July 1948
- charliebunton
- Jul 8, 2025
- 4 min read
The sun shone relentlessly above, casting a warm golden hue over the landscape as families joyfully descended the sandy slopes leading toward Rogers City's beloved bathing beach. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and excitement as parents and children alike made their way to the water's edge. Their wicker baskets, filled to the brim with beach essentials, and brightly striped umbrellas formed a vibrant procession against the glistening azure backdrop of Lake Huron. The scene was a picturesque representation of summer's simple pleasures, where the worries of the world seemed to fade away, if only for a day.
Children giggled with uncontained joy, kicking off their leather shoes and relishing the sensation of the warm, soft sand beneath their eager little feet. Meanwhile, mothers donned modest one-piece swimsuits, their wide-brimmed hats providing shelter from the sun's intense rays as they took refuge under colorful canvas canopies. They fanned themselves with folded copies the Presque Isle County Advance, which featured optimistic headlines heralding the era of post-war prosperity that had begun to blossom in the community. The gentle waves lapping rhythmically against the limestone shore provided a soothing soundtrack to the day’s festivities, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Nearby, teenagers clad in rolled-up dungarees tossed a football near the water's edge, their shouts of encouragement and playful banter mingling with the sounds of the surf. Fathers, sporting suspenders and undershirts, organized spontaneous field games, their laughter echoing across the beach like the sweet aroma of homemade lemonade cooling in a nearby ice-filled washtub. The excitement of the day was further amplified by the announcement that Jerry Yerks had been appointed as the lifeguard for the summer season, ensuring safety and peace of mind for all beachgoers. He would be on duty daily from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m., ready to respond to any need that might arise.
A city recreation program, aimed at fostering community spirit and engagement, commenced this month, inviting school children to Lakeside Park every day at 9:00 a.m. for a diverse array of activities sponsored by the city and led by the enthusiastic Director Mason Evans. The program was designed to keep the youth active and entertained throughout the summer, offering a variety of engaging activities that included a thrilling soapbox derby, a competitive softball league, an adorable pet show, an exciting bottle cap hunt that encouraged exploration, a delightful doll show showcasing creativity, arts and crafts sessions that sparked imagination, a city-wide tennis tournament that brought out the competitive spirit, and an end-of-year picnic designed to celebrate the culmination of a successful school year. Each activity was carefully planned to provide not only fun but also opportunities for learning and social interaction among the children, fostering friendships that would last well beyond the summer months.
In a remarkable display of commitment to environmental stewardship and youth engagement, over 100 young Junior Conservationists from Presque Isle and Cheboygan Counties recently spent a transformative week at the Ocqueoc Lake Group Camp. This immersive experience allowed them to participate in a variety of hands-on activities such as fly fishing, where they learned the delicate art of casting and the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Additionally, they engaged in firearm safety and shooting exercises, emphasizing responsible use of firearms in a controlled environment. Swimming sessions at the camp not only provided a refreshing escape from the summer heat but also instilled confidence in water safety. The campers also delved into forest management practices, learning about the vital role that forests play in the ecosystem and how to preserve them for future generations.
Other recreational and educational opportunities were woven throughout the week, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. Prior to their departure for camp, Dr. Arscott conducted thorough examinations for each boy, ensuring their health and readiness for the week’s adventures. Andrew Braidwood of Onaway took on the responsibility of overseeing the camp, ensuring that every detail was attended to, and that the young conservationists left with memories that would inspire them to become stewards of the environment.
In a much-anticipated development, the Rogers Theater has reopened its doors for the first time since the devastating fire that occurred in February. This grand reopening marked a significant milestone for the community, as the theater had long been a cultural hub for entertainment and social gatherings. The auditorium has been thoughtfully extended by thirty feet, which has increased the seating capacity from 457 to a generous 600 patrons, allowing more members of the community to enjoy the cinematic experience together.
The building's color scheme has undergone a complete transformation, featuring vibrant yellow walls adorned with aqua trim that beautifully complement the gold and aqua carpeting, creating an inviting and cheerful atmosphere. The walls and ceiling are now covered with variegated brown and tan acoustical wallboard, applied in an attractive manner that enhances both aesthetics and sound quality. The new chairs, with their dark mohair backs, match the leather-patterned wainscoting, adding a touch of elegance to the venue. Other modern features include air conditioning for comfort during summer screenings, fireproofing for safety, and a soundproof "cry room" designed for mothers with babies, allowing them to enjoy the film without disturbing others. The theater is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment, ensuring that moviegoers experience films in the best possible quality.
The opening night feature will be the heartwarming film "I Remember Mama," starring the talented Irene Dunne and Barbara Bel Geddes, promising a night of entertainment that will surely delight audiences. Admission prices have been set at a modest 50 cents for adults and 14 cents for children, making it an accessible outing for families.
In a solemn announcement, it has been reported that John D. Sibley, aged 53, from Eaton Rapids, has passed away. He was the former principal of Rogers City High School and made significant contributions to education. Sibley studied at Albion College and the University of Michigan, arriving in Rogers City in 1921 as a mathematics teacher before becoming principal. In 1944, he relocated to Eaton Rapids, where he served as superintendent of schools. We extend our deepest sympathies to his friends, family, colleagues, and the many former students he influenced throughout the years. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the significant impact educators have on their students' lives and the importance of valuing the time spent with those who guide us.
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