The Blount Partnership Bee is one of many local competitions in 30 states, sponsored by the Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Any student in grades 6, 7 or 8 can enter the Bee by submitting a 500-word essay. Based on the essays, judges will choose 20 finalists to go to the finals—a live quiz event testing the contestants’ knowledge of civics. Winners will receive cash prizes and community recognition.