That concept was taken a step further with a painted mural on the sidewalk in front of Sehnert’s Bakery, focusing on the idea that “We Are One.”

For several years, the idea of murals on the side of buildings around McCook has been part of the discussion about arts and culture in McCook and Southwest Nebraska. The current crisis has moved the project from discussion to action, at least on a small scale, with the hope of lifting spirits during the pandemic.

The mural was painted on the sidewalk in front of Sehnert’s Bakery on Norris Avenue features colorful spring flowers and an artistic, “We Are One,” a common refrain in McCook and especially pertinent during the crisis.

Ginny Anderson, who is on hiatus as owner of The Tattoo Shop, and Deonne Hinz, St. Patrick Elementary’s art teacher, combined creative forces to design and paint the sidewalk artwork. That same artwork will be duplicated on large panels to be installed along the highway as well a coffee-themed banner to be installed on the second level of the Bieroc Cafe.

Several local businesses and organizations have already asked to be part of the sidewalk mural to show their support with their names added artistically by Deonne and Ginny.

“Although we may be competitors, we are also friends and we are in this together,” Matt Sehnert said. “This is a great example of working together to get through this crisis.” Any business or organization which would like to be on the bakery mural may contact Matt Sehnert by email at sehnertbakery@gmail.com. Just provide the business name and Matt will work on getting it added to the mural.

The project was a collaboration of several organizations and businesses, including financial support from the McCook Community Foundation Fund. The project also involves Acme Printing Co., Sehnert’s Bakery and several private donors.

The sidewalk mural is intended to last two or three months, but organizers hope to consider more permanent murals on a larger scale.

If you would like to be a part of the mural project or other community art projects, from creating ideas to providing venue space for murals to making a financial donation, please contact Ronda Graff with the McCook Community Foundation Fund at mcffund@gmail.com. MCFF is an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation.