by Kirsten Duke, Stevensville
On behalf of two local homeschool co-ops, I would like to thank Hamilton’s public servants for a recent field trip, which was one of my personal favorites. A big thank you to Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf who guided our tour of various public buildings, where we met many patient people who explained the importance of their jobs. I want to thank Financial Administrator Craig Shepherd and Accounting Clerk Jenny Lovitt for their time as they let us briefly interrupt them. Also, a thank you for Judge Royce McCarty and City Attorney Karen Mahar who put on a wonderful mock trial and talked about the judicial aspect of law. Judge McCarty was gracious enough to put on his robes and explain that American judges do not wear wigs. Another thank you to the Hamilton Police Department, specifically Officer Bryson Lewis, who showed us his patrol car and answered all the questions of kids who have watched too many “cop shows.” Last but not least, a thank you for Public Works Foreman Ed Barrett and his good humor when he got something of a surprise visit from a rather large group of students. Everyone we met that day was incredibly kind, and the trip overall was entertaining and educational. As a high school senior, I appreciated meeting the people involved in local civics and learning about their roles, and I think I speak for my classmates as well in saying thank you for your public service.