Why wasn't I notified!?

Washington, DC, Jun. 3 (UPI) -- Seven members of the American Literacy Society picketed the 77th annual national spelling bee in Washington, calling for the modernization of English spelling.

The protesters claimed English spelling is illogical and the competition reinforces irrational spelling rules that contribute to dyslexia and illiteracy and make life harder for immigrants, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported Thursday.

"We advocate the modernization of English spelling," said Pete Boardman, 58, of Groton, N.Y., among protesters carrying signs reading "I'm thru with through," "Spelling shuud be lojical," and "Spell different difrent."

Protester Elizabeth Kuizenga of San Francisco teaches English as a second language and said she got involved in the protest because too much of her class time is devoted to spelling.

Bee spokesman Mark Kroeger said knowing the origin of a word leads to better spelling. "For these kids who understand the root words, who understand the etymology, it's totally logical," he said.