Knox County Students Participate In Government Day

The Knox County Government Day was held at the Center Courthouse, in Center on Wednesday, November 16, 2016.  At 10:00 a.m.  Ed Kleinschmit from Crofton welcomed students and sponsors that were from Wausa, Bloomfield, Niobrara, Creighton and Santee.

The program began with the Pledge of Allegiance.  

Doug Frahm the Area B, American Legion Commander from Amelia/Chambers gave the address stating that the students here today are the future of our country and being knowledgeable about our government at all levels is important so that you can be prepared to lead, understand the process and be informed on who your voting for.

Elected County Officials/Supervisors along with appointed employees of different offices then introduced themselves and explained the purposes of what their offices do.  James Hamas, Crofton and James Scott, Niobrara were also in attendance.

Sponsors introduced the students that were in attendance. Betty Boggs, Clerk Magistrate administered the oath to the students as is administered to the county officials when sworn into office.

Jenna Jones of the Nebraska State Patrol addressed the students on texting and driving, more accidents are from texting than drinking.  Students were able to participate with vision goggles that distorted vision to show how their mobility was affected.

Students then went to attend their specific county office that they had earlier been sworn into earlier to learn how each office serves the county and their responsibilities to that office.

After lunch a mock trial was planned and lead by Knox County Attorney John Thomas.  Participating was Charlie Hendrix, Attorney (Defense Attorney), Daniel Hendrix, Attorney (Judge), Deputy Sheriff Casey Nieman and students as the jury and the defendant.  The Mock trial simulated a trial court experience wherein the defendant was charged and convicted of an “MIP” offense.