By Joseph T. O’Connor Explore Big Sky Senior Editor
Photos by Cheryl Ladd
BIG SKY – The second annual Big Sky Community Corp. Gala on July 27 began with drizzle, but skies quickly cleared making way for a stunning sunset during this lively affair.
The Corral catered the event and Bottom of the Barrel rocked well into the evening.
“It was more than what we expected,” said BSCC Executive Director Jessie Wiese. “The fact that we sold out a week early and had a waiting list was a good sign. I think that shows it was a fun event.”
BSCC netted close to $100,000, according to Wiese, who estimated the nonprofit raised a similar amount during last year’s gala.
“It’s unprecedented for an organization to do this well, especially two years in a row,” she said.
The group plans to use the money raised – including $70,000 in live 
auction proceeds – for local trails expansion, mapping a mountain-to-meadow trail and continued beautification efforts at the Ousel Falls and Community parks.
“This years event I think went smoother [than last year’s],” Wiese said. “Bottom of the Barrel was super good and we had great auction items, both silent and live.
“The best thing is that there were so many people who wanted to come. To me it shows an incredible amount of support. We’re so thankful for everyone’s donations.”
