(photo by Jim Cullen)

Drama was high at the Elm Grove Elementary School spelling bee as Eagle third grader Cooper Yanta claimed the title of spelling bee champion. Yanta closed out the title by correctly spelling “ravine” and “rendition.” Yanta will continue his journey by appearing at the upcoming area spell in bee, which will be hosted locally in 2017. Above are (back row, L-R) Ian Rodriguez, Samantha Scott, (front row, l-r) Yanta and Alden Guetzlaff.