The local community came together to support the Lyme-Old Lyme Education Foundation’s (LOLEF) 4th Annual Trivia Bee fundraiser held April 1 … and had a thoroughly enjoyable time doing it, while also raising substantial funds for the Foundation.
The Foundation was established in 2006 to support and enhance public education in the community. Grants have been awarded for educational initiatives that span the breadth of our community, from our youngest students to our senior citizens.
So what happens when 22 teams comprised of elected officials, school administration, volunteer firefighters, local business owners, realtors, librarians, students, teachers and coaches compete for the coveted LOLEF Golden Bee Award? The answer — lots of laughter ensues, prizes are awarded, and funds are raised for education in the Lymes.
After three swarms, the final four teams entered the championship round: Bee Good comprised of Lyme-Old Lyme High School (LOLHS) teachers, Region 18 Coaches featuring (… you guessed it!) athletic team coaches, Lyme Fire Bees made up of volunteer firefighters from Lyme, and The No-Brainers comprising Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School teachers. Three tie breaker questions were required for the final two teams, Bee Good and Lyme Fire Bees. The firefighters were the ultimate victors of the Bee and it is anticipated they will place the Golden Bee Trophy in a prominent location at the Lyme Fire Station.
In addition to the main event, audience members were entertained by the LOLHS Select Singers between swarms, and had opportunities to answer questions and win prizes.
All monies raised are returned to the community in the form of grants to the LOL Public Schools and local non-profit organizations.
The 5th Annual Trivia Bee will be held next year. Teams pay a fee to enter but, as always, admission will be free.
The LOLEF Board of Directors would like to extend their gratitude to their Master of Ceremonies, WFSB News Anchor Eric Parker, who did an excellent job stepping in to entertain and guide the evening. Additionally, thanks go to the volunteer judges, Superintendent Ian Neviaser, and teachers Rebecca Bocian and Mercy Alger who really entered into the spirit of the event.
Finally, the LOLEF Board wishes to thank everyone who participated in the evening in any way. LymeLine.com is proud to be a sponsor of the Trivia Bee.
For more information about the Foundation, visit www.lolef.org.