OXON HILL,MD — The Scripps National Spelling Bee begins May 26, with 247 spellers representing 50 states, the District of Columbia, three U.S. territories and five other countries. They will compete in preliminary rounds on May 26, quarterfinals and semifinals on May 27, and finals on May 28, with the winner taking the unofficial crown of top speller in the English language. The champion's haul includes a trophy and more than $52,000 in cash and prizes.