5th GRADERS IMPRESS WITH DRAWING SKILLS / WINNING POSTER ON BILLBOARD THROUGH

May

Since 1989, the Nebraska Paralegal Association has helped coordinate the OBA Law Day Poster Contest for 5th Grade students across the Omaha metro area. Once again, area 5th graders and their teachers answered the call for poster submission on the Law Day Theme, with the top submissions garnering recognition and prizes for their creators.

In first place was Michael Weberg of Stacy Schlautman’s class at Mary Our Queen. Michael’s poster will be displayed on a billboard 84th and L, visible to southbound traffic for the month of May. Michael will also receive $125 cash, and a one year family membership to the Durham museum. Second and third place went to Presley Hall and Natalia Flakes, both of Kathleen Cannon’s class at Anchor Pointe Elementary. Presley will receive $100 cash, and Natalia $75. Honorable Mentions have also been awarded to Zienna Nelson and Allison Roberts of Anchor Pointe.

Thank you to Andria Bell, Amber Roberts, Kim Brown, and Nebraska Paralegal Association for their help in running the 5th Grade Poster Contest for Law Day.

8th GRADE STUDENTS WRITE ON IMPORTANCE OF CIVICS AND RULE OF LAW / WINNING ESSAY TO BE READ AT LAW DAY LUNCH

In addition to the Poster Contest for 5th Graders, the OBA annual holds a Law Day Essay Contest for Omaha area 8th grade students. Over 70 entries were received in 2023, and the top three spots were all secured by students of Robin Fosbender’s Literature Class at St. Vincent de Paul. Students were given the choice of essay topics (1) Importance of the Rule of Law in our country, (2) Changemakers in our Society, or (3) the 2023 Law Day Theme –Cornerstones of Democracy. Alyssa Palmer is the 1st place winner, and will receive $175 cash; Cole Starkey, our 2nd place winner, will receive $150. Keyan Kosak will receive $125 for 3rd place. All 3 essays can be read at www.omahabarassociation.com/page/LawDay2023.

Alyssa Palmer’s winning essay:

The U.S. Constitution is the foundation of American democracy and it promises every citizen certain rights and freedoms. However, these promises cannot be fulfilled without the active participation of individual citizens in their communities. The most effective way for citizens to use their voices to fulfill the promises of the U.S. Constitution is through active engagement.

One way that individual citizens can use their voices is by participating in peaceful protests. This allows citizens to express their views on important issues. By coming together with others who share their beliefs, they can create a message that can bring about change in government policies.

Another way that individuals can use their voices is by engaging with elected officials through emails or phone calls. This provides an opportunity for citizens to express their concerns. It also ensures that elected officials are aware of the needs of the people.

Lastly, individuals can use social media platforms to reach a wider audience and raise awareness about issues that matter to them. Social media allows them to connect with people from all over the country who may share similar views.

In conclusion, fulfilling the promises of the U.S. Constitution requires active engagement from individuals across the country. Whether it's through peaceful protests, engaging with elected officials, or using social media platforms every person has a role to play in building a society where everyone's rights are protected regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion.