After five rounds of spelling, two teams were tied for first place. The tie-breaker spell-off teams were The Didactidactyls, from Carroll Community College, and We Spell McDaniel, the student team from McDaniel College. Both teams missed their first word, but The Didactidactyls scored on the second round to take the title of the Best Spellers of Carroll County. The Spine Crackers from Penguin Random House placed third.

Prior to the competition, a delicious meal was served by Kountry Kafe and Catering, followed by yummy desserts from Stone House Cakery and Cafe. Music during dinner was performed by the talented Herb Sell.

Many thanks to our community volunteers who every year make the Bee run smoothly:

Emcee: Sheriff Jim DeWees

Pronouncer: The Honorable Judge Fred Hecker

Judge: Attorney at Law Richard Titus

Time Keeper: Maddie Luchini

Word List: Lisa Picker, Librarian

A SPECIAL THANK YOU to our major sponsors for all they do and all they contribute:

Penguin Random House, Giant, Antrim, and Wegmans.