When a high-profile trial was moved from eastern Nebraska to Lexington through a change of venue, clerk of the District Court, Becky Boryca, welcomed her companion district court officials with open arms. During the trial, Kathy Homolka, bailiff to Judge Vicky Johnson, did not hesitate to jump into action. As a team, the two worked together to successfully complete one of the most complicated, high-profile trials in recent years.

Becky worked hand-in-hand with Dawson County officials to ensure COVID-safe facilities and secure jurors for the multi-week trial. Quickly becoming an expert in WebEx, microphone muting, and overhead projector buttons, Kathy managed two courtrooms at once while assisting attorneys.  Both Becky and Kathy directed communication with the judge, attorneys, and jurors inside the courtroom while maintaining constant contact with observers in the annex (5 blocks away), and answering questions from news reporters stationed on the floor below the courtroom.

Becky and Kathy, thank you for your extraordinary efforts in maintaining publicly accessible court proceedings in a high-pressure trial during a surge in COVID cases.  Additionally, thank you to Dawson County for the generous hosting of a neighboring court, exemplary planning, and diligent work. Your gracious accommodation is appreciated.