As children, many of us enjoyed the thrill of competition in our schools\u2019 spelling bees. Although the premise is similar, The Literacy Council of Buncombe County\u2019s Spelling Bee is not your average word challenge. At The Millroom on Thursday, April 14, beginning at 6 p.m. emcee and comedian David Ostergaard will host the event, which combines literacy, costumes, and entertainment.<\/p>\n
Literacy Council executive director Ashley Lasher tells The Laurel<\/i>, \u201cEach year we choose a theme for the bee that will provide another element of entertainment to the event. (It\u2019s always a play on the word bee<\/i>.) This year\u2019s theme, \u2018The Queen Bee,\u2019 promises to bring a whole new level of pizzazz.\u201d A drag show with featured entertainer Chartreuse will take place at intermission.<\/p>\n
Fifteen teams of three will compete in the spelling bee. They will represent area businesses, nonprofit organizations, community associations, colleges, book clubs, and friends. Signed up to participate are teams from A-B Tech, Battery Park Book Exchange, Chai Pani, JB Media Group, Malaprop\u2019s, and UNC Asheville, among others.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Literacy Council provides tutors to adults and children who want to improve their reading, writing, spelling, and English language skills,\u201d says Ashley. \u201cThe spelling bee fundraiser allows us to enjoy some levity related to our cause. We laugh, mull over outrageous spelling words, and have fun together.\u201d<\/p>\n
Teams are responsible for fundraising a $250 entry fee. Prizes will be awarded to all spellers. Additionally, audience members will have opportunities to win prizes for the best costumes and impromptu spelling abilities.<\/p>\n