National Spelling Bee kicks off in DC amid odd White House UFC backdrop

• New venue puts event in heart of Washington DC

• Shuttle rides and crowds irk some returning families

• White House UFC build-out adds odd backdrop buzz

After 15 years at a convention center in suburban Maryland, the Scripps National Spelling Bee moved this year to a grand stage befitting the stakes of the competition: Constitution Hall, Washington's largest dedicated concert venue.

Not everyone at this week's competition appreciates the change.