Pictured front row from left: Becky Fevold, 62 year member, and Lynn Adelmund, daughter of deceased member Maxine Schoel. Also pictured, back row from left: Dept. ALA President Kim Dixon; Jennifer Wrage, program speaker; Mary Ann Ellis, friend of deceased member Rev. Barb Muhs; and Unit President Jeanne Paustian, 50 year member. PHOTO COURTESY JEANNE PAUSTIAN

GLADBROOK – The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary hosted their annual Mothers Tea on Monday, May 11. President Jeanne Paustian opened the program welcoming everyone to the tea on a beautiful spring day. Special guest, Dept. President Kim Dixon of Oskaloosa brought greetings and spoke on her theme and projects.

The Memorial Service was conducted by Unit President Jeanne Paustian, Chaplain Joyce Swangel, Poppy Chairman Rose Russell, and Lori Sanderson. 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 members since the last service in May of 2025, including Rev. Barb Muhs, Marilyn Kroger, and Marine Schoel. A candle was lit for the deceased, a poppy placed, and their family members were given a white carnation. Sue played taps.

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

Jennifer Wrage gave a very interesting program on the Amana Colonies.

Special membership awards were awarded to Justina Eggers, 25 years; Shanna Goos, 40 years; Kathy Vavroch, 40 years; Cynthia Eggers, 50 years; and Jeanne Paustian, 50 years.

The Memorial Service was conducted by (l-r) Unit President Jeanne Paustian, Poppy Chairman Rose Russell, Chaplain Joyce Swangel, and Lori Sanderson. PHOTO COURTESY JEANNE PAUSTIAN

Other members recognized were: Mary Jane Schaeferle, 61 years; Becky Fevold & Dianne Brown, 62 years; Collen Behoneck, 65 years; Lucy DeWitt, 69 years; Janet Pryor, 71 years; Sandi Mohr, 73 years; and Dinny Nielson, 81 years and life member

The door prize was won by Lynn Adelmund who received a plant.

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

Everyone received a key chain as their favor.

Dessert was served by Lori Sanderson, Pam Wedmore, and Sue Koster.

Jennifer Wrage, left, who was raised in South Amana, pictured with Unit Treasurer Trudi Scott, right. Members thoroughly enjoyed learning the history and traditions of both past and present Amana residents. PHOTO COURTESY JEANNE PAUSTIAN