Netting awards at the Hoop

Winners of the Wrangell Elks' annual Hoop Shoot receive their awards at halftime during the alumni basketball game at the high school Dec. 22. Thirty-five children between the ages of 8 and 13 years participated in the shoot, held Dec. 12 at the community center. Official scores are based on 25 shots from lines designated by age group, and the top scorers can contend with other communities' Hoop Shooters at the state level. Last year, Kaylyn Easterly (center, back row) took second place for Alaska and this year led the 12-13 year girls with 18 baskets. Skyler Lofftus (center-left, back row) led the boys with a score of 17. Participants in the shoot each received an Elks basketball and were treated to a hamburger lunch at the lodge afterward.