Editor,

While you threw in the towel before joining a team for the SPELLathon, your candor about your reservations (strong competitors and being humiliated) spurred the community to participate in this event. We had teams that amazed us with their spelling, and amused us with their team names and costumes. The Clinton Community Hall was packed and the audience participation made the event even more fun.

The “Braniacs” (Paul Thompson, Marshall Goldberg & Dianna MacLeod) earned best spellers and best costumes. The “Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia” (Bill Hagopian, Karen Benson & John Sherman) won best team name. Any guesses on its meaning?

The event was a financial success. The audience filled the hall, and gave generously to a great cause — Clinton Library programming. We appreciate everyone who participated — our wonderful volunteers, the audience, and our local sponsors: Clinton Foodmart, Pickles Deli, The Clyde Theater, Hairy Barkers, Patron Restaurant, Cj&Y Decadent Desserts, Les Schwab, Critters & Co., The Wellington School and Whidbey Arms & Outdoor Sports.

But just as important as the financial success, was the community involvement. A woman from off island was amazed as both participants and audience members spontaneously began to clean the room, putting up chairs and tables and helping get the hall back to its original conditionat the end of the event. It’s this sense of community that built the Library in Clinton and continues to support it.

So, Mr. Editor, we want to see you on a team in next year’s SPELLathon. Yes, there will be strong competitors, but no humiliation!

CHRISTINA SWAN

Friends of Clinton Library