Donna Miller

With school ending on May 22, the last week for Zurich Elementary School students was packed with activity. From a creative art project on May 20 to an end of the year trip to Zurich Park for a picnic lunch on May 22, students ushered out the 2026 school year. In between those two bookend events, Librarian Savanna Brown held a final Accelerated Reader (AR) Mad Hatter Tea Party on May 21.

Any Montanan who hasn't read the poetry of Richard Hugo (1923-1982) is missing out. Whether examining the lines from "Driving Montana," "Montana Ranch Abandoned," "Bear Paw," or "Degrees of Gray in Philipsburg," Hugo's poetry captures a multi-faceted view of Montana. Located in place, his poetry also reminds readers that life is about "[riding] the forces of whatever sweeps us along. . . to be tougher than fate." Perhaps above all, Hugo confirms that Montana is one big small town.

With summer's arrival, many of us look for activities that allow us to steep in pleasure and relaxation. One of those increasingly popular and oft anticipated events is Sounds on the Square, which offers a weekly dose of musical talent.

Since May 20, Chinook shoppers may have noticed an eagle "flying" around town. Although the stuffed eagle doesn't have a name, the bird will land in various businesses over the next two months as a way to generate interest in the Blaine County Wildlife Museum.

STARBASE Montana, a Department of Defense Youth Program created in 2007, is bringing an outreach opportunity to Harlem Junior/Senior High School. The camp will take place on June 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bicyclists, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, those concerned about regenerative food systems, and anyone else interested in a unique touring opportunity are all invited to explore north Havre and learn about organic farming and pollinator habitat. Vilicus Farms is hosting a Farm to Crag – Bugs & Bikes weekend on June 13 and 14. One of the local sponsors of the event is Havre Trails.

Communities across the state and country recognized and celebrated the essential role of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel during EMS Week, which took place May 17-23. Blaine County Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) joined the commemoration by making school visits and by strengthening emergency response preparedness through a training exercise on what had been deemed by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) as EMS Recognition Day.

With multiple sponsors, both local and corporate, the 2026 Bear Paw Marathon in Havre saw considerable participation on June 6. Race personnel report top finishers in the marathon, half marathon, and 5K Fun Run/Walk as well as a geographically diverse attendance. The Bear Paw Marathon is an annual event held the first Saturday in June.

Organized and presented with the support of several community partners, the 2nd Annual Havre Community Bike Rodeo will take place on June 27 with a duration of approximately two hours. Volunteer check-in will begin at 9:00 a.m. in the MSU-Northern Cowan Hall Courtyard with the rodeo to follow at 10:00 a.m. Both volunteers and participants are still wanted.

On May 18 amidst the chaos of pre-summer break rituals and wrap-up activities, Meadowlark Elementary School held its final awards assembly of the 2026 school year. Among the accolades presented were Mountain Mover Awards, Recess Awards, and Principal's Awards. Students of the Month also received recognition, as did students meeting Accelerated Reader goals and those distinguishing themselves in classroom test performance.