August 1960
As August settled over Rogers City and the long, warm days of summer began to fade, signs of change could be found all across the community. It was a season when familiar institutions were being renewed, new faces were stepping into important roles, and local pride seemed to grow with each passing week.
At Lucky Strike Lanes, an exciting new chapter was beginning. Roland Oliver, an Alpena native, Army veteran of the Korean War, and graduate of Alpena High School and Alpena Community College, had become a partner in the business after purchasing an interest from Paul Hopp. Oliver joined Irvin Bannasch, who had helped operate the popular bowling alley since 1947. To celebrate the transition, the new partners invited area residents to an introductory open house, offering bowling for just twenty-five cents a line and refreshments at Rainbow Gardens.
Visitors arriving that summer found far more than a new manager. Lucky Strike Lanes had undergone a complete reconditioning, a new lane had been added to bring the total to eight, and modern locker rooms welcomed bowlers of all ages. Oliver's enthusiasm extended beyond the building itself. He announced plans for "Learn to Bowl" clinics and free Saturday morning bowling for children, creating opportunities for families and young people to discover a lifelong pastime.
Change was also underway at the Presque Isle County Library. Robert Seger of Ypsilanti had been selected as the new librarian, succeeding Irene Plume. Armed with a Library Science degree from Western Michigan University and experience at the Michigan State Library, Ingham County Library, and St. Clair County Library, Seger brought a wealth of knowledge to Rogers City.
Meanwhile, curious residents gathered along the corner of Third and Erie, watching as workers transformed the former Hoeft Department Store into the new home of the Presque Isle County Advance. The newspaper was growing, and its success demanded a larger and more modern facility. One-third of the building became a fresh new office space, while the remainder housed an upgraded printing operation. At the heart of the modernization was a new offset press that dramatically improved both speed and quality. Photographs that once appeared dark and indistinct now emerged sharp and vibrant, bringing readers closer than ever to the stories of their community.
Growth at the newspaper also created opportunities for local talent. Among the newest additions was Larry Morrison, a Rogers City native who had studied printing at Ferris State University before gaining experience at the Cheboygan Daily Tribune and the Clare Sentinel. Few could have known at the time that Morrison would go on to spend the next 46 years helping print the newspaper, becoming an enduring part of its history.
As these changes unfolded across town, another story was capturing the imagination of the community. The Rogers City Little League All-Stars were enjoying the ride of a lifetime. After overwhelming Alpena 17-4 to claim the District 8 Championship under coaches Ivan Streich, Walter Poch, and Leo Hilla, the team earned the opportunity to compete for a state title in Kalamazoo.
The young players rose to the occasion. Facing St. Clair in the opening round, Rogers City exploded for ten runs in the first inning and never looked back. Led by starting pitcher Jim Gordon, the lineup featured Terry Syrett behind the plate at catcher, John Paradise at first base, Kurt Ries at second base, Jeff Pines at shortstop, Art Santini at third base, Dick Schalk in right field, Dave Kowalski in center field, and Tom Florip in left field. Together they powered Rogers City to a thrilling 12-10 victory. Syrett delivered one of the tournament's most memorable performances, collecting two home runs, a double, and a single to spark the offense. Other members of the team included Bill Hornbacher, Randy Schuler, Jim Gregory, Jerry Mulka, John Santini, and Dan Sobeck.
The dream of a state championship eventually met a formidable challenge in the semifinals. Bay City, behind standout pitcher War Hayes, held Rogers City hitless through five innings and secured a 4-1 victory. Though the loss ended their championship hopes, it could not diminish what the team had achieved. Rogers City finished third in the state, trailing only champion Harper Woods and runner-up Bay City.
For the young ballplayers, the journey created memories that would remain vivid for decades. For the community, their success served as another source of pride during a summer already filled with progress and promise.
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