Editorial

Congratulation s to high-flyers

Friday, March 4, 2005

McCook shares the pride in Steve Fossett's around the world solo flight without stopping or refueling. Fossett endeared himself to McCook area residents in 2002 when he came here for the first High Plains Freedom Flight.

The adventurer took part in the freedom flight as a favor to his friend, John Kugler, a McCook businessman and balloon enthusiast. Now, John is returning the favor. He traveled to Salina, Kan. this week for both the takeoff and landing following Fossett's 67-hour around the world flight.

Reached in Salina this morning, Kugler was ecstatic about his friend's accomplishment. "The human endurance it took to complete this flight is incredible," Kugler said. "But Steve showed little effect. He hopped out of the cockpit after landing and didn't even wobble. He signed autographs, took a short nap and then joined the celebration. He was still going strong when I left."

There must be something in the Kansas air to inspire historic flights. Before flying to fame, Charles Lindberg, lived briefly in Bird City, Kan.

Our congratulations go out to Steve Fossett and his many friends and helpers, including John Kugler of McCook. Their efforts have led to another history-making aviation accomplishment.

Way To Go, Broncos! -- It's a thrill just to reach the state tournament, and many schools wait for years before making their first appearance. That makes this year's accomplishment by the Wauneta-Palisade girls and boys basketball teams doubly impressive.

Both the boys and girls teams from Wauneta-Palisade have earned trips to the state tournament, with the girls competing this weekend and the boys going to the state show next week.

Congratulations go out to the student athletes and their parents, coaches, school mates and community supporters.

The Bronco girls began tournament play in impressive fashion, defeating Overton, 54-35, in the first round of the D-1 state tournament in Lincoln. The Lady Broncos play again tonight, facing Humphrey St. Francis in the semi-finals. The game will be at Pershing Auditorium in Lincoln, beginning at 9 p.m.

Anyone who's even been associated with a state tournament team knows the great amount of dedication and effort that is required. For one school to reach state in both boys and girls basketball is a rare feat and a compliment to all involved in the accomplishment.

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