July 1945
- charliebunton
- May 16
- 3 min read
The sun shines brightly over Rogers City as it kicks off the annual Fourth of July celebration. Sponsored by the Rogers City Chamber of Commerce, this year’s festivities have been carefully adjusted to comply with wartime restrictions, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the townspeople during a time of global conflict. The day begins with a vibrant parade that winds its way down Main Street, showcasing a variety of local organizations and groups. The parade features the dedicated members of the Coast Guard, who have played a crucial role in the nation's defense, as well as Veterans Organizations that honor those who have served in past conflicts. The participation of local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts troops adds a youthful exuberance to the event, highlighting the importance of community involvement and the values of patriotism and service instilled in the younger generation. Among the parade participants, the decorated bicycles of young girls Diane Shay, Joyce Hoffer, Ardis Beebe, and Patsy Murphy stand out, each creatively adorned with red, white, and blue decorations that reflect the spirit of independence. Their efforts are recognized with prizes, encouraging not only competition but also creativity and participation among the youth of Rogers City.
After the parade concludes, the crowd gathers around the old gazebo, a cherished landmark in the community, to listen to a stirring patriotic speech delivered by Congressman Fred Bradley. With a commanding presence, he addresses the large crowd, expressing unwavering support for President Truman during a challenging time in the nation’s history, stating, "We are behind President Truman 100%. I have been a lifelong Republican and always will be, but I support Harry Truman in his efforts to restore this country to the genuine American form of government it was meant to be." His words resonate deeply with the audience, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared purpose among the citizens.
As the day progresses, both children and adults eagerly participate in a series of field races and activities designed to entertain and engage the community. The nail-driving contest, a test of strength and skill, sees Mrs. Kurt Kreft emerge victorious, while the pie-eating contest, a delightful and messy affair, is won by Ronald Breach and Diana Joppich, much to the amusement of the spectators. These activities foster camaraderie and laughter, creating lasting memories for families and friends.
The afternoon culminates in a spirited softball game at the Sports Park, where the local Merchants team faces off against the Coast Guard. In a thrilling match, the Merchants triumph with a score of 8-5, showcasing local talent and providing an exciting conclusion to the day’s events. As the sun begins to set, the Rogers City Community Band takes the stage at 8:00 p.m. to deliver a rousing concert, filling the air with patriotic melodies and familiar tunes that resonate with the audience, drawing them together in celebration and reflection.
Meanwhile, at the Norway Pines Club, owned by Leo Greka and 18 other founding members, nearly 200 visitors gather at their hunting camp, situated on 640 acres of prime land, to enjoy a festive atmosphere. Mr. Greka, in a ceremonial gesture, breaks a bottle of champagne against the corner of the two-story structure, symbolizing the club's official opening and the beginning of a new chapter for its members. Guests are treated to a potluck dinner, where families share dishes and stories, all while a four-piece orchestra plays lively music throughout the day, enhancing the celebratory mood and fostering a sense of community.
The inaugural club members, a diverse group including Greka, August Meyers, Art Bisson, Hector Bisson, Louis Smolinski, Emil Kowalski, Louis Kowalski, August Erkfitz, Leonard Meyers, Stanley Idalski, Clarence Kelly, Henry Yarch, Eli Yarch, Stanley Rygwelski, Charles Kleiber, William Erkfitz, Harold Mullenhagen, Ira Hudson, Lorman Jones, Melvin Meyers, and Frank Thompson, share in the festivities, each contributing to the rich tapestry of local history and camaraderie that defines Rogers City.
Additionally, the congregation of St. John's Lutheran Church has much to celebrate, honoring their beloved pastor Louis Linn for an impressive 45 years of dedicated ministry service. This milestone is not only a testament to his commitment to the community but also a reflection of the strong bonds formed within the congregation. Furthermore, the church marks the symbolic burning of the mortgage for the Lutheran School, a moment of triumph that signifies financial freedom and the successful efforts of the church community to support education and spiritual growth.
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