McCook Gazette under new leadership

The McCook Gazette is under new leadership following the departure of publisher and editor Mike O’Dell.

O’Dell is no longer employed by the Gazette. Brenda Gillen has been named acting general manager and will help oversee day-to-day operations while Rust Communications, parent company of the Gazette, reviews longer-term leadership plans.

“We appreciate the work of the McCook Gazette staff and their commitment to serving this community,” said Jon K. Rust, president of Rust Communications. “Our priority is to support the team, listen to employees and readers, and make sure the Gazette continues its important role in McCook and southwest Nebraska.”

Rust met with Gazette employees this week and said the company is reviewing operations and staffing needs. In the near term, Gillen and existing staff members will continue producing the newspaper and website with support from Rust Communications’ company resources.

The Gazette has served McCook and the surrounding area for generations, covering local government, schools, businesses, sports and community life. Rust said the company remains committed to that mission.

“Local newspapers matter most when they are connected to the people they serve,” Rust said. “We want the Gazette to be a trusted, useful and responsive newspaper for McCook and the surrounding communities.”

Readers, advertisers and community members may continue contacting the Gazette through its regular office phone number, website and email addresses. Additional leadership plans will be announced as they are finalized.