March 1952
- charliebunton
- Oct 20
- 5 min read
Operations at the Calcite plant have begun, representing a major milestone in the area's industrial development. The Str. Calcite and Str. W.F. White are set to make their first voyages, carrying their initial loads of stone across the vast waters of Lake Huron. Alongside these ships, vessels from the Pittsburgh Steamship Company are also expected to dock locally, adding to the area's active maritime scene. Notably, regional reports suggest that ice conditions this year are milder than in past winters, which is a positive development for shipping activities. The high-water levels in the Great Lakes have also been a bonus for navigation. Over the past year, Lakes Huron and Michigan have risen by an impressive 24 inches, while Lake Erie has increased by 17 inches, and Lake Ontario by 11 inches. These elevated water levels are particularly advantageous for shipping, as they allow vessels to load to their maximum draft, thereby enabling them to carry full cargoes without the risk of grounding.
This year, the shipping season has brought forth a diverse group of experienced captains, each commanding their respective vessels with skill and dedication. Among them are Donald Nauts on the Str. John G. Munson, Gilbert Kempe at the helm of the Str. Calcite, Mark Haswell on the Str. W.F. White, Don McLeod on the Str. Irvin L. Clymer, Ronald Ursem operating the Str. B.H. Taylor, Roland Bryan on the Str. T.W. Robinson, and Chris Swarts commanding the Str. Carl D. Bradley. In addition to the usual seasonal winter work, construction has commenced on a new main office building at the Calcite plant, a much-needed upgrade. For the past 27 years, the main office has been situated in the former Rogers City Power Company building located at the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Second Street, a location that was established in 1925 following a devastating fire that destroyed the original office during renovation and expansion.
However, the shipping season has not been without its tragedies. A somber incident occurred when Judson Price, a 46-year-old worker from Onaway, lost his life while working aboard the Str. B.H. Taylor. A steel hopper fell from a crane hook into the hold, striking Price and injuring 25-year-old Carl Brege, who is currently recuperating at Rogers City Hospital. Adding to the season's sorrow, news of the passing of John G. Munson, the former Vice President of Raw Materials at U.S. Steel, reached the community. Munson, who had dedicated 31 years to the company before retiring just last year, succumbed to a long illness at the age of 67.
In the realm of community affairs, Frank Lamb, President of the local Fraternal Order of Eagles, has announced the appointment of Emerson Lee as Freedom Director. Lee will oversee the Eagle program aimed at combating the spread of Communism, aligning the local chapter with a nationwide initiative that carries the impactful slogan "Help Freedom Ring Round the World." This initiative reflects the community's commitment to upholding democratic values during a time of global tension.
In a noteworthy personal milestone, Harry H. Whitely is celebrating his remarkable 50 years in the newspaper business. Following the death of his father, Henry, in 1910, Harry took on the role of owner and editor of the Presque Isle County News in Millersburg alongside his brother Hal. Two years later, they expanded their reach by acquiring the Presque Isle County Advance in Rogers City from Charles Platz Jr. for $850. Acknowledging the challenges posed by Millersburg's declining population after a fire and the looming threat of competition, they made the strategic decision to discontinue the Presque Isle County News a year later.
Under their stewardship, the Advance flourished, expanding its layout to seven columns and constructing a new brick office on Second Street. This new facility boasted updated printing equipment, including a two-revolution cylinder press, a Gordon jobber, a gasoline engine, type cabinets, a Junior linotype, and a variety of new typefaces. The body type of the Advance was noted for its cleaner, more modern look, earning it a reputation as one of the finest printing establishments in northern Michigan. Harry's interest in politics led him to resign as editor and sell his share to his brother in order to run for the Michigan House of Representatives against Merritt Chandler. He served one term from 1915 to 1916 before moving to Dowagiac, where he took over the Dowagiac Daily News. His contributions to journalism earned him statewide recognition and a place in the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame in 1946.
As the basketball season draws to a close, the Rogers City Hurons varsity team faced a narrow defeat against the favored Alpena Catholic Central Thunderbolts, with a final score of 47-43 during regional play in Petoskey. High scorers for the Hurons included Dave Goulette, who contributed 17 points, and Clayton Friedrich, who added 11 points. In another local match, the Iggie's from St. Ignatius Catholic Church triumphed over the Fighting Irish of St. Bernard's of Alpena, with Leonard LaTulip and Anthony Przybyla leading the offense with 8 points each, while Mark Smolinski showcased his defensive prowess.
In the backdrop of these local events, several men from the community have been called to active duty as the nation continues its fight against Communism and the ongoing conflict in Korea. Among those recently departing for basic training are Elmer Voigt, Art Getzinger Jr., Edwin Patzer, and Alva Budnick. Meanwhile, Corporal Raphael Przybyla is stationed in Pusan, Korea, while Merlin Schaedig finds himself near the infamous Heartbreak Ridge, just 300 yards from enemy forces. Schaedig recounted a harrowing experience when mortar shells fell among the soldiers' quarters; fortunately, they were on the opposite side of the hill, avoiding injury. However, the psychological toll of retrieving the dead and wounded from enemy territory has left a lasting impact on him.
The United States Air Force, which became a separate branch of the military in 1947, is establishing its reputation during this conflict. The Korean War marks the first time fighter jets have been utilized in combat, leading to significant advancements in warfare tactics. These aircraft have successfully targeted and destroyed communication centers, military installations, and transportation networks, effectively slowing enemy troop movements. Additionally, they have played a crucial role in transporting troops and equipment from Japan to Korea, evacuating American citizens, and providing top-secret intelligence through aerial reconnaissance missions.
Earl Bey serves with the 91st Combat Support Group, part of the Strategic Air Command, while Kenneth Ohlrich, who was deployed to Korea in January, has completed over 75 air missions as a radio operator on an unarmed transport aircraft. His missions have focused on psychological warfare and intelligence gathering behind enemy lines, earning him the prestigious Air Medal for his meritorious achievements. In 2022, Merlin Schaedig was honored alongside 79 other veterans by the mid-Michigan hub of the National Honor Flight Network, receiving a memorable trip to Washington D.C. to recognize their service and sacrifices.
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