Downtown Whitehall

Downtown Whitehall Set for CD Release

2010-03-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

The Howmet Playhouse has garnered a name for itself on the folk music scene with a variety of promoters using the venue to hold folk music events. That reputation is growing, as Muskegon’s premier folk duo, Ruth and Max Bloomquist are planning to release their upcoming new CD, Turn Back a Page, at the Playhouse on March 5, as part of a Downtown Whitehall initiative to host events each "First Friday". We caught up with the duo to hear about that special evening as well as where they are at with their musical career.

DW: Very exciting to hear you have a new album and we can all get a peek at it on March 5. How does the new album fit into your musical journey?

RUTH: Music has always been our a large part of our life together. This "journey" is just our life! I write songs that somehow fit my life where I am at that point in time, sometimes a situation, sometimes people. Max helps in the writing too sometimes. He is always my inspiration. There are only 2 songs on our total of 4 CDs that I didn't write.

MAX: One thing we are doing differently with this project is we are using the services of a professional consultant to promote this CD nationally and internationally to folk radio. We're confident that we'll reach more people with our music than ever before.

DW: Very exciting! Intial reviews, including that of Al Kniola, host of WVPE Public Radio, have been very positive. How would you describe the album?

MRB: We always try to do the best production we can for each of the songs. Each of our CDs has it's own personality, Jewel of My Heart is more country, All For Love's Sake came out all love songs, One Day Ain't Enough is more bluegrass. Turn Back A Page is the folkiest of the four CDs. It is all acoustic instruments, guitars, bass, fiddle, mandolin and a touch of concertina. This is our first CD with no banjo accompaniment.

DW: What are the details of the your CD release party at the Howmet, and how else can folks get hooked up with a copy?

It's going to be a high energy concert. We will be joined by John King and Dan Seabolt showcasing the songs on Turn Back A Page as well as songs from our other CDs, and popular cover tunes as well. John and Dan made beautiful instrumental contributions to the recording and have been playing as many shows with us as we can manage. Their energy and expertise seem to bring out the best in us.

Turn Back A Page will be available at several West Michigan outlets after the Release Concert: Sun Wind And Rain in Muskegon, Glass Reflections in Muskegon Heights, Schuler Books And Music in Grand Rapids, and Elderly Instruments in Lansing. It will also be offered at most of the traditional online services including, CDBaby.com, digstation.com, iTunes, Amazon, etc. plus a number of streaming sites like Rhapsody. The kind folks at DiscMakers and CDBaby help us to set up and keep track of all the digital distribution.

DW: I’m assuming this isn’t your first time to play the Howmet. Any special things you enjoy about the venue and the White Lake area?

MRB: The Howmet is a perfect size venue for folk music. The room just sounds good! There is an intimacy there that you don't get in rooms of a similar size, and even though the space has been beautifully renovated you can still feel a certain historical vibe. The local and area folks really seem to support the theater and the music, too.

DW: Well, thanks for your valuable contribution to the culture of the greater White Lake area, and we look forward to March 5.

MRB: It's our pleasure and honor to be part of the rich life of the Howmet Playhouse and to kick off the 2010 season of the First Friday Series. See you at the show!

On the Web

Howmet Playhouse
Ruth & Max Bloomquist
Ruth & Max Bloomquist on YouTube

What's up Whitehall - Downtown Whitehall Holiday Events

2009-12-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves the holidays and there are plenty of ways to celebrate downtown Whitehall this holiday season, and that’s even after the Christmas Parade of last weekend! Besides the Christmas Carol Benefit Concert at the Playhouse Dec 18, the other main event is the Home Town Holiday Weekend this week hosted by the Harborview Grille. While being sponsored by the Grille, there will be events taking place all around downtown Whitehall. We caught up with Emil Rousseau to get the scoop.

DW: Emil, what’s the vision for the Hometown Holiday Weekend, and what prompted you to start it?

ER: Our business strategy from day one is to always give back, the vision for this event to to have a place where friends and family can gather and enjoy the season, maybe sing a song, share hot chocolate & smores with out the worry of having to incur another expense.

DW: What’s a quick rundown of all taking place over the weekend?

ER: There's so much going on, I'd ask you to check our event flier by clicking on this link.

DW: Is this a first for a city Christmas Tree?

ER: We did this last year, but decided to create an event and invite the community to help us count down the lighting. They usually lite the tree before thanksgiving. I will tell you that it is quite a sight to see the fire truck pull up, the fireman climb the big latter then place the star as the crowd begins the count down.....10, ....9,.....8,......

DW: The Tree-O sounds quite interesting as well. How did you come across this group and what can be expected during this performance?

ER: This was the work of a great partnership with Cindy Beth Davis from The Howmet Playhouse. You can expect Master Arts to present A Christmas of Many Parts, Window of His Love, and A Mime Performance, I have to say that the small town theater patrons will have a special "glow" after this event!

DW: Well, there will be no excuse to not be in the Holiday Spirit after the weekend. Thanks for all your work in putting together this event!

ER: Tell your friends and bring the family, hope to see you there!

On the Web

Tellabration website
White Lake Beacon article

What's up Whitehall - Pub One Eleven Continues to Shake Up Colby

2009-10-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

The block of Colby, southwest of the Four Corners, has been experiencing a significant resurgence this fall. First, Posh opened in the old Gale's Jewelry storefront. Now a complete makeover of the Local Pub is underway. Long a Whitehall landmark, the pub is sure to continue that tradition with its new look. Downtown Whitehall caught up with Mark Zickel, owner of the Local Pub, to get the scoop.

DW: I hear quite a few major changes are in the work at the Local Pub. Could you give us the skinny on what's happening?

MZ: Sure, we are putting a common front on all three of the storefronts that make up the Local Pub. The look will be nautical as we are using Michigan river rock and a gray staggered cedar shake. The name will be changing to Pub One Eleven. Pub has been in the name for decades and the address is 111 Colby. We also plan to change the interior flooring in the near future.

DW: Wow! Fantastic. What's the timeline for the completion of the improvements?

MZ: The exterior work began on Monday, September 28th and should be finished by the end of October.

DW: I believe you received a façade grant from the City of Whitehall to help with the exterior improvements? How important are incentives like these?

MZ: They are very important. These types of incentives help to promote and stimulate investment from property owners. In these economic times, financial contributions to these types of projects from grant funds are often the difference from staying on hold versus moving ahead.

DW: Besides the changes you have told us about already are there any further plans to change the direction of the pub, i.e. your live music schedule, menu etc?

MZ: My wife, Kathleen, does a great job of booking entertainment. We feature live bands and disc jokeys every week-end. We also have Karaoke every Wednesday night. Our menu offers daily homemade specials and the best burger in the county. Our perch is also a favorite of our regulars. We continue to offer new Michigan Micro Brews, a new wine list, single malt scotch, Happy Hours and daily drink specials.

DW: Well thanks for your effort to improve downtown Whitehall!

MZ: We are excited about the future of Downtown and proud to be contributing to the success of the next 150 years in Whitehall. Remember - "Think Local... Drink Local"!

On the Web

Pub One Eleven

HarborLight Film Series Back for Fall

2009-08-26T06:09:00.001-07:00

This great free addition to the Howmet Playhouse calendar is back for the fall. Organized by the Arts Council of White Lake, and sponsored by the HarborLight Credit Union, the fall films will feature more classic movies. We caught up with Dave Pickard of the Arts Council to hear about what is on tap.

DW: Great to see the movie series is back for fall. I assume it has been going well?

DP: We consider the first five film portion to have been a real success. We averaged just over 100 attendees at each movie, and that was with a couple of unknown titles.

DW: Very good to hear. It is a great idea to offer affordable entertainment, and the combination of movies and the Howmet is a great one. As you planned for this season was there a particular film theme you wanted to highlight?

DP: We found that “Anatomy of a Murder” which was a familiar title drew the best. It suits our typical audience which is of the more senior generation. With that in mind we have gone to a number of known, familiar titles including an Alfred Hitchcock (“To Catch a Thief”) and James Bond (“Dr. No”). “Roman Holiday”, “Inherit the Wind”, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Harvey” are all in the time tested, classic mode. This will give us an opportunity through May of next 2010 to further learn what our audiences are looking for.

DW: What tidbits can you share about the first movie of the season, Barefoot in the Park?

DP: This 1967 movie is based on the Broadway comedy written by Neil Simon. Starring Jane Fonda, Robert Redford, Charles Boyer and Mildred Natwick, it is a real classic and a very enjoyable, G Rated, family oriented comedy in the tradition of great comedy of the 60’s. It will be a very pleasant hour and forty-five minutes on September 3.

DW: Anything else folks should know about the series?

DP: The intent of the three partners in this venture (Arts Council of White Lake, HarborLight Credit Union and White Lake Community Library) was to provide regular, family-oriented entertainment for the entire community. Making a profit never entered the discussions. So, we’d like to fill the Howmet each month (we do rent the theater for the night) for the pleasure of our viewing audience.

DW: Well thanks for your effort to bring these cultural opportunities to the White Lake area. Should be a great fall!

DP: Thank you for the opportunity to talk about this great community activity. One last plug; We are always seeking volunteers who would like to participate in choosing movies, seating patrons, selling food, marketing the program or cleaning up the theater after the performance. It requires just a few hours per year, and you get to see the movies free. Call Leslie Salter at 231-981-3455 to sign up.

On the Web
Arts Council of White Lake
HarborLight Credit Union
Full info on Barefoot in the Park

What's up Whitehall - View from Dairy Treat

2009-07-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Dairy Treat has long been a summer fixture in downtown Whitehall. It got a facelift, or rather a rooflift, this summer when owner Brian Hosticka, added the amenity of rooftop seating to the business. Brian is a recent returnee to Whitehall, having moved back from Chicago with his family to be closer to extended family and start his own law practice. Downtown Whitehall took a few minutes to chat with Brian, while enjoying the view from Dairy Treat.

DW: Before we get into the rooftop I am sure everyone is wondering whether you got crushed during Rothbury? How much of an effect to you think Rothbury has on downtown Whitehall?

BH: We had an excellent week. July 4 is always a good day for Dairy Treat, but Rothbury made it even better. But the biggest impact Rothbury makes is the days right before and after the holiday. These days for the last two years have been super and I attribute that to Rothbury. I can't speak for other businesses, of course, but from the standpoint of Dairy Treat, Rothbury has had a big, positive impact on downtown Whitehall.

DW: Back to business. . . . The rooftop is a great addition. What has been the patron reaction?

BH: There were some skeptics before the construction was done, but now that it's finished the comments have been positive. I've gotten quite a few compliments, especially lately.

DW: I imagine that putting a rooftop on a building is one of those projects that looks easier than it is. How’d you turn it from vision to reality?

BH: Well, I only had to do with the vision part. The reality part I owe to a good architect - Richard Borgeson - and a great builder - Dave Bedau.

DW: Any other new things the Dairy Treat is trying this summer, or possibly in the works for future improvements?

BH: We're experimenting with some new food items. People might want to sit up there and have lunch, so we started selling paninis. I'll probably add pork BBQ's, too.

As far as future improvements, yes, I have some plans. I see red brick in the picnic table area in front some time soon. I'll also re-do the lot. But fixing up that stuff will depend on MDOT. I won't do any of that until they finish their plans for resurfacing Colby. I'll like to do it concurrently with their work. But whenever it happens, Dairy Treat will look really good.

DW: Well everyone one is an ice cream lover come summer and it is pretty cool to have a perch over Colby like the one you created at Dairy Treat to take it all in while licking a cone. Thanks for your efforts in improving downtown Whitehall.

BH: Your welcome and thanks to all of our wonderful customers.

On the Web

www.brianhosticka.com

Spring Work Bee

2008-05-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Picture from Spring Work Bee in Downtown Whitehall on Friday May 2, 2008.

What's up Whitehall - Art Escape on Tap

2008-05-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

Great art is a in integral part of many downtowns. The arts lend themselves to historic downtown with their common language of design and aesthetics, and arts activities and events are great drivers of visitors to downtowns. The downtowns of Whitehall and Montague are blessed in this regard with an active artist community. One of the community's signature activities is coming up on May 9 and 10 with Art Escape, so we took a minute to catch up with the chair of the event, Mary Payne, of Payne’s Interior Design Studio.

DW: Before we get into the specifics of the event tell us a little how you feel the arts contribute to the sense of place in the White Lake area.
MP: Our little secret in this area is that we have an abundance of artistic talent all around us. The entire community embraces and the energy and creativity that is brought from these folks who are involved in not only the artistic creative processes, but music and performing arts as well.

DW: What’s on tap with the Art Escape?
MP: Art Escape is an event brings together the business community and the cultural community. The downtown shops will be brimming with local and area artists for you to see up close and personal. This event will run from 11 am – 5pm both Friday and Saturday.

This “Art Escape” weekend is designed with you in mind. It’s a unique opportunity to getaway and escape to the world of creativity and imagination. Many of the shops will have drawings for special prize pieces of art, pottery and collectibles. Better yet, grab a room at one of the hotels or bed and breakfast and enjoy lunch at a sandwich shop and dinner at one of the areas fine restaurants.

DW: What is special about this year's event?
MP: This is the biggest year ever. We will have over 30 businesses participating and showcasing artists from all over the state. Also some new businesses and restaurants will be introducing themselves to people in the community who might not otherwise venture downtown if it were not for the artists. There will be music, food and special drawings for prizes. The artists also are bringing a lot of excitement to the downtown areas with their talent and creativity.

DW: Well, thanks so much for your contribution to the community with the promotions of the arts. We know it is an important part of our community
MP: It is my pleasure to help the business community in any way possible. I believe that the passion and pulse of the community is based and driven by the creativity of those people, business owners and artists alike, who live in and around the area. It is that creativity that drives all of us to make a better place in our little corner of the world for everyone who frequents it.

On the Web

White Lake Chamber Website event listing

What's Up Downtown Whitehall - Hustle to the Howmet

2008-03-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Events at the Playhouse have been coming fast and furious, and this week takes the cake. Be sure to head down to the theater and catch one of these great events.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at 7:30 PM
The April Verch Band in Concert
A beguiling blend of folk, jazz, old-time, bluegrass and roots music woven together with precision, intensity, and soul, infusing fiddle playing and stepdancing. Her pure voice mixes with the detailed elegance of her fiddle phrasing ranging through material from bluegrass to Brazilian to Celtic, from a jaunty Canadian folksong to a poignant contemporary ballad. April is world-class fiddler, a champion Ottawa Valley stepdancer, an acclaimed composer, and a vocalist whose voice has been hailed as “absolutely captivating” by the Toronto Star. The April Verch Band features world-class musicians Marc Bru on percussion, Lincoln Meyers on guitar, and Cody Walters on upright-electric bass. Don’t miss April’s return to West Michigan.
Call 231-894-4048 for tickets or more information
Tickets $14.00

Thursday, March 13, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
Hemingway on Stage: The Stories of Ernest Hemingway
Presented by the White Lake Area Library, in conjunction with Reading along the Lakeshore and their selected book, “The Nick Adams Stories.” Brian Gordon Sinclair, is the author and solo performer of Hemingway On Stage. He is a graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada and holds a Master of Arts degree in Theatre from the University of Denver. A recipient of the Sir Tyrone Guthrie Award for acting at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Ontario, Mr. Sinclair has performed in Cuba, Denmark, Holland, Poland and the Moscow Art Theatre in Russia. This will be a performance not to be missed!
For ticket and further information call
The White Lake Community Library 231-894-9531
Free and open to the public

Saturday, March 15, 2008, 7:30 p.m.
Truth in Jazz Orchestra in Concert
The playhouse is pleased to partner with and present West Michigan’s premier big band! Fronted by West Michigan's legendary drummer, Tim Froncek, this group of 16 of the area's top musicians plays charts from the classic era of the big bands of Ellington, Basie and Buddy Rich, up to today's best charts from the hottest writers. The band was organized by Dave Collee, Ed Spier, and Matt Lintula. It will also be a special “Jazz Night” at the Local Pub; join them for dinner before the show with catering by Steve Mayberry and music by “Down By One” after the show. Call the pub, 231-894-8269 for dinner reservations.
Call 231-894-4048 for tickets and more information
Tickets $10.00

On the Web

Howmet Playhouse

What's up Whitehall - Food Fight

2008-02-20T09:17:00.000-08:00

Since the closing of Scales in 2007, a hot topic downtown Whitehall has been the lack of dining options, though Sam’s Bistro, the Local Pub, and Pekadill’s have been doing their part to keep the town fed and watered. Developments over the winter seem to be pointing to an improved situation for the summer of 2008.

On February 5, US-31 BBQ opened at 604 E. Colby as a second location of the original US-31 BBQ located downtown Muskegon.

On opening day, George Buris, founder of US-31 BBQ, was on hand to direct new owner Scott Marecek on the finer points of serving up a BBQ sandwich, US-31 style. Marecek has been pleased with the response since he opened and pointed out that he knew he would get off to a good start with so many potential customers enquiring about when he would finally be open.

The restaurant is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday and serves BBQ style sandwiches with a variety of meats including beef, chicken, and pork.

While US-31 doesn’t have a liquor license, two other establishments are planning to be open by Memorial Day, both with permission to serve the adult beverages that Whitehall residents and visitors seem to be thirsty for. Mimi Kunz is on track with her plans to re-open Crosswinds Restaurant and to top it off, a newcomer to the White Lake restaurant scene, Emil Rousseau, has plans to open a restaurant called the Harbor View Grille in the old Morat Bakery. All it took was a look over White Lake and the White River watershed to convince Emil, currently the head of the GVSU Food Service in Allendale, that with a little TLC this would be a great location for an establishment featuring fine wines and good food.

So hold on to your hats (actually keep them on your heads as the cold continues) and get ready for spring and that fine feeling of strolling downtown Whitehall with a fine dining destination in mind. All of course adding to the shops, playhouse, lodging, marinas and parks already available downtown Whitehall.

On the Web

Harbor View Grille

What's up Downtown Whitehall - Welcome!

2008-01-24T09:03:00.000-08:00

In order to keep people informed and up to date on happenings in downtown Whitehall, the Blueprint Implementation Promotions committee is undertaking a monthly email newsletter, like the one you are currently reading. The goal is to keep the community aware of positive happenings downtown Whitehall, as well as of events taking place in the downtown area. If you are aware of a development, or an event, that would be worth highlighting in a story in this space, please let us know and we will arrange a "Q&A" style interview with the newsmaker.

For this edition, instead of a newsmaker story, we are making downtown Whitehall stakeholders aware of three educational meetings coming up. The first is a web marketing seminar, customized to help Downtown Whitehall businesses improve their web presences. The seminar will be held Wednesday February 6 at 8:00 a.m. at Whitehall City Hall. If you are intersted in attending please RSVP to Monica Holmes at (231) 724-3171 by February 5. Refreshments will be provided.

Second, Tuesday February 26 there will be a Downtown Building Rehabilitation Assistance Open House, also at Whitehall City Hall, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Representatives from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), along with City Staff and Muskegon Area First will be on hand to educate attendees about available grants for downtown building rehabilitation and design assistance.

MHSDA will share information about the Community Block Development Grant (CBDG), that qualifies upper-floor restoration for residential uses along with façade rehabilitation expenditures as eligible for grant funding. Hooker DeJong will share the scope of their downtown design project that they were recently awarded by the city’s Tax Increment Financing Authority (TIFA).

City Staff and Muskegon Area First will assist property owners with questions about the TIFA Façade Grant Program. Pizza and Pop will be available for attendees. Please contact Rich Houtteman, at 724.3181 for more information.

Finally, as we are in the process of attempting to reach more people with this newsletter please forward this email to friends and encourage them to subscribe by completing the form on the website.

Check it out on the web

Downtown Whitehall website

Window Decorating Contest

2007-11-26T08:25:00.001-08:00

The Window Decorating Contest is under way. Interior Design Interns with Baker College of Muskegon are working with local downtown business owners to decorate the windows for the holidays. Stop downtown and check out their progress!

Howmet Playhouse Fall Schedule

2007-09-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

Over 6,500 patrons enjoyed the 2007 summer theatre festival performances, making a strong showing this summer. But the historic Howmet Playhouse continues into the fall with a variety of entertainment options. There was a great turn-out for the Filisco & Noden Live Blues Concert on Friday, September 14; 185 people listened to an eclectic mix of Delta Blues, "old-timey," & Tin Pan Alley musical selections. A first for the playhouse, beer & wine was sold during the concert by the new "White Lake Theatre Arts" organization. All the funds raised after expenses went to support the operations of the playhouse.

More events are scheduled through the end of the year:

Sunday, September 30, 2007, 3:00 p.m.
Steve Gillette & Cindy Mangsen in Concert
An exciting return to the playhouse; Quiet Faith Productions, West Michigan's premier promoter of the best in folk music bring this dynamic duo to White Lake. According to the Sing Out Magazine review of Steve and Cindy's latest album, Being There, "Steve and Cindy have hit on a combination that consistently produces high quality recordings and entertaining stage shows. Their voices and styles meld seamlessly with a gentleness and a maturity that is unmatched in the world of folk duos." Call 616.636.5759 or 616.604.1001 for tickets or more information.
Tickets $12.00 in advance, $14.00 at the door.

Sunday, October 7, 2007, 7:30 p.m.
“TWENTY TO LIFE: The Life and Times of John Sinclair”
A screening and performance by Flint native, music scholar, poet and counter-culture legend John Sinclair. “TWENTY TO LIFE” premiered in Italy in September and comes to the Howmet stage as a part of Sinclair’s Midwest tour. Directed by Steve Gebhardt ( “Ladies and Gentlemen, The Rolling Stones”) with appearances by John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Allen Ginsberg, the MC5 and others, the film chronicles the real-life story of this legendary poet-provocateur whose exploits have reverberated throughout the international underground for 40 years. Widely recognized as one of America's leading authorities on blues and modern jazz, after the screening Sinclair will answer questions, then a concert will follow showcasing his poetry with live jazz with the Vincent Hayes Project.
Call 231-894-4048 for tickets, or go to www.johnsinclair.us
Tickets $10 & $15

Sunday, October 14, 2007, 3:00 p.m.
Archiglas Choral Ensemble (Outstanding Voice)
The Russian a cappella vocal ensemble “Archiglas”, directed by Dmitry Vorobjev, will present a free concert at the playhouse, the group's third performance in Whitehall since 2001. A free-will offering will be accepted to support the playhouse’s operations. The precision of the Archiglas vocal ensemble's a cappella work will use many combinations of their five voices that sing brilliantly with the force of a full choir. The afternoon presentation will consist of a mixture of Russian sacred music and folk songs including traditional costumes. Presented in conjunction with Lebanon Lutheran Church. Call 231-893-5745 for more information. Doors will open at 2:30 p.m.

Free will offering for the ensemble, no tickets sold.

Friday, October 26, 2007, 7:30 p.m.
Michael Smith in Concert
Called “Powerful and uncompromising… devilishly good” by the Boston Globe, Quiet Faith Productions brings this legendary singer-songwriter to the Howmet stage. His rich and often challenging songs have been recorded by more than 30 other performers, including people as diverse as Jimmy Buffet, Liam Clancy, Jerry Jeff Walker, Gordon Bok, the Four Freshmen and Spanky & Our Gang. Call 616.636.5759 or 616.604.1001 for tickets or more information.
Tickets $12.00 in advance, $14.00 at the door.

Saturday, October 27, 2007
An Evening with Diane Rehm
Montague’s Book Nook & Java Shop together with the Arts Council of White Lake are sponsoring a reception and presentation with one of NPR’s most popular radio hosts and interviewers. In 2006, The Washingtonian named Ms. Rehm one of Washington's "100 Most Powerful Women." This successful author and commentator is being brought to the playhouse for a special 5:30 p.m. reception and a 7:30 p.m. “Talk-back” Session, both of which to be held in the historic playhouse. All proceeds from the engagement will go towards the Blomdahp/Howmet Playhouse Fund. For tickets or more information call The Book Nook & Java Shop, 231-894-5333

Tickets:

Private Reception + priority seating to Evening with Diane Rehm $75.00;

Evening with Diane Rehm only, $35.00

Saturday, November 3, 2007, 7:30 p.m.
Alice Peacock in Concert
This Chicago singer & songwriter will perform a solo concert featuring many tunes from her newest release, “Who I Am.” Ruth Almer at Folking.com called Peacock’s CD, “an eclectic profusion of American folk, soul, blues, soft rock and also a distinct classical sound… Alice Peacock is a talent only going up… ” An accomplished singer-songwriter-guitarist plays music for all ages with a pure vocal sound that eschews grandstanding for phrasing and musicality. Lahri Bond of Dirty Linen Magazine says, “She has an amazing fifth for writing songs that have both depth and a pop hook that rivals those of 60s-era songwriters such as Carole King and Burt Bacharach.” For tickets call 231-894-4048.
Tickets $10.00

Friday and Saturday, November 9 & 10, 2007
Tellabration – A Tale of Two Cities – Storytelling Festival
Since 2005 Tellabration has brought the best in professional storytellers to the White Lake area. This year’s festival will begin on Friday night with a community-wide party next to the Howmet Playhouse and on Saturday feature a series of workshop/demonstrations by some of Midwest’s best storytellers. The festival will culminate in Saturday matinee (1:00 p.m.) and evening (7:30 p.m.) performances on the historic playhouse stage. A wonderful event for young and old, families and friends, this third annual event will feature storytellers, puppeteers, musicians and drum circles. For tickets or more information call The Finch Nest 231-893-5323
Tickets $ 10.00 – 14.00

Saturday, November 17, 2007, beginning at noon(Tentative, TBA)
White Lake Holiday Christmas Walk Movies
In conjunction with the Annual White Lake Christmas Walk, the Howmet Playhouse will again become a motion picture theatre. Since 1916 the playhouse was used for “flickers” (silent films) and for many years of it’s existence was Whitehall’s only movie theater. Still in the planning, a mixture of family films, cartoons & short subjects will be shown throughout the day. Tickets will be available at the door, price to be announced.

Saturday and Sunday, December 1 & 2, 2007, 7:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.(Tentative, TBA)
Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” adapted by Tom Harryman
Charles Dickens’ ghostly story of the covetous old sinner Ebenezer Scrooge and his nocturnal encounter with the true spirit of Christmas - performed by actor and playhouse manager Tom Harryman will haunt the playhouse for one weekend only. The Muskegon Chronicle said of his performance, “It is a measure of this professional actor and MCC theater instructors’ talent that he can deliver such a well-known story and make an audience laugh out loud, then quietly cry. Harryman will reprise his solo performance of the timeless holiday classic. Call 231-894-4048 for tickets.
Tickets $14.00 adult, $10.00 students

Saturday, December 8, 2007, 7:30 p.m.
John Gorka in Concert
Quiet Faith Productions brings Red House Records recording artist John Gorka for a solo concert, one night only at the playhouse. His songs have been recorded by such artists as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Mary Black and Maura O’Connell and he is honored to be a part of the folk tradition — energetic acoustic music that is an expression of everyday life. His rich baritone voice and unique songcraft weave together in a way that captivates audiences. A frequent player at the Ark in Ann Arbor, Gorka’s most recent release is “Writing in the Margins.” Call 616.636.5759 or 616.604.1001 for tickets or more information.
Tickets $12.00 in advance, $14.00 at the door.

Window Decorating Contest

2007-09-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

CALLING ALL TIFA DISTRICT BUSINESS OWNERS

Join other business within the TIFA district as they decorate their window displays for the 2007 holidays by students from Baker College's School of Design.

When: October - December 2007

Who: All business within the City of Whitehall TIFA District

What: Every business will be assigned to an intern to design their windows over the fall and winter holidays. Items used for decoration will be paid at the expense of the business owner. Each window will be judged by secret shoppers over the course of the holidays. Winners will be announced in local newspaters with a write-up about the contest. A prize will be issued to the winner.

Details to be posted soon!

Labor Day Community Bridge Walk

2007-09-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

This year 175 people turned out for The Annual Labor Day Community Bridge Walk. The event is set as a part of the statewide Active Michigan Summer initiative organized by the Governor's Council. It is sponsored and hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, City of Montague and City of Whitehall to encourage residents and even visitors to get active and come out to participate in a 'virtual' bridge walk. This is a great way to 'show - off' the beloved bike trail and bridge with community leaders, officials, neighbors and friends.

Healthy refreshments were served and provided by Farm Bureau at the Chamber. Walkers were encouraged to venture on as far as they please or turn back to the point of origin. The annual walk is a great community event that not only promotes the community, but it also brings attention to the importance of physical activity.

The Tannery tower falls

2007-09-07T11:30:00.001-07:00

On August 21, 2007 the last of the tannery was demolished. The picture on the right shows the tannery just as it begins to fall. The tower was being demolished to make way for condos.

For more details on the tannery project or other recent news about Downtown Whitehall:
Recent News

Tannery Groundbreaking

2007-07-17T10:44:00.001-07:00

City officials and developers officially broke ground on Friday the 13, 2007 on the former Whitehall Leather Co. tannery. The ground breaking ceremony included a preview of the upcoming demolition job with a portion of the building being pulled down.

For more details check out these recent articles:
Portion of tannery falls at 'groundbreaking'
Ceremony to celebrate reuse of tannery site

Riverview Market attracts a crowd

2007-07-09T12:12:00.000-07:00

Downtown Whitehall's newest attraction, the Riverview Market continues to attract new vendors and customers. Last weekend 22 of the 24 vendor spaces were taken and a large number of customers enjoyed a beautiful day of strolling through the goods for sale overlooking the White River.

Goodrich Park Improvements

2007-06-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

Wow check out all the improvements happening at Goodrich Park. Currently the city is in the progress of installing a 30 foot by 64 foot pavilion, and a handicap accessible play sturcture has already been added. To learn more about the project check out these recent news articles:

Work to begin on Goodrich Park
Whitehall invests $160K to upgrade city park

White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival

2007-06-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the 29th Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival. Hundreds of people visited Funnell Field for the annual event. More than 150 talented and creative artists participated.

Playhouse set to open

2007-06-05T13:28:00.001-07:00

Box Office will open for Summer Theater festival ticket sales June 25. Pre-sales available by calling 894-4048, or by stopping by the Whitehall City Hall.

Dear Friends, Patrons and Benefactors of the Howmet Playhouse:

2007-04-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since we closed the last show of the 2006 season with a very successful run of The Moon Is Blue. The fine arts camp has given the playhouse to the City of Whitehall and the city has been busy, working to see the Playhouse activities continued and even expanded!

They have hired Tom Harryman as a year-round manager. Some of you may remember Tom as the director of The Moon Is Blue and his previous activities at the Frauenthal Center in Muskegon. Tom and I have worked together to plan another great summer season at the Playhouse.

But we need your help! Housing that was available next door at the Lewis House can no longer be used to house actors. We are also looking for a volunteer crew to help with ushering and a variety of other tasks. We are interested in any suggestions you might have.

I was certainly moved by the reaction of the community and the city when the potential of losing the Playhouse programming came to light. The city has established a variety of ways you can support our fundraising efforts:

Donate to the City of Whitehall: Donation Form (pdf)
City of Whitehall/Howmet Playhouse Operations

Or

Donate to the Community Foundation for Muskegon County:
The Blomdahl/Howmet Playhouse Fund - Or - The Playhouse Capital Fund

When I first came to the area I asked Edna Blomdahl if she would help me compile the initial mailing list for our season. She invited her old friend Harriet Burman over and we sat at Edna’s kitchen table and put together the list. Between them they knew everyone in the White Lake area. The people who were on that list are still many of the Playhouse faithful!

I certainly appreciate Blue Lake’s stewardship, but in the long run, this may be the best thing that has happened to our Playhouse. This season’s success will certainly be crucial to our future operations. I hope I can count on your continued support for our activities.

If you would like to contact us via email, please write to kevinwurz@aol.com or Tom at playhousemanager@cityofwhitehall.org, or call Tom, 231-894-4048. We’ll be happy to answer any questions on fundraising or volunteering. We will have a website up and running soon and we hope you will enjoy this great season we have planned.

Thanks again for your loyalty through the last 12 years. Open this brochure and you’ll see the great productions we have planned for 2007!

Sincerely,
Kevin R. Wurz
Summer Theatre Director – Howmet Playhouse

The Howmet Theaters First Concert

2007-04-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

The Howmet Playhouse opened its doors for the first time since being aquired by the city of Whitehall. More than 240 people showed up for its first concert.

To read more about the concert with "Fonn Mor" please check out the article: Music mix sets tone for great evening with Fonn Mor.

Spring Construction Starts

2007-04-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

Downtown Whitehall will lose some of its clutter this spring as Phase II of a downtown improvements project gets completed, meaning the burying of overhead wires running through the district.