March 26th the Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee in Lake Havasu City, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Avery Mizia (1st ), Justin Dam (2nd ) and Courtlyn Mockridge (3rd ) were named the top three finalists of the Regional National Civics Bee in Lake Havasu City organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

 

“We are so excited to see the caring and effort these students put into their essays and into learning about the civic principles and virtues that built our nation. This is why we are so excited to bring this event and support civic education in our community. Helping students see the value in their own potential and responsibility as leaders in our community is an invaluable lesson.  These students will be the future leaders who are showing us the way in a few years. So, we are excited to see their creative thinking, their willingness to problem solve,  and their excitement to be a part of the solution!” – Andrea Helart, President and CEO Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

Avery Mizia from Thunderbolt Middle School took first place, followed by Justin Dam and Courtlyn Mockridge for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were Mohave County Superintendent of Public Schools, John Warren; Lake Havasu City Councilman, David Diaz; and Lake Havasu City Grants Writer, Vijette Saari.

The top three finalists impressed the judges with their ability to answer questions about civics related topics and shared summaries from essays they had written to address a local issue that they wished to help solve, how they would address that issue, and how they might involve local organizations or resources to solve them. The topics included: Algae Blooms, Safety and Wellness, and School Water.

 

The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition hosted by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with the other two finalists receiving cash prizes and swag as well. The top state winners will receive various prizes, and the first-place winner of the State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2025. Prizes at the National Championship include a grand prize of a $100,000 529 plan for first place, $25,000 for second place, and $15,000 for third place.

The AZ Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host the National Civics Bee AZ State Finals in June/July in Phoenix, AZ.

For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/