Senior recognized by television station

McCOOK, Neb. -- A McCook High School senior was recently highlighted by a Nebraska television news show.

Nick Cole was recently chosen as "Farm Youth of the Month" by NTV News, said McCook School Board member Teresa Thomas at the regular board meeting Monday night.

In addition to owning and operating his own fencing business, Cole has also competed state-wide and nationally as a FFA member, Thomas said.

Another shout-out came Monday night from board member Diane Lyons, who thanked parents and members of the public for sharing their opinion with the board, whether by attending meetings, calling them on the phone or writing them. Lyons acknowledged "It's not always easy" but that the board does appreciated it.

"It allows the board to see other sides of issues we may not be aware of," she said.

Other recognitions by McCook School Board members and administrators included:

* Brian Esch: congratulated Stu Co representative Isaac Langan for qualifying in state swimming. Esch said he is "a huge fan" of extra-curricular activities that benefit students and the community alike. Earlier in the meeting, Esch said he recently spoke with executives of Union Pacific Railroad and its union and he is convinced now more ever about the benefits of vocational education for high school students, as an alternative to the typical college track.

* Loretta Hauxwell: appreciative of parents' voices in all aspects of education

* Bob Elder: Aubry Sydow recently placed runner-up in the state journalism competition; complimented Matt Wiemers and Joel Bednar for coaching the girls basketball team.

* Isaac Langan, StuCo representative: cited Bill Ramsay's compter classes and "Strive TV" classes at the high school.

* business manager Rick Haney: recognized the maintenance staff for their work on the bathrooms and all the work they do over the summer

* Superintendent Grant Norgaard: commended speech instructor Amanda Davidson and the high school speech/drama teams.