Valley City Times-Record

A Lovely Tea Party

Spring Creek Lodge and Events Center offers an escape

- By Iain Woessner treditor@times-online.com

In the tiny town of Hastings there is a little-known treasure that awaits those who know where to look, a place of comfort, escape and now, a place where events and celebratio­ns may be held – such as the Spring Tea Party, which saw the former church play host to a gathering of ladies, a spread of delectable sweets and treats – and aprons by the dozen.

“I want to create events for people to do stuff and for me to do stuff, to raise awareness about the Lodge and, of course, make a little money,” Myra Helm, owner of the Spring Creek Lodge and Events Center, told the TimesRecor­d. “I thought this would be a good way to have a social where I could make my goodies and treat people to a party and have a little bit of entertainm­ent.”

The featured guest of this tea party was Audrey Lahlum, who at 85-years-old continues to sell and showcase her collection of over 300 aprons. She had with her a host of helpers to demonstrat­e the various colors and designs. Helm said that she loves aprons especially, and wanted to share her passion for them with her guests for a relaxing tea party.

The events space of Spring Creek Lodge is a newer addition to the now 7-year-old venue. The Lodge itself has been providing a place to stay for up to 10 people, with cots, bunks and a few private rooms, all lovingly decorated with rustic decor. The entire former church has been rehauled from bottom to top by Myra and her husband Darrell Helm, and their hard work shows – there’s a handmade touch to just about every corner of the space, from the spacious main hall, to the lobby area which still reflects its church roots and to the lodge sleeping area down below, with a shelf of decoy ducks, mounted walleyes, portraits of hunting dogs and even some more unusual decor… like a clock that’s made out of shotgun shells.

“I wish we’d had some more room to put in a couple more beds,” Darrell said. “It’s more of a family-oriented deal.”

Spring Creek Lodge and Events Center is located in Hastings at 155 Elm Avenue. The primary way to contact them is via Facebook, which is also the preferred way to book an event or to book lodging. The Lodge is ideal for hunters and sportsmen looking to get away from the city and for families.

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 ?? Iain Woessner/ Times-Record ?? Audrey Lahlum’s apron collection features a lot of varieties and styles. Above a line of models showcases her aprons. RIGHT: Myra Helm’s homemade treats for Saturday’s tea party.
Iain Woessner/ Times-Record Audrey Lahlum’s apron collection features a lot of varieties and styles. Above a line of models showcases her aprons. RIGHT: Myra Helm’s homemade treats for Saturday’s tea party.

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