OSAWATOMIE — Osawatomie sixth grader Thaine Rhoads went to town on “safari” and by spelling that word and “alcove,” he’s the Miami County Spelling Bee champion. The Osawatomie Journal reported that he outlasted Louisburg sixth grader Dustyn Rizzo to claim the title. Rhoads and Rizzo battled for another eight rounds before Rhoads emerged victorious. The champ has been competing in spelling bees since he was a third grader. He will represent Miami County at the state spelling bee March 12 in Great Bend.
Thursday, Feb. 20, 10:30 a.m.