CHILDREN ARE MUCH THE SAME IN TODAY'S WORLD
by Dave Ponke

There isn't much difference between the sand that gets stuck inside the shoes of a child today compared to sand from more than half a century ago.

So much that surrounds us in our community has changed over the decades past: Our homes are sturdier and more stable; stores more convenient and prevalent; and roads smoother and more abundant.

All that, and much more, of course, change like the leaves change colors on the trees each season. It's part of the way our world functions and our daily lives rotate, like the planets in space.

But so much simply stays the same, such as the people.

What difference is there between the child that went outside his or her home back in 1940 to play with a pal from the neighborhood, and a child of today.

Without question the activities that are available today have become more varied.

But there isn't much difference today as compared to years ago; the sand that fills a child's sandbox, the blueberries that taste so sweet picked right off the vine, or taking a stroll through the open meadows of tall grass with your family dog.

All it takes to "relive" or "revisit" the past is a simple stroll down memory lane. And we all have access to that through several options such as a family photo album, a chat with a friend or family member that has lived in an era gone by, or thumbing through a book or surfing the internet.

It all brings to the forefront of your imagination the possibility or striking up a vivid image or pleasant thought. Maybe something as simple as an expression of "Oh yes…I DO recall that. That was a good time when we did that!"

It really is that easy.

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According to historical documents, Algonac Schools actually started, when, in 1827, a teacher from Harsen's Island named Philip F. Brakeman, opened Algonac's initial school at Pte. Duchene. It was called "The Old Boarding House" and was constructed very close to the former Henry's Restaurant.

Jacob Harsen built the area's first school on Harsen's Island in 1788.

The building of two additional schools followed: One was built on Michigan Street, called the "White" school. The other on Mill Street, named the "Red" school. However, the "Union" school replaced these in 1860. This was built where the current Algonac Elementary School is, on Michigan at Smith Street.

Gilbert Junior High School (since razed) was adjacent to the elementary building. It replaced the Union School.

The Algonac Community Schools became "official in 1952," with the annexation of the Pte.Tremble, Fairhaven, Swartout and Harsen's Island Districts.

In 1963 Algonac High School was built on Taft Road and has had several additions since.

Certainly residents can attest to the fact that through the hard work and dedication of many individuals, such as the late tandem of Donald Dodge and Joseph Caimi, Algonac has blossomed into a respected and recognized school district, much like many others throughout St. Clair County.

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There isn't much more gratification tasted when enjoying an ice-cold drink and dipping your toes through the cool waters of the sandy beach in the river.

The cottages that dot the shoreline of the lower extension of St. Clair County (from Anchor Bay northward to Marine City) offer such pleasures.

A pair of questions loom. Can the typical traveler take advantage of such a treat? If so, at what cost?

The replies are simple. Yes to the first inquiry, and as far as the price, nothing or next to nothing!

There are many opportunities for a person to rent cottages in that sector. This is knowledge gained by a visual sweep of the eyes, while on a trek upon high M-29.

Parks, such as the state park (Algonac), located between Marine City and Algonac, provide such access and adventure.

The Algonac State Park has swimming, boating, camping and skeet shooting amongst its offerings, in addition to its "million dollar" view of freighter traffic. A gazebo and picnic area can make a barbecued burger and potato salad seem to taste even better!