Young artists from all over Maryland and their families gathered in the lobby of the Courts of Appeal building lobby in Annapolis to meet with Chief Judge Robert M. Bell when he hosted a reception for the Maryland Judiciary’s fourth Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest on Oct. 14.

The students whose art won first, second or third place, honorable mention or special recognition were announced and recognized during the reception on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Judge Bell presented awards, shook students’ hands and posed with the honorees while parents proudly snapped photos.

Almost 400 entries were received from Maryland children in kindergarten through eighth grade. The contest was sponsored by the Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO). Artwork reflected the theme of resolving or preventing conflict, including peer mediation, talking things out, apologizing, respecting differences, solving problems together, listening, tolerance, building peace, or alternatives to violence.

Winning entries were chosen for 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. The six winning entries will be printed as bookmarks for use in promoting conflict resolution across Maryland.

All artwork entries are on display at the Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis until Nov. 13.

See list of Winners of the 2009 Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest.