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Long-time Clark County resident and current Fiscal Court Magistrate Robert Blanton has spent some time understanding civics. 

“Next month is fifty years since I started to work with the government,” he said. 

On Wednesday, January 22, coinciding at a time nationally where much is politically changing, Blanton spoke to members of Kiwanis Club during a meeting at Arby’s on Bypass Road. 

Specifically, the importance of civics and mentioning of the upcoming National Civics Bee competition were highlighted. 

“It’s all about knowing your government,” Blanton said. “Without the government of the people and by the people and for the people…it’s not going to last.” 

Blanton began his discussion with members of the Kiwanis Club by asking several multiple choice questions, all of which had to do with understanding how the government functions. 

For example, questions included identifying the three branches of government, differences between senators and representatives, and whether or not an executive order is considered law.

During one portion of his speech, he also further elaborated on what an understanding of civics can allow for. 

“Civics empowers you to understand your rights. If you don’t understand civics, you don’t know your rights,” he said. “The study of civics is vital for the health and sustainability of a democratic society. It empowers individuals with knowledge and skills to engage effectively in public life, and promotes critical thinking, social cohesion, and safeguards our democratic principles.” 

He also stated it plays an active role in engagement. 

“You can say [civics] fosters a sense of duty to your community,” said Blanton. “It encourages active participation.” 

A second part of Blanton’s speech focused around such. 

The National Civics Bee Competition, which annually encourages sixth through eighth grade youth to engage in civics and contribute to their communities, will take place later this year. 

A non-partisan event featuring six districts in Kentucky, Clark County is in District 6. 

It is put on by the National Chamber of Commerce Foundation in cooperation with several other organizations – including the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and Winchester-Clark County Chamber of Commerce.

To qualify, students of public, private, homeschool, or charter schools write a 500 – 750 word independent essay, due by Wednesday, February 4, 2025. 

Students of local schools such as Baker Intermediate and Robert D. Campbell Junior High Schools are eligible. 

While participation is personally rewarding, there are also financial incentives. 

Each of the local district winners will receive $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for third place, with an opportunity to advance to the state finals in August at the Kentucky State Fair. 

Those who place high at the Kentucky State Fair will receive $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place. 

While details continue to be worked out, information can be found at https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/?utm_source=www.nationalcivicsbee.org&utm_medium=redirect or https://www.winchestersun.com/2024/11/22/calling-all-middle-school-students-for-national-civics-bee/. 

Between now and then, Blanton and others who have expressed interest in involvement – including Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) continue to advocate for the importance of civics. 

“Civics is essential for serving democratic institutions and practices, and history has shown that democracy can falter when citizens become disengaged and apathetic,” he said.