The week began with 281 spellers and was whittled down to 42 for the semifinals Thursday afternoon and 11 for the prime-time finals, with spellers advancing based on a formula that combined their scores from computerized spelling and vocabulary tests with their performance in onstage rounds.

WSJ: 'German curse' no more for NYC Spelling Bee champ

As my Prime Minister pointed out at the General Conference last year, we believe this is the right formula for a peaceful and harmonious world where there is mutual trust and respect for all.

UNESCO: Speech by Hon Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin During the 184th UNESCO Executive Board Meeting,