An Evening of Fellowship: 2026 GLYTA Spring Banquet

On May 2nd, the GLYTA community and friends gathered at BJ’s Catering & Event Center in Gaylord for an evening of fellowship, music, laughter, and connection. This banquet tradition began during the early years with Yogacharya J. Oliver Black, and while we missed his physical presence, his spirit and love for community could still be felt throughout the evening.

Community Updates and Fellowship

Kaye Thomas-Hogan opened the night with a warm welcome, and our Master of Ceremonies, Greg Rorabaugh, did a wonderful job guiding the evening. Greg’s humor, warmth, and engaging style helped create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that carried throughout the night.

Representatives from the Golden Lotus Board, including Linda Gabby and Josh Clark, shared updates on current building projects and future plans. Kendra Hubbarth Bohr also shared updates on the 2026 Golden Lotus School of Yoga Teacher Training program and the enthusiasm surrounding the upcoming training year.

Honoring Dorothy

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening came through Judi Schmitt’s heartfelt presentation on behalf of Dorothy Stingley titled “Placed in Loving Care: Yoga, Cancer, and the Practice of Surrender.” Judi shared Dorothy’s words and reflections with deep love and compassion, creating a moving moment of connection and inspiration for everyone present.

Her reflections served as a reminder that yoga is not only something we study, but something we are continually called to live and embody through both the joyful and difficult moments of life. Dorothy’s words on surrender, grace, courage, and evenmindedness deeply touched those in attendance and beautifully reflected the spiritual teachings that continue to guide our community.

In honor of Dorothy and the strength and evenminded spirit she continues to embody, “Evenminded and Cheerful” shirts were also featured during the evening as a special way for the community to express love and support. A shirt voucher was included in each centerpiece gift bag, and additional shirts are available through the Song of the Morning gift shop.

Music and Meaning

The entertainment was a highlight of the evening. Steve Sandner’s uplifting jazz piano brought wonderful energy to the room and helped create an atmosphere that felt both joyful and relaxed.

The evening concluded with a group sing along of “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Hearing the lyrics together in that setting gave the timeless song even deeper meaning and made for a memorable close to the evening.

See the two videos below.

Fellowship, Fun, and Fundraising

The food was excellent, and attendees shared many positive comments about both the venue and the flow of the evening. This year we also tried something a little different with the table centerpieces. Each table included a special GLYTA themed gift bag, and one lucky person from every table was able to take the centerpiece bag home.

Amy Levert, on behalf of Carl Schuman, introduced the “Fun With Yogacharya” commemorative print raffle as ticket sales officially opened leading into Yogacharya Birthday Weekend, taking place this Labor Day Weekend at Song of the Morning. Generously donated by Carl Schuman, the print reflects the joy, humor, and playful spirit so many experienced with Yogacharya over the years. All raffle proceeds will benefit Song of the Morning Yoga Retreat.

Raffle tickets are available through the Song of the Morning gift shop, and attendees were encouraged to stay tuned for additional “Fun With Yogacharya” updates and offerings still to come.

With Gratitude

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, or helped behind the scenes to make the evening possible. All proceeds from the banquet support Song of the Morning Yoga Retreat.

The Golden Lotus Banquet is organized each year by the Golden Lotus Yoga Teachers Association (GLYTA) as part of its continued support of Song of the Morning and its spiritual community.

From heartfelt presentations and joyful fellowship to music, laughter, and special memories shared throughout the evening, we hope you enjoy this collection of banquet moments below.