Altrusa International, Inc. of Walla Walla, in partnership with the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce host an Annual Youth Spelling Bee (Started in 2008) during the Hot Air Balloon Stampede the second weekend in May. The Youth Spelling Bee is preceded by a Bowling for the Bee in March to promote the event in local schools grades 1-5. Bowling teams are formed that include students and teachers. Area businesses support the events through financial and in-kind contributions. The first Youth Spelling Bee was a resounding success. Three lucky “Bee” participants went home with new laptops for their winning efforts. There were also 2nd and 3rd place prizes for each grade level. Those agencies/organizations that supported the inaugural event benefited from the knowledge that they contributed to a community event. They also benefited from the knowledge that they contributed to a community event that provided and environment to promote students’ self-esteem, character development, sportsmanship, and literacy.
We look forward to another friendly competition next year!
