RULEBOOK VISION to Know God’S Word and Make Him Known

2020 RULEBOOK VISION To know God’s Word and make Him known.

MISSION To engage young people in the memorization and study of God’s Word and provide opportunities to proclaim it through local, national and broadcast competitions. TABLE OF CONTENTS NATIONAL BIBLE BEE COMPETITION (NBBC)

General Information I. The National Bible Bee Statement of Faith...... 1 II. The National Bible Bee (NBB) History...... 1 III. Contacting the National Bible Bee ...... 1 IV. National Bible Bee 2020 Calendar of Events...... 2 V. Competition Format...... 3 VI. Age Divisions...... 3 VII. Age Division Rule for First Place Winners...... 3 VIII. Competition Bible Versions...... 3 IX. Memory Passage Cards...... 3 X. Prize Money and Awards...... 4

Contestant Eligibility Requirements I. Contestant Registration Requirements...... 5 II. Citizenship Eligibility Requirements...... 5 III. NBB Proclaim! Day...... 5 IV. Qualifying Test ...... 5 V. Medical Documentation for Special Testing Accommodation...... 6 VI. Supervision Requirements...... 6 VII. Lodging Requirements...... 6 IX. Limited Eligibility...... 7 X. Transfer and Refund Policy ...... 7

NBBC Proctor Agreement I. Eligibility Requirements...... 8 II. Multiple-Choice Test Responsibilities...... 8 III. Oral Recitation Responsibilities...... 9 IV. Before Day of Oral Recitation...... 9 V. Day of Oral Recitation...... 10 TABLE OF CONTENTS NATIONAL BIBLE BEE COMPETITION (NBBC)

Preliminary Round I. Format Overview ...... 12 II. Proctor Requirement...... 12 III. Computer and Internet Requirement...... 12

Multiple-Choice Test I. Test Security...... 12 II. Multiple-Choice Test Format ...... 13 III. Multiple-Choice Test Content...... 13 IV. Advancement...... 13

Oral Recitation I. Oral Recitation Format...... 14 II. Oral Recitation Judging Criteria...... 14 III. Judging Process ...... 18 IV. Advancement...... 19 V. Verification of Semi-Finalists...... 19 VI. Tie-Breaker Rules...... 19

Semi-Final Challenge Round I. Format...... 20 II. Semi-Final Challenge Round Oral Recitation Judging Criteria...... 20 III. Semi-Final Challenge Round Elimination Process ...... 21 IV. Tie-Breaker Rules...... 23

Final Challenge Round I. Format...... 24 II. Final Challenge Round Oral Recitaiton Judging Criteria ...... 24 III. Final Challenge Rounds...... 25 IV. Placement...... 26 V. Tie-Breaker Rules...... 26

Semi-FInal and Final Judging Process...... 27

Disqualification...... 28

Contestant Terms and Conditions...... 29 1 • General Information • NBBC Rulebook

[email protected] 115 N Loop 1604 E., Ste. 1206 115 1604 Ste. N Loop E., San TX Antonio, 78232 BibleBee.org BibleBee.org/contact National Bible Bee 210-489-7311

Contact Email: to also agree to comply with to agree rules also NBBC all in contained to Rulebook. NationalII. Bible The Bee History (NBB) FoundationThe Kennedy Shelby NBB. of is the Kennedy organization Shelby parent a pebble that hits be like to always life her a pond wanted a ripple said creating she effect. all given We are the opportunity an impacttomake others. on She herwanted home went Though Shelby impact to God her. those His for and Word around love be loved with that she to after the struggle the Word intense an Lord with cancer, will richly dwell the in Word hope that God’s It the is Foundation’s forever. endures hearts young people of this of generation and transform the generations come. to Him known.” make and Word NBBThe vision for “to is know God’s III. Contacting the National Bible Bee Mailing Address: Phone: Website: Contact Form: I. The NationalI. Bible The of Faith Bee Statement While contestants and family members participating in the NBBC required not are with agree to every doctrinal they are Faith, of NBB point in contained Statement the or part debate as agree challenge, to registration of required dispute, to not throughout Faith of theStatement various stages competition. of required They are GENERAL INFORMATION 2020 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Host Registration January 15 - February 29

Late Host Registration March 1 - 12

Summer Study Theme Release March 16

Advance Participant Registration March 16 - 31

EXTENDED Advance Participant Registration April 1 - 15

Participant Registration April 16 - May 16

Late Participant Registration May 17 - 31

Summer Study Materials Release (Discovery Journal PDF and Memory Passage Summer Study Summer May 26 Cards)

Summer Study June 1 - August 6

NBBC Memory Passages (1 of 2) Release June 29 July 31 - August 6 (Host/ NBB Proclaim! Day Parent may choose day) August 7 - 10 (Fri 8 am CST - Mon NBBC Qualifying Test 11:59 pm CST) NBBC Memory Passages (2 of 2) and Study Passage Release August 10

NBBC Qualifying Test Rankings Release August 12 (8pm CST)

NBBC Qualiﬁ er Enrollment (no fee) August 12 (8pm CST) - 26

NBBC Preliminary Round - Online Multiple Choice Test October 12

NBBC Preliminary Round - Online Oral Recitation October 15

NBBC Preliminary Round Rankings Release October 16

NBBC Contestant Family Registration October 16 - 23

NBBC Semi-Final and Final Rounds November 16-17 National Bible Bee Competition 3 • General Information • NBBC Rulebook

. 7 - 10 yrs 11 - 14 yrs 15 - 18 yrs English Standard Version (ESV) Version Standard English (KJV)King James Version New American Bible (NASB) Standard (NIV)New International Version New (NKJV) King James Version

V. Competition Format V. Thousands participants of the around from country participate in the National Bible These participants division each from Bee Study. Summer a test 120 the where top take the at qualify National Bible Bee Competition. compete to The first partcompetitionof is the a Multiple-Choice Preliminary of composed Oral and Round Recitation. The top Test 15 contestants division each the from advance Semi-Final to The top Round. Challenge VII. Winners Age Division for Place Rule First First winners place the of National Bible Bee Competition (NBBC) unable to are participate the in to sameage division the required in compete that they are and won next age division, irrespective their age. of VIII. Competition Versions Bible 5 contestants division each the Round. from Challenge advance Final to VI. Divisions Age Primary: Junior: Senior will be the by age on the division contestant determined is The contestant’s year competition the of current 13 November IX. Memory Passage Cards The National Bible Bee Memory Passage Cards (Summer Study and NBBC) the are formemory contestmaterial officially approved passage recitation should and be recitationused throughout for the NBB. After the Memory released, they are Passage Cards can be on the found NBB (See Dashboard. memory calendar for passage dates.) release 4 NBBC Rulebook • General Information • and spirited delivery. delivery. spirited and Awarded excellence displays to who acontestant clear through in Scripture recitation $1,500 Amount: Award Shelby Kennedy Chairman Foundation Oratory Final Challenge Round Tie Breaker Rule.) winnings to split be through 1st between 5th place finalists. (See section regarding Note: Prize money allocated may be in smaller amounts when ties require the option only. place prize cash placebe will money fifteenth through combination Sixth of both. place prize cash, placemoney as maybe given scholarship, fifth through a or First PrizeX. Awards Money and 6th-15th Place 2nd 3rd 5th 4th 1st $50,000 $20,000 $8,000 $3,000 $1,000 Senior $200 NBBC PRIZE MONEY PRIZE NBBC $20,000 $8,000 $3,000 $1,500 Junior $750 $100 $10,000 Primary Primary $4,000 $1,500 $500 $750 $50 5 • Eligibility Requirements • NBBC Rulebook

REQUIREMENTS Rulebook Affidavit, PhotographVideo and Interview Permission Form (18 Waiver NBB Older) and Accident Event (Minors) Waiver NBB Accident Event Issued ID or State License Driver’s Proctor’s Copy of Birth Contestant’s of Photocopy CertificateU.S. Passportor

Contest Opens Enrollment August 2020 12, Closes August2020 Contest 26, Enrollment with is required Online signature requested all documents: a. b. c. d. e.

2. 3. I. Contestant Registration Requirements as the in Study well as been Summer registered Contestants have to required are NBBC. at AND compete enrolling registering to 1. II. Citizenship Eligibility Requirements the in Preliminary NBBC. at compete Rounds Non-U.S.Non-U.S. ONLY may citizens money. prize for compete not may citizens birthU.S. certificate passport or contestant’s of NBBas a copy will require NOTE: Eligibility). (please see Limited age and of proof citizenship III. NBB Day Proclaim! 50% of a minimum the at NBBC, score to compete the contestant required is To consists recitations Day from NBB 2 scripture of Proclaim! Day. NBBat Proclaim! the Summer Study Memory Passages and 8 questions the from Discovery Journal, facilitiated the by host or parent. Qualifying Test IV. the NBBC the at NBBC, Qualifying complete to compete the contestant required is To the in participant’s 120 the in top score and Day, 50% NBB at Proclaim! score Test, division (NBBC Qualifier). CONTESTANT ELIGIBILITYCONTESTANT 6 NBBC Rulebook • Eligibility Requirements • 1. guardian required is to: parent/legal The mobility. or movement, speech, hearing, sight, involving conditions diagnosed medical with basis for contestants case-by-case a on requirements contest discretion has the to and/orNBB amend oral written V. Testing Special for Documentation Medical Accommodation 120 NBBC. at the competing ineach division contestants age Note: may there fewer or more than to invitations, be Due declined and ties than email. be will via communicatedprocess NBBC family for and specific The for contestant negotiate and secure lower room rates for everyone. hotels November 15-17,contracted 2020. requirement This is in place to to allow NBB are to required at parent/guardian the one lodge at least and Semi-Finalists NBBC All Requirements Lodging VII. 1. adult. entrusted guardian an as has appointed parent/legal the person a with may attend contestant the guardian attend, cannot event parent/legal a the In NBBC. the guardian throughout are younger) or required (17 to minors accompanied be All oneparent/legal by at least Requirements Supervision VI. own. their on test NOTE: to order In compete to contestant able the be read the MUST NBBC, at the 3. 2. 2.

test for before accommodation special qualifying need the the professional validating current calendar year the from amedical within aletter with Provide NBB etc.)interpretation, sign language allowing texts, of print (large accommodation type the Explain accommodations special requesting at [email protected] Email NBB c. b. a. is required adult to: entrusted An c. b. a. information:following the guardian required is with at [email protected] to email NBB Parent/legal

Be registeredBe for NBBC the and regulations rules all NBB with Comply of years older or age 18 Be Entrusted adult’s contact number during the NBBC the during number adult’s contact Entrusted adult’s name Entrusted Photocopy of entrusted adult’s drivers license adult’sPhotocopy drivers of entrusted 7 • Eligibility Requirements • NBBC Rulebook

Independent contractors who have helped to develop contest content contest contractors develop Independent to helped who have staffMembers NBB of professional Members Directors the of of Board Contestants participate may events all citizens in U.S. not who with are the the of Semi-Finalexception or Final Challenge Rounds. invitation other any the NBBC to replace will not A non-U.S citizen’s qualifiedcontestant. money. prize for compete may Onlycitizens U.S.

Contestants family or who live a household members in with immediate who of, are participatemay in events all individual(s) with the of thefollowing the exception Semi-Final or Final Challenge Rounds: a. b. c. Their invitation the to NBBC any other qualified willcontestant. replace not familyImmediate is understood be the to parents/legal or children, guardians, a contestant.siblings of the of fiftyNBB citizens legal open is to and States the District United of Columbia. participateOthers to welcome the NBBC in Study at and are Summer Preliminary only. Rounds a. b. c. Contestants family who members have who serve Hosts as fall under do not limited eligibility rules.

IX. Eligibility Limited 1. 2. X. Transfer and Refund Policy and Refund X. Transfer All National Bible Bee Competition (NBBC) subject are the admission fees following to policy:refund will be issued. All no refunds registrations the provided name for are during registrations. transferable NOT They are other guests. unregistered to 3. NBBC PROCTOR AGREEMENT 8 The Shelby Kennedy Foundation, through National Bible Bee (NBB), places high value on integrity. One way that NBB encourages integrity locally is to require the presence of a proctor during the administration of the NBBC Preliminary Round (Multiple Choice Test AND Oral Recitation) for each contestant. Please read the following requirements and responsibilities carefully.

I. Eligibility Requirements 1. Be at least 18 years of age 2. Must NOT be another contestant or participant in the current season

NBBC Rulebook • Proctor Agreement 3. Have a valid Driver License or State Issued ID 4. Be a host, parent/guardian, church leader (deacon, pastor, elder or teacher), or an adult authorized by parent/guardian 5. Assist contestant with the pre-test questions if necessary 6. By October 5, proctor will need to provide their first and last name, phone number, and Driver’s License or ID, by submitting form sent in invitation email. 7. By providing the above information, the proctor agrees to uphold: a. The NBBC Proctor Agreement b. The NBBC Rulebook

II. Multiple Choice Test Responsibilities The proctor agrees to be present within the designated contestant household or computer lab for the duration of the test. This includes, but is not limited to: 1. Being present in the testing room for the duration of the test(s) taken in a home or lab, and supervising the participants as they take the test 2. Overseeing the pre-test registration of contestants 3. Oversee no more than 10 students at one time 4. Following the NBBC Rulebook 5. Ensuring that, if a household contains more than one contestant, contestants who have completed the test do not have access to contestants who have not completed the test 6. Ensuring contestants of same division take the test at the same time 7. Acting as the liaison between the participant family and NBB on test day, including contacting NBB with any technical or other questions that arise 8. Maintaining the security of the test at all times

Proctors may NOT provide any assistance (this includes pronouncing words and giving definitions) during the test. This disqualifies the contestant. III. Oral Recitation Responsibilities

9 • Proctor Agreement • NBBC Rulebook The proctor agrees to be present within the designated contestant household for the duration of the oral recitation(s). This includes, but is not limited to: 1. Being present in the testing room for the duration of the recitation(s) taken in a home, and remaining behind the participants as they recite 2. Following the NBBC Recitation Rules 3. Ensuring that, if a household contains more than one contestant: a. Only the contestant currently reciting is in the testing room b. Other contestants are where they cannot hear the contestant reciting c. Once a contestant is done reciting, they do not communicate with other contestants until all have recited. 4. Acting as the liaison between the participant family and NBB on recitation day, including contacting NBB with any technical or other questions that arise 5. Maintaining the security of the recitation at all times 6. Recording a backup audio using their phone or other device and sending it to NBB once all contestants have recited a. By uploading and sending the backup audio file(s) to NBB, the family, proctor and contestant is releasing ownership of the file to NBB. This file may NEVER be shared with other contestants, families, or online. This disqualifies the contestant. For questions or concerns, please email [email protected] 7. Agreeing to not interact with judges and/or contestant while s/he is reciting a. For technical difficulties during the recitation, do not interrupt the contestant during a recitation. If the issue must be addressed, do so immediately upon completion of the recitation.

IV. Before Day of the Oral Recitation 1. Have the most current version of Zoom installed on device a. https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362033-Getting-Started-on- Windows-and-Mac 2. Be familiar with Zoom minimum requirements for device system and internet bandwidth a. https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/204003179-System-Require- ments-for-Zoom-Rooms 3. Check email for Zoom meeting link on October 14 by 12:00 pm V. Day of the Oral Recitation

10 1. Login to scheduled meeting no more than 15 minutes earlier. Contestant’s oral recitation will begin once judge joins the meeting. 2. Proctor will start audio recording on a separate device and show it to the judge who will visually confirm that a separate recording is happening. a. Only one recording per family. Recording should contain all contestants’ recitations. 3. Judge will call the first contestant, and proctor will allow s/he into the room. 4. Proctor will stand behind the contestant on camera at all times. 5. Once the contestant is finished reciting, proctor will allow s/he out of the room NBBC Rulebook • Proctor Agreement • NBBC Rulebook • Proctor Agreement and call the next contestant. 6. At the end of all recitations in the family, the judge will provide a link for the proctor to upload the backup file. The proctor will have three hours to upload. For any issues, please email [email protected]. NATIONAL BIBLE BEE COMPETITION 2020

The top 120 scores in each division from the NBBC Qualifying Test

11 NBBC Rulebook ONLINE MULTIPLE CHOICE TEST OCTOBER 12 Contestants will take the test at home. A proctor will be required.

10:00 am - 11:00 am CST - Senior 12:00 pm - 01:15 pm CST - Junior 02:00 pm - 03:30 pm CST - Primary

TOP 33% FROM EACH DIVISION WILL ADVANCE TO ONLINE ORAL RECITATIONS.

NBB will contact families, by October 14 at 12:00 pm CST, with their scheduled time and link to login for their recitations.

ONLINE ORAL RECITATION OCTOBER 15

PRELIMINARY ROUND PRELIMINARY - Online Oral Recitations will happen by family, not division. - Contestants will recite 12 passages in 8 minutes. - A proctor will be required in the room. - NBB will record the online recitation. - Proctor will assist in recording a backup ﬁle, using a phone or audio recorder.

TOP 15 FROM EACH DIVISION WILL ADVANCE AND BE INVITED TO SEMI-FINALS. Family groups can have up to a total of 5 attendees (including contestants).

SEMI-FINAL AND FINAL CHALLENGE ROUNDS NOVEMBER 15-17 IN SAN ANTONIO, TX

SEMIFINAL CHALLENGE ROUND NOVEMBER 16 Semi-ﬁnals will consist of four segments: 1 - Oral Recitation (scored) 2 - Oral Recitation (sudden elimination) 3 - Multiple-Choice Questions 4 - Oral Recitation (sudden elimination)

THE TOP 5 FROM EACH DIVISION WILL ADVANCE TO THE FINAL CHALLENGE ROUND.

FINAL CHALLENGE ROUND NOVEMBER 17 Finals will consist of ﬁve segments: 1 - Oral Recitation (scored) 2 - Questions (multiple-choice / short answer) 3 - Buzzer Recitation 4 - Buzzer Questions (multiple-choice / short answer) 5 - Oral Recitation

THE CUMULATIVE POINTS OF EACH CONTESTANT WILL DETERMINE FINAL PLACEMENTS. PRELIMINARY ROUND

12 I. Format Overview Each contestant will compete in a Preliminary Round based on their age division (Primary 7-10, Junior 11-14, Senior 15-18). The Preliminary Rounds consist of two distinct components, completed online: 1. Multiple-Choice Test - Monday, October 12 a. Senior Division: 10 am - 11 am CST b. Junior Divison: 12 pm - 1:15 pm CST c. Primary Division: 2 pm - 3:30 pm CST

NBBC Rulebook • Preliminary Round • NBBC Rulebook • Preliminary Round 2. Oral Recitation - Thursday, October 15

II. Proctor Requirement The Shelby Kennedy Foundation, through National Bible Bee (NBB), places high value on integrity. One way that NBB encourages integrity locally is to require the presence of a proctor during the administration of the NBBC Preliminary Round for each contestant. A parent may be a proctor for their child/children or they may secure an eligible proctor. See Proctor Agreement and Eligibility Requirements on page 9.

III. Computer and Internet Requirements • The test must be taken on a desktop computer or laptop with a camera, a solid internet connection and ability to access testing software. • To avoid the battery dying on computer/laptop, it is recommended to be plugged into a power source. • If technical issues arise, contact NBB at [email protected]. MULTIPLE-CHOICE TEST I. Test Security 1. Testing software may be required to be installed testing software 2. Camera and screen sharing may be required while taking the test 3. Only the test taker(s) and proctor may be in the room during the test. No one else should be in the testing area. 4. No PDF cards, Bibles, websites or any study materials other than testing software may be used during the test. 5. Content, questions and answers of test are confidential and may not be shared or discussed until Semi-Finalists have been announced. 6. Questions cannot be read aloud to the student, either by person or app. 13 • Preliminary Round • NBBC Rulebook

Limit Time 40 min 50 min 60 min

600 600 600 Possible Total Points Total

4 4 4 Question Points per

150 150 150 Questions Numbers of Junior Senior Contestants will NOT be able to login before orContestants after time and the window login date before be able to will NOT NO specified12. on page EXCEPTIONS. Multiple testers the in samedivision family and separate use will need to must and computers start the at same time. Please later. write to paper down pen and test to of return questiona sheet to #’s do write not down questions or answers. Primary Summer Study and NBBC and Study memorySummer passages NBBC Study date) passage release Calendar (see for Summer Study Memory Passage Cards NBBC Memory Passage 2 AND 1 of Cards 2) (Release 2 of the from NBBC words Study passage Hebrew/Greek Key the from NBBC Study passage NBBC and themes references cross and Key memory passages ContentMulitple-Choice Test Division

2. The 3. test participants allow will not the computer. leave and pause to own timer. a separate have no need is to There The test4. a built-in has timer. Participants5. They have may will be skip able questions to them to and later. return II. Multiple-Choice Test Format II. Format Multiple-Choice Test a timed contestantEach will multiple-choice take test. The test will be administered withonline a proctor Proctor on (see page 8): Agreement 1. IV. Advancement IV. the age each division in 33% oral on to The recitation will top move scores component theof Preliminary Contestants Round. will be assigned a time window on October 15 to recite. Appeals for the Multiple-ChoiceV. Test contestants will Test, scheduled Multiple-Choice division’s each theAt of completion questions opportunity an have test by filling for formalappeal file a immediately to the in out form testing online an All be appeals room. submitted required to are appeals do or late test. finishingthrough of within the the form 15 minutes Verbal qualifynot consideration. for 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Biblical, historical, cultural, and geographical context NBBC of Study passage and III. III. 14 NBBC Rulebook • Preliminary Round • 8. 5. 3. 2. 1. Round Criteria Recitation Oral Judging Preliminary II. 7. 6. 4. 3. 6. 5. 4. 2. 1. Recitation Oral I. Format

Scoring:

judges. may by not the b. dismissed leave room until the Contestant

c. b. a. Cards. Passage Memory NBBC and Study from Summer have will Each contestant passages 8minutes to recite 12 memory [email protected] to emailed be can comments or immediate or concerns, feedback, General may are video. or Phones not take Proctor requiredc. pictures to completely be are required to completely be electronics or tablets phones, a. Contestant them. materials are not allowed with to any study bring Contestants food rooms. water or No recitation allowed oral in the to restroom. use the have will an opportunity area, contestants waiting in the While b. Please Note: any materials contest Discussing before are released results may contestant, room, the behind recitation is required oral a. Proctor in the to stay rooms to recitation to oral recite. in oneat atime called the be will Contestants read be will to each contestant. instructions Before starts, recitations judge may ask if a prompt is needed if the contestant pauses for pauses contestant may toojudge ask the aprompt long. if if is needed for pausing. contestant The deducted There points are or lapse errors time no Scores audited and released be will at alater time. Singing is permitted. and/or families. contestants scoring not scores, or will discuss Judges with are recorded. recitations Contestant b. No contestant will be allowed in the oral recitation rooms at any time other rooms other at recitation any time allowed oral be b. will in the contestant No specifed time, atmore no minutes the 15 login earlier. than must a. Contestant time block and to of to division, aspecific recite. room by link family, recitation not oral to virtual assigned be will Contestants 9). page on Requirements (referProctor Eligibility and Agreement to Proctor recite will before score (1 2judges judge, judge)Contestants 1contestant and a silenced and put away unless being used forsilenced used being away audio recording. unless and put silenced away to given or and put parent. result immediate in disqualification. recitations. have completed oral their all contestants until than their specified time to recite. specified their than Each error will result in a deduction of 5points Each error result will in a deduction 25 points is worth Each 12 of the passages points is 300 score recitation possible oral the on Highest ORAL RECITATIONORAL 15 • Preliminary Round • NBBC Rulebook

If a contestant cannot remember the If a contestant remember next cannot during part any word a of When given a prompt, contestants continue and the given repeat word(s) may or juston, begin reciting that the point from of passage without repeating the prompted word(s). the at theIf beginning a contestant a prompt of passage, asks before for the judge the will treat request if as the saying the reference, Scripture deduction). (no thecontestant Scripture the reference “repeat judge asked to The the judge will say contestant, to state the reference Scripture “please a prompt”. asking for before the a passage, at theIf of end a contestant judge a prompt asks will give for the contestant, tell and the as prompt “you have the reference Scripture entire passages. Start-overs on completed allowed not are the passage”. completed the as prompt. the This will let contestant will give the reference Scripture on theknow they wrong passage. are The contestant can either pass or ask a start-over. Pointsfor will be deducted the prompt. for recognize the being words said. recognize PROMPTS: The judge will or “help”. verbally request may passage, a “prompt” or she he for (the prompt nextgive a one word the in If a contestant a passage). asks word for the the judge will first repeat after immediately requesting“prompt” a “prompt”, given then and giveprompt the an next as willbe counted prompt prompt. Each error with points deducted. Scenarios include: a. b. c. Ifd. a contestant reciting is the wrong passage a prompt, the for judge ask and Contestants prior beginning to the the ask may a Scripture reference repeat judge to recitation without but the penalty, time repetition spent in included the is in time limit. The time period recitation begins for the as contestant judge says the last number theof firstreference. Scripture clearly be recited slowly and the to enough judges for Passages to required are permitted. is Singing words. the If the contestant’s discern contestant speaks too rapidly or indistinctly, the judges the ask may contestant the repeat passage. to repeatsSuch extend will not the time limit nor do they constitute a “start-over”. as long as the as judges no penalty words is can of There mispronunciation for Contestants earn points Bible each passage for recitation. The Bible on lowest any passage possible score recitation 0. is the passage requested recite) the not by judge, (and If a contestant “Pass” asks to any to 0 will that be passage. return of given The for contestant not may a score passages“passed” later. incorrect an If a contestant recites passage rather than the one requested the by 0 will that be passage. of given for a score judge,

15. 12. 13. 14. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 16 NBBC Rulebook • Preliminary Round • 18. 17. 16. a. START-OVERS: thattheypassage. earned for and points the receivepassage the finish allowed be ends will to time allotted the words when 10 of apassage last the have who reached for Contestants given passage. be that will 0points passage, words before 10 of out runs has a reachedlast contestant time the the the If c. b. a. deducted: Each result following of errors the in points g. f. e. d. i. h. j. e. A contestant is allowed 4 prompts per passage. If a contestant ask for acontestant If e. passage. a5th per is allowed Acontestant 4prompts

ii. i. instances: following the include Start-overs Using the plural rather than the singular form of word, a versa vice the or than rather plural Using the tense verb wrong Using the i. for verbal sounds such as “Um” “Ah”. or There are deductions no word over are there deductions. no correct the starts word, and pauses, correct the is an error. starts However contestant the if word, this correct the word says and then an incorrect starts contestant the If wordsTransposing consecutive two aword(s) Omitting word(s) a Substituting word(s) additional an Inserting Omitting the Scripture reference Scripture the before passage the Omitting ii. in the recitation of the reference of the recitation counted the in deduction. be one as will Scripture references how many, matter no errors, are Any treated as oneunit. reference Scripture the passage the after Omitting asking) or pass?asking) or for would you like apromptprompts, (no to deduction continuewithout on “You tell will contestant, judge the the prompt, have your used allowed 4

the passage as it is completed after the start over. start is completed as it the after passage the of recitation the grade judge(s) instance, only this for the In will astart-over. hison accord her or own before asks and verbally passage, completing the stops errors, no with passage to begins recite contestant The correct the start-over. the after is completed as it passage of the recitation the grade judge(s) only the will instance, this In passage. correct recites the then contestant The start-over. accordown before for asks a and verbally passage, completing the tohis on her or begins stops recite passage, contestant The an incorrect Error Example: Error “Faithfu….Righteousness”. “Right….ah.. Righteousness”. Example: Non-error Word is Righteousness. Contestant says says Word Contestant Righteousness. is Word is Righteousness. Contestant says says Word Contestant Righteousness. is

17 • Preliminary Round • NBBC Rulebook -

If a contestant attempts start-over, a second 0 points will givenfor The contestant begins to recite the correctThe contestant recite begins to passage with errors and/or the completing passage, before prompts, stops own or her accord on his and verbally asks a start-over. for In this instance, the judges will not deduct points errors the from for portion the the of recitation before pointsstart-over. deducted However, prompts for will remain. passage. that ence and begin reciting. They do not have to wait for the give wait the judge for to to begin and reciting. have ence They do not again. reference the at the reference Scripture repeat to The contestant required is points in result do so would to a start-over.beginning of Failure deducted “Omitting for the Scripture reference.” The contestant may ask for a start-over for The contestant ask may state immediately and the refer

iii. ii. iii. One start-over to per will passage. be The allowed contestant required is verbally a start-over. for ask i. a contestant starts once complete A passage considered is the ending No start-over reference. scripture will be allowed. b. c. Timed. clock does start not over. 18 NBBC Rulebook • Preliminary Round • III. Judging Process Judging III. Cannotintroducenewerrors • Reviews anynew • Listenstotherecorded • Canintroducenewerrors • Confirmsoroverrulesthe • Listenstotherecorded • C the 1stReview Judge errors introducedby recitation Live ScoreJudge recitation O JUDGE N LIVE T E S TANT REVIEW REVIEW JUDGE JUDGE 2 CONTESTANTS WILLRECITEBEFORE2JUDGES ANDANAUDIENCE 1 ST ND • Givespassages • Givesrulesandinstruction • Records recitation • Timekeeper PRELIMINARY ROUND THE RESULT OFTHE JUDGING PROCESS ORAL RECITATION of 3times,2ndReview Judgewillruleinfavorofthecontestant. If theerrorcannotbeconfirmedoroverruledafteraplayback Judge, nopointsarededucted. 2nd Review Judgeoverrulesthe errorfoundbythe1stReview Judge, pointsaredeductedforcontestant. 2nd Review Judgeconfirmsthe errorfoundbythe1stReview Judge mustgetarulingfrom2ndReview Judge Score JudgeandNOT infavorofthecontestant,1stReview The 1stReview Judgefindsan errornotmarked bytheLive times, 1stReview Judgewillrule infavorofthecontestant. If theerrorcannotbeconfirmedoroverruledafteraplaybackof3 the score, andgivepointsbacktothecontestant. Score Judgeinfavorofthecontestant,willoverrule 1st Review Judgedisagreeswith amarked erroroftheLive 1st Review Judgeconfirmsthe rulingoftheScoringJudge REVIEW PROCESS IS FINAL. SCORING JUDGE LIVE COMPLETE PROCESS IS or or or or or • Marks errorsonscoresheet • Listenstoliverecitation . . 19 • Preliminary Round • NBBC Rulebook NBBC memory passages context and cross-references NBBC memory passages and comprehension content NBBC Scripture Bible passage context and cross-references NBBC Scripture Bible passage and comprehension content NBBC Scripture Bible passage Greek/Hebrew words

Contestants are ranked from highest to lowest by combined Multiple-Choice Test Test Contestants highest from lowest Multiple-Choice combined ranked to by are Oraland Recitation score. Judgecontestants confirms of Review Recitationtop the 15 the Oral the scores theusing Preliminary Oral Recitation Judging Process. Starting with the 16th contestant, ranked if adding 300 points perfect (a recitation them that 15, the in place would top their Multiple-Choice to score score) Test will be oral reviewed. recitation score contestant’s Preliminary Oral Recitation score score overall Test Preliminary Multiple-Choice category by Test Preliminary Multiple-Choice a. b. c. d. e.

2. 3. VI. Tie-Breaker Rules the NBBIn the a tie, semi- case determine will of the use (in to order) following finalist(s): 1. 2. 3. IV. Advancement IV. the from PreliminaryThe scores Multiple-Choice the and Preliminary Oral Test the determine Recitation combined 15 to Semi-Finalist are Round contestants. At advancement, and contestants Participation and fill sign out to a W-2 required are and Money Allocation (PPMEA)Prize social the CONTESTANT’s These require form. forms security number. of Semi-Finalists Verification V. 1. In the unlikely event that both event theIn or the all involved contestants unlikely still are tied after the entry tie-breakersabove will determine toss be been used to exhausted, a coin have theinto Semi-Finals. SEMI-FINAL CHALLENGE ROUND

20 I. Format 1. The top 15 contestants advance from the Preliminary Rounds to compete in the Semi-Final Challenge Round. 2. Semi-finals are held on stage in front of a large audience with television cameras and lighting. 3. Semi-finals will consist of four segments: a. Oral Recitation b. Oral Recitation c. Multiple-Choice Questions d. Oral Recitation 4. Each contestant is asked to recite a memory passage from the Summer Study and/ NBBC Rulebook • Semi-Final Challenge Round • NBBC Rulebook • Semi-Final Challenge Round or NBBC in the oral recitation rounds. 5. Every recitation is recorded. 6. Scored as per Semi-Final Challenge Round Rules. 7. Five contestants from each division move on to the Final Challenge Round.

II. Semi-Final Challenge Round Oral Recitation Judging Criteria 1. In order to avoid elimination, contestants are required to begin reciting within 20 seconds after the Moderator completes the Scripture reference. Additional requests for the Scripture reference do not extend the 20-second limit. 2. The following are considered errors in oral recitations: a. A pause of 10 seconds or longer during the recitation b. Using the wrong verb tense c. Using the plural rather than the singular form of a word, or vice versa d. Inserting an additional word(s) e. Substituting a word(s) f. Omitting a word(s) g. Transposing two consecutive words h. Incorrect unfinished words. However there are no deductions for verbal sounds such as “Um” or “Ah”. i. Error Example: Word is Righteousness. Contestant says “Faithfu….Righteousness”. ii. Non-error Example: Word is Righteousness. Contestant says “Right…..ah..Righteousness”. i. Omitting the Scripture reference before the passage j. Omitting the Scripture reference after the passage k. Scripture references are treated as one unit. Any errors, no matter how many, in the recitation of the reference will be counted as one deduction. 21 • Semi-Final Challenge Round • NBBC Rulebook : Seven contestants contestants Seven : contestants Segment 2 to move contestants spotseliminated secured Semi- are the in Round. Challenge Final complete. is Round Challenge Final spots (i.e. fivespotscontestants available spotsnon-eliminatedbutsix are (i.e. remain), contestants Segment to move 3. i. Non-eliminated contestant(s) are secured a spot in the final rounds Non-eliminated the in i. a spot final secured are contestant(s) contestants Eliminated ii. Segment onto move 2 b. If the two lowest scores eliminate more than Ifthe 10 more contestants:b. two eliminate lowest scores Prompts or start-overs permitted. not are If the contestant passes, eliminated. they are a contestant long as judges as can eliminate will not words of Mispronunciation the being words said. recognize permitted not is Singing the in Semi-Final Round. Challenge and/or NBBC. A perfecta. oral recitation a perfect in will result 1000 of score a deduction in will result error Each b. 100 of points zero is c. Lowest possible score than two more in contestants Example being eliminated. 1000receive points, three contestants three contestants 900, 800 receive receive twoand The three contestants contestants 700. 800 receiving two and receive the as twocontestants eliminated are lowest 700 receiving scores. and/or NBBC. recitation the eliminates contestant. a. Ifa. the less two than 10 eliminate contestants, lowest scores non-eliminated c. If the exactly two eliminate lowest 10 scores contestants, the five non- a. If the number contestants of than is more the remaining number available of 3. 4. 5. 6. per the oral recitation Each Semi-Final scored is rules. Round Challenge 7. III. Semi-Final Elimination Challenge Round Process Segment Oral Recitation 1: a memory recite to contestant1. Each will be passage asked the Study from Summer the using recitation Semi-Final Each will be scored 2. Oral Recitation Judging Criteria. ties, Due to the can The result 3. two lowest eliminated. scores are lowest scores 4. If all contestants receive the same score, there are no eliminations. are there contestants If all 4. the same score, receive A perfect5. be cannot eliminated. oral recitation score - Sudden OralSegment Recitation Elimination 2: a memory recite to contestant1. Each will be passage asked the Study from Summer Any (listed error 2. the in Semi-Final Oral Recitation during the Judging Criteria) 3. After elimination: 22 NBBC Rulebook • Semi-Final Challenge Round • 8. NBBC judges reserve the right to remove a question during the competition. If a a If competition. the to during right remove the aquestion reserve judges NBBC 8. 7. elimination: After scores are lowest 3are from asked, Segment all two questions the 6. After value. point in vary will 5. Questions for question. unanswered an given be will 4. Zero points time. same at the question asked is same the contestant Every 3. the finishes Moderator have the will seconds to 10 after answer 2. Contestants choice. multiple be will questions All 1. Questions 3:Segment Multiple-Choice score recitation oral eliminated. cannot be 4. Aperfect c. If the number of contestants remaining is equal to the number of available of available remaining number to isequal the of contestants number the If c. b. If the number of contestants remaining is less than the number of available of available number the than remaining isless of contestants number b. the If of available number remaining the ismore than of contestants number the If a. c. If the number of contestants remaining is equal to the number of available of available remaining number to isequal the of contestants number the If c. b. If the number of contestants remaining is less than the number of available of available number the than remaining isless of contestants number b. the If question is removed, no points will be awarded. The question will not be replaced. not be will question The awarded. be will removed, is points no question 700 are eliminated as the two lowest scores.700 lowest are eliminated two as the receiving contestants receive and two receiving 800 700. contestants three The contestants receive and two receive 800 900, contestants three contestants eliminated. Example being scores contestants eliminated. lowest result can the to in more Due two ties, than question. ii. Eliminated contestants move onto Segment 4 move onto Segment ii. Eliminated contestants contestant(s) are secured Final Challenge aspoti. Round in the Non-eliminated ii. Eliminated contestants move onto Segment 3 move onto Segment ii. Eliminated contestants contestant(s) are secured final aspoti. in the Non-eliminated rounds Challenge Round is complete. Round. Challenge Semi-Final Final the in are spots secured contestants those remain), then contestants three (i.e. and available Therespots are spots three spots (i.e. five spots are available but four contestants (i.e.remain): are but spots available four spots five contestants move to 4 Segment contestants remain), (i.e. are six but non-eliminated spots available contestants spots five Challenge Round is complete. Round. Challenge Semi-Final Final the in are spots secured contestants those remain), then contestants three (i.e. and available Therespots are spots three spots (i.e. five spots are available but four contestants (i.e.remain): are but spots available four spots five contestants : Seven contestants receive 1000 points, three three points, receive 1000 : Seven contestants 23 • Semi-Final Challenge Round • NBBC Rulebook NBBC memory passages context and cross-references NBBC memory passages and comprehension content NBBC Scripture Bible passage context and cross-references NBBC Scripture Bible passage and comprehension content NBBC Scripture Bible passage Greek/Hebrew words spots, rules tie will the be breaker finalist(s). determine used remaining to Semi-Final complete. is Round Challenge spots, tie-breaker rules will the be finalist(s). determine used remaining to Semi-Final complete. is Round Challenge spots, then those contestants spots secured are the in Round. Challenge Final Semi-Final complete. is Round Challenge

and/or NBBC. recitation the eliminates contestant. Combined Preliminary Multiple-Choice Test and Oral and Recitation score Test Combined Preliminary Multiple-Choice Preliminary Oral Recitation score score overall Test Preliminary Multiple-Choice category: by Test Preliminary Multiple-Choice a. b. c. d. e. a. If the number contestants of than is more the remaining number available of If theb. number contestants of is less remaining than the number available of c. If the number contestants of the is equal to number remaining available of Segment 4: Oral Recitation - Sudden OralSegment Recitation Elimination 4: a memory recite to contestant1. Each will be passage asked the Study from Summer Any (listed error 2. the in Semi-Final Oral Recitation during the Judging Criteria) 3. After elimination: 5. 6. 7. IV. Tie-Breaker Rules IV. NBB 4, will a tie the use In Round to (in casethe of at order of following completion entrydetermine the into Final Challenge Round. Segment of Segment 1 and 3 1. score The combined Segment of 1 The score 2. 3. The number questions of answered correctly Segment of 3 4. In the unlikely event that both event theIn or the all involved contestants unlikely still are tied after the entry tie-breakersabove will determine toss be been used to exhausted, a coin have Final Challengeinto Round. FINAL CHALLENGE ROUND 24 I. Format 1. The top 5 contestants advance from the Semi-Final Challenge Round to compete in the Final Challenge Round to determine 1st through 5th place winners. 2. Finals are held on stage in front of a large audience with television cameras and lighting. 3. Every recitation is recorded. 4. Scored as per Final Challenge Round Rules. 5. Finals will consist of five segments: a. Oral Recitation b. Questions (mulitple choice/short answer)

NBBC Rulebook • Final Challenge Round c. Buzzer Recitation d. Buzzer Questions (multiple choice/short answer) e. Oral Recitation 6. The cumulative points of each contestant determine final placements.

II. Final Challenge Round Oral Recitation Judging Criteria 1. Contestants are required to begin to recite within 20 seconds after the Moderator completes the Scripture reference request. Failure to do so will result in a score of 0 for that passage. Additional requests for the Scripture reference do not extend the 20-second limit. 2. The following are considered errors in oral recitations: a. Using the wrong verb tense b. Using the plural rather than the singular form of a word, or vice versa c. Inserting an additional word(s) d. Substituting a word(s) e. Omitting a word(s) f. Transposing two consecutive words g. Incorrect unfinished words. However there are no deductions for verbal sounds such as “Um” or “Ah”. i. Error Example: Word is Righteousness. Contestant says “Faithfu….Righteousness”. ii. Non-error Example: Word is Righteousness. Contestant says “Right…..ah..Righteousness”. h. Omitting the Scripture reference before the passage i. Omitting the Scripture reference after the passage j. Scripture references are treated as one unit. Any errors, no matter how many, in the recitation of the reference will be counted as one deduction. 3. Prompts or start-overs are not permitted. If a contestant starts a recitation a second time, all repeated words will be counted as errors. 4. If the contestant chooses to pass and not recite a passage, the lowest possible 25 • Final Challenge Round • NBBC Rulebook score for that round will be given for that passage. 5. If a contestant recites an incorrect passage rather than the one requested, the lowest possible score for that round will be given for that passage. 6. If a contestant pauses for 10 seconds or longer during a recitation, the lowest possible score for that round will be given for that passage. 7. Mispronunciation of words will not eliminate a contestant as long as judges can recognize the words being said. 8. Singing is not permitted in the Final Challenge Round. 9. Each Oral Recitation is scored per the round rules.

III. Final Challenge Segments Segment 1: Oral Recitation 1. Each contestant will be asked to recite a memory passage from the Summer Study and/or NBBC. 2. Each recitation will be scored using the Oral Recitation Judging Criteria. a. Each recitation is worth 1000 points. b. Each error will result in a 100 point deduction. c. Lowest possible score is Zero (0)

Segment 2: Questions 1. Contestants have 15 seconds to answer after the Moderator finishes the question. 2. Every contestant is asked the same question at the same time. Contestants respond on a provided tablet device at the podium 3. Zero points will be given for an unanswered question. 4. Questions will vary in level of difficulty and point value. 5. NBBC Judges reserves the right to remove a question during the competition. If a question is removed, no points will be awarded. A new question may or may not be put into play.

Segment 3: Buzzer Recitations 1. Moderators will ask a question in which the answer will be in the form of a Scripture reference from the Summer Study and/or NBBC Memory Passage Cards. 2. The contestant who buzzes in first will have 5 seconds to give the Scripture reference. 3. If contestant gives the correct passage reference, the moderator will ask them to recite the passage. At that point, the contestant has 10 seconds to begin reciting. 4. Scoring: a. Each passage is worth 500 points. 26 NBBC Rulebook • Final Challenge Round • for theplaces involved willbesplit. Rules todetermineplacement. Intheunlikely event thatatieremains,prizemoney Preliminary Rounds. Ifthetieremains,NBBwillfollowPreliminary Tie-Breaker 1, 2and5.Intheeventthatthese arealsotied,thetieisbroken byrankorderfrom Ties for1st-5th placearebroken bycumulativescoresof FinalChallengeRounds V. Rules Tie-Breaker places are scores.determined cumulative the by contestants’ fifth through First IV. Placement 2. 1. 5: Recitation Segment Oral a If competition. the to during right remove the aquestion reserve Judges 4. NBBC 5. 3. 2. 1. 4:Segment Buzzer Questions

c. c. b. points. 1500 is worth a. Each passage Criteria. Judging scored Recitation be will Each Oral recitation using the NBBC. and/or Summer from Study the asked passage be will Each contestant to recite amemory into put play.be may may or not awarded. be will Anew question is removed, points no question b. answered or is incorrectly, given answer no for value If half point of that the for questions. that receive will answereda. contestant correctly, points If the the will have buzzes 5seconds who the answer. contestant The to in first value. point and and in level of difficulty vary will Questions answer. have will to buzz in to contestants the in which ask will aquestion Moderators apply. rules Recitation Round Challenge Oral Final other All c. b. Lowest possible score is negative 1000 (-1000) score possible Lowest 1000 is negative Each error result will in a250 deduction. point question will be deducted from the contestants score. contestants from the deducted be will question i. score:cumulative contestant’s from the followingThe result deduction will point in a500 contestant’s from the score. cumulative deducted of points 500 amaximum with Each error result will in a250 deduction point iv. iii. ii.

within the 10 seconds allotted seconds 10 the within passage the reciting has not contestant started The is unable to contestant The recite passage the allotted seconds 5 the within passage is unable correct to contestant The the give reference passage incorrect gives contestant The

27 • Final Challenge Round • NBBC Rulebook 3 5 2 4 1 VALIDATION JUDGES VALIDATION 3 communication with the other Validation Judges. communication with the other Validation Live Judges. Live Judges. conﬁrm Judges must be able to clearly identify and by the Live Judges. the error(s) marked to be able to identify the error (can play in slow motion). determine if an error was made after playback of no more than 3 times, they must rule in favor of the contestant. 3 Validation Judges will listen to recorded recitation 3 Validation • their own score sheet and not be in Will have • know what error was caught by the Will not • by introduce any new error not marked May not • 2 or more Validation for error to be marked, In order • Will have the opportunity to playback the recording • Judge cannot In the event that a Validation LIVE JUDGES 2 1 reviewed IS FINAL. IS FINAL. PROCESS PROCESS Live Judge score sheets to determine to Validation. THE JUDGING THE JUDGING THE RESULT OF THE RESULT THE RESULT OF THE RESULT Validation Judge Validation if recitation goes JUDGING PROCESS JUDGING Will have their own score sheet and not be in communication with the other Live Judges. Will have their own score sheet and not be in an error within the same vicinity. marked and the contestant will automatically receive a perfect score. not go to Validation score sheets reviewed and ruling will be made. ive Judges will listen live and score 5 Live Judges will listen • May not eliminate a contestant. • • 2 Live Judges must have a minimum of for a recitation to go to Validation, In order • the recitation will 2 Live Judges do not mark an error within the same vicinity, If at least SEMI-FINAL AND FINAL SEMI-FINAL 28 DISQUALIFICATION 1. NBB may disqualify, prior to or at any point during the NBBC, any contestants not in compliance with the eligibility requirements or other requirements outlined in the National Bible Bee Competition Rulebook.

NBBC Rulebook • 2. Contestants and parents/legal guardians are expected to treat each other, volunteers, hosts and NBB staff with honor and courtesy. Appropriate communication between these parties is a standing expectation. Inappropriate communication is not permitted; including, but not limited to, obscene language, immoral innuendos, disrespectful or diminishing remarks, and/or speaking about the NBB or the NBB staff or any NBB Parents/Hosts/Contestants in a diminishing or disrespectful manner. Such inappropriate communication on the part of any participant or parent/legal guardian will be grounds for participant disqualification from participation in any part of NBB. This rule applies to all forms of communication including, but not limited to, personal contact, written correspondence, e-mail and social media. 3. Cheating at any level of NBB will be grounds for disqualification. If a participant is suspected of or is observed to be cheating during the Multiple-Choice Test and/ or at any point during the competition, NBB staff will investigate the incident and have discretion to make a determination and disqualify the contestant if warranted. 4. Participants who arrive after the formal closing of registration at the NBBC will be disqualified from further participation in NBBC. CONTESTANT TERMS & CONDITIONS

29 NBBC Rulebook TERM: This Agreement commences on the date the responsible person indicates acceptance during the online registration process of this Competition Rulebook, including these Terms and Conditions, and expires on December 31st of the Competition year. A new agreement must be executed for future contests.

LIABILITY AND INDEMNITY: It is understood that the Host and/or Local Event Team is solely responsible for organizing and operating local events. By participating in the NBBC, Contestants and their parents/guardians assume any and all risks associated with the activities involved including, but not limited to, risks of personal injury, property damage or loss, and death. The Contestants and their parents/guardians indemnify and hold harmless SKF, NBB, NBBC, its officers, agents, employees, and attorneys, against any and all liability, claims, suits, losses, damages, costs, and legal fees caused by, arising out of, or resulting from the NBBC and any associated events.

WINNERS: Prize winners and their parents/guardians are responsible for complying with all of the applicable tax laws and filing requirements. All Federal, State, and/or local taxes, registration, license, title and other fees, costs, and expenses related to the prize awarded at the NBBC are the sole responsibility of the winners and their parents/guardians. By claiming the prize, the winner authorizes the use, without additional compensation, of his or her name and/or likeness and/or voice/photograph and mention of municipality and state of residence for NBB’s promotion and/or advertising purposes in any manner and in any medium (including without limitation, radio broadcasts, newspapers and other publications and in television or film releases, slides, videotapes, distribution over the Internet and picture data storage) which NBB may deem appropriate.

CANCELLATION: In the event that SKF cannot complete NBB contests or competition as planned, SKF reserves the right to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend NBB events at any time without prior notice.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OF NBB: Participants, Participant families, Contestant families and Contestants agree to not make any unauthorized use or distribution of NBB’s intellectual property including, but not limited to, The National Bible Bee Competition Rulebook, the Host Guidebook, National Bible Bee Discovery Journal, National Bible Bee logo, or other materials.

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION: If a dispute arises out of, or relates to, this Agreement, or the breach thereof, and if the dispute cannot first be settled through negotiation, the parties agree to attempt in good faith to settle the dispute by mediation in San Antonio, Texas, administered by the American Arbitration Association under its Commercial Mediation Procedures before resorting to arbitration, litigation, or some other dispute resolution procedure. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the breach thereof, not resolved by mediation, shall proceed to binding arbitration in San Antonio, Texas, administered by the American Arbitration Association in accordance with its Commercial Arbitration Rules, and judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. 30 CHOICE OF LAW, JURISDICTION AND VENUE: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas. Any action brought to enforce any provision of this Agreement or for breach of warranty, express or implied, or tort shall be brought in San Antonio, Texas, in any Court of competent jurisdiction.

NBBC Rulebook ATTORNEY’S FEES AND COSTS: In the event that a dispute arises related to this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be awarded reasonable attorney fees and costs.

NO WAIVER: Any waiver of any terms or conditions of this Agreement shall not operate as a waiver of any other breach of such terms or conditions or any other term or condition, nor shall any failure to enforce any provision hereof operate as a waiver of such provision or of any other provision hereof.

AMENDMENT: This Agreement may not be amended, nor shall any waiver, change, modification, consent or discharge be affected except by an instrument in writing executed by or on behalf of the party against whom enforcement of any amendment, waiver, change, modification, consent or discharge is sought. Exception: NBB reserves the right to amend the Competition Rulebook in its sole discretion.

SEVERABILITY: If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid under the laws of any jurisdiction governing its provisions, such section shall be limited consistent with its intent so that it is valid, or if this is not possible, deleted from this Agreement and shall have no impact upon the other terms of this Agreement, which shall survive with all other provisions intact.

ASSIGNMENT: This Agreement may not be assigned without the written consent of NBB.