Gaston announces candidacy for state Legislature

Dr. Wendall Gaston, a former three-term Sidney mayor and long-time pharmacist from Sidney announced today that he will be a candidate for the open seat of the 47th District of the Nebraska Legislature in 2016.

Gaston is currently serving his fourth term on the Sidney City Council and has been involved in numerous local, state and national organizations. He will be traveling the district over the next three months on a "listening tour" to gather information about the needs and concerns of the citizens of the 47th District.

He was born and raised in the 47th District in Potter, where his father, Bud, ran the local gas station and bulk fuel operation. Gaston's mother, Leona, grew up with a farming background in the Potter area. Gaston's father and brother, Bob, also served as mayor of Potter.

"My father was a World War II Vet, so we learned a commitment to public service at a young age. You give back to help others," Gaston said.

After graduating from Potter High School, he went to Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo., on a track scholarship and later graduated from the University of Wyoming School of Pharmacy. Later, he earned his MBA at the University of Nebraska College of Business and his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kansas.

Gaston and his wife, Deanna, owned several businesses, including Gaston Pharmacy in Sidney, Campbell Drug in Oshkosh and a JC Penny catalog store. The past 15 years, Gaston has been with the Safeway Pharmacy in Sidney. Deanna graduated from Creighton University and has been a registered nurse for more than 30 years. The Gaston's have three daughters and four grandchildren. All three of his son-in-laws have served in the military.

"I am committed to represent Western Nebraska's best interest and give us a strong voice in the Legislature. I've spent my adult life building connections across the state that can only help us be heard in legislative matters. My community involvement and being a part of a lot of critical decisions in my role with the City, helped build a new prospering local economy in the south Panhandle and taught me a lot about how we can grow Nebraska's economy. I've been part of many budget processes in the business and government worlds. I know I can make a difference if given the opportunity, and I will always 'fight the good fight' for the people of the 47th District, where I have lived most of my life," Gaston said.

The campaign can be followed at the "Gaston4Nebraska" Facebook page.