(ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Sept. 11, 2009) In observance of National Conflict Resolution Day on Oct. 15, the Maryland Judiciary is inviting Maryland children in kindergarten through eighth grade to submit artwork for the fourth Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest. The contest is sponsored by the Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO).

Artwork should reflect 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.

Submissions are due by Thursday, Oct. 1. Original artwork may be submitted on paper with a finished image size no larger than 3 inches by 9 inches. A template is available on MACRO’s Web site, www.mdcourts.gov/macro. Entries will be judged on creativity and the message conveyed. Entries may be mailed or delivered to MACRO, 903 Commerce Rd., Annapolis, Md., 21401. The contest is open to all children in Maryland from kindergarten through eighth grade.

Prizes will be awarded 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. 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. 14 to Nov. 13. Winning students and their families will be honored at an opening ceremony and reception at the Courts of Appeal Building at 4 p.m. on Oct. 14, 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.

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Media: For more information, please contact the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, (410) 260-1488. Images of winning entries from last year’s contest are available.