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The theory of “emergence” is used by physicists and philosophers to explain how complex systems arise out of a number of simple interactions, such as the intricate patterns that are found in one ice crystal. If Big Sky were an organism, it would fit into the theory that “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” – an axiom that was illustrated on a chilly Sunday afternoon in late February.
Ironically, after a spate of pleasant temperatures, the second annual “Winter Warm-up,” sponsored by Town Center with support from Yellowstone Club Community Foundation (YCCF), was held on one of the coldest days in February. But that did not stop Big Sky from turning out to enjoy ice skating, hot chocolate, ski movies and warmth at the Fire Pit Park while visiting with neighbors and representatives of the local groups that make our community a great place to live and work.
Ophir School, Lone Peak High School and Morningstar Learning Center were there to underscore how vital public education and early learning are to a community’s families and to its vitality.
The commitment to continuing education and engagement with issues important to Big Sky and to Montana was affirmed by the participation of Big Sky Institute and the Big Sky Community Library.
Economic growth is essential to sustaining a community, and the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is leading this year’s “Biggest Skiing in America” campaign to promote Big Sky and Moonlight Basin as America’s premier skiing terrain.
Big Sky Resort’s Dax Schieffer, member of the chamber’s Community Fulfillment Committee, said those involved with the campaign “really appreciated the opportunity to share with the community the efforts underway to help the entire area attract new visitors.”
Dax noted that “considering we're in the first year of the community effort, the more people who are made aware of the benefits, the stronger the program will be in the future to achieve positive results for all businesses.”
YCCF is the Big Sky area’s newest foundation, established in early 2010 by Yellowstone Club members, ownership, management and friends to support eligible local organizations that are providing important programs in education, community service, and conservation. Club staff volunteered to prepare and sell hot food and drinks, and donated the proceeds to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank.
Food Bank representatives were on hand to explain how they are meeting the needs of people who are still struggling during this economic downturn.
A raffle of items donated by local businesses, raised additional funding for Ophir School’s music program.
Perhaps most importantly, Big Sky’s next generation of leaders and future Olympian ice skaters, mostly Ophir School students, practiced their moves on Town Center’s smooth ice.
An ice crystal is a fitting symbol for the many threads that must come together to weave a vibrant community. The other characteristics of an emergent organism are that it is evolving and dynamic. If the community spirit that was evident during a frigid afternoon in February is any indication, Big Sky is evolving and will emerge from the current economic recession with an even stronger sense of identity with people and place.
