A look back

By By Dr. Bill Stewart
May 29, 1958-Today is the last day to vote absentee in connection with the June 3 Democratic primary runoff. Attracting the most interest, of course, is the battle between Attorney General John Patterson and Judge George C. Wallace to determine who will be Alabama’s next governor.
May 29, 1958-After a month in operation, the director, Mrs. L. M. Hatcher, reports that the new Hartselle public library is proving to be one of this community’s most popular destinations.
May 30, 1958-The Hartselle post office was closed today in observance of Memorial Day. Boxholders were still served, however, as were intended special delivery recipients.
May 31, 1958-Senator John Sparkman spoke to UA alumni in Tuscaloosa tonight. “We have all the ingredients for a great University,” Sparkman said, “but much more money needs to be spent to enhance existing programs and establish new ones, especially in the sciences.” “Long before the Russians launched the first sputnik it was obvious that America was neglecting its most precious resource, its youth,” Sparkman asserted.
June 1, 1958-University of Alabama graduation exercises were held at Denny Stadium this afternoon. Degree recipients included Robert H. (Bob) Orr and Billy Charles Tanner.
June 1, 1958-Herman Shoemaker received his B.S. during commencement exercises at Livingston State College today. In the fall he will be an assistant coach at Slocomb High.
June 2, 1958-Graduation exercises were held tonight at Florence State College. Area diploma recipients included Robert Leon Orr.
June 2, 1958-Pvt. Elvis Presley, the drafted million-dollar-a-year rock ‘n roll singer, lounged around his Memphis home today on a brief vacation from reveille and drill. His furlough from Ft. Hood, Tex., where he is currently stationed as a tank crewman, will last two weeks. Not long after he gets back he will ship out for Germany.
June 3, 1958-Showing the desire for better relations between Alabama and Auburn, the commencement speaker on the plains today was Dr. Frank A. Rose, the new president at the University. Several area students were among the 575 seniors who were awarded degrees.
June 4, 1958-The Morgan County Training School commencement exercises were held tonight. Judith Lyons was the class valedictorian.
June 4, 1958-Betty Palmer and Virginia Ann Johnson complimented Rhona Howell, bride-elect of Joe Summerford, with a party in the Palmer home tonight.