Wonderful use of a valuble community assest

Can it be that the long, hot summer is over?

With 80-degree temperatures forecast for the next couple of days, and 90s over the Labor Day weekend, there's no danger of frostbite any time soon.

But those strings of 100-plus days won't have to be endured any more this year -- we hope.

It's a great time to get out doors and truly enjoy all of those activities we couldn't partake of, back in the traditional vacation times of June and July.

With this weekend the traditional close of the summer season, why not get out and enjoy the outdoors one more time before fall activities arrive in earnest?

Closer to home, how about a trip to Norris Park? Thursday night would be a good night to do so; 7:30 p.m. is curtain time for the final Hot Summer Nights concert, sponsored by McCook National Bank and the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce.

Local group Blackwater Haze will perform classic rock 'n roll with a little country thrown in for good measure. If the three previous concerts are any measure, you might want to arrive early to find a good spot to place your lawn chair. Don't worry if you can't, however, the park provides acres of good seating and the sound system always assures an enjoyable concert. And, we're sure the chamber's ice cream will be delicious as ever.

It won't be long until Norris Park experiences its heaviest use of the year, with Heritage Days only a month away. The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life and other activities keep the park busy earlier in the summer, but Hot Summer Nights is a wonderful use of a valuable community asset.

Hats off to the bank and the chamber for putting the Norris Park bandshell to good use -- the use for which it was originally intended. Be sure to let them know how much you appreciate their free summer concert series.