---

An effort that began last winter culminated last week in the installation of new scoreboards in the high school and middle school gyms. The centerpiece of the effort, the main scoreboard in the high school's large gym, includes a roughly 13-foot by 8-foot "jumbotron" monitor to pump up fans during home contests.

The scoreboard project was a shining example of the partnership between North Branch Area Public Schools and the communities it serves. Community member Barb Hensch was pivotal to the success of the project, spearheading an effort to secure sponsors to offset the cost of the scoreboards. Special thanks also go to community members Loralie Gazda, Rick Weispfennig, former Activities Director Brett Carlson, current Activities Director Corey McKinnon, and Finance and Human Resources Director Randi Johnson.

The project could not have been possible without the large, and rising, number of local business who were quick to sponsor the scoreboard project.

Sponsorship opportunities allow businesses to advertise to a wide-ranging audience of both local residents and out of town visitors at a variety of events. Sponsorship also gives business a chance to show its Viking spirit and its commitment to the local community.

The jumbotron-type screen allows for camera feeds and the district has installed four separate camera points in the high school gym. Beyond sporting activities, it can be used to provide coverage at graduations and other district functions, as well as community events.

"We are so grateful to Barb, Rick and Loralie for their tireless efforts to raise funds and see this project through to completion, and to the local businesses that supported the project with such enthusiasm," said NBAPS superintendent Deb Henton. "Our young student/athletes deserve the best experience we can offer them, and the scoreboards should provide a new level of excitement at events, especially at the high school level, and will really show these kids the kind of support they have in their communities."

Home events at the high school's main gym start on August 27, with a volleyball match between the Vikings and Andover. All community members are invited to attend the match, see the new scoreboards in action, and cheer on the Vikings!

---