Jonas Kobiske and Casey Lenz were selected from Weyauwega/Fremont High School to attend the 70th session of Bader Boys State this year held June 11-18, 2011.
Both boys agree this experience will help to mold their futures and change the way they think about their role in government forever. 865 young men attended this year’s session at Ripon College campus where the “citizens” of the “new State” carried out all the main functions of city, county and state government using basic laws and fundamental procedures of the State of Wisconsin as their guide.
Jonas was able to get a first hand look at city and county government responsibilities as he campaigned for and was elected to the County Board of Supervisors. The boys also elected their own police and sheriffs, attorneys to prosecute and defend, and judges to hear cases in their own courts.
This year’s session provided a unique twist as Governor Scott Walker’s son attended ,as did his father, when he was a junior in high school. Matt Walker ran, and was elected as Governor of Badger Boys State and the Inaugural celebration was attended by his father who flew in by helicopter to speak at the event. T
he boys also witnessed another form of the political process when protestors appeared chanting and carrying signs regarding the Governor’s agenda.
By weeks end, Jonas and Casey had made dozens of new friends who they feel are closer to them in 7 days time compared to others they have known for years. Many emotional highlights capped the week and have caused both young men to view their futures differently. Special thanks goes to the American Legion Posts of Weyauwega and Fremont for giving this opportunity to our youth.