June 1952
- charliebunton
- Nov 4
- 4 min read
The Rogers City High School Auditorium was filled with warm, heavy air, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation and emotion as eighty-nine seniors, their polished shoes tapping nervously on the worn wooden floor, prepared to step into adulthood. The air was alive with the sound of rustling programs and whispered excitement that mingled with the sweet scent of carnation corsages adorning the proud mothers' dresses, a symbol of their joy and pride. Fathers shifted uncomfortably in the creaky auditorium seats, their starched collars damp from the unexpected heat of the day, a reminder of the summer’s early embrace.
From the stage, C.L. Taylor, the Deputy Superintendent of the Michigan Department of Public Instruction, delivered his commencement address titled "Just A Spoke" with a commanding presence and a voice that echoed throughout the hall. His words were not just a formality; they were a heartfelt reminder to each graduate of their essential role in a greater whole, encouraging them to recognize that they were but one spoke in the intricate wheel of society, with futures full of boundless potential waiting just beyond the horizon. As he spoke, the graduates listened intently, absorbing the wisdom imparted to them, their faces reflecting a mixture of hope and trepidation about the journey ahead.
Nancy Hoeft, poised and radiant as valedictorian, took her turn at the podium, her voice echoing in the rafters as she shared her reflections and aspirations. Her speech was a tapestry of memories woven with dreams, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her classmates and their families. Meanwhile, Donald Nauts, the salutatorian, awaited his moment with youthful confidence, his thoughts racing with the excitement of sharing his own insights and encouragement with his peers.
Frank Reinke, the secretary of the Board of Education, stood ready to hand diplomas to eager hands—each embossed paper a tangible promise of achievement and a symbol of the hard work and dedication that had brought these students to this pivotal moment. As each graduate's name was called, flashbulbs captured moments of triumph, preserving them in time, ensuring that parents would cherish these memories in scrapbooks for years to come. The applause that thundered through the auditorium was akin to a summer storm, a powerful celebration of the Class of 1952, echoing the pride and joy felt by all in attendance.
That same month also featured the senior class play, a hilarious three-act comedy titled "The Inner Willy," which provided a delightful diversion from the weight of graduation. The play centered on the comedic troubles of a well-behaved boy, Willoughby Adams, played with charm and skill by Dick Jones. He navigated the eccentricities of his three maiden aunts, portrayed by the talented Betty Courval, Nancy Hoeft, and Dorothy Torno, who believed that Willoughby’s troubles were purely physical ailments. However, the true source of his woes was the sudden and humorous appearance of his "inner self," played by Clayton Friedrich, manifesting as a phantom in BVDs that was visible only to Willoughby. The play was a resounding success, filled with laughter and applause, showcasing the creativity and talent of the senior class.
In another corner of the community, the Rogers City Community Band, under the enthusiastic leadership of Rhoud Benson, performed their first weekly summer concert, drawing in crowds eager to enjoy the melodies of the season. The band played a selection of tunes that included "Greetings to Lowville," "Napoleon's Last Charge," and concluded their performance with the stirring notes of "The Star-Spangled Banner," creating an atmosphere of patriotism and camaraderie among the audience.
Meanwhile, Boy Scout Troop 90 of Westminster Presbyterian Church held their first camp of the season at Adams Point, located near the mouth of the Swan River. Twenty-four scouts attended the weekend event, eager to learn valuable skills such as compass use, tracking, measuring, and wildlife safety from their dedicated leaders. During recreation time, several boys proudly passed their swimming tests while others sought adventure and relaxation, trying their luck at fishing in the serene waters nearby.
In a heartwarming community initiative, Kotwicki's Department Store hosted a "Father of the Year" contest in the Presque Isle County Advance leading up to Father's Day. James Quinn, a beloved teacher and coach at Rogers City High School, won the honor through a spirited write-in campaign, receiving a stylish new Michael-Sterns suit from the store as a token of appreciation for his contributions to the community.
Finally, Quarry View, the lookout station at the Calcite Quarry, opened for the season, welcoming thousands of summer visitors eager to witness the marvel of the world’s largest limestone quarry. This year, the station had been relocated half a mile north along the quarry face due to ongoing operations at the original site. Visitors left with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the significant industrial activities underway, marveling at the scale and importance of the quarry to the local economy and environment.
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