VFW Auxiliary Brews Truly Delightful Tea

By DIANNE ALWARD-BIERY

Cleaver Senior Staff Writer

HARRISON – The VFW Post 1075 Auxiliary pulled out the stops once more on April 27 to bring the community the group’s second annual VFW Auxiliary Tea. The event saw some 100 tickets sold, and it would seem every one of them was used as the post’s tables filled to brimming.

And, speaking of brimming, all those tables were set elegantly with a colorful mix of florally decorated china teacups and plates, as well as a bountiful assortment of teas. The variety of teas enabled attendees to try out multiple possibilities without having to commit to a full box purchase.

As the room filled, the spirit of fanciful spring was embodied by the many ladies who took the opportunity to dress festively, sporting their finest elaborate hats and fascinators.

Auxiliary members, as always, took great care of the attendees by being highly attentive. The classic Tea repast offerings included (in part) baguette slices with cream cheese spread, croissant/chicken salad sandwiches, scones, assorted shortbreads and cream, and the crowning touch of fudges and truffle confections.

Tea ticket purchase included an opportunity to win a substantial raffle prize from Riverwalk Place in Gladwin (yes, that included a massage package and more). Door prizes also were drawn, which after each name was drawn, that winner then drew the next name. These included a bounty of bulb flowers enhanced with gift cards. Additionally, each attendee received a gift card from Texas Roadhouse embellished with a Buddy” Poppy, so no one went away feeling left out of the prizes.

Throughout the event, diners were tended to by a cadre of gentlemen servers (each dedicated to a single table) who were kept busy ensuring each table was stocked with hot water for tea. They also served the courses courteously, employing all the flourishes they could comfortably muster. (Yeah, they were kinda cute – and thoroughly appreciated.)

Subtle keyboard music provided a quiet background as the ladies made the most of the special ambiance of the day.

It cannot be stated emphatically enough that – through some hard work and coordinated planning – the Auxiliary members created and executed a truly special experience for those in attendance. While the ticket offering increased to 100 this year, it was stated that 100 is enough to handle and will be the limit for next year’s Tea. So, when the tickets become available in 2026, it will be advisable to snap them up ASAP – it’s a good bet that this year’s attendees will be looking for an encore.