Keeping Deer Lake Charlie's Open
Donation protected
Hello Friends,
Deer Lake Charlies has been around since 1941, created when there was an elite group of customers available in the form of young men at the nearby CCC camp, a growing resort destination, and an active logging industry. Starting in a log cabin, a dance hall was added, where tourists and local folk got together from spring through hunting season for a good time and companionship. Owner Myron Carlson ran the business and played drums for the dance band, his father in law Charlie Blackmer helped create the persona, various managers and Tracie Carlson kept the place going, and Myron's children eventually sold it to Charlie Blackmer III and Gail Blackmer, grandchildren of Deer Lake Charlie.
Now, I'm alone in the ownership and frankly, the future of Deer Lake Charlies. I know I have a great bunch of customers, friends and supporters who would like to continue to see this tavern here when they come to the lake for the weekend or are riding by on a road trip or taking an annual camping trip. I would like that too. This is where we meet each other, and expand friendships. You're invited to stop by!
When Charlie was here to share expenses and repairs we could make it. The building is old, very old, and needs a variety of up-grades. Licensing and start up fees for a retail hospitality business are steep, even for a rustic, low volume place like this. I'm asking for your support so that it makes sense to continue operating. If a goal of $5000.00 can be reached, I have a pledge of a matching $5000.00. and I believe that would be the basis for maintaining Deer Lake Charlies for another generation to come!
I promise all contributions will be dedicated to the goal of necessary repairs and improvements while maintaining the "look" you like. Thank you so much.
Click here to Reply or Forward
Deer Lake Charlies has been around since 1941, created when there was an elite group of customers available in the form of young men at the nearby CCC camp, a growing resort destination, and an active logging industry. Starting in a log cabin, a dance hall was added, where tourists and local folk got together from spring through hunting season for a good time and companionship. Owner Myron Carlson ran the business and played drums for the dance band, his father in law Charlie Blackmer helped create the persona, various managers and Tracie Carlson kept the place going, and Myron's children eventually sold it to Charlie Blackmer III and Gail Blackmer, grandchildren of Deer Lake Charlie.
Now, I'm alone in the ownership and frankly, the future of Deer Lake Charlies. I know I have a great bunch of customers, friends and supporters who would like to continue to see this tavern here when they come to the lake for the weekend or are riding by on a road trip or taking an annual camping trip. I would like that too. This is where we meet each other, and expand friendships. You're invited to stop by!
When Charlie was here to share expenses and repairs we could make it. The building is old, very old, and needs a variety of up-grades. Licensing and start up fees for a retail hospitality business are steep, even for a rustic, low volume place like this. I'm asking for your support so that it makes sense to continue operating. If a goal of $5000.00 can be reached, I have a pledge of a matching $5000.00. and I believe that would be the basis for maintaining Deer Lake Charlies for another generation to come!
I promise all contributions will be dedicated to the goal of necessary repairs and improvements while maintaining the "look" you like. Thank you so much.
Click here to Reply or Forward
Organizer
Gail Blackmer
Organizer
Effie, MN
