Congratulations to First Book—Johnson County, Iowa for hosting a successful Speed Read Challenge on November 30, 2007!  The Advisory Board raised over $5,000 and significantly increased awareness about First Book through radio, television, and print coverage in newspapers.  Hosted at an area mall during Literacy Week, the Advisory Board invited 30 local celebrities to compete against one another in a single elimination bracket system arranged to narrow down the speedy readers.  Each reader raised donations to support their Speed Read participation.  The top fundraiser and fastest reader were awarded grand prizes for their contributions.  As well, Kohl’s A-Team volunteered at the event resulting in an additional $500 donation.  Thank you for your amazing efforts and keep up the great work, First Book—Johnson County!