The Gladbrook Legion Auxiliary’s annual Mothers Tea included both guests and special membership honorees. Front row (l-r) County President Diane Caloud, Dept. President Verlinda Prior, and District President Stacy Bane. Back row (l-r) Kay Lowry, Mary Jane Schaeferle, Pam Thomas, Dinny Nielsen, Becky Fevold, Diane Brown, and Jolene Denbow. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

GLADBROOK – ​​The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary hosted their annual Mothers Tea on Monday, May 12. President Jeanne Paustian opened the program, welcoming everyone to the tea on a beautiful spring day.

Special guests this year included Dept. President Verlinda Prior of Columbus Junction, 3rd District President Stacy Bane of State Center, and Tama County President Diane Caloud of Clutier; all brought greetings and received a gift card

The Memorial Service was conducted by Unit President Jeanne Paustian, Chaplain Joyce Swangel, Poppy Chairman Rose Russell, and Membership Chr. Jolene Denbow. During the service, hymns were sung and led by pianist Sue Koster, prayers lifted up, and a poem on Faith read.

The Unit lost three ladies since the last service in May 2024, including members Lavera Arp and Mary Lee Goos, and Gold Star Sister Darlene Hatcher. A candle was lit for the deceased, a poppy placed, and the gift of a white carnation was given to their special members in attendance. Sue played Taps.

The Unit recognized Gold Star Sister Claire Handorf, who lost a brother during the Vietnam Conflict.

The Memorial Service was conducted by (l-r) Poppy Chr. Rose Russell, Vice-President Candace Bartel, Chaplain Joyce Swangel, and Membership Chr. Jolene Denbow. Not pictured: Unit President Jeanne Paustian. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

The Unit had two Junior members graduating this year. Lila Bruan, the daughter of Peter and Renae Bruan of Pine, Colo. Jeanne’s great niece. Clare Jo Crouse, daughter of Robert and Hallie Jo Crouse of Gilman.

Poppy Chairman Rose Russell gave a very interesting history of the “Quilts of Valor” program. She showed two beautiful patriotic quilts. Quilts are given to our veterans all over the United States. She also made quilt coasters for the table favors.

Continual years of membership awards were announced:

-25 years: Alyssa Doner

-40 years: Kay Lowry

Presidents Verlinda Prior, left, and Stacy Bane display a finished “Quilt of Valor.” PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

-50 years: Erin Andersland, Hallie Jo Crouse, Jolene Denbow, Brenda Fleming, and Past National President Nicole Clapp

-60 years: Mary Jane Schaeferle

-61 years: Dianne Brown and Becky Fevold

-65 years: Colleen Behounek

-68 years: Lucy DeWitt

-70 years: Janet Pryor

-72 years: Sandra Mohr

-Life Members: Dinny Nielsen, 80 years, and Maxine Schoel, 83 years

Joyce Swangel won the beautiful red hanging flower basket from Hometown Family Market.

The program ended with all singing “God Bless America.”

Lunch was provided by Chris Hickman, Deb Granchie, and Lisa Reinhard.