Letter to the Editor - Havre could get a makeover!

Editor,

HGTV is taking nominations to “spruce up” a small town at no charge to the town. I think Havre could be a strong contender. We are located in the “Last Best Place.” Many people have heard about Montana but never visited and are curious about it. We have a lot to offer.

There are several historic buildings i.e. Masonic building, old U.S. post office, the original F.A. Buttrey home, the beautiful “castle” home on Second Street to mention just a few.  We are an economically depressed area with few industries to attract new residents.  We are on the main rail line for Amtrak.  We have a mixed population of farm families, railroaders and small industry.  Montana State University-Northern — Northern Montana College — is located here.  There is diversity with several tribal nations represented at the nearby Rocky Boy and Fort Belknap reservations.  There are annual powwows and a famous buffalo jump.  We have many recreational opportunities with Beaver Creek Park, Fresno Reservoir, fishing, hunting, etc.  We are close to the Canadian border and promote good international relations.

Our main best resource is the people.  I have lived my whole life in this town and am proud of the friendly people and the generosity I see.  There is a tremendous amount of community spirit as evidenced by the Community Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners free of charge.  Annually, about 750 people attend each of those events.  We are the “big town” on the famous Hi-Line and attract visitors and shoppers from surrounding towns.  Havre underground, a lifelike replica of early Havre depicted in dioramas is growing in popularity.  Our sports teams are very well supported by businesses and attendance at games.  Havre offers Festival Days, a seasonal farmers market, music in the parks and has many churches and organizations.  “Havre Has It” and “It’s the People” are apt slogans for our town.

Our main street could use a face lift and the publicity would be wonderful for us.  I hope you will support me in this effort. Information is available on the Havre Chamber Facebook page.  The HGTV  https://hgtvhometowntakeover.com is where you can submit the form for Havre to be the town selected.  I am proud of our town and would like to take advantage of this opportunity.

Thank you,

Carolyn Shulund

Havre