Can you spell? Or do you have two friends that can?
Grand County Education Foundation (GCEF) is accepting team registration for the Second Annual Adult Spelling Bee until Monday, Nov. 5. You have until Thursday, Nov. 8 to study for the big night at Star Hall.
As a competitor, your three-person team takes turns with other teams to determine the correct spelling of a word. Each team has a scribe who writes the spelling of the word on a whiteboard and shows it to the judges and the audience.
“Lawyers compete with the school board; radio personalities compete against bankers. Everyone dresses in crazy costumes. It’s a blast,” said Valerie Brown GCEF board member.
Rounds progress through different levels of difficulty until two teams remain for a spell-off. Prizes are awarded not only for the winning team of spellers, but also for the team having the best costumes. All spectators and participants are eligible for door prizes.
Word study lists and event details will be sent to each team member after registration. Spectator admission is $5.
GCEF brought the adult spelling bee to Moab for the first time last year. It is a signature fundraiser that highlights their educational mission. The sole purpose of the foundation is to support and enhance the education of children in Grand County schools.
Last year they raised about $3000 at the spelling bee. With the community’s continuing support, they hope to exceed that amount this year.
The GCEF raises funds through grant writing, leveraging funds from individuals and organizations, and events like this one.
To date the foundation has disbursed over $20, 000.
“The foundation has funded projects like providing early intervention program materials for our youngest learners; funding salary for art and music teachers; and purchasing licenses for online math and reading programs,” said Danette Johnson, GCEF chair. “The foundation is making a difference in the lives of Moab’s children.”
KZMU Radio personality Jeff Flanders and Grand County Middle School principal Melinda Snow will serve as moderators for the event with judges and timers from local community service organizations. This is a family event and everyone is invited to attend and watch the fun.
“Watching the spellers is so exciting and we have the best participant prizes and door prizes, “said Melodie MccCandless GCEF member.
