(Annapolis, Md. — Sept. 15, 2008) In observance of National Conflict Resolution Day on Oct. 16, Maryland children in kindergarten through eighth grade are invited to submit artwork for the third Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest.

The contest is sponsored by the Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO). Artwork should reflect the theme of resolving or preventing conflict, such as peer mediation, talking things out, apologizing, respecting differences, solving problems together, listening, tolerance, building peace, or alternatives to violence.

Submissions are due by Friday, Oct. 3. Original artwork may be submitted using the bookmark template available on MACRO’s Web site, www.mdcourts.gov/macro, or on an 8½- by 11-inch sheet of paper, with the total image size being no larger than 3 inches by 9 inches. Entries will be judged on creativity and the message conveyed. Entries may be sent or delivered to MACRO, 903 Commerce Road, Annapolis, Md., 21401. The contest is open to all children in Maryland from kindergarten through eighth grade.

Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place in two categories: kindergarten-fifth grade; and sixth-eighth grade. The prize for first place in each category is $75, second place $50, and third place $25. In addition to the prizes, three to five entries may be selected to print as bookmarks for use in promoting conflict resolution across Maryland.

The art will be displayed at the Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis from Oct. 16 to Nov. 14. Winning students and their families will be honored at an opening ceremony and reception at the Courts of Appeal Building at 3:45 p.m. on Oct. 16, where Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals will present the awards.

For more information about the Conflict Resolution Day Student Art Contest, contact Alecia Parker at MACRO, (410) 260-3540, or alecia.parker@mdcourts.gov.

Media: For more information, please contact the Court Information Office at (410) 260-1488.

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