Scripps Spelling Bee's head judge brings history, encouragement to spellers

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is a prestigious competition where spellers face elimination upon hearing the bell, a sound they dread. Mary Brooks, the head judge since 2005, offers encouragement to spellers. The bell, with a history dating back to 1865, has become iconic. Brooks' empathy and words of encouragement help spellers leave with dignity. The competition progresses from quarterfinals to semifinals, with finalists to be determined.

What does the bell signify in the Scripps National Spelling Bee?

• A contestant has spelled a word correctly.

• A contestant has spelled a word incorrectly.

• The start of a new round.

• The end of the competition.

Who is Mary Brooks in the context of the Scripps National Spelling Bee?

• A former champion of the Bee.

• The head judge of the Bee.

• The person who rings the bell.

• A contestant in the current competition.

How did Mary Brooks come to possess the bell used in the competition?

• She found it in her late husband's mother's curio cabinet.

• It was a gift from the Scripps family.

• It was passed down through her family.

• She bought it at an auction.

What year is engraved on the bell used in the Scripps National Spelling Bee?

• 2005

• 1972

• 1900

• 1865

What reaction did the absence of the bell in 2014 elicit from the audience?

• They missed the bell and commented on its absence.

• They were indifferent.

• They were confused about the competition rules.

• They were relieved.