Gazette honored for election coverage

McCOOK, Nebraska - The McCook Gazette was recently honored with a Civics Recognition Award from Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale.

The award was given in recognition of the Gazette’s full and balanced news coverage of the 2016 primary and presidential elections, focusing on southwest Nebraska.

Secretary Gale explained that his office had experienced several staff changes, delaying the presentation of the award. Since 2008, Gale has given this award to individuals, organizations, and media outlets that have furthered the cause of informing the public about election issues.

From left, Editor Bruce Crosby and Publisher Shary Skiles accept a Civics Recognition Award from Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale.

The award was also presented to the Keith County News in Ogallala, the Imperial Republican, the Kearney Hub, and the Omaha Star.

Gale, a former North Platte attorney, has served as Secretary of State since 2000 when he was appointed to the post by then Gov. Mike Johanns. He went on to be elected to four-year terms in 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014. He is not seeking re-election in 2018.

The secretary of state’s duties include overseeing state elections and corporate records and serving on various boards, including the Board of Pardons.