November 1949
- charliebunton
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
In the crisp November air, just as the first light of dawn began to break over the horizon, hunters emerged from their rustic camps nestled in the woods, their silhouettes framed against the soft glow of the early morning sky. The temperature hovered at a brisk 28 degrees, causing their breath to form misty clouds that danced in the chilly atmosphere. The tranquility of the dawn was punctuated by the sound of frost-crunching leaves underfoot, a reminder of the cold snap that had settled over the landscape. This symphony of nature was accompanied by the distant echo of rifle shots reverberating across the hardwood ridges, signaling the start of a much-anticipated day for many. The aroma of wood smoke wafted through the air from camp stoves, mingling with the earthy scent of wet oak and maple leaves, creating a sensory tapestry that enveloped the hunters in a warm embrace despite the cold.
As the clock ticked closer to 8:30 a.m., the pale sunlight began to filter through the bare branches west of Twin Lakes, casting a gentle glow on the forest floor. Among the hunters was Herman Jaeger, a seasoned outdoorsman known for his patience and skill. With steady hands and a focused gaze, he targeted a magnificent 9-point buck — a majestic 199-pound Michigan whitetail that would soon become the talk of diners and barbershops from Rogers City to Alpena. The metallic taste of excitement filled the air, sparking a sense of camaraderie among the hunters as news of Herman's impressive catch spread like wildfire through the camps. Each hunter felt the familiar thrill of opening day pulse through their veins, a shared understanding that beyond the horizon, in those ancient woods where generations had walked before them, the wilderness still held the promise of rewards for those patient and skilled enough to seize the moment.
In a shift from the exhilarating world of hunting, the Presque Isle County Advance brought attention to local businesses in their ongoing Meet Your Merchant campaign, which has been diligently featuring various local enterprises and their dedicated owners throughout the year. This month's spotlight shone brightly on three remarkable businesses that contribute to the vibrant community spirit of the area. Among them was Thomas Office Supply, the Brooks Hotel, and Nowicki's One-Stop Service.
In another notable development, Robert Lalonde and Eugene Eldridge acquired the dry-cleaning business of the retiring Guy Creagh, renaming it Bob and Gene Dry Cleaners. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, they took pride in removing and re-sewing every button on each garment to ensure impeccable service. Their specialty in rug cleaning, which demands extensive time and specialized equipment, set them apart in the community. They even offered a unique service that included delivering, laying, and resetting furniture upon completion of the cleaning process. LaLonde would later buy out Eldridge the following year, renaming the business Sir-Vis Dry Cleaners, which would continue to serve the community until 1987.
Meanwhile, the local children were filled with joy and excitement as they gathered for the screening of the beloved classic film "The Wizard of Oz" at the Rogers Theater. This enchanting film, which had not been shown in nearly a decade, captivated the audience with its timeless story and memorable characters. The screening was particularly significant as it played years before its annual television broadcasts began in the 1950s, making it a cherished event for families who had long awaited the opportunity to see it on the big screen.
In addition to these cultural happenings, several thousand visitors flocked to tour the newly remodeled Presque Isle County Savings Bank, a cornerstone of the community. The bank's team received numerous flower bouquets from neighboring businesses as a gesture of support for this cherished financial institution. The remodel included a substantial 30x30 foot addition to the back of the building, which housed the bookkeeping department, restrooms, and a secure storage vault. Furthermore, the bank lobby was redecorated, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality. The grand bank building now shines with renewed vigor in the heart of Main Street, symbolizing the resilience and growth of the community it serves.
