Holt County judge receives award

Holt County Court judge Kale Burdick was one of two judges named 2020 Distinguished Judge award recipients recently.

Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike Heavican made the announcement Oct. 16.

Burdick received the Improvement of Community Relations Award, while Fremont district court judge Geoffrey Hall was presented the Improvement of the Judicial System Award.

According to a Supreme Court press release, both awards "recognize members of the judiciary for meritorious projects and exemplary accomplishments beyond their day-to-day duties as a judge."

Burdick, who has served the Holt County Court since 2017, is an active member of the community.

Burdick is a member of the O'Neill Volunteer Fire Department. He received certification as a Fire Fighter 1 and earned HazMat Operational level certification.

This year, Burdick serves as aerial captain and was named city captain.

Burdick is active in the American Legion baseball program, working as an umpire.

Heavican said Burdick "is a great example of judges who go the extra mile, not only in their courtrooms, but in their communities."

Hall presides over the district six adult drug court, working with court personnel and participants to find resources to address issues, including career development and health care.

"Judge Hall obviously exemplifies what it means to be a judge who has improved the judicial system through his many good works," Heavican said.