BY KEN FRANCIS, STAFF WRITER
The 10th Anniversary of the Clearwater Travel Plaza Patio Party drew hundreds of people to the Plaza parking area Tuesday afternoon.
The event is a thank-you to employees, customers and veterans who celebrate the day with free food, entertainment and a chance to get together with friends.
On a hot, sunny Tuesday, hundreds filled the Plaza parking lot and shared a meal of burgers, brats, ice cream and a selection of drinks. Except for the cash bar, all the food and beverages were free.
At 4 p.m., the Clearwater Legion Riders escorted busloads of veterans from the St. Cloud VA Medical Center to the celebration. They had a little help from the St. Cloud Fire Dept., who used their pull to escort the entire convoy non-stop along Hwy. 15 during the first leg of the trip.
When the veterans arrived, they were led down a red carpet flanked by the Clearwater Color Guard and given a standing ovation by the crowd and were greeted with a hug by Travel Plaza Vice President Wendy Johnson.
Then it was time for food, and lines formed for the hungry crowd.
While everyone ate, there were announcements for purchasing gun raffle tickets and silent auction items. This year’s list of prizes included a drone, wireless headset and a Fitbit.
At 4:30 there was a special treat - a dunk tank with Travel Plaza employees as the victims. Johnson was first to step up and be the target.
At 6 p.m. all the Travel Plaza employees were recognized for their hard work. Terms of service ranged from five years to 40 years. They also walked the red carpet and each received a handshake and/or a hug from Johnson and Joel Nelson before being handed a card with a gift.
The event lasted until 10, with musical entertainment provided by Radio Nation, a popular Central Minnesota country/rock band.
Everyone had a great time, and all proceeds from the day’s activities go towards St. Cloud VA Hospital recreational activities.
