Bolton set for second annual event

Last September, the small village of Bolton celebrated its 125th anniversary with the first-ever Bolton-Fest.

The weekend was such a success that the organizers are making it an annual event.

"The turnout last year was incredible and we expect it to be bigger this year," Bolton Inn owner Jan Leary said. "It is a way to bring the community together and that was what we wanted all along."

Bolton-Fest kicks off Sept. 12 with a fish fry, live auction and music by JR Wooster.

Saturday brings the Lawn and Garden Tractor Pull, hosted by the Alpena Cycle Club, and the night's other big event is a performance by Mike Ridley.

"Ridley is sure to draw a lot of people, and I expect that the tractor-pull will also," Leary said.

Attendees can take their shot at taming the mechanical bull that will be there to take on all challengers.

A softball and baseball tournament will be taking place along with the other events as well.

Bolton Inn has arranged activities to keep the children occupied as well. The kids can win prizes in a number of different games, such as competing in a fishing tournament or bouncing in the "Burger Bopper."

The Maple Ridge Township Auxiliary will raffle off a deer blind at the festival's conclusion on Sept. 14.

"All the attractions are free. It's an open event," Leary said. "You buy tickets for food and drinks and that is about it."

Terry LaFleaure and the Last Shot band will be performing on Saturday night following Ridley.

Steve Schulwitz can be reached via e-mail at sschulwitz@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5689.