Statement of Vermont Governor on Springfield’s Victory in the Simpsons Movie Premier Contest

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July 10, 2007 -- "I want to congratulate Springfield and its partners for winning the opportunity to host the world premiere of The Simpsons Movie.

The community spirit and enthusiasm that was key to Springfield’s improbable victory is precisely why Vermont is such a special place—and a fun place—to live, work and raise a family.

Fourteen Springfields across the country competed in the online election—sponsored by the 20th Century Fox Film Corporation—to host the premiere of the much-anticipated movie.

Springfield, Vermont’s success is a true Cinderella story.

Because of their size, they were not among the first 14 communities invited to participate. But when they learned about this unique opportunity they asked to be included and 20th Century Fox agreed. They began the production of their video 2 weeks behind other participants.

When their video was complete, Springfield launched a grassroots campaign that only a Vermont community could wage. Across the Green Mountain State, Vermonters young and old rallied to help Springfield become “the new Hollywood.” That grassroots campaign – along with a superior, more entertaining video - propelled our Springfield to the front of the pack!

Today, I congratulate the entire community of Springfield for their Herculean efforts to overcome tremendous odds and bring The Simpsons Movie world premiere to Vermont.

This is an exciting, exhilarating moment for Vermonters. Perhaps more importantly, it proves there’s really nothing a giant donut can’t do.

To all the other Springfields, I say 'Don’t have a cow, man.'"

Source: Vermont Governor