By Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications
The Scotts Bluff County Homemakers held their Spring Luncheon on Monday, April 27, at the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Colleen Johnson, the Executive Director of the Old West Balloon Fest, gave a presentation on the fall event. She discussed the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championship, which will be part of the festivities from Aug. 9-15.
The group celebrated the year with awards and the club's mission to Promote Literacy, which included donations to the six Scotts Bluff County Libraries' Summer Reading Programs.
“The Homemakers help fund the summer reading programs,” said Laurie Zitterkopf, a member. “It is important for youth to continue reading during the summer months.”
The Homemakers are also involved in community activities, including managing the Scotts Bluff County Fair Open Class, sponsoring a 4-H award and supporting scholarships for local youth.
This year, the group awarded two $500 scholarships to Katelyn Walker and Kael Smith. “The scholarship has evolved over time. It started as a way to help young ladies get a higher education, but now it goes to both young ladies and gentlemen,” Zitterkopf said.
Walker is the daughter of Sarah and Chauncey Walker of Mitchell, and the granddaughter of Homemaker, Ruth Walker. She is a Morrill High School graduate and plans on attending Western Nebraska Community College. Walker’s goal is a teaching degree in Physical Education and Health for K-12 grades. She has been active in athletics, student council and FFA, and served as class president.
Smith is the son of Nicole and Brandon Smith of Gering. He’s a graduate of Gering High School and is currently enrolled at Western Nebraska Community College in autobody. Smith looks to continue his education in North Platte in auto body, mechanics and classic car restoration. He was active in school athletics, pep band, trap shooting and 4-H. He had a perfect score on solos at the District Music Competition. He was not able to attend the luncheon.
The club also presented Standard of Excellence Awards. Shirley Bostock presented the awards to the Willing Workers Club President, Jana Barker, the Opportunists Club President, Barbara Leach, and the Chat@Do Club President, Laurie Zitterkopf.
Homemakers is a way to learn new skills. In the past, the Extension provided educational programs on food preservation, sewing, childcare and other skills. Homemakers currently search out topics to learn about at their monthly meetings.