November 1951
- charliebunton
- Oct 13
- 4 min read
The crisp November air carried the sharp scent of pine and damp earth through Rogers City as deer season commenced, heralded by the echoing rifle shots that reverberated across the northern Michigan woodlands. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, as hunters prepared for the thrill of the chase. Their boots crunched through frost-covered leaves in the early morning darkness, each step a reminder of the season's chill. The cold nipped at exposed cheeks and fingertips, causing a few hunters to rub their hands together in a futile attempt to generate warmth. With the dawn barely breaking, the first rays of sunlight began to filter through the trees, casting a golden hue over the landscape and illuminating the beauty of the forest.
The early days of hunting season were marked by success and camaraderie, with the Calcite property alone producing an impressive 42 bucks. Among the distinguished hunters were Douglas Bellmore, Arthur Getzinger Jr., Douglas Selke, and Gerald Pilarski, each feeling the warmth of the hides against their skin as they proudly tagged their trophies. The metallic taste of adrenaline filled the air, mingling with the rich, earthy aroma of the forest and the sharp scent of gunpowder, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that only those who have experienced it can truly understand. However, as the days went on, the weather shifted. The sky turned a dull pewter, heavy with the promise of snow, and soon the first delicate snowflakes began to fall, transforming the once vibrant brown forest floor into a silent white cathedral, covering everything in a serene layer of winter's embrace.
As the snow continued to fall, the deer seemed to vanish like ghosts into the swirling white, their tracks disappearing almost as quickly as they were made. The hunters, now trudging through deepening drifts, found their woolen coats heavy with moisture, and the familiar sounds of the woods were replaced by an eerie stillness. The only noises that punctuated the quiet were the soft whispers of snow settling on bare branches and the distant call of a crow, cutting through the muffled landscape that marked winter's early arrival.
Meanwhile, Troop 90 of the Boy Scouts, proudly sponsored by the Westminster Presbyterian Church, held its court of honor, a significant event that showcased the achievements of its members. Lewis Patterson took on the role of master of ceremonies, skillfully introducing the members of the troop committee who presented awards earned by scouts over the past year. The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Joseph Valentin, the senior patrol leader of the troop, who proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting. This moment was not just a personal triumph for Joseph but also a source of inspiration for his fellow scouts, emphasizing the values of perseverance, leadership, and community service that Scouting embodies.
On the sports front, Rogers City began the basketball season with a disappointing loss to Pellston, with a final score of 39-30. Pellston swiftly took a commanding 16-3 lead early in the first quarter, maintaining their advantage throughout the game. The Hurons, under the guidance of Coach Jim Quinn, struggled to find their rhythm but were led by the efforts of Dave Goulette and Frank Meyer, each contributing 8 points to the scoreboard in a valiant attempt to close the gap.
Meanwhile, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the maritime community was abuzz with excitement as the 666-foot Str. John G. Munson, the second freighter to bear its illustrious name, was launched from the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company. Shipyard crews worked diligently, removing staging platforms and conducting thorough checks of the launch ways and releasing triggers, ensuring everything was in place for the momentous occasion. Newspaper, television, and movie cameramen captured every moment, eager to document the event for posterity. Opposite the ship's bow, bleachers were erected for the Bradley Transportation Company and shipyard's esteemed guests, while on the shore across the river, townspeople and visitors gathered by the thousands, their excitement strong as they awaited the launch. It is estimated that around 10,000 people witnessed this significant event, a testament to the community's pride in their shipbuilding heritage.
Finally, as the month drew to a close, friends and families gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving, reflecting on the blessings of the year. Employees at Calcite were treated to a heartwarming family-style meal in the Electrical Department of the Machine Shop, where the aroma of roast pork, mashed potatoes, fruit salad, baked beans, and the tantalizing choice of coconut cream or pumpkin pie filled the air. Laughter and gratitude echoed through the room as stories were shared, and there was much to be thankful for this year, with the spirit of community and the warmth of shared experiences shining brightly against the backdrop of the cold November air.
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