Mike with Frank Porpiglia
Mike is the man behind the microphone on the floating stage and introduces each tribute band and tribute singer who arrives at the Chautauqua Lake Pops from throughout the United States and Canada. When Mike is not on the Pops stage he takes his microphone and mingles among the crowd asking "Where ya' from?"
"I am thrilled to have been Dan Dalpra's "sidekick" for over 10 years now. Besides tossing jokes around and announcing acts on America's original and most unique stage he has become one of my best friends and confidants. Face to face or on the phone we must have solved all of the world's problems 10 times over throughout the years. I don't know what the 2020 summer season will bring though I do know we're hoping to take the stage again", said Ferguson.
"Mike has been a strong supporter of the community for as long as I have known him. His participation with our Pops program has been stellar. He was a natural fit with us and we are blessed to have him in the mix. They say "a real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out". Once Mike walked in he never left! We both believe in vision and opportunity for our community. I am grateful for his friendship and dedication. Remember, good friends don't let you do stupid things alone. Together, we will continue to work hard to move the Pops forward for all to enjoy", said Dalpra.
When Mike isn't carrying out his announcing duties in the county and at the Pops he is Director of Sales, Marketing and Culture Development at Fredonia Place. Fredonia Place is a full care senior living facility in Fredonia NY. They recently opened a new facility in Williamsville NY.
Prior to his current employment Mike was a morning show host with 96KIX FM and WDOE; Director of Promotions and Marketing for Lake Erie Speedway; General Manager of the Jamestown Jammers; Director of Marketing, PR and Branding for Merritt Winery; Director of Marketing, PR and official announcer for the Chautauqua County Fair; Executive Director/General Manager for the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena; Past President and former board member of the Chautauqua County Visitor's Bureau; United States Pickleball Association Ambassador; Gamma Pickleball Brand Ambassador; touring pro with Professional Racquetball; President/General Manager with Buffalo Blizzard (professional Soccer) and former Vice President/General Manager with the Wichita Wings in Wichita Kansas (professional soccer).
Mike was chairperson of the Citizen's Advisory Board created by the former County Executive, George Borello prior to Mr. Borello becoming Senator Borello.
During several summers in Bemus Point Mike was fundraising chairperson for Shults Auto Group's Car on the Barge Campaign. When there wasn't a new car on the barge next to the floating stage there was a new boat on the barge giving one lucky raffle ticket holder the chance to win. Holiday Harbor Marina located in Celoron was the sponsor of the boat raffle.
Mike was Co-Producer of the Chautauqua Lake The Choice at the Bemus Bay Pops and is currently Co-Producer of the Chautauqua Lake Pops in Mayville NY.
Mike and his wife, Dianne live in Fredonia. Dianne is a volunteer coordinator for the Chautauqua Lake Pops.
Be safe.
Pat Locke
Maestro Muse
