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A profile of the champ, Jim Toepper. Staff Photos By Wayne Gaylord Winner........ By A Hair It started in April. Twenty-three contestants entered the McHenry Plaindealer's beard-mustache contest to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the paper. Each contestant had a local business for his sponsor. Every two weeks, the entrants visited the Plaindealer office to have a photo taken for publication. Their pictures kept the public informed of the progress in the growth of their beards and mustaches. The big night arrived a few weeks ago when all twenty-three met at the American Legion home on Ringwood road to be judged. Tom Miller, advertising manager of the McHenry Plaindealer M.C.'ed the event. The judges selected the winner on a point system that took into consideration grooming, style and general overall appearance. Jim Toepper captured the crown and runners-up were Bob Wiles and Gary Snell. A traditional pressman hat was used for the crown. Jim Toepper received $300 and his sponsor. Oaks Marathon, was awarded $100. Each contestant also received a commemorative mug with a story on the first issue of the Plaindealer. Judges listen to comments of the contestants as each one is interviewed. Jim Toepper is joined by his wife, Jane, as they make a victory toast with the Plaindealer mug commemorating the 100th birthday of the newspaper. M.C. Thomas Miller, advertising manager of the Plaindealer, receives some interesting comments from contestant Randy Wick. A closer examination of the beards and mustaches are viewed by the judges before the final vote.