The Guilford Fund for Education (GFFE) will hold its ninth annual Adult Spelling Bee—BEE 9—on Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m. in the Guilford High School auditorium.

Teams comprised of three adults spell it out to take home the coveted Best of the Hive trophy, as well as bragging rights for the year.

Darren Kramer of WTNH News Channel 8 will emcee the event, a role he has served since the first BEE in 2006.

Teams formed by local businesses, non-profit organizations, friends, neighbors, school groups, politicians, and others will take to the stage in swarms, hoping to make it to the finish. If past years are an indicator, the costumes and displays of team spirit will be at least as competitive as the spelling contest.

“The BEE is a great way to promote your business or civic group, as well as let the community know you support education in Guilford,” said BEE Co-Chair Brenda Gorman.

Audience members can also participate in the “Audience BEE” and be eligible for prizes.

All proceeds from the evening support the work of GFFE, a non-profit group committed to fostering innovation and excellence in learning for all Guilford students through its grant program.