March 1954
- charliebunton
- Dec 15, 2025
- 4 min read
The cozy basement dining room of Westminster Church was filled with the inviting blend of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet scent of homemade sugar cookies, creating a warm, welcoming vibe for everyone who walked in. In the middle of it all, twenty-three lively Cub Scouts chatted and laughed with their parents and leaders, their voices mingling easily with the comforting aromas. Overhead, bright royal blue and gold crepe paper streamers twirled and swayed gently with the laughter, casting playful shadows across the tables where eager young boys sat, their eyes sparkling with excitement for the festivities ahead.
Pack 190's annual Blue and Gold party was in full swing, a cherished tradition that celebrated the achievements of the scouts and their families. The room buzzed with energy, an excitement that filled every corner as families came together to honor the spirit of scouting. In one corner, small fingers deftly worked with lengths of hemp rope, tongues peeking out in concentration as scouts competed fiercely in a knot-tying contest. The sound of rope against rope created a rhythmic backdrop, punctuated by the occasional cheer or groan as square knots, clove hitches, and bowlines emerged in triumphant tangles or sometimes impossible snarls, illustrating both the determination and the playful spirit of the young participants.
When the projector finally clicked on, casting a beam of dusty light across the darkened room, the scouts settled into folding chairs that scraped and squeaked into place, each boy eager to see what the evening would unveil. The whir of the film reels provided a steady backdrop, immersing the audience in a world of adventure as black and white images flickered on the makeshift screen, illuminating their faces with wonder and curiosity. The stories depicted on the screen transported them to far-off places and thrilling escapades, igniting dreams of future camping trips and outdoor adventures.
Meanwhile, down the street, the sharp scent of fresh paint marked the completion of Dr. Arthur Foley's new medical building, which now stood proudly next to the Post Office as a beacon of modern healthcare for the community. This state-of-the-art facility was designed to feature an x-ray and dark room, a dedicated laboratory pediatrics room, multiple examining rooms, and a consultation office, all aimed at enhancing the quality of care available to local residents. The new building represented not just a physical structure, but a commitment to the well-being of the community, promising to provide essential medical services to those in need.
Across town, the front window of the Presque Isle County Library displayed Ferris Parsons' award-winning photograph, a stunning piece that had been chosen from a staggering five hundred entries at the prestigious Photographer's Association of Michigan convention. The photograph drew the attention of passersby, who paused to study the composition that had earned Parsons a coveted Ribbon of Merit. This recognition not only highlighted Parsons' talent but also positioned him to represent northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula photographers on the Association's Board of Directors, a significant honor that would elevate his career and inspire other local artists.
In a notable development from Mt. Pleasant, the community received news that Rogers City High School alumnus Dan Rose, who had made a name for himself as the head basketball coach and athletic director at Central Michigan University, had decided to resign from coaching after an impressive 25-year tenure. His focus would now shift solely to his role as athletic director, a position that would allow him to influence the athletic programs at the university level. Rose, who had been an All-American guard at the University of Michigan, began his coaching career at Grand Rapids South High School, where he led his teams to three city championships, leaving a legacy of excellence in sports.
In a somber moment, heavy church bells tolled for the passing of Rogers City Police Chief Norman Smith, who tragically died of a heart attack at the age of 64 after dedicating 31 years of service to the community. His commitment to public safety and his leadership were deeply respected. Police Sergeant Wilbert "Webb" Winfield was appointed his successor by seniority, ensuring continuity in the department during this challenging time.
Members of the St. Ignatius basketball team, along with their coaches and cheerleaders, gathered to hold their annual banquet in the school club rooms, a festive occasion that celebrated their hard work and dedication throughout the season. The guest speaker, Father Ray Mulka, delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of nurturing both a sound body and mind, emphasizing the critical role that athletics play in the overall development of students within the school curriculum. His words resonated with the young athletes, motivating them to strive for excellence not only in sports but in all aspects of their lives.
Finally, the music programs at Rogers City High School enjoyed a particularly busy and fruitful month. The marching band, under the capable leadership of Steven Wolf, participated in the District Music Festival held in Petoskey, showcasing their talent and hard work. Additionally, the Boys and Girls Glee Clubs, directed by Charles Wilson, received the highest possible rating at their annual music festival in Houghton Lake, a testament to their dedication and skill. Their success proved that small-town talent could compete with the best in the state, inspiring pride in the community and encouraging young musicians to pursue their passions with vigor and enthusiasm.
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