Book Buddies

The spellers arrived early, buzzing with anticipation—the energy was electric from the very start. Bee officials streamed in, finding their rooms and preparing for the fast-paced competition ahead. Spectators filled the space with eager curiosity, all wondering the same thing: who would claim the title of best speller?
County Executive Sue Serino offered a warm and encouraging welcome to the nervous teams, while Board President Robin Green rallied them with words of inspiration. And just like that… it was time. The competition was on.
Forty-seven determined teams launched into battle, going head-to-head, word by word, round by round. The room pulsed with focus, tension, and excitement as each correct spelling brought cheers—and each miss raised the stakes.
Then came the final round.
Only the strongest teams remained. Out of 47, just 11 teams stood on the brink of victory. The air was thick with suspense. Every letter mattered. Every second counted.
Who would rise to the top? Which team, which school, and which sponsors would take home the title of 2026 Community Spelling Bee Champions?
And the winners were…

Hudson Valley Spellers Are Ready! 🐝
Adults & High school teams will compete for Best Team Name, Best Team Prize & bragging rights! 🏆

Every raffle ticket you buy helps someone gain the skills to read, write, and reach their potential. Thank you for making a difference.

It takes a village — and the Bee makes it possible. 🐝
Your support sustains life-changing literacy programs that help adults get jobs, earn a GED, support their children, and help kids read at grade level. Because of you, futures are rewritten. 💛
Join now: https://givebutter.com/NwwEl9

Thank you to all our friends and volunteers for your time, kindness, and support. We’re so grateful for everything you do and look forward to another year of making a difference together.

Every day at Literacy Connections, we see the power of reading transform lives. Adults find confidence and independence as they master new skills—reading a medicine label, applying for a job, or helping their children with homework. Children experience the joy of learning as they read a story aloud with their Book Buddy and proudly discover new words on their own.
Literacy is hope. It opens doors to opportunity, self-reliance, and a brighter future. Yet too many of our neighbors are still waiting for that chance. In New York State, more than 2 million adults struggle with basic literacy, and countless children are falling behind in reading. The need has never been greater.
You can help by giving the gift of literacy; you can change a life one word at a time.

Today marks a pivotal moment for community engagement and educational empowerment. By joining forces with Literacy Connections of the Hudson Valley, you can create meaningful change that lasts. Your involvement can transform lives and uplift our community through literacy. Together, we can drive impactful educational initiatives and foster a culture of learning. Let’s make a difference today.

Tomorrow, millions of people around the world will show up for generosity—and we hope you’ll join Literacy Connections in making a real difference right here at home. Every gift, every share, and every act of kindness helps adults and children gain the literacy skills they need to thrive.

https://conta.cc/49xpVJT

HAPPY THANKSGIVING? 🍗 Email from Literacy Connections From all of us LC Click below to share the joy of global giving on Giving Tuesday! Visit our Website Literacy Connections | 504 Haight Avenue | Poughkeepsie, NY 126

Celebrating 50 Years of Literacy!

Join Literacy Connections as we mark five decades of empowering lives through the gift of literacy. For 50 years, our programs have opened doors, built confidence, and transformed futures for thousands across the Hudson Valley. Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet, live music, and inspiring stories from learners and volunteers who make our mission possible.

Reserve your spot today and celebrate the power of literacy with us!