top of page

All Posts


AJ Larington Launches Highly Anticipated Sequel in The Wynera Kingdom Series
McCOOK, Neb. – Fantasy enthusiasts are celebrating as AJ Larington releases the second installment of her captivating series, The Wynera Kingdom, titled Song of Sin and Orchids. Following the success of her debut novel, Land of Shadow and Wolves, which made the Barnes & Noble bestsellers list shortly after its release last October, Larington's latest work has generated significant buzz, culminating in a sold-out hardcover edition at last night’s early release party. Just five

Anna LaBay
Mar 7, 20253 min read
McCook City Council Approves Ordinance to Facilitate Workforce Housing Development
McCook, NE – The McCook City Council has approved the first reading of ordinance 2025-3096, a measure designed to streamline the process of conveying city-owned real estate and personal property to qualifying economic development organizations. This action signals a significant step forward in addressing the city's need for diverse housing options, particularly workforce housing. During the council meeting, City Manager Nate Schneider provided background information, explain

Anna LaBay
Mar 4, 20252 min read


The Rustic Market on 1st is Open
New store opens on West 1st

Anna LaBay
Feb 5, 20252 min read


City Council Update: Progress on Sports Complex and Community Development
McCOOK Neb. - City Manager Nate Schneider provided a comprehensive update on the developments surrounding the much-anticipated sports complex in McCook at last night’s City Council meeting. Schneider began by sharing exciting news from a recent conversation with Mammoth and the Sports Facility Company, who are set to conduct a feasibility study for the city. This study will analyze data to assess the potential economic impact of the new sports complex on the community, inc

Anna LaBay
Feb 4, 20252 min read


Find it in McCook
A poem inspired by Invitation by Shel Silverstein.

Anna LaBay
Feb 3, 20251 min read
MPCC Deans List
Friday, January 24, 2025 A total of 154 students qualified for the Mid-Plains Community College Dean’s List during the 2024 fall semester. To make the list, students had to complete 12 or more applicable credit hours of college-level courses and maintain an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 – 3.89 on a 4.0 scale. The qualifiers were: Nebraska Alliance – Caeson Clarke, Taytom Timbers Anselmo – Steven Burnett Arcadia – Kristi Casper Arnold – Samuel Peterson Brady – Edmon

Anna LaBay
Jan 25, 20252 min read
Reviving History Through Art
McCOOK, Neb. – The Station Taphouse and Eatery is more than just a restaurant; it represents a deep connection to the local community and its historical significance. Recently revitalized by Jesse Pierson and his fiancée, McKenzie Schmitz, this establishment—previously known as The Loop Brewing Company—has undergone considerable renovations that honor its rich past while embracing future culinary possibilities. At the core of this transformation is a stunning new mural that

Anna LaBay
Jan 22, 20252 min read
Sports Complex Project Moves Forward with New Developments.
McCook Neb. - The McCook City manager provided an encouraging update on the highly anticipated Sports Complex project during a recent council meeting. The manager reported a productive series of discussions over the past few weeks, signaling that the project is progressing more rapidly than initially expected. On January 8, city officials met with college representatives and sports construction firms for the first time, fostering a collaborative dialogue aimed at integrating

Anna LaBay
Jan 21, 20252 min read
City Audit Highlights Growth and Stability
McCOOK Neb. - Marcy Luth with AMGL CPAs and Advisors out of Grand Island presented the Audit report for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2024. The comprehensive audit, conducted by independent auditors, was a critical examination of the city's financial statements, offering valuable insights into its overall financial health. The auditors provided an unmodified opinion, signifying that the financial statements accurately reflect the city’s financial position. This positive o

Anna LaBay
Jan 20, 20252 min read


The Nonpartisan Legacy of George Norris
McCOOK Neb. - In a thought-provoking event held Sunday, Jan. 10, 2024, attendees gathered to explore the nonpartisan legacy of George Norris, a pivotal figure in Nebraska’s legislative history. The event was hosted by The Norris Institute, the Museum of the High Plains, and the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS), bringing together a community eager to reflect on the past while considering the future of governance. Dr. Peter Longo, an esteemed professor with over 40

Anna LaBay
Jan 20, 20252 min read


Gov. Pillen Visit to McCook
During a town hall meeting at The Coppermill Restaurant, Governor Jim Pillen articulated his vision for Nebraska's future, focusing on four crucial priorities for the coming year: supporting children, cutting taxes, bolstering agriculture, and maintaining traditional values. Shortly after recovering from a horse-riding accident, Pillen had the opportunity to meet with President-Elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, where they enjoyed a three-and-a-half-hour dinner that covered a

Anna LaBay
Jan 17, 20252 min read


School Board- Jan. 13, 2025
McCook Neb. – The McCook Board of Education began its meeting with the swearing-in of newly elected members. Incumbent and former Board President Brad Hays, along with newcomers Amanda Buhr and Jesse Juenemann, took the oath of office administered by Grant Norgaard. The Board then held officer elections, selecting Brad Hays as President, Scott Barger as Vice President, and Mike Langan as Secretary. Jeff Gross was reappointed as Treasurer and Recording Secretary. Norgaard clar

Anna LaBay
Jan 15, 20253 min read


The intersection of art and therapy
This article was originally published in the McCook Gazette on Feb. 09, 2024. McCook, Neb. - Geraldine Brown, is a multifaceted individual with a deep-seated passion for art and mental health, is currently being showcased in the ‘Vault” at the McCook Art Guild this month. Known not only for her artistic skills but also for her extensive background in counseling and therapy, Brown seamlessly intertwines her two passions to create pieces that speak volumes about human emotions

Anna LaBay
Nov 12, 20242 min read


“She’s Emmy in Pink”
This article was originally published on Jan. 02, 2024, in the McCook Gazette . McCOOK, Neb.- As the sun gently filters through her home office window, artist Emily Lytle, adorned in a vibrant pink sweater, sits at her desk surrounded by her artistic sanctuary. Her workspace harmoniously melds with her favorite hue, from the pink desk chair to the blinds and various accents, including an eye-catching pink Stanley mug. The influence of the iconic films "The Breakfast Club" an

Anna LaBay
Nov 12, 20244 min read


Local artists showing in Omaha
This article was originally published Nov. 14, 2024 in the McCook Gazette Two of McCook’s artists, Karmon Johnson and Vera Hanson, are currently featured in Nebraska Folk and Traditional Arts: A Sampling - an exhibition in the Fred Simon Gallery in downtown Omaha, through Nov. 29. Nebraska Folk and Traditional Artists: A Sampling showcases the work of ten folk and traditional artists who create in diverse methods and media and live throughout Omaha, Lincoln, and greater Ne

Anna LaBay
Nov 12, 20244 min read
bottom of page