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Up to 20 four-person teams will compete to raise money for the libraries at Chesaning High School, Chesaning Middle School and Albee, Big Rock and Brady elementary schools.

The bee will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22 in the Chesaning Middle School auditorium. ABC-12 Meteorologist and HealthFirst reporter Leslie LoBue will serve as moderator.

The first-time event will capitalize on the spelling bee trend that has been sweeping the nation in the last several years. The Tony Award-winning musical "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" is the most recent media project focused on spelling competitions, and ABC has begun airing the finals of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, widely known as the pinnacle of spelling contests.

In traditional spelling bees, a competitor faces the challenge alone. In the Chesaning event, all four team members will collaborate before the captain spells the word on a dry erase board.

"We're really focusing on fun, not academic prowess," said planning committee member Carol Somers. "We think it will be a very entertaining and lively night. It's all about having a good time and helping our libraries."

Organizers are pleased with the turnout so far for the new event, which will include groups from several of the district's schools, businesses and civic organizations.

There is room for a few more teams, Somers said. She would love to see churches, families and high school students join the competition.

The winning team will receive trophies, with additional prizes awarded for best costumes and the most creative spellers.

Chesaning Public Library Director Erin Schmandt said her team of library staff and patrons is counting down the days to their stage debut.

"The Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee is going to be so much fun for spellers and spectators alike," Schmandt said. "I can't give away all of my team's secrets, but I will tell you that you'll be able to recognize us, but not necessarily as ourselves. The Literary Library Ladies are going to squash the competition."

Each team will pay a $50 entrance fee. Teams are encouraged to seek sponsorships from businesses or civic organizations to cover the cost. Participants must be high school age or older.

Registration forms are available at Chesaning High School, the Chesaning Chamber of Commerce office and the Chesaning Public Library. They must be turned in to one of those locations by Feb. 1.

The family-friendly event is open to the public. Admission at the door is $1 per person.

For more information, or to volunteer for the Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee, contact Carol Somers at (989) 661-2365 or carol.somers@gmail.com.

Toy lead testing to take place Monday

Rep. Horn reminds parents about unique local event LANSING -- State Rep. Ken Horn wants to remind area parents that he is sponsoring a free toy lead testing event in Saginaw Township on Monday, Jan. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The event takes place at the Zauel Public Library, 3100 N. Center Road. A lead testing machine will be on site to let parents know if toys in their home contain lead.

"Many parents are understandably concerned about lead in toys, especially after hearing about several toy recalls," said Horn, R-Frankenmuth. "We'll have precise lead testing equipment available to quickly let parents know if their children's toys contain lead. Everyone is encouraged to attend, including grandparents who may have toys in their home." Horn's office has arranged for the Ecology Center and Innov-X Systems to provide the lead testing equipment.