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McCook Chamber shines in 2024 under new leadership
McCOOK, Neb. - As 2025 approaches, the McCook Chamber of Commerce reflects on a year marked by significant events and achievements under Director Sarah Schneider’s leadership. Schneider, a resident of McCook for 20 years, took the helm in January and embraced her role with enthusiasm and a vision for community collaboration and growth.
“I am honored to address you as the new Director of the McCook Chamber of Commerce,” Schneider shared at the beginning of the year. “It is with great excitement that I have assumed this position, and I am thrilled to be part of an organization that plays such an integral role in fostering community growth and prosperity in our town.”
From the outset, Schneider focused on planning three cornerstone events: Crazy Days/Bash on the Hill, Heritage Days, and Noel on Norris.
Throughout the year, the Chamber welcomed numerous new businesses with ribbon-cutting ceremonies. The Garrett House held its grand opening in January, followed by celebrations for Rise Occupational Therapy and Bison Food Truck in February. The list continued to grow, with SWNCTA joining and celebrating with a ribbon cutting in March. April ribbon cuttings included Wildfire Photo Company, Garden Thyme Green House, McCook Economic Development Corporation, and North Pointe Addition. May slowed down with only one ribbon cutting for Jimmy John’s. The Yard and Herrmann Jones Funeral Home were welcomed in June and July was busy with Impact Closet, The McCook City Pool, Bomgaars, and MJJ Concrete Construction. August welcomed McDonald’s Leonard Managment, El Puerto, Ember’s Bakery and Café, and Willow & Co. Salon and Spa. September ribbon cuttings included Denver Air Connection and DAR Daughters of the American Revolution, October, The Axe House, and New Life Christian Book Store. November was busy with Kitchen Solvers, Plants by Ashley, Fair Ways Landscape, Southwest Nebraska Kids Rodeo
Recognizing outstanding local businesses, the Chamber awarded its Quarterly Honor Award. McCook Mechanical Services received the 4th Quarter Honor in January, followed by hometown Family Radio, Charter West, and The Wild Ass Soap Company throughout the year. The awards highlight the dedication and contributions of local enterprises to the community.
Bash on the Hills was held on June 22 at Heritage Hills Golf Course. The community celebration, which attracted over 500 attendees, featured a BBQ meal, live music from local bands, and an awards ceremony honoring notable contributors to McCook. Tim Wiebe of MNB Bank received the 2023 Community Builder Award, while Jade Lesko received the Chamber Volunteer Award. The McCook Humane Society also received the Community Service Award for its commitment to animal welfare.
Heritage Days in September was another event successfully celebrated. Clear skies greeted participants, allowing vendors to showcase their offerings to enthusiastic crowds. The parade featured over 85 entries, underscoring strong community support. One addition was the inaugural “wiener dog race,” which garnered positive feedback and will be a staple in future events. Along with the October fest celebration in the evening, it included food from the Coppermill, special beer from Loop Brewery, and Polka music and dancing.
As December rolled in, the year culminated with Noel on Norris, which Attracted over 1,500 visitors. The celebrations were held over two separate weekends. The first, on Saturday, Dec. 7, featured carriage rides, family-friendly activities, and a Christmas Light Parade. Schneider expressed satisfaction with the turnout, acknowledging the significant support from volunteers and sponsors that made the event possible. The second, on Dec. 15, had Train rides, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and a free screening of The Polar Express.