CLARKSVILLE, TN − On Tuesday, August 12, the Imagination Library of Montgomery County (ILMC) Bee-Lieve in Literacy: Adult Spelling Bee Showdown will take center stage at the Customs House Museum, 200 S. 2nd Street. The event will bring community spirit, friendly competition, and the joy of literacy together, beginning with a reception and silent auction at 5 p.m. and the bee kicking off at 6 p.m.
This lighthearted yet spirited event features local teams of adults battling it out in a spelling bee for the grand prize: bragging rights as the Ultimate Spellers of Montgomery County. But the fun doesn’t stop at spelling. Team spirit counts, so expect costumes, chants, and sound effects. And just to keep things interesting—there will be opportunities to bribe the judges (in good fun, of course), making the event a bit unpredictable and entertaining.
Leading the hive of community givers is the Kiwanis Club of Clarksville, proudly stepping into the role of Queen Bee sponsor with a generous $10,000 contribution. Their gift underscores the club’s long-standing dedication to ensuring children have access to books and essential literacy resources.
“The Imagination Library of Montgomery County reflects everything Kiwanis stands for—giving kids the tools they need to succeed,” said Brad Pavlik, president of the Clarksville Kiwanis Club of Clarksville. “We are honored to be the lead sponsor and help make sure that every child in our county can build a love for reading, one book at a time.”
Judging the bee will be an esteemed panel that includes former County Mayor Jim Durrett, radio host Lee Irwin, and Economic Development Council Project Manager Janet Wilson. With their watchful eyes on spelling accuracy—and possibly accepting sweet honey deals along the way—players should bring their A-game and a great sense of humor.
Guiding the evening’s antics are emcees Kimberly Wiggins, County Trustee, known for her sharp wit and community involvement, and Charlie Koon, who works with Legends Bank to strengthen community bonds with our friends at Fort Campbell.
Tickets are for those 21 and older and can be purchased online at this site. To become a spelling bee sponsor, get hard copy tickets, or to support the ILMC, contact event co-chairs Julie Runyon at jcrunyon@mcgtn.net or Michelle Newell at manewell@mcgtn.net.
All proceeds from the event go directly to the Imagination Library of Montgomery County, to provide free books monthly to children from birth to age five. Every dollar raised helps build early literacy and lifelong learning across our community.