Hi-Line darts and laurels

Hi-Line darts and Laurels

Laurel — There is a new effort in Montana and in Havre, in particular, to attract tourists to our area. Goal 1 should be to convince people traveling down U.S. Highway 2 to or from Glacier National Park to stop in Havre, spend some time here and visit our historical attractions. Goal 2 should be to convince people — especially Montanans, North Dakotans and other Westerners — to spend their vacations or extended weekends in Havre. We have historical attractions, natural beauty and the nation's largest county park, as well as some fine hotels and restaurants, where people can relax.

Laurel — Along those lines, Gov. Brian Schweitzer, never shy about undertaking publicity stunts, was in New York this week, drumming up Montana tourism business on the streets. He was handing out jerky and huckleberry jam and even posed with the infamous Naked Cowboy on Times Square. Then he appeared on the "David Letterman Show" and on "Morning Joe" to get his point across that Montana is a great place to visit.

Laurel — Beaver Creek Park is one location that will attract tourists. Making a good impression is important. Sometimes the park is a little bit rough around the edges after a winter of rain, sleet, snow and wind. So Friends of Beaver Creek Park is conducting a clean-up effort from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. If you have a chance, stop by and have a good time with friends and neighbors as you help pick up some of the accumulated trash.

Dart — Ken Miller appears to be one of the leading candidates for governor. Miller has been gathering support from Republicans throughout the state and in Havre. This week, allegations surfaced from a former campaign aide that he was been taking money for his campaign in violation of Montana law. This may or may not be true. Voters need an answer shortly. The state commissioner of political practices says he will investigate and report to the public as soon as possible. Republicans need an answer before they vote, and mail ballots will go out soon.

Laurel — Kristi Parrotte of Havre has been crowned Mrs. Montana and now goes on to the national competition. She has been a strong advocate of efforts to curb domestic violence. In her new role, she will represent the people of Montana, but especially, she will represent the people of Havre and the Hi-Line.

Laurel —Lynette Chandler, director of the White Clay Immersion Program at Aaniiih Nakoda College, has been named Montana's Indian Educator of the Year. Tribal colleges are making a big difference in the lives of many people on the Hi-Line. Chandler's award is a recognition of her work and the work of many faculty and staff at all of the tribal colleges.