It’s a dilemma.  Do I defend my title as the Universe’s Smartest Human (or at least, Tacoma’s best speller) on Nov. 2 at Doyle’s Public House and King’s Books? Or do I skulk away, because if I don’t show up, I can say I wasn’t beaten?

Twisted logic, I know, and actually it sounds like the Tacoma’s Smartest Person Contest will be wicked good fun, just like the spelling bee was.  The evening will start at 5 p.m., at Doyle’s, for the Trivia Challenge, which will be comprised of written trivia as well as a sort of “trivia bee.”  I know I would rock at that, because I have a mind like a steel trap that takes useless minutiae and holds onto it for far longer than it should. 

And then there’s the spelling bee at King's Books, which registers starting at 7 p.m., and begins at 7:30.  I’ll bet that I could pool resources with Amanda again, and we could set knees trembling with our spelling prowess once again.

What if I do lose?  Would I have to wear the dunce cap sweet pea wore for the King’s Web site shoot? Because really, I’m not sure that particular shape of hat would suit my facial features.

It’s a good cause, with proceeds going to the Scholars and Champions Association.  And smart is sexy and fun.  Still, the dilemma rages. â€" Jessica Corey-Butler