68 to compete in 78th Vindy spelling bee Saturday

YOUNGSTOWN

Sixty-eight elementary, middle and junior high school students face off Saturday in the 78th annual Vindicator Regional Spelling Bee at Youngstown State University.

The bee, a community tradition since 1934, kicks off at 9 a.m. in the Chestnut Room at Kilcawley Center.

This year’s bee includes 33 boys and 35 girls from schools throughout the Mahoning Valley. Most of the contestants, 62, will be spelling at the regional competition for the first time. For three, Saturday’s bee marks their second showing while three others are making at least their third appearance.

The winner will receive an all-expense-paid trip including hotel, travel accommodations, tours, meals and incidental expenses, to Washington, D.C. for him or herself and an adult. The winner will compete in the 84th Scripps National Spelling Bee the week of May 29 through June 4.

The winner also will get a first-place trophy and a special grand-champion certificate, as well as other recognition from various organizations.