Pictured above: The 2017 Spelling Champions Akzo Nobel along with CoveCare Center’s CEO Diane Russo.
Putnam County, NY – CoveCare Center invites the community, including local businesses, organizations, and residents, to its 9th Annual Spelling Bee. Long known as a night of exciting competition and laughter, the Bee is open to teams of up to 10 spellers who take on increasingly challenging words with the goal of earning the title of 2018 Putnam Spelling Champions.
This year’s Bee will be held on Thursday, April 19th at the Starr Ridge Banquet Center in Brewster, NY. The evening will begin with a buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m. At 6:00, Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell will kick off the competition by reading the first round of words. Veteran emcee Bill Hammond of Edward Jones will be joined this year by Jody Bayer, a local actor with a flair for improvisation; the two will lead the teams through multiple spelling challenges before the thrilling single elimination championship round.
In 2017, 20 teams vied for the championship trophy, with the Akzo Nobel Bees once again claiming first place. The Putnam Hospital/Health Quest Putnam Pirates and the Putnam Health Department Bees Knees tied for second place honors. Facing very tough competition, CoveCare Center’s own Buzz Kill took home the coveted Most Enthusiastic Team award.
Teams of up to 10 participants are welcome; team members can choose to be spellers, cheerleaders, or spectators. The Bee is $35 per person and includes a full buffet dinner, soft drinks, and dessert. Beer and wine will be available at a cash bar. All proceeds support the many programs of CoveCare Center, a private non-profit agency that provides recovery-based treatment and preventive services for mental health, social/emotional and substance use issues.
Click here to join in the fun and to learn about sponsorhip opportunities!