New Kent schools’ spelling bee champion crowned

Rafi Waters looks toward caller Ross Miller to see if he has spelled "necessary" correctly. He did, thereby winning the New Kent School System's spelling bee in the 10th round. He now heads to the regional bee on March 13 at the University of Richmond. Looking on in the background is runner-up Dana Douglas. In the other photo, all nine grade level winners await the start of Wednesday's bee held at the middle school. From left are Logan Hodge (Grade 4 Watkins), Aly Murray (Grade 8 NKMS), Christian Jones (Grade 6 NKMS), Rafi Waters (Grade 7 NKMS), Raina Niles (Grade 3 Watkins), Dana Douglas (Grade 4 NKES), Parker McBrayer (Grade 3 NKES), Olivia Brightwell (Grade 5 Watkins), and Matthew Peterson (Grade 5 NKES).

Alan Chamberlain photos