KATHY EVANS PHOTO
Members of the GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club invite you to enjoy an afternoon with friends kicking off the holiday season at their festive Christmas Tea Dec. 2 at their historic clubhouse, 503 U.S. 41 S., Ruskin.
By LOIS KINDLE
Members of the GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club are getting ready to kick off the holiday season by bringing back their highly popular, annual Christmas Tea. After a one-year hiatus, the Yuletide event will return Dec. 2 to their historic clubhouse at 503 U.S. 41 S., Ruskin.
The tea will include a single service this year from noon to 3 p.m., so if you’re planning on going, reserve a seat now, said Grace McKee, club president.
“Our members are so happy to be hosting the tea this year,” she said. “It’s a longtime tradition of our club and such a festive event. Be sure to get your ticket as soon as possible as we will definitely sell out.”
The cost for the afternoon tea is $35 per person, and tables of eight can be reserved for group seating for $280.
The serving includes Christmas Cup tea (a black Chai tea blend), finger sandwiches and scones prepared with heirloom recipes, homemade Devonshire cream and fancy petite desserts.
Table sponsorships are $50. Thus far, Council Growers, Beanie’s Family Sports Grill and Beleave Teas have signed up. Businesses get table-top signage and program advertising for their support.
All proceeds from the tea will go to the Ruskin Woman’s Club Scholarship Fund, which benefits graduating Lennard High School and East Bay High School seniors headed to a community or four-year college.
Last year, the club awarded $12,000 in scholarships, said Debbie Bonebrake, club treasurer.
“The Christmas Tea sets off the holiday in a traditional way, and I just love that,” said tea chairwoman/member Shawn Geitner, president of Beleave Teas. “The clubhouse is elegant and festive and different every year. The guests always like dressing up and spending time together enjoying the tea.”
This year’s theme is Winter Wonderland, she said. “It’s going to be put on by a wonderful group of ladies whose sole purpose is to benefit the community.”
To RSVP a seat or table, or to become a sponsor, call 813-892-7235. Credit cards, checks or cash are accepted forms of payment. Checks may also be mailed to P.O. Box 547, Ruskin, FL 33575.
The Ruskin Woman’s Club is open to all women ages 18 and older living in the South Shore area. For more information, visit www.theruskinwomansclub.org.
