On Sunday, September 22, a Scrabble tournament to benefit The Sandy Hook School Support Fund will take place at the Inn at Newtown, 19 Main Street.

Two playing options are available: A three-game unrated tournament for new players and those rated under 1,000, and a seven-game rated tournament for players ready for a longer day. Both tournaments will start at 10 am, with registration at 9:30 am, and include Sunday brunch at 1 pm. There will be a benefit raffle during lunch, and Scrabble equipment and books will be for sale throughout the day.

Cornelia Guest, the organizer of the tournament, has wanted to have a Newtown tournament since she moved to the area two years ago.

“Newtown is the home of Scrabble. James Brunot, who acquired the rights to Alfred Butts’ game and renamed it ‘Scrabble,’ lived in Newtown. Brunot and his wife manufactured the first Scrabble sets in Newtown in 1948. Over 150 million sets have been sold since then — and a lively and active Scrabble tournament scene now exists throughout the world,” said Ms Guest.

Newer player are recommended to try the three-game Newcomers Tournament. Guest will go over the nuances of scorekeeping, clock use, and word judge procedures, and each player will receive a printout of Scrabble tips — and a Cheat Sheet to bring home after the event. If entries warrant, separate youth and adult divisions will be offered, with prizes for all. (NOTE: This event is not recommended for players younger than 10.) 

Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. For more information contact Ms Guest at CorneliaSGuest@gmail.com or 203-244-5324.