Last week, the snowflake banners that decorated Market Square were taken down. As spring approaches, people think about flowers and gardens, with summer being just around the corner.
So, the snowflake banners were a bit “out of season,” so to speak.
“Their time was past,” said Jane Torres, director of the Houlton Chamber of Commerce.
Being thrifty, Torres, who has to be attentive to a set budget at the chamber, wondered what could replace the winter theme to introduce a more festive atmosphere to the downtown.
“I thought what would catch the eye of visitors and residents in downtown Houlton,” explained Torres. “I dug out the catalogs and my eye immediately went to the page marked patriotic banners.”
The 60-by-30-inch red, white and blue stars and stripes banners popped out to Torres and another idea came to her mind.
“I wondered if people would be as eager to spruce up the downtown for the summer, as they were over the Christmas holiday,” Torres said. “So, I sent out a ‘what if’ email to our membership.”
Torres figured on the chamber purchasing a banner, as well as hoping that Lori Weston, town economic and community development director, who is all about promoting Houlton, may be interested in helping to buy a second one.
Then Torres wondered, could there possibly be anyone else who might help with the cause? Maybe, just maybe, a business member would be moved to help donate to the project.
“That would be a resounding, ‘Yes.’,” said Torres. “Thirty-two banners were sponsored within two days.”
Adding to that good news, Buildings Etcetera and Raymond Jay Tree Service each offered their services to hang the banners when they arrived.
“I’d like to think it was me and my persuasive methods that started the donations rolling in,” laughed Torres, “But, truth be told, it was really that patriotic theme. Houlton is a proud town where the 4th of July is celebrated with gusto. Families arrive for the week and take in the Houlton Agricultural Fair, Midnight Madness, not one, but two fireworks displays, a two-mile parade, a craft fair, and the Sparkler Pageant all the while celebrating hometown America. It doesn’t get any better than that folks.”
Last weekend, the new banners were posted with pride; and now, the community is ready to celebrate the Shiretown and its possibilities.
“I am amazed at the generosity of our community and would like to thank each and every one of you who bought one, two or three banners,” said Torres. “The gift you have given us is priceless and very much appreciated.”
