There’s a buzz around town as local businesses, groups and individuals are putting their spelling skills to the test while boosting literacy in the community.
Everyone is invited to come see what all the buzz is about by taking part in the Kal Tire Adult Spelling Bee Challenge April 30.
The seventh annual event supports the continuation of literacy and youth programs in the community as a fundraiser for Teen Junction and the Junction Literacy Centre.
But it’s not your typical spelling bee where individuals are forced to stand on stage and spell out a word.
No, this event takes a team approach, where tables of eight work together to determine the correct spelling of a word.
The team approach means you don’t have to be a superb speller, which Kal Tire president Robert Foord appreciates.
“My spelling is not what it used to be with spell check and everything these days,” said Foord. “I’ll be there for moral support.”
Kal Tire teammate Mindy Crawford agrees.
“I like how you come up with the word as a team, it takes the pressure off.”
While it is a fun, team-building event, with breakfast, the spelling bee also serves a greater purpose supporting the Teen Junction and Junction Literacy Centre.
“It’s a great organization with lots of things coming out of it,” said Foord.
It’s a cause Interior Savings Credit Union has been happy to support every year with a team, and is now the gold sponsor.
Since all the team members have kids, they understand the importance of literacy and how the centre makes a difference.
While they too don’t claim to be top spellers, the Interior Savings team enjoys the event so much they have already come up with their team name – the ScooBEE DooBEES, and they will be dressed to the part.
“It’s a fun event,” said Tracie Savage, Interior Savings team member.
The spelling bee, which includes a hot breakfast, takes place at the Best Western Vernon Lodge from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 30.
Teams or individuals can register at admin@junctionliteracy.ca or call 250-275-3117.
The event is also in search of sponsors, who can support a student who wouldn’t otherwise be able to participate.
For more information about the event, visit www.junctionliteracycentre.ca
