June 1947
- charliebunton
- Jun 21, 2025
- 3 min read
As the Rogers City High School Band played the familiar and stirring notes of "Pomp and Circumstance," a sense of anticipation filled the air as the 70 graduates of the class of 1947 gracefully entered the school's auditorium. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, pride, and a touch of nostalgia as family members and friends gathered to witness this significant milestone in the lives of these young individuals. Dressed in their caps and gowns, the graduates walked with a blend of excitement and solemnity, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
The commencement ceremony was a momentous occasion, featuring a keynote address delivered by Dr. Marshall Reed, a respected minister from Nardin Park Methodist Church in Detroit. His speech, titled "Power is Not Enough," resonated deeply with the audience, as he emphasized the importance of character, compassion, and responsibility in leadership. Dr. Reed's insights encouraged the graduates to look beyond mere ambition and success, urging them to embrace the values that would guide them in their future endeavors. His eloquent words served as both inspiration and a call to action for the new graduates, reminding them that true power lies in the ability to uplift others and make meaningful contributions to society.
Among the graduates, Martha Smolinski was honored as this year's valedictorian, a testament to her hard work and academic excellence. Following her was salutatorian Robert Karsten, who also demonstrated remarkable dedication throughout his high school years. Their achievements were celebrated not only by their peers but also by the faculty and community members who had supported them along the way.
In a notable development within the community, the Lucky Strike Bowling Alley changed ownership this month, being sold to Paul Hopp and his son-in-law Ervin Bannasch. This transition marks a new chapter for the bowling alley, which has been a staple of local entertainment since its establishment in 1937 by Frank Buza and Clarence Mertz. Ervin Bannasch, who has spent the last 14 years working as a draftsman for the Ford Motor Company, will take on the role of manager, bringing a fresh perspective and energy to the lanes. The sale represents not just a business transaction, but also a commitment to maintaining the alley's legacy as a gathering place for friends and families in Rogers City.
The community is mourning the loss of Frank Craig, the town's first professional photographer, who recently passed away. Born on February 28, 1875, in Cobekonk, Ontario, Frank Craig made the significant move to Michigan in 1910 during the height of the lumber boom. It was during this period that he developed a keen interest in photography, eventually acquiring a studio in Lewiston where he began capturing the essence of life in the lumber camps. Known affectionately as "Craig the Picture Man," he traveled extensively, documenting the lives of loggers and the early scenes of the region, preserving history through his lens. In 1924, he relocated to Rogers City, where he opened a studio on the corner of Erie and Fourth Streets, that became a cornerstone of the community, serving families and individuals until his recent illness curtailed his work.
Meanwhile, the independent baseball team of Rogers City, a new initiative organized by Leo Greka, Ed Muszynski, and Guy Creagh, celebrated a triumphant start to their season by winning their opener against Posen. The team, which boasts a roster filled with local talent, includes players such as Harold Hopp, Ray Mulka, Marvin Hopp, Chet Pilarski, Ed Mulka, Rudy Schleben, Art Mulka, Joe Belusar, Ted King, Ray Pilarski, Len Crawford, Clem Urban, Chet Kuchinski, and Bill Warwick. Their victory not only marked a successful beginning to the season but also fostered a sense of community pride and camaraderie among the players and their supporters. The enthusiasm surrounding the team reflects the community's enduring love for baseball and its role in bringing people together, creating lasting memories and friendships.
Love what you are doing to get the history of the area out. Just wanted to mention that Frank Craig was living and had a photo studio in Millersburg in 1900 before moving on to Onaway and then Rogers City.