Nightwatch notes: A drunken spelling bee

By TOM HORGEN, Star Tribune

Last update: January 17, 2008 - 3:57 PM

Catch a buzz at the bee

Oh, this is pure genius. On Feb. 2, the 331 Club in northeast Minneapolis will host the 1st Annual Drunken Spelling Bee. Yes, you heard it right, and yes, you are just as excited as I am. The competition will feature themed spelling rounds that will include topics such as celebrity names, hipster phraseology, alcoholic beverages and naughty words.

Each speller will get one free drink per round and must advance to drink more. Organizers say "snacks and caffeine will be provided to help keep the mind sharp during this daunting challenge of mental wit and drinking ability." Daunting, indeed. Winners will receive prizes from local tattoo artists, Foiled Again Salon and Audubon Coffee.

Spellers will not be allowed to drive home, so you'll need a sober cab if you're competing. There are 40 spots in this drunken bee, most of which are expected to fill up by next weekend, so hurry. (There will be a few walk-up spots, however.) It's $7 to enter. Preregister by e-mailing mplsdrunkenspellingbee@gmail.com or by going to www.myspace.com/mplsdrunkenspellingbee. (7-9 p.m. Feb. 2, 331 13th Av. NE., Mpls. Free to watch; 21 and older. 612-331-1746. www.331club.com)

In the clubs this weekend

For clubbers who follow club DJs, the Lounge's annual "Versus" event is always a fun night. This year's headlining battle (of the sexes) is between former Playboy model DJ Diamond and Chicago star DJ Kalendr. Also, T.C. vet Jack Trash gets behind the wheels again to face off against DJ Eve. (9 p.m. Sat. 411 2nd Av. N., Mpls. $10. 21 and older. 612-333-8800. www.theloungempls.com)

There's also the "Bartenders Ball" at Myth, a pseudo-New Year's Eve party for bartenders who had to work that night. (10 p.m. Sun. 3090 Southlawn Dr., Maplewood. $5-15. 18 and older. 651-779-6984. www.mythnightclub.com)

Also this weekend: Epic has its first big concert with reggae/dancehall favorite T.O.K. (10 p.m. Sat. 110 5th St. N., Mpls. $25. 612-332-3742. www.epicmpls.com).

TOM HORGEN