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ISU Greenlee School to host the Iowa final for 2012 Scripps National Spelling Bee

AMES, Iowa -- The Iowa State University Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication will host the Iowa final for the 2012 Scripps National Spelling Bee on Saturday, Feb. 4.

Participating schools throughout most counties in Iowa will hold their own spelling bees. The winners will qualify to advance to the state final at Iowa State.

"We're very excited to host the state's biggest spelling event here at Iowa State University," said Michael Bugeja (right), professor and director of ISU's Greenlee School. "Spelling is such an important element for anyone in advertising and in journalism and mass communication, and we're excited to promote this idea to young people."

The deadline for a school's enrollment in the spelling bee competition without a late fee has been extended to Friday, Dec. 16. Registration and additional information is available at www.spellingbee.com.

The ISU Spelling Bee winner receives a trip to Washington, D.C., with one parent to participate in the nationally televised finals.

In addition to improving students' spelling skills and increasing their vocabularies, Bugeja says spelling bee participation provides valuable experience in developing poise, a necessary skill for success in public speaking, performing arts, athletics and much more.

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