Submitted by the Rotary Club of the San Juan Islands

Owen Wight proved his spelling prowess at Rotary’s 19th Annual Spelling Bee, held at the Friday Harbor Presbyterian church in early April. Wight is in 7th grade at Friday Harbor Middle School. A student in Mr. McKinnon’s class, Owen won first prize for correctly spelling the word “catapults.”

This year’s Bee attracted 22 students from the San Juan Island elementary and middle schools, grades 4 through 8. The organizers ensure a supportive atmosphere where every student receives a medal and a round of applause, whether they spell their word correctly or not.

Owen was awarded a $100 check; his class and the San Juan Island School District will also receive checks from the Rotary Club of the San Juan Islands. As the second-place winner, Gretchen Jack, a 7th grader in Ms Gooseman’s class, received a $75 check, her class and school will also receive checks.

Owen told us his favorite book is “Scythe” and his favorite movie is Hunger Games. Gretchen, who does tech at the SJ Community Theatre, told us her favorites are “Arrow to the Moon” and Legally Blonde.

The Orcas Middle School students who planned to attend the Bee this year were snafued by the inter-island ferry and were greatly missed.

Thanks to the many Rotarians who put on the annual event and to family, friends and teachers who attended and are dedicated to educating and encouraging students to be their best.

Thinking about joining Rotary? Learn about the local club, here: https://portal.clubrunner.ca/1358