June 1957
BY JACK DEAKIN Journal Staff Writer
ELK POINT — More than 3,000 persons crowded this northeastern town recently to join in the town's 50th anniversary celebration. There were many features including a queen and beard growing contest, official opening of the grounds, a parade and the opening of a new $300,000 elementary school. Many dignitaries from Edmonton and other centres travelled to this town about 160 miles northeast of Edmonton and enjoyed a full day of special events, sports and an evening of dancing.
The crowning of Arlene Miller as queen. The other contestants were Lois Scraba and Henretta Anderson
HUGE PARADE
A huge parade, depicting the early pioneer trend, launched the day’s celebrations. Main street and side byways were crowded with people who gave the persons taking part in the parade a resounding cheer. Of course, a main feature was the crowning of Arlene Miller as queen. The other contestants were Lois Scraba and Henretta Anderson, the crowning taking place in the evening.
Another feature was the official opening of a new $300,000 elementary school. Hon. A. O. Aalborg, Alberta minister of Education, attended as did Hon. Ray Reierson, Alberta minister of industries and labor. Mr. Aalborg declared the school officially open after he had paid tribute to ratepayers and the school division board for the construction of a truly modern and outstanding school building.
John Boyda won the beard growing contest having the best growth of foliage of about 17. In second place was William Tokar the third most handsome beard was John Yaremkvitch. Dull Skies turned to sunshine just before the parade and the town was favored with ideal sunny weather throughout the day.
Thirty of Elk Point and district's finest started the beard-growing contest last January, The entry fee was $1 with a $5 for anyone dropping out. Seventeen finished the event the judging a feature of the evening’s program. Sports also played a leading role in the day's events with the little leaguers putting on a fine display.
During the school opening ceremonies Mr. Aalborg presented a colored picture to Principal Beattie. It was a picture of an Alberta scene. A dance in the evening completed the big day.
