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SUBMITTED ARTICLE

Barry DeKay of Niobrara announced recently he has filed paperwork with the Nebraska Secretary of State to run for the Nebraska legislature in District 40.

On Jan. 26, State Senator Tim Gragert of Creighton announced he will not be seeking a second term in the legislature.

"I appreciate Senator Gragert and his service to our district," DeKay said. "I consider Tim a friend and value his service to our country and our state. He and Donna certainly deserve to live a great retirement together. I wish them all the best."

DeKay is a fourth-generation rancher from Niobrara who has served area communities and the state throughout his career.

DeKay formerly served on the Nebraska Public Power District for six years, serving one year as chairman of the board. DeKay served as a state director and served as president of the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, been a member of the Niobrara Valley Electric Corporation, NPPD Nuclear Committee, Niobrara Valley Hospital Foundation, and has been a high school and college basketball official for more than 38 years.

"I am running for the legislature to serve everyone in District 40," DeKay continued. "Throughout my life and career, I have always answered the call to serve, and serving our communities in the 40th District in the state legislature is an opportunity to help our local communities. I will stand up for the people of the district."

Sen. Tim Gragert offered his endorsement of DeKay, "I have known Barry for many years, and I have great confidence Barry will work hard for District 40. Barry has conservative values and is someone who will always listen to everyone in District 40 while serving in the legislature. Barry has lived his entire life in the district and is a fourth-generation producer in Knox County, Barry DeKay is the right person to represent District 40."