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Elkford bear gets a new name

With submissions from students Elkford has chosen the name of it's promotional bear to be Samson.
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Grade 5 student Jered Plotnikoff was the winner of Elkford's 'Name the Bear' contest

The famous bear of Elkford has recently received his new name of Samson. As part of Local Government Awareness Week taking place on May 20th to 26th the District of Elkford put on a contest to name the bear that appears on all of the promotional signage and website in an effort to help youth learn about the vital role local government plays in their day-to-day lives. "There were many times, we were asked if the bear on our signs had a name," says Randa McDonald, District of Elkford Communications and Marketing Director. "We figured he needed a name and that this would be the perfect way to give him one," she said.

The District of Elkford held several contests for elementary and high school students throughout the week and opened the “Name the Bear” contest for Elementary School children. Students were asked to provide a name for the Elkford Bear and the reason why they thought the name was appropriate. Out of the twenty five submissions received, Staff then asked Council to select their three favourite names from the submissions that were received.

First, second and third place winners were offered a cash prize of $150, $100, and $75, half of which will be donated to a youth initiative of their choice.

Grade five student, Jered Plotnikoff was the top winner, with his name submission of Samson. Jered won not only the name choice but the first place prize of $150. "He is on top of the world, just walking around and glowing, with happiness and pride," says Mom Dara Plotnikoff.

Second place winner was Stephen Clerihew, Age 11 with the name Buddy, and grade four student Amber Foster was third with her name submission of Osborn.