Lake Liquors, BELIA, team up for big night 10-14-17

   Lake Liquors’ fall wine fest at The Friendly Buffalo teamed up with a partner this year - the Big Eagle Lake Improvement Association - and they jointly held a successful evening showing wines and raising funds for the lake group.

   Attendance estimated at 160 turned out to taste wines and beers, have a hot snack and enter games for the benefit of the lake association. Over $12,000 was raised for the BELIA, which will use the proceeds for invasive weed control, walleye stocking and education of residents, reports Treasurer George Wallin of the group. “The fourth annual fundraiser is usually held on the first Friday night in October,” Wallin said. “But this one proved to be the most successful in terms of attendance, fundraising and comments from patrons.” The “spirits tasting” extravaganza, the 22 vendors, and over 50 auction items donated by local businesses and fun games and drawings kept the attention of the attendees throughout the evening.

   Many event-goers pulled out a ten-spot to enter a raffle drawing for a one week stay in Casa Del Vista, Costa Rica, courtesy of two BELIA members. By mid-evening, 197 tickets had been sold for that drawing alone. Winner of the week trip vacation was Susan Iverson. Wallin says the BELIA plans to deliver notes of appreciation to all donors and wishes to thank those turning out.

   Greg Zulkey, manager of Lake Liquors, felt the turnout was very good and had a positive response to the design of the evening. He appreciated the work of staff and the 22 vendors who turned out to provide lots of wines for tasting and the entertainment. “This was a good partner with Eagle Lake,” he said. Lake Liquors plans their annual spring wine tasting, too.