NIOBRARA COUNTY - The Niobrara Homemakers celebrated their annual Spring Tea luncheon with the announcement of three scholarship recipients and guest speakers from Converse Hope Center on May 8.

The theme this year was “Up, Up and Away.” The tables were meticulously decorated with flowers and balloon baskets containing candy for the guests to enjoy.

The Homemakers awarded their traditional scholarships to 2025 NCHS (Niobrara County High School) graduates Jaylah Cummins and Jackson Smith. The Homemakers awarded the non-traditional scholarship to Karen Alvis.

Alvis is currently attending the Colorado Christian College and is working on her Bachelor of Arts degree in creative writing.

“Thank you very much because I am paying out of pocket,” said Alvis. “Thank you very much and I appreciate this very much.”

Cummins is planning on attending LCCC (Laramie County Community College) in hopes of earning her degree in sonography for an ultrasound tech with a focus on OB (Obstetrics).

Smith has plans to attend San Diego State University in California. Smith was asked to read one of the questions on the scholarship application to the guests. Niobrara Homemaker president Claudia Swanson said Smith’s application was one of the few that brought her to tears.

“It was really outstanding what Jackson wrote,” said Swanson. “Since it is real close to Mother’s Day, one of the questions was, ‘How do you feel one of the major Homemakers has influenced your life?’”

Smith gave credit to his mother, Amber Smith, for having the most influence on his life. Smith praised his mother for teaching him the value of hard work and always being there for him. Smith also said that although his mother was constantly busy, she would always take the time to ask him about his day. At the end of reading his application answer, Smith’s mom embraced him, tearing up with pride for her son. Even some of the guests teared up at his answer.

“More than anything, my mom shaped me into a caring and responsible person,” said Smith. “Because of my mom, I am who I am today. Love you, mom.”

During the luncheon, the Homemakers who had made crafts to be presented at the Wyoming Homemakers State convention were announced. These handmade crafts ranged from a unicorn quilt to paintings. Those who received a blue ribbon for their crafts will be entered in the state competition.

Special gifts were awarded to Homemakers for their arts and crafts entries. Kristy Irvin won Most Colorful for her “sparkly unicorn” quilt. Most Unique Craft went to Diane Cannon for her snowman Christmas tree. The third category award was for the Most Arts and Crafts Entered went to Ruth Stevenson, who had seven entries.

Membership awards were given to Indian Creek Homemakers Diane Cannon, Susan Martinez and Lola ZumBrunnen, who celebrated 50 years as Homemaker. Node Homemaker winner was Dee Norris, who celebrated 15 years of membership. Roadrunner Homemaker was Amelia Mendoza for 5 years membership.

Kassie Johnston, a victim advocate from Glenrock victim advocate, and Betsy Varland, a victim advocate from Douglas, gave a presentation concerning the Converse Hope Center program.  

Johnston explained what it meant to be a victim advocate. She provided examples of the various tasks involved with her position. Johnston explained how every victim and their circumstances varied.

“We cover the entirety of Converse County and, for the last year, we have covered Niobrara County on a limited basis,” said Johnston. “Since Helpmate dissolved, it looks like we will be covering the entirety of Niobrara County. It is not a done deal, but we are 99-percent going to do this.”

Johnston spoke about the many victims of crime the Converse Hope Center had helped.

“Last year, we helped 17 survivors of crime in your area,” said Johnston. “We helped with at least two child interviews. We helped transport them to Casper. Our goal is to hire someone part-time in Lusk. Informed consent is what we’re all about.”

According to Johnston, the Converse Hope Center helped all victims of crime, whether it be sexual assault or elderly abuse. The Converse Hope Center helps people get back on their feet and, when appropriate, sheltered victims of crime. Johnston told the attendees there have been times when the Converse Hope Center has asked for help from the Homemakers. That assistance involved restocking basic necessities for victims of crimes.

The Roadrunner Homemakers found things to donate to the Converse Hope Center. Vi Proctor was instrumental in procuring speakers for the Spring Tea event.

“We appreciate Kassie and Betsy for coming and telling us what they do,” said Swanson. “Thank you everyone for coming this year. We are looking forward to our upcoming Wyoming Homemakers State Convention in June. Thank you all for helping to set up this year.”

For more information about Converse Hope Center, see their website at www.conversehope.org.