Gregg Carlson lauded with Chamber’s North Star Award

Local agricultural leader, mentor and volunteer Gregg Carlson was honored Wednesday afternoon by the Havre Area Chamber of Commerce at their annual luncheon.

The Chamber honored Carlson with the North Star Award for excellence in his service to the community, both in his various professional positions and in his volunteer work.

Carlson was unable to attend the luncheon, as he is recovering in Billings from an accident.

The award was accepted by friend, colleague and temporary placeholder as Superintendent of Montana State University's Northern Agricultural Research Center, Darrin Boss.

Choked up while accepting the award, Boss managed to briefly express Carlson's appreciation of the award.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Debbie Vandeberg stepped up afterward to read from a letter from Ruth Carlson, Gregg's wife, expressing gratitude for the honor.

"The valuable research and common sense lessons he taught in ag production have certainly helped many a farmer realize financial success which in turn has benefitted our community," Ruth's letter said. "Gregg also enjoyed working on many community projects with his Lions buddies. Through the years there were many opportunities to move on and move up, but he had a heart for the farmers and people here and chose to stay."

Chandra Moomey, the Holiday Village Mall's property manager, read some quotes from letters nominating Carlson for the award.

One said "to estimate the amount of money Gregg's research or participation of research has aided local producers is futile."

Another pointed toward his service with the local Lions Club.

"In his 34 years as a Lion he has served on 20 different club committees (with 63 committee appointments) and has acquired 32 consecutive years of perfect attendance. He has sponsored seven new members and has served leadership roles in the district. He is one of those individuals who is always there for every party, function or activity."