Essay contest offered for seventh-, eighth-graders
Three Anne Arundel County residents have agreed to serve as judges for a statewide essay contest for Maryland middle school pupils that focuses on the themes of peace and social justice.
The judges, who will select the three contest winners, are Circuit Court Judge Philip Caroom, Board of Education President Carlesa Finney and Annapolis Mayor Dean Johnson.
The contest, sponsored by Anne Arundel Peace Action and Maryland Peace Action Education Fund, is open to pupils in the seventh and eighth grades enrolled in public or private schools in Maryland.
Three cash prizes will be awarded: $300 for first place, $200 for second place, and $100 for third place.
To enter, pupils must submit an essay of up to 1,200 words on the topic: "All public high school students in Maryland are required to complete community service hours to graduate."
Entries should be typed and double-spaced, accompanied by a cover sheet including the pupil's name, address and phone number; school name, address and phone number; and the name of the teacher.
Essays and accompanying material must be postmarked no later than April 15, and mailed to Peace Essay Contest, 310 Riverview Ave., Annapolis 21403-3328. Information: 410-263-7409.
Teddy bear picnic scheduled April 6 at YWCA
A teddy bear picnic for parents and their 2- and 3-year-olds will be held at 12: 30 p.m. April 6 at the YWCA of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, 1517 Ritchie Highway, Arnold.
The preschoolers should bring favorite stuffed animals.
There is no charge, but registration is required.
Information: 410-626-7800.
Computer workstations for disabled completed
The Anne Arundel County Public Library has completed the installation in all branches of computer workstations to accommodate people who have disabilities.
The workstations are set at a height to allow wheelchair access. Larger monitors, Braille keys, and software that enlarges text on the screen have been installed.
For those with reduced or impaired motor skills, a large trackball is at the station, rather than a computer mouse.
Library staff members will be working to install a communication system for the deaf.
Information: 410-222-7371.
County seeks applicants for summer jobs at camps
The Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks Department is accepting applications for employment for its summer activity centers and day camps. Applicants must be at least age 16 by June 14.
Positions include specialists in arts and crafts, music, drama and sports; program directors; and counselors.
In addition to the activity centers at many public schools, camps are held at county parks. There are also day camps for children with special needs in Mayo and at Lake Waterford Park.
Hours for jobs at summer activity centers are 8 a.m. to 2: 30 p.m. from June 28 to Aug. 6. Day camp working hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from June 21 to Aug. 6.
Youths completing the eighth grade by June may take part in the counselor-in-training program. Those selected will serve as volunteers at an activity center or day camp.
Information: 410-222-7313 or 301-261-8036.
Junior League fund-raiser scheduled for April 8
The Junior League of Annapolis Inc. will hold its 19th Junior League Carousel rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 8 at Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds.
New and used household goods, furniture, children's clothing, baby equipment and toys in good condition are being accepted. Proceeds will benefit Junior League programs, projects and services.
Information: 410-224-8984.
Red Cross seeks volunteers to teach health, safety
The Central Maryland chapter of the Red Cross is seeking volunteers to teach health and safety.
Classes include standard first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, baby-sitting, child care and lifeguard training. Responsibilities include preparing records and reports, communicating with volunteer coordinators and promoting Red Cross programs.
Volunteers must be at least 17, hold Red Cross certification and complete an instructor course. Volunteers also must pass a skills screening and written test in first aid, CPR, baby-sitting, child care and lifeguard training.
Information: 410-764-4602 or 800-272-0094, Ext. 1.