By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator
CHADRON – Nearly 30 Chadron State College students assisted at eight work sites Nov. 16 during the fourth annual The Mini Big Event. Projects included raking leaves, picking up trash, stringing lights, and marking pavement. The Chadron Public Library, Chadron Primary School, Finnegan Park, Community Plaza, and private residences were among the locations.
Maddison Sandstrom of Chadron, student site leader at the Chadron Primary School, said it was great to be part of a team that painted markings to help guide traffic at the school’s drop-off entrance.
Kinsey Smith of Windsor, Colorado, also a student site leader, said she enjoyed the opportunity to take advantage of 70-degree weather in November and serve the community.
“I thought the day was successful and the volunteers were enthusiastic about helping community members. The Mini Big Event being so successful gets us excited about The Big Event in the spring,” Smith said.
Chadron Area Chamber Director Gabby Michna said she appreciates the volunteers.
“I’m really excited to see The Big Event expand into something smaller at a different time of the year. CSC students helped us get ready for our Country Christmas in Northwest Nebraska by cleaning the Community Plaza in the downtown area by blowing leaves, sweeping, and picking up trash,” Michna said.
Northwest Nebraska Tourism Director Kerri Rempp said the CSC students helped re-establish a community tradition by decorating trees in Finnegan Park.
“For those who don't remember, lighting up Finnegan Park used to be a pretty big deal here and we haven't had that for a couple of years. We're super excited to have it back and grateful for the CSC students who helped. Be sure to drive by after dark and check it out,” Rempp said.