Kitsap Adult Center for Education, formerly known as the Literacy Council of Kitsap, held its 24th Annual Corporate Spelling Bee at the Baymont Inn and Suites on May 8.

In this era of spell-check and abbreviated text-message spelling, the teams gave lie to the notion that spelling is a lost art. Once again this year, the Silverdale Rotary Team “We BEE Ducks” won first place, thanks to the efforts of Mike Gass and Ed Hamilton. They spelled correctly the word “kathak” after 13 rounds of competition. Second place went to “Helen’s Team”, a team of KACE volunteers spelling in honor of Helen Robinson, the late former director of the agency. They mis-spelled the word “lansquenet.”

In addition, Bremerton Kiwanis “KiwaniBeez” once again won the prize for the best cheering squad, thanks to the enthusiasm of their Key club affiliate. Kitsap Credit Union “Spellcasters” won an award for the Best Banner. Best costumes belonged to “Helen’s Team.”

Each team registers to compete with a $500 contribution to the work of KACE. Team participation and money raised at the silent and live auctions support the volunteer-based program of helping adult students with basic English and math skills, GED preparation, and English as a Second Language instruction. Gift certificates, theme baskets, and services from individuals and local businesses are generously donated for the auction tables.