Bigfork sweeps speech and drama in C. Falls

The Bigfork High School speech and debate team had a big day Saturday in Columbia Falls as they took first place in both speech and drama among Class B schools.

"I am truly proud of how hard my kids worked," said Charlie Appleby, BHS speech and debate coach. "I wasn't around much for them this last week because I am preparing for our meet on the 16th, but even after two weeks of Holiday Break, these kids came to the meet sharp and ready to compete."

Senior Kayla Carlson took first place in the Memorized Public Address event.

In their first competition together this year, juniors Jacob Sefcak and James Vale placed third in Humorous Duo. Last year Sefcak won the state championship in the event with then partner Jerry Gaiser, who graduated in June.

Sefcak has been missing from the BHS speech and debate team's competitions this year until now because he has been performing in plays at the Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre.

Meanwhile, Vale has been participating in the Humorous Solo event.

Also receiving high honors were Gwendolyn Fratt, who placed fifth in Humorous Solo, and Kenny Patrick and Ernie Cottle placed sixth in Humorous Duo.

Krisie Henderson placed seventh in Serious Oral Interpretation, Amber McDaniel placed eighth in Serious Solo and Zoe Gaiser placed eighth in Humorous Oral Interpretation.

"Looking ahead to divisionals and state, I am very pleased with the team I have," Appleby said. "We are a small team, but we are feisty."

The BHS team will participate in the divisional meet Jan. 23 in Malta and those that qualify will attend the state tournament Jan. 29-30 at Loyola Sacred Heart High School in Missoula.

However, before they compete in those season ending meets, Bigfork will be hosting one of their own.

This Saturday is the Bigfork Invitational. Appleby is still looking for volunteers to help judge at the event.

There are still a number of openings for morning, afternoon or full-day volunteers. No experience is necessary to be a judge.

Contact him at the school at 837-7420, ext. 244, or charliea@vals.bigfork.k12.mt.us.