formed the O'Leary Orchestra. They played five nights a week for thirty-five dollars a performance at dances and lawn parties in Tignish , Alberton, O 'Leary, Tyne Valley , Richmond , Summerside and Borden. The members of the band were Gabriel Gallant , Sr., - drum¬ mer, Nesry Shelfoon - saxophone, Pius Doiron - violin, Pearl Noonan and Greta Rogers - piano, and Albert Noonan - violin and trumpet. POTATO BLOSSOM FESTIVAL May 11, 1968, a "steering committee" of eight members met at the O'Leary Library to discuss ways and means for celebrations as a follow up from the Centennial celebrations held im O'Leary in 1967. The eight members were Alton Rayner as chairman, Helen Smallman , Ralph Adams , Don Mackenzie , Stanley MacDonald , Bill Lynch , Charles Willis , and Lulu Turner . It was decided that the future celebrations be called "Potato Blossom Festival" and be held in July when the potatoes are in full blossom. Other interested citizens joined forces with the original eight this first year; namely, Dr. George Dewar , Douglas Adams, Thiren Ellis, Wilfred Dennis , Alden Weeks , Mustaq Masih, Harry MacWilliam , and Bernard Shea . They decided the celebrations should consist of open¬ ing ceremony, track & field races, talent show, pet show, doll carriage parade, concessions, Miss P.E.I. Potato Blossom Queen contest,and a parade. Additions to the original festival over the following years were suppers sponsored by the Community Hospital Ladies Aid, a midway, fireworks, and special guests.. The special guests were usually some¬ one who had lived in O'Leary and had moved away. In the late sev¬ enties it was decided to honour a citizen of the community who has been active in community affairs. There was also a day for the senior citizens and a tea was held in their honour. In 1984, along with the citizen of the year, Thelma Sweet , a volunteer of the year was chosen. This event was in memory of Irma Dumville , who was a great volun¬ teer and sports lady. In March, 1983, Irma lost her life in a tragic fire which destroyed their home. The festival provides a good time for citizens of the area along with all Islanders and visiting tourists. The Potato Blossom Queen contest is perhaps the highlight of the festival. In 1967 during the Centennial celebrations a Miss O'Leary pageant was held. Sandra ( Maclsaac ) Sabine was crowned Miss O'Leary . The queens of the Potato Blossom Festival from 1968 - 1992 are as follows: 115