March Madness comes to North Idaho College this morning.

But instead of Gonzaga vs. Arizona, it'll be 56 students competing for the title of North Idaho's best speller. Only one will advance to the national championship later this spring in Washington, D.C., representing the five northern counties of Idaho.

Now, before those little collars get even tighter, we hope the kids keep a few things in mind.

First, just to get to this stage is a tremendous achievement. Out of thousands of students from fourth through eighth grades, from public, private and home schools, these are the best of our region's best. There won't be 55 losers today. There will be 56 stars in our constellation, with one shining just a single letter or two brighter than the rest.

Second, everybody out there in the auditorium is cheering for you - quietly, as decorum dictates.

And finally, the kids should know that while The Press will pay to send the winning speller and guardian to the national bee, it is our friends at NIC who have made today's big event possible. From countless hours gladly given by NIC employees and volunteers to hosting the bee in beautiful Boswell Hall Schuler Performing Arts Center, President Joe Dunlap and team have gone above and beyond to give each of these kids the memory of a lifetime.

So please, spellers, have fun and do your best.

Your friends, family and teachers couldn't possibly be more proud of you.

- Mike Patrick

Press editor

* If you go:

11th annual North Idaho Regional Spelling Bee

• NIC Boswell Hall Schuler auditorium

• Today, prompt 9 a.m. start

• Free admission, public welcome