Dream big, take a chance and work together

Dear Editor,

Community … it is all about listening and connecting with each other.

This all came to a head on Oct.11 during the information session in regard to the election for a pool and ballpark proposal. There was a panel of persons on the Evangelical Free Church stage, representing all of the people who have spent many hours on the project.

The project will be covered by a one-half-cent increase in the sales tax. Everyone is involved instead of just property owners. I heard the College President say that the college baseball program will support the project. I heard the McCook School Supt. express support from the school system. I heard City of McCook staff speak for the project.

I heard a representative of the former swimming pool committee. Ronda Graff explained pool need very well. “If you are flying over the 85-year-old McCook pool it looks like a keeper but if you go inside you will see why it is closed.”

On the following Wednesday, I was told by a Councilman that the old pool leaked enough water every two days in the amount that would fill the city water tower. That is a lot of water and chemicals going to waste.

Although there are several ball fields in McCook there remains a major problem of accommodating for all the needs, especially practice fields. The needs are significant enough that several million dollars have been pledged by donors if the project passes.

The time has come for a public decision by voting. Previous elections indicate that there is a shortage of votes coming from the 25-45 age group. Well, here is a chance for them to get registered and vote.

Last week the McCook Community Foundation Fund voted to grant funds that would provide free admission to everyone coming to the new pool. They also voted to pay for lifeguard training for anyone working at the YMCA or the new city pool. This and other planned gifts will be available if the voters vote a majority yes.

I commend the groups that put all the information together in support of the project. This is an opportunity for community growth and an open welcome mat for all potential citizens. It will take our community forward for present and future generations.

Additionally, it has taken me more than 35 years to finally give thanks to a person who unknowingly has been my McCook mentor. Thank you, Allen Strunk, for your examples of community encouragement and the act of giving back. Now, McCook has the opportunity to follow the example Allen and his family provided for years—dream big, take a chance and work together to get things done. Now, McCook has the opportunity to follow the example Allen and his family provided for years—dream big, take a chance and work together to get things done.

And thank you McCook Gazette

Don Harpst,

McCook, Neb.