Teams can win money, play games and help a good cause by playing SCRABBLE in March.
The event is Literacy Volunteers' seventh annual SCRABBLE Tournament on March 21 at Radez School in Richmondville.
Teams can sign up now for the contest, which stresses fun and fundraising.
"Some people think the tournament is high-pressure and is for SCRABBLE experts only," said Sandy Poole, who's brought a team to the tournament every year.
"It's not that way at all. In fact, it's not like traditional SCRABBLE, and everyone has a chance to win. It's a great time."
Two-to-four person teams compete in three SCRABBLE games, all with different rules. The team with the highest combined score wins $200.
The next three teams will each win $100, and to give all teams a chance, one team is drawn from the rest and also wins $100.
Players can improve their scores by buying extra letters or pay to check a dictionary for correct spellings or high-scoring words.
Besides cash, players can win prizes during trivia contests in between SCRABBLE games.
Although the main focus is on fun, the tournament is also a fundraiser for Literacy New York--Fulton, Montgomery and Schoharie Counties, which teaches adults how to read.
Last year's tournament drew nearly 20 teams and raised $10,000 for the three-county group.
"We've built a tradition of fun, and friendly competition with our tournament," said Lisa Cardilli, Literacy Volunteers' executive director.
"But this is also our most important fundraiser of the year. This is huge for us."
Brian Dineen will return as emcee. He'll explain the games, pitch trivia questions and keep the mood light.
Justine's will provide a free continental breakfast.
Players must be 16 years old. In past years, some teams have mixed teens and adults, and teams of co-workers and friends have challenged one another.
The cost is $15 per person. To register as a team for the March 21 tournament, contact Ms. Cardilli at 234-2576 or lvascho@verizon.net.

• • •
Literacy Volunteers has trained volunteer tutors who teach adults on-on-one in basic literacy skills, at no charge.
Many students are trying to become employed, get a better job or earn their high school equivalency diplomas.
Although the service is free to students, Literacy Volunteers has expenses. Costs include an office in each of the three counties, a small staff and materials for tutors and students.