Chilton County Spelling Bee coordinator Adriane Dennis encourages more local residents to attend the bee this year, and attendance would be worthwhile.

Every county school will be represented by one, or more, of its brightest students, and the contestants will face off to see who is the best speller.

Last year’s winner, Clanton Middle School seventh grader Sarah Franklin, will be defending her title.

The bee is always a fun event that recognizes local students for a good reason, so show up and watch if possible.

The bee will be held at Jefferson State Community College’s Clanton campus at 9 a.m. on Feb. 8.