We are thrilled to share some of the highlights from our recent eighth annual Spelling Bee Fundraiser, held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the First United Community Space. It was a morning filled with camaraderie, laughter, and friendly competition as 12 teams battled it out to claim the title of the Shuswap’s top spellers!
The morning event started bright and early, with teams showcasing their spelling prowess amidst a backdrop of banter and excitement. Words like “noctambulist” and “elucubrate” tested the mettle of participants, leading to an exhilarating tie-breaker between the seasoned champions, Bee Witched, and the spirited newcomers, team Antidisestablishmentarianists.
In the end, Team Bee Witched emerged victorious, securing their seventh win and solidifying their status as spelling dynamos. Close behind were the impressive runners-up, team Antidisestablishmentarianists, with a third-place tie between the Newsroom Nerds and Family Centre Stingers.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, including teams from Shuswap Optometric, Salmon Arm Rotary, SASCU, Valid Manufacturing, the Shuswap Film Society, Browne Johnson Land Surveyors, Salmon Arm Observer, North Okanagan-Shuswap Principals and Vice Principals Association, the Shuswap Family Centre, the Silverquacks health care professionals team and individuals who joined together to create their own teams. Your support for literacy programs and events like ours is deeply appreciated and raised $12,300 for community literacy programs and events in our region.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the Spelling Bee serves a vital purpose in our community. The funds raised provide support for a variety of literacy programs, including Cyber Seniors computer tutoring, ONE to ONE reading, Summer Slide initiatives, Books for Babies Bags, Books Under the Tree, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, and Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of individuals of all ages.
We would like to extend a special thank you to First Community for hosting us and to Brynn Hilland for capturing pictures of the event as well as the many individuals, local businesses, volunteers, school district, and media for their contributions to the success of the Spelling Bee. Your dedication and support are the driving forces behind our efforts, and we are immensely grateful for your continued partnership.
