Greater Lake Sylvia Association

 GLSA Annual Picnic  August 2, 2025

On August 2nd, approximately 250 lake residents gathered for the annual Greater Lake Sylvia Association summer picnic at the Chi Rho Center. It was a beautiful evening filled with camaraderie and celebration as the GLSA marked its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1975, the association has remained dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the beauty and health of East and West Lakes, a mission still strong today.

Guests were delighted by lively performances from the talented Airborne Attraction band from the Cokato area, whose wide range of familiar cover songs kept everyone entertained and dancing along. For dinner, Just North of Memphis BBQ served up mouthwatering pulled pork that complemented the festive vibe. Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed special homemade Shnookies Cookies and delicious ice cream from the Pearl Ridge Cake Shop. Each pre-registered GLSA household was entitled to two complimentary meals, and friends and family members were more than welcome to join in the fun for a wonderful evening together.

The festivities were kept lively with a variety of yard games provided by Cedar Ridge Home and Cabin, while Far Far Away Face Painters delighted children with colorful face designs. The evening also featured a challenging obstacle bouncy house and special raffle drawings. One of the highlight raffle prizes was a generous $500 gift certificate from Charter Marine, redeemable for a pontoon, jet ski, or snowmobile rental, or for boat detailing services. Miller’s Jewelry contributed a beautiful silver pendant, while Annandale Arts and Textiles offered charming home decor items. Several other sponsors were also present, ready to answer questions and share information about their products and services, making the evening both fun and informative.

The picnic ran seamlessly thanks to the dedicated efforts of many GLSA board members and their spouses, including President Randy Wilson (Kay), Vice President Lisa Peery, Secretary Mike Potter (Kris), and board members Claire Dempsey (Jack), Bill Johnson (Elaine), Seth Jayden (Melissa), Mike McNellis, Jeff Harkman, Jerry Euteneneuer, Blaine Barkley, Jim Gray, Rhonda Brau, and Jeff Simon. Additionally, volunteers including Traci Prewiitt, Kent and Robin Davidson, Sam Peery, Becky Stumpf, Ruth Olson-Bahe, Renee Wyffels, Tami and Warren Nelson, and Mark Struble contributed to making the day a success. Vicki Hoien organized and coordinated the annual picnic. 

Most of the picnic costs were covered through sponsorships, donations, and registration fees, with GLSA covering the remaining expenses. The event was a wonderful success, giving families of all ages a fantastic opportunity to enjoy live music, delicious food, and friendly socializing with neighbors by the lake. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, or donated—it truly made the day special. 

The event not only highlighted the ongoing commitment to preserving East and West Lakes but also showcased the strength and spirit of the GLSA community. We look forward to many more years of togetherness and lake-loving fun!