How do you explain Bozeman’s spectacular boom? My response to this often asked question—“Why are you here?” After a moment of self-reflection, the usual answer provided is, “We decided this would be a great place to live.”

Developments around the Gallatin Valley exemplify a national demographic trend: people want to move toward smaller, more “authentic” towns. Our area has not only this “small-town” atmosphere, but also a wealth of natural, cultural, and educational amenities. Hence, we face especially intense development pressures.

In the current issue of The American Interest, Joel Kotkin provides an excellent example of this emerging settlement pattern in “Little Start-up on the Prairie.” It begins:

“…With its neat town square and red-brick civic buildings, [Aurora, Nebraska] suggests a reflection of America’s bucolic past. Yet it may also represent an oblique looking-glass glimpse into America’s future. In the first half of the 21st century, as the nation grows from 300 toward 400 million people, Aurora and other places [Bozeman] in the American Heartland will provide a critical outlet for the restless energies and entrepreneurial passions of its people.”

One of the draws of Aurora, Bozeman, and other small American towns is that residents can have rustic charm without giving up city conveniences. With the internet, FedEx, UPS, and cheap air travel, the logistical problems of living in remote areas have declined dramatically. The intellectual and cultural isolation of small towns has been reduced, while the dis-amenities of large cities have increased substantially, e.g., crime, expensive schools, and time consuming congestion. Rural America remains relatively safe, and further many perceive it as the one remaining citadel of traditional values, family, religion, and self-sufficiency. Problems are solved by picking up the phone and calling a neighbor, not by opening the Yellow Pages.

The mobility of today’s workforce also eases the migration to rural America. Today the most valuable raw material is human capital; good character, IQ points, and education. Many people with these qualities seek alternatives to city life, especially for their children.

The small-towns that are inundated with new settlers, must work to preserve their attractive qualities. Besides low crime rates, short commute times, and other tangible benefits, many people find the intangible concept of community itself an attraction. A sense of community can arise through many different activities. One avenue, community fund raisers, is a favorite of mine, and Ramona and I partake frequently.

With a full spectrum to choose from, community fund raisers around the Gallatin Valley offer a great way to get involved in our community. Here’s a sample from last month. As always, there was a wide menu appealing to various tastes, causes, and budgets.

The most elaborate and expensive was the annual Museum of the Rockies Ball. It was festive and fun, ladies dressed in splendor, and men who rarely wear a tie donned tuxes. Senator Conrad Burns reverted to his original calling and did a marvelous job enticing bidding for exotic offerings, including a trip to Mongolia. Free flowing drinks reduced inhibitions and lubricated wallets. A few items hit five figures.

On the last Sunday of February, I-Ho’s Korean Grill held its annual fundraiser for the Central Asia Institute. The theme was “Pray for Peace and then Feast for Peace!”. This was a typical Bozeman event: it was inexpensive, casual, and had an eclectic blend of participants. The charge was a freewill offering and diners were generous. Even those waiting for a table were cheerful. It is a treat to be part of a community that enthusiastically supports such ventures.

Finally, our favorite, the Gallatin Gateway wild game dinner at the packed Community Center. It was inexpensive; a mere five dollars for all the barbequed buffalo and elk one could eat. The event was in support of the sixth grade’s participation in “Expedition: Yellowstone!” Carhartts dominated and most folks there move stuff rather than manipulate symbols. The items on auction featured hunting and horses.

Such events exemplify the qualities that draw people to the emerging America. Most Americans find them authentic, exotic, and safe. They illustrate cultural and natural amenities, a sense of community, and quality of people. Our challenge is to protect these values. We are trying.