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After 10 rounds, sixth grader Ryan Cook correctly spelled “acrid” and “retribution” to become the 2023 Century Middle School Spelling Bee champ.
Danika Jenson, an eighth grader, took second place at Wednesday’s contest. She was tripped up by “defunct” in the final round.
They both advance to the regional spelling bee on Feb. 8 in Thief River Falls.
Third place honors went to Lana Gravdahl, a fifth grader.
Twenty-six competitors from fifth through eighth grade reached the finals, with two voluntarily withdrawing from Wednesday’s oral competition.
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Sponsored by the Park Rapids Century PTA, the spelling bee was held at the Park Rapids Area High School auditorium.
Judges were Lora Nelson, Teresa Martine and Kristin Maaninga. Jeremy Nelson pronounced words for the contestants.
In addition to trophies and one-year subscription to Encyclopedia Britannica, Cook won a $75 Amazon gift card and Jenson a $50 Amazon gift card. Gravdahl earned a $25 gift card.
