(ANNAPOLIS, Md. – November 13, 2015) On Tuesday, November 17, 2015, the Honorable Mary Ellen Barbera, Chief Judge of the Maryland Court of Appeals, will host a reception for students who have used their artistic talents to promote the peaceful resolution of conflicts.  The young artists will gather with their families, friends, and supporters at 4 p.m. in the Judiciary Education and Conference Center (JECC) in Annapolis to be honored as winners of the Maryland Judiciary’s Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest.  The media are invited to attend.

The popular contest, which is celebrating its 10th year, received almost 2,000 entries from Maryland children in kindergarten through the 8th grade.  The artwork will be unveiled at the reception.  Chief Judge Barbera will meet with the winners and present awards.  The best 1,000 entries will be displayed through mid-December at the Judiciary Education and Conference Center, 2011 Commerce Park Drive, Annapolis.

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

Prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place in three age groups: kindergarten-second grade; third-fifth grade; and sixth-eighth grade.  The prize for each age group is: $75 for first place; $50 for second place; and $25 for third place.  In addition to the prizes, three to five entries may be selected to be printed as bookmarks to promote conflict resolution across Maryland.

WHAT:
Conflict Resolution Day Reception to honor winners of the Student Bookmark Art Contest
Sponsored by the Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO)

WHO:
The Honorable Mary Ellen Barbera, Chief Judge of the Maryland Court of Appeals, will greet students and families, make remarks, and present awards to the winners.

WHEN:
Tuesday, November 17, 4-6 p.m.

WHERE:
Judiciary Education and Conference Center
2011 Commerce Park Drive
Annapolis, MD 21401

MEDIA CONTACT:
Call the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, 410-260-1488, to attend.  Cameras and electronic recording devices will be allowed; media is expected to obtain releases from families, as necessary, for use/publication.

Click HERE for a list of the winners.

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