Editorial

New era begins at McCook Daily Gazette

Tuesday, January 2, 2007

It's a new year on the calendar, and with more than a foot of snow, not to mention the leftover ice, there's certainly a new look to the Southwest Nebraska and Northwest Kansas landscape.

It's a new era for the McCook Daily Gazette as well, as a story on page one indicates.

Congratulations to Shary Skiles in her new role as publisher, only the sixth in the 96-year history of the newspaper. Coming from an accounting background, she is a natural for making sure the Gazette rests on a strong financial foundation, as every business must.

But her background shows she knows the importance of community involvement, a vital attribute for the leadership of an institution like the region's only daily newspaper. A wife and mother of two children, she has been involved in numerous worthy causes such as United Way, Leadership McCook, the county election board, the Parent-Teacher Organization, her church and the McCook Arts Council.

While carrying on long-time traditions, we know the Gazette's new publisher will enhance and grow the newspaper while leaving her own mark.

Thankfully, former publisher Gene Morris is staying on in a new role, special projects director, which will put his experience, vision and enthusiasm to good use. While coverage of local news is always a priority, the Gazette publishes more than 100 special editions a year, ranging from salutes to various organizations and causes to massive projects such as the upcoming annual Progress edition, as well as fall, winter and spring sports editions. Gene's leadership will help make those editions even more important.

And, congratulations to Janet Werkmeister, who is taking on on the role of business manager, and Donna Houghtelling, who is moving into Janet's former role as accounts receivable coordinator.

It's a new year, and new opportunities for everyone, especially those who have achieved new roles. They, and the rest of the staff of the McCook Daily Gazette, wish our readers a happy and prosperous New Year, and pledge to do everything possible to provide the best in news, entertainment and advertising over the coming year.

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