Seniors can take part in Spelling Bee

Readers 50 and older may want to make a dictionary their book of choice at the Friends of the Lisle Library book sale in preparation for the Lisle Township's Illinois State Senior Spelling Bee.

Sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and the Illinois Department of Aging, the first statewide spelling bee offers participants a chance to test their skills.

The bee, complete with two judges and someone to pronounce the words, will use Webster's Third New International Dictionary as its official source.

The event is at 9 a.m. today on the lower level of the township offices, 4721 Indiana Ave., Lisle.

Winners advance to regional semifinals and then to the state finals on Senior Day, Aug. 11, at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.

Participation is not limited to Lisle Township residents and you still can register today by calling Lois Biggins at (630) 968-2087. There is no entry fee.

Details for the local bee are at lisletownship.com under "other programs." Also check out spellingbee.com and seniorspellingbee.com.

To get started, a few examples: "palindrome," a word, verse, number or sentence that reads the same backward or forward; "conviviality," friendly and fondness for good company; "lux," a unit of illumination; "plethora," abundance; and "good luck."

-- Joan Broz

Senior Spelling Bee

Who: Spellers 50 and older

When: 9 a.m. today

Where: Lisle Township offices, 4721 Indiana Ave., Lisle

Details: Participants may live outside the township; winners advance to regional semifinal, then state bee in Springfield

Cost: Free

Info: (630) 968-2087 or lisletownship.com