversary year. Let’s come together to make this celebration something truly memorable. As America’s 250th birthday approaches, McCook has a unique opportunity to honor its history, pride, and spirit with a celebration worthy of the occasion Let’s get to work.