Summer activities planned for kids at George Norris Home

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Classes at the George W. Norris Home in McCook will be offered throughout the summer, including a parade, crafts and making ice cream.

The classes will be tied to Sen. George Norris and give kids a chance to get re-acquanited with the famous senator from McCook, said Dawna Bates, site coordinator.

Each class will run about two hours, for kids from kindergarden through fourth grade. Registrations are on a first-come, first served basis. Registration slips are available at the Norris Home.

If classes are cancelled due to weather or other conditions, participants will be notified prior to the class and may choose to obtain a full refund or sign up for another available summer class.

Classes include:

Memorial Day, Saturday, May 26, 1:30-3:30, grades K to 4

Introducing kids to Memorial Day and the people at the heart of the holiday, kids will read a book "Memorial Day Surprise." They will also make a "poppy craft" and learn the tradition behind them. To close out their time, there will be a Memorial Day parade around Norris Park, with prizes for making patriotic posters to carry. Flags to carry will be provided....come dressed in your best Red, White and blue.

Etiquette with Miss Ellie - Thursday, June 21, grades K-2; Friday, June 22, grades 3-4, 1:30-4 p.m. each day

Dress in your best to practice greetings and introductions just like a senator's wife. Set a proper table and decorate your own placemat. Kids will play a game of "Polite Pigs" and or Tea Party bingo and make a Victorian table favor. We'll finish up with a "spot of tea" or maybe a lemonade party.

* Fourth of July - Tuesday, July 3, K-4, 1:30 - 3 p.m.

We'll learn about the American Flag and Independence Day. Come dressed to have fun with water games and outdoor play. We'll then try our hand at making homemade ice cream and a patriotic craft.

Pioneer Party - Thursday, July 26, K-4

Come dressed like a pioneer and experience what it was like for prairie children without electricity. Sen. Norris was a staunch advocate of bringing electricity to rural areas and kids will do chores the "old fashioned" way, play with toys of days past and other long forgotten games. Create a sunbonnet or straw hat with a few other surprises along the way.

More activities will be scheduled in August, Bates said.