Dust off your fancy hats. Slip on your gloves. It's time for an English Garden Tea, sponsored by Seldovia Village Tribe Health Clinic in cooperation with South Peninsula Hospital, an event that for the second year is designed to raise the awareness of breast cancer.

Dr. Jeffrey Quam of South Peninsula Hospital's radiology department and Melany Cueva, adult education research specialist for the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage, are guest speakers.

Marie Walker will coordinate a fashion show, with an assortment of hats modeled and auctioned off as a fundraiser.

"Last year we made almost $6,000 for the American Cancer Society for Homer and surrounding area women to travel back and forth to Anchorage for breast cancer-related treatment," said Emiley Sue Faris of SVT.

More than a dozen hats were auctioned off during last year's tea, each a one-of-a-kind creation reflecting the local designer. This year, Faris reports more than 20 hats have been crafted and there's room for more, provided they get to her by Friday.

Adding to the fun, Faris also has promised some surprise entertainment, as well as some fashion surprises. Last year's decorating committee transformed the basement of the Elks Lodge into a sea of pink, but Faris said this year's tea will have a different look.

Catering will be by Two Sisters. Door prizes will be offered throughout the event.

The tea will be at the Elks Lodge, from 2-5 p.m. Oct. 3. Tickets are $20 each and available at the SVT clinic, the Homer Bookstore, South Peninsula Hospital Gift Shop and Total Office Products.

"Dress up, wear your fancy hats, your gloves and come ready for tea," Faris said. "It's going to be fun."

For more information, contact Faris at 435-3232

McKibben Jackinsky can be reached at mckibben. jackinsky@homernews.com.