SCOTIA, Neb. – A new awning is being installed at the visitor center of the Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine, one of many projects that grants and donations have paid for since new association members acquired the property in October of last year.
The 10 foot tall support beams for the new awning started being installed at the end of May by David Thompson of L&W Construction. With help of fellow craftsman Ron Nitzel, once complete the awning will cover the 12’x24′ cement slab that was already in in place. The job is far from the first that Thompson has completed in his 40 plus years working in Greeley County.
“I have a lot of fond memories from time spent in the area,” Thompson said. “Ron and I are happy to take part in the mine’s restoration.”
The two are also coating the exterior of the mine’s visitor center with linseed oil in order to repel insects like termites and preserve the building for years to come. When the awning is finished, the whole roof will be covered in brown steel instead of shingles.
“High winds, snow and sun damage do not affect a steel roof the same way they do shingles,” Thompson noted. “While shingles last up to a decade, steel roofs are noted to remain durable up to 30 years.”
Shingles that are already on the roof won’t be removed to act as insulation under the steel roof.
Chalk Mine Association President Kenny Bloom said the awning is meant to give visitors a place to relax, adding shade to a spot that is notoriously sunny for tourists coming for the mine, peak, picnic, or camping.
“We couldn’t do what needs to be done at Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine without community support,” Bloom noted.
Those wishing to help the 501 (c) (3) non-profit are welcomed to visit HappyJackPeakandChalkMine.org to donate, knowing that every dollar goes toward improvements.
