Reading under the lights

Ekalaka Public Schools' community reading series kicked off the 2024-25 school year with a remarkable success. The "Reading Under the Lights" event drew over 200 attendees, with the Ekalaka Public School Board generously cooking and serving a delicious meal. Local businesses and individuals contributed to the feast, including Jeff & Rena Tauck, Les & Karen Kreitel, Shepherd Ranch, J.O. & Kim Tooke, Lisa & Matt Borchgrevink. Carter County Library provided the dessert.

Dedicated to the magic of reading, the event featured Malcolm Gladwell's captivating book, "The Magicians Hat," suggested by Mrs. Guyer and Mrs. Peters to complement the field-side setting. Lachelle Brant narrated the story, while Mr. Kapptie, Kendra Matthews, Preston Jensen, and Tracy Wilson assisted with reading responsibilities. The books were generously donated by Stevenson Funeral Home.

After the reading, students were delighted to select their own grade-level books from the "magic hats," made possible by the community's generous re-gifting of children's books. The event was further enhanced by the official donation of a new sound system, thanks to a $13,000 contribution from Mitch Groves, the Miles City Market President of Stockman Bank, and his family.

"It was enjoyable to get to play with my friends, and I liked the story. We got a free book!" exclaimed Coy Montgomery, a third grader.

Violet Strub, a fifth grader, expressed her enjoyment of the story and the teenage readers, saying, "I liked the story and when the teenagers read it."

Zoe Hansen, a second grader, was thrilled to have received so many books: "I got so many books!"

With perfect weather and a fantastic turnout, "Reading Under the Lights" marked a wonderful beginning to the school's ongoing commitment to fostering a love of reading within the community. The next event, "A Night at the Museum," is scheduled for November 4th, and the series will conclude with a reading event at the Holiday Stroll on December 5th. This event reminds all that a thriving community is built on the collective efforts of its members.