BIGFORK – They may have been told to get excited for the announcement, but the students in the Bigfork High School gym didn’t need any help with enthusiasm when their village was named one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People last week.
Students of all ages cheered as the award was announced on Oct. 12 during a live broadcast from Knight Studio at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. Their reaction was one of four to be aired during the broadcast, with Bigfork representing the West.
America’s Promise Alliance 100 Best Communities for Young People award, presented by ING, honors towns across the country for improving and supporting the lives of the resident youth and reducing high school dropout rates.
Bigfork was the only town in Montana to win this year, and will receive a $2,500 grant, signage identifying its new designation and access to community development resources.
The bleachers shook as the students responded to the win, waving signs with such messages as “Bigfork, Big Fun” and “Bigfork Rocks.” High school teacher and coach Charlie Appleby pumped up the crowd with letters praising Bigfork that were sent in with the application for the award.
