Conflict Resolution Day 2007: List of Events

This page lists activities that will take place on or around October 18, 2007 in celebration of Conflict Resolution Day.  Events will be added as they are confirmed.

To let us know about an event, or to send an update on your event, please send an email to acr@ACRnet.org  or call 202-464-9700.

France (Paris)
Lionel Bobot, Professor and Manager of the Conflict Resolution & Negotiation Department at NEGOCIA Business School at Paris will organize a conference on Conflict Resolution for the Conflict Resolution Day Event in October 18, 2007 at the campus. Founded in 1992 by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP) NEGOCIA is one of the leading French business schools. It is comprised of several different programs, all oriented towards marketing, sales and negotiation. Every year NEGOCIA trains 1300 students in academic programs and 3000 professionals in continuing education (www.negocia.fr). Contact: Lionel Bobot [mailto:lbobot@negocia.fr]

Portugal (Lisbon)
"The Mediator and the Lawyer" on October 18, 2007; sponsored by MEDIARCOM; for practitioners from the whole EU. Contact: MEDIARCOM mailto:mediarcom@netcabo.pt

A Panel discussion on
The Fields of Mediation
At the auditorium of the Ministry of Justice - GRAL Department for Alternative Solution of Conflict
Duque de Loulé Street, 72, Lisbon

Program

2:00 pm: Opening by the Secretary of State For Justice Mr João Tiago Silveira

2:10 pm: Introducing Conflict Resolution Day and a Special Address by the Association for Conflict Resolution by Mr. Jose Vasconcelos-Sousa President of MEDIARCOM European Mediation Association

2:20 pm: Round table with Guest Speakers (Each speaker will have a maximum of 20 minutes for presenting her or his theme. The Guest Speakers prior to the event may change the theme names)

Prof. Ramon Alzate - Spain - New Challenges in the Field of Mediation
Mr. Tony Whatling - United Kingdom - Health Sector and Hospital Mediation: the UK Model
Ms Patricia Malbosc - France - Business and Corporate Mediation: The French Case.
Ms. Ursula Caser - Germany - Multiparty Mediation and the challenges of Urban Mediation
Mr. José Vasconcelos-Sousa - Portugal - table Head and Moderator

3:50 pm: Coffee break
4:10 pm: Debate with the Guest Speakers
5:40 pm: Session closing by the Director of GRAL, Mr. Filipe Lobo d'Ávila

California

Section on Conflict Resolution
Celebration of Conflict Resolution Day


FOR LITIGATORS AS WELL AS MEDIATORS
Co-Sponsored by
ABA Section of Dispute Resolution,
Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution
AAA, ACR, CDRC, SCMA,
BHBA Council of Sections and Committees,
Barristers, Entertainment Law, Litigation, and
Labor and Employment Law Sections

Guest Speaker: Justice Richard D. Aldrich
"Conflict Resolution: An Indispensable Part of Our Judicial System"

IN HONOR OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION PIONEERS
Justice Richard D. Aldrich
Louis M. Brown*
Richard Millen
Forrest (Woody) Mosten
Judge Dorothy W. Nelson
* Deceased

RECENT LEGAL DEVELOPMENTS AFFECTING CONFLICT RESOLUTION

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT THE CONFIDENTIALITY of Communications and Documents before, during and after mediation?
FIND OUT WHICH CRUCIAL CONFIDENTIALITY PROTECTIONS available in mediations are unavailable in settlement conferences.
WHICH COMMUNICATIONS ARE NEVER PROTECTED under the confidentiality statutes?
Discover answers to these questions and more during our interactive panel-audience discussion.

SPEAKERS: Justice Richard D. Aldrich
California Court of Appeal, 2nd Dist., Div.3
Wimsatt v. LASC (Kausch) (majority opinion), Simmons v. Ghaderi (wrote dissent)(Petition for Review Granted)

Peter Robinson
Managing Director, Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution
and Associate Professor, Pepperdine University School of Law

Michelle Katz
Mediator & Collaborative Attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist

DATE: Thursday, October 18, 2007
Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., Pacific
Lunch/Conflict Resolution Day Celebration: 12:00 Pacific; Program: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
PLACE: LAWRY'S, 100 North La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills Free Underground Self Parking
PRICE: $35.00 for Law Students who pay in Advance*
$60.00 for BHBA Members and Members of Co-Sponsors: ABA Section of Dispute
Resolution, AAA, ACR, CDRC, SCMA, Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution who pay in Advance*

Co-Sponsor Members must register by phone 310-601-2422.
All Others Register at http://www.bhba.org/intus/event3/signup.asp?event_id=2141
$85.00 for Non-BHBA Members who pay in Advance*
(Additional $20.00 more at door for all)

This event is FREE for members of The Order of Distinguished Attorneys
*Cancellation: Minimum 24 hours notice - Refund with 48 hours notice
- Raincheck with 24 hours notice
Program will be web cast Live and On Demand. To Order, use this link
http://westlegaledcenter.com/program_guide/course_detail.jsf?courseId=8825779&sc_cid=BHBA_WS

SECTION/PROGRAM CHAIR:
Gail Kaplan, Esq.
MCLE Credit: This activity has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of California in the amount of 1.0 hours and the Beverly Hills Bar Association certifies that this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education.

What: Conflict Resolution Day

When: 7 p.m. to 8: 30 p.m. Oct. 18

Where: Bechtel Center, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA

Cost: Free

Description: School of International Studies and the Mediation Center invite you to celebrate International Conflict Resolution Day and annual Peacemaker of the year award, this year awarded to former mayor, Joan Darrah (award accepted by Jim Darrah). Lt. Dennis Smallie will address: "The Role of the Community in Breaking the Cycle of Conflict and Violence".

For more information, call the Mediation Center at 209.474.8794 or visit http://conflictresolutionday.mediatorsrus.org

Colorado
Nelson Mandela's Grandson to Speak in Denver in Honor of International Conflict Resolution Day on October 18
Click here to download PDF flyer

Colorado Groups Invited to Participate

September 4, 2007 - Prince Cedza Dlamini, an impassioned humanitarian, social entrepreneur, visionary and grandson of South Africa's former president, Nelson Mandela, will speak in Denver about Interconnectedness and Conflict Resolution in honor of International Conflict Resolution Day on October 18 this year.

The event is being held in honor of International Conflict Resolution Day, which was designated the third Thursday in October by the Association for Conflict Resolution three years ago. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of alternatives to violence in resolving conflict.

"People choose nonviolent solutions when they know how manageable and powerful they are," said Mary Zinn, a local conflict resolution expert and organizer of Colorado's Conflict Resolution Day events. "Having a safe and sane community won't just happen by itself. We must step up, take responsibility, and create civility at all levels - in relationships and friendships, in families and organizations, in cities, states and nations. That is why we are organizing Conflict Resolution Day, to provide opportunities for people to learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully."

Colorado's Conflict Resolution Day organizers are inviting Colorado non-profits, civic organizations, congregations, schools and clubs around the state to host their own events as well. Organizers have pledged to provide speakers, presenters, and workshop leaders to all those who request it, statewide, free of charge. To plan an event and to request a speaker, individuals may go to www.cocrday.org.

"Remember Earth Day?" asked Maureen Wade-Coghlan Mediator and a fellow organizer of the Conflict Resolution Day Events. "It was phenomenally successful in raising awareness about the importance of the environment and taking care of our Earth. We planted trees; we implemented recycling programs around the country. Imagine if we could create that kind of participation in peacemaking and conflict resolution!"

Prince Cedza Dlamini will deliver his keynote address on October 18 on the Auraria campus in Denver from 1:00-2:30 at the Tivoli Student Union. He will present the South African concept of Ubuntu, a value system based on compassion, respect, integrity, and tolerance of others and provide a pragmatic means of resolving conflict on a local, national and global scale. And he will share stories of how South African Leaders such as his grandfather and Desmond Tutu drew upon these values to end Apartheid.

More events follow. From 3:00-4:30, Dr. Mary Ann Watson will provide a workshop on resolving family conflict, entitled "You Never Listen to Me!!!": Strategies for healthy problem-solving in relationships. From 5:00-5:30, the Colorado Council of Mediators will host a reception, and from 5:45 -6:15, Prince Dlamini will recap and deepen his discussion of Ubuntu and South African Conflict Resolution.

All of these events on the Auraria campus are free and open to the public.
www.cocrday.org

In observance of International Conflict Resolution Day radio programs about processing conflicts will be aired on KGNU -- 88.5 FM and 1390 AM -- are scheduled for noon to 1 PM October 15 and as a portion of the Morning Magazine at 8:30 to 9:30 AM on October 18.


Lionel Rivera, the Mayor of Colorado Springs, Colorado, recently signed their Proclamation during the Colorado State Conflict Resolution Day 2007

In the picture are (from Left):

Dr. Pat Boone, Volunteer Mediator for the Better Business Bureau and El Paso County Small Claims Court, who specializes in General Business and Real Estate Mediation; Kerri Schmitt, who specializes in Elder Care Mediation; Mayor Lionel Rivera; and Chuks Nweke, who specializes in Family Mediation.

Denver
You are invited to attend in Denver on International Conflict Resolution Day, Thursday, October 18th. In addition to the presentations, reception and networking, there is an opportunity for Alternative Dispute Resolution practitioners and organizations, and related community organizations, to display information beginning at 4:30 PM at the Tivoli Student Union on the Auraria campus.


To reserve space for displaying your information, please contact Araceli Rascsn, MPA, Community Resource Coordinator, Denver Juvenile Probation, Araceli.rascon@judicial.state.co.us, 720-913-4792, by October 10th. Space is available on a first come, first served basis. Araceli will confirm with you that you have been allocated space.

While the display tables are absolutely free, a contribution would be gratefully accepted. Funds will be used to further the outreach of International Conflict Resolution Day, celebrated annually on the third Thursday in October. More information is available at www.cocrday.org.

We are looking forward to seeing you on October 18th!

Ronnie Rosenbaum, MS
Ronnie Rosenbaum Consulting
Mediation, Facilitation and Consulting
303.278.3030 (phone)
ronnierosenbaum@gmail.com

Florida
Proclamation from Governor Crist
To see the Mediation Week Proclamation from the Governor of Florida, click here

Hernando
Event with local officials and middle school on October 18; contact Wendell Reed wreed4@earthlink.net

Sarasota and surrounding judicial circuit
Two half day diversity trainings, October 18 and 19 for Florida Supreme Court certified county, family and dependency mediators. Sponsored by Citizen Dispute Settlement Program (CDSP) and SCOPE. Contact Heather Blanton, HBlanton@jud12.flcourts.org

Tallahassee
Let's Talk About It Conference for peer mediators in Leon County schools at Florida State University on October 18. Sponsored by the FSU Mediation Committee. Contact Sharon Press, presss@flcourts.org

On Thursday, Oct. 18, the NSU Division of Student Affair’s Student Mediation Services presents Conflict Resolution Day, taking place from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. on the Flight Deck Patio in the University Center. The event promotes awareness of conflict resolution education, processes, and services available to the NSU community. Come enjoy free food and beverages, information tables, games and prizes, comical conflict performances, and help create the Resolution Quilt.

This is an opportunity for students, staff, faculty, and administrators to gain new insights and understandings concerning effective and constructive resolution of conflict. A variety of NSU programs and services will be available to meet and talk with attendees about management and resolution of disputes and disagreements occurring in personal, group, classroom, and work relationships.

Sponsors of the event include the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), SHSS Department of Conflict Analysis and Resolution, SHSS Community Resolution Services, SHSS Student Association, and NSU Student Counseling.

For more information please contact NSU Student Mediation Services at 954-262-7196 or studentmediation@nova.edu.


Georgia
Contact: Barb Riley at acrgeorgia@aol.com

October: "Tools for Life" Conflict Resolution Poster Contest- Georgia's 5th graders are invited to participate in the "Tools for Life" contest with prizes being awarded to the top three posters. This year's theme is based on the idea that everyone can learn how to use tools to manage their conflicts, which are a natural part of life.
Winners will be announced at the ACR-GA Conflict Resolution Celebration, on October 18th.

October 13, 2007: ACR-GA (in partnership with Kennesaw State University's Master of Science in Conflict Management Program) will host a "Teaching Tolerance" Peace Cafe. During this public event a "Teaching Tolerance" film will be shown, followed by an interactive, facilitated discussion about how conflict resolution strategies can be beneficial to individuals, schools and communities. The goal of this event is to increase public awareness and understanding conflict resolution.

October 14, 2007: "Teaching Tolerance" Peace Cafe

October 15, 2007: "Teaching Tolerance" Peace Cafe- presented at an Atlanta High School - ACR-GA members and Kennesaw State University Conflict Management Program students will facilitate discussions with students and teachers following the showing of a conflict resolution film.

October 16, 2007: Teaching Tolerance" Peace Cafe- presented at an Atlanta Middle School- ACR-GA members and Kennesaw State University Conflict Management Program students will facilitate discussions with students and teachers following the showing of a conflict resolution film.

October 18, 2007: Conflict Resolution Day Celebration- This public event is will be held at the Georgia Capitol and is designed to recognize the contribution conflict resolvers make to Georgia's citizens. The awards for ACR-GA's Conflict Resolution Day poster contest will be awarded during this celebration. Edward Tate, Governor Sonny Perdue's Deputy Executive Counsel will represent the Governor's office by presenting a proclamation.

October 19, 2007: "Teaching Tolerance" Peace Cafe

Peace Cafés Teach Peace and Tolerance Through Film at Georgia Schools
The Association for Conflict Resolution, Georgia (ACR-GA); the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution (GODR); and the Center for Conflict Management (CCM) at Kennesaw State University (KSU) are teaming up to offer a film series funded by the Southern Poverty Law Center and ACR-GA, for students, teachers, mediators and the public, providing an opportunity to discuss tolerance and co-existence during Conflict Resolution Week. The Peace Cafés will be held at various schools in the Metro-Atlanta area, October 13– 19. Each presentation is pre-qualified for up to 3.5 Continuing Education Credits (CE) by the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution.

Georgia Fifth Graders to Participate in the ACR-GA Conflict Resolution Poster Contest

Fifth grade students in three school districts in the Metro Atlanta area will participate in the poster contest to showcase collaborative and peaceful resolutions promoted through conflict resolution techniques. The winning students, as well as his or her school, will receive a grand prize. The winning poster will be placed on the ACR-GA website.

Join ACR-GA at the Georgia State Capital on October 18th as The Governor's Office Honors "Conflict Resolution Week in Georgia"

The highlight of the week long festivities will culminate on Conflict Resolution Day, October 18th, with a ceremony at the State Capitol proclaiming October 14-20, 2007 “Conflict Resolution Week in Georgia” and honoring those who promote conflict resolution throughout the state. The Governor’s office will be represented by Executive Deputy Council, Edward Tate, who will speak at the ceremony, and announce the winner of the ACR-GA Conflict Resolution Week Poster Contest.

Louisana
The Capital Area Community Mediation Center is marking National Conflict Resolution Day on Thursday, October 18, by recognizing people in the Baton Rouge area who have promoted conflict resolution in the community. Honorees will include peer mediators in schools, judges, law enforcement officers, community organizers, child protection workers, professional mediators, and others.

The ceremony will take place on October 18 at 3:30 pm at the Iberville Building, 627 4th Street, across from the State Capitol in Baton Rouge. It is free and open to the public.

Maryland
Every community mediation center in Maryland is hosting an open house and other events to raise awareness of conflict resolution day. Contact Lou Giezl: Lou.Gieszl@courts.state.md.us

MEDIA ADVISORY CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY EXPOCOUNTY LEADERS TO HONOR VOLUNTEERS

Montgomery County will celebrate Conflict Resolution Day Thursday, October, 18 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Montgomery County Education Association office, located at 60 West Gude Drive, in Rockville, Maryland. County leaders will be on hand to recognize outstanding volunteers at ceremonies beginning at 5:00 pm. Videos and materials about alternative dispute resolution will be displayed between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Participating organizations will have representatives and materials on hand that describe their contributions to resolving conflicts throughout the County. They include the Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County, Montgomery County Public Schools Dispute Resolution Program, Montgomery County Education Association, MCAASP - Montgomery County Association of Administrative and Supervisory Personnel, S.E.I.U. Local 500, the Rockville Community Mediation Center, Montgomery County Committee on Hate/Violence, the District Court of Maryland, the Bar Association of Montgomery County and the State of Maryland Bar, Dispute Resolution Section.
NOTE: a press kit will be available at check-in

Patricia H. Lee
Executive Director
Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County
2424 Reedie Drive, Suite 301
Wheaton, MD 20902
Tel: 301-942-7700
Fax: 301-942-7970
Email: crcmc@crcmc.org
Web: www.crcmc.org

Maryland Celebrates Conflict Resolution Day October 18

(Annapolis, MD — October 16, 2007) Conflict resolutions practitioners and organizations statewide will be celebrating Conflict Resolution Day on Oct. 18, 2007, the Maryland Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) announced today.

"Conflict Resolution Day is an opportunity to celebrate the tremendous work of mediators and dispute resolution professionals perform daily," said Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals. "We see mediation, both within and outside the court system, as a central part of Maryland's access to justice strategy."

Click here to view the press release

Salisbury University’s Center for Conflict Resolution, marks national Conflict Resolution Day with a special celebration on Thursday, October 18.

SALISBURY, MD---From 6-8 p.m., the Center (1100 Camden Avenue), hosts mock mediation demonstrations and informative mini-chats with local volunteer mediators about services offered to the community. Information will also be available on training for community groups, businesses and families to help develop speaking and listening skills for better understanding. Children’s activities include face painting, crafts and games that instill conflict resolution skills.

Click here to view the press release

Massachusetts
The Community Dispute Settlement Center (CDSC) of Cambridge, Massachusetts is hosting its annual Spirit of Mediation Gala on Thursday October 18, 2007. The Gala is CDSC's largest fundraising event of the year and also an opportunity to celebrate individuals and organizations that have displayed a commitment to the field of mediation and alternate dispute resolution.

As is our Gala tradition, CDSC will be honoring several outstanding contributors in the field of mediation. The 2007 recipients of the CDSC Community Peacemaker Awards are:

" Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager, Department of Human Service Programs in the City of Cambridge


" Massachusetts Office of Dispute Resolution (MODR) and its directors past and present: David O'Connor, Fredie Kay, Susan Jeghelian, and In Memoriam of Jane Wells

Established in 2004, the Community Peacemaker Award is given annually to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to peacemaking within the community through their dedication to constructive conflict management and innovative dispute resolution.

This year we will be inspired by the remarks of our keynote speaker and guest, Deborah Prothrow-Stith, MD, nationally recognized public health leader and passionate advocate for youth violence prevention. In addition, we are pleased to recognize Representative Martha Walz for her continued public service in the area of mediation and conflict resolution.


For more information please email cdscinfo@communitydispute.org or call 617-876-5376. Tickets are still available.


Established in 1979, the Community Dispute settlement Center (CDSC) is a private, not-for-profit mediation and training center dedicated to providing an alternative and affordable forum for resolving conflict. CDSC promotes better ways to understand and deal with conflict through skilled teams of pro bono mediators, varied training programs, and broad community outreach. We are committed to making our services accessible to under-served populations and to addressing emerging community needs.

Minnesota
Creative Conversations Film Series to Open Dialogue on Conflict and Justice
October 18 - "The Fire Next Time" (Presented by Conflict Resolution MN) - @ Hamline
Contact: Josh Moore (612) 807-3922

How can individuals, communities and societies address conflict, crime and injustice in useful, creative and positive ways?

This is the subject of a six-part series of films and dialogues this Fall presented by a partnership of local organizations. Entitled "Creative Conversations Film Series: Community Approaches to Conflict for Justice and Change," this public event will feature films presented by local practitioners in the fields of conflict resolution, restorative justice and post-conflict reconciliation.

Through the film showings and post-film discussions, audience members will discover how communities are using effective methods to cope with conflict, crime and injustice, and will learn how to connect to local resources that help to resolve and transform conflicts locally and globally.

The series begins on October 18, which is Conflict Resolution Day, and concludes on November 15, during Restorative Justice Week. The six-part series will be held at three locations across the metro-area: Hamline University's Klas Center, The Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs Cowles Auditorium, and William Mitchell College of Law Auditorium. The additional schedule is as follows:

October 23 - "A Force More Powerful" (Presented by Nonviolent Peaceforce) - @ WMCL
October 25 - "Confronting the Truth" (Presented by MN Advocates for Human Rights) - @ HHH
November 1 - "Greensboro: Closer to the Truth" (Presented by Center for Policy, Planning and Performance) - @ Hamline
November 8 - "Glimmer of Hope" (Presented by MN Department of Corrections) - @ HHH
November 15 - "Another Side of Peace" (Presented by Center for Restorative Justice and Peacemaking, University of Minnesota, School of Social Work) @ HHH

For more information on films, locations and times, click here to download the series brochure or please visit www.creativeconversations.info or write to ccfilmseries@gmail.com.

To learn more about Restorative Justice Week: www.rjweek.com/

Partner organizations: Center for Policy Planning and Performance, Center for Restorative Justice and Peacemaking, University of Minnesota, School of Social work, Community Mediation Services, Conflict Resolution Minnesota, Hamline University Law Student ADR Section, Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs, MN Advocates for Human Rights, MN Department of Corrections, Nonviolent Peaceforce, Search for Common Ground, William Mitchell College of Law Center for Justice & Negotiation

Missouri
Boston Chase Mediation Group, llc Cordially Invites you to Celebrate National conflict resoultion day October 18, 2007 2 PM - 4 PM 2:00 PM Ribbon Cutting 2:30 PM
- View A Mock Mediation 3:00 PM Question & Answer 3:30 PM
- View A Mock Mediation We are located at 110 South Franklin Street in Kirksville. Plan to register for door prizes and if you answer this question you will be entered to win a special Conflict Resolution Day prize. “What does mediation mean to me?” One winner will be drawn so bring your answer to the Grand Opening or email your answer to info@bcmg-mo.com.

Boston Chase Mediation Group, LLC
110 S. Franklin
Kirksville, MO 63501
Phone: 660.665.3266
Fax: 660.665.6212

New York
Mediation Settlement Day, October 18, 2007
Throughout and surrounding Mediation Settlement Day, sponsoring organizations will promote mediation with special programs, discounts, trainings, mediation sessions, and activities to celebrate, promote, and highlight the benefits of mediation as an effective tool for resolving conflicts.

For information about the 2007 event and sponsoring organizations, e-mail Ken Andrichik, at ken.andrichik@finra.org.

Kick-Off Event to Mediation Settlement Day
Tuesday, October 2nd

This is a great opportunity if you're looking to learn more about mediation or to network with people involved with mediation. Join the many sponsors for this free annual kick-off event to Mediation Settlement Day. We will provide snacks and beverages.

Where: Association of the Bar of the City of New York, 42 West 44th Street (between 5th & 6th Avenues)
What: Annual kick-off event to Mediation Settlement Day
Cost: Free
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Agenda: Networking Open House (5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.)

35 sponsoring organizations will provide information at tables
Presentation (7 p.m. - 8 p.m.)

Introductory Remarks

HON. JUDITH S. KAYE, Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals

Keynote Speaker
HON. MILTON MOLLEN, Counsel to Herrick, Feinstein LLP; Former Presiding Justice of the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Second Department; Former Chairman of the "Mollen Commission"

The late Tina L. Brozman, Former Chief United States Bankruptcy Judge of the Southern District of New York will be recognized as the Mediation Settlement Day Frontline Champion for 2007.

The annual kick-off event is sponsored by the New York City Bar in association with FINRA Dispute Resolution, the New York State Unified Court System, and a coalition of over 100 alternative dispute resolution programs, bar associations, community based programs, schools, public and non-profit organizations concentrated in the New York City area and extending beyond to upstate New York, Illinois, California, and Maryland.

Mediation Settlement Day is October 18th. On that day, sponsoring organizations will promote mediation with special programs, discounts, trainings, mediation sessions, and activities to celebrate, promote, and highlight the benefits of mediation as an effective tool for resolving conflicts. You can learn more about what programs the sponsors have planned for Mediation Settlement Day at the kick-off event. We will provide contact information for all of the sponsors and many of them will be at the Open House to inform attendees about their plans and programs.

For more information, you can contact Ken Andrichik at ken.andrichik@finra.org or Julie Crotty at julie.crotty@finra.org.

Pennsylvania
PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., Oct. 16 /PRNewswire/ --

Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell has declared Thursday, October 18, 2007 Conflict Resolution Day in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. His proclamation highlights the importance of using mediation and other alternative dispute resolution strategies to resolve conflicts in all areas of life from business to community and family. It also recognizes the significant contributions of proponents of peaceful conflict resolution such as mediators to civic life in the Commonwealth.

In 2006, the third Thursday of October was designated as National Conflict Resolution Day by the Association for Conflict Resolution. In August of 2006, Delaware Valley-based DivorceDoneRight launched its family mediation company with the goal of educating the public about the virtues of divorce mediation for families, couples and children. Starting with a handful of mediators and offices, in its first year, DivorceDoneRight has quickly grown into the largest family mediation company in the country, offering 23 experienced family mediators at 44 offices throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and South Florida.

"I applaud Governor Rendell for his vision." says DivorceDoneRight Founder, Jon Ostroff. The Pennsylvania legislature has also demonstrated its interest in peaceful resolution of conflict by its 2006 approval of Senate Resolution 160. Senate Resolution 160 directed the Joint State Government Commission, research arm of the Pennsylvania legislature, to establish a bipartisan task force with an advisory committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the current status of alternative dispute resolution in Pennsylvania. The task force and advisory committee have been formed and their process is currently underway. "We are proud to have one of our Mediators, Winnie Backlund, serving as the co-chair for SR 160," says Ostroff, "this Commission represents a very important step in the right direction." "By supporting mediation through the establishment of SR 160, as well as the declaration of Thursday, October 18, 2007 as 'Conflict Resolution Day,' our Governor has achieved several important things," according to Ostroff.

"First, he has promoted a process that helps to preserve the family unit as it endures the tremendous challenge of divorce."

"Second, he has furthered a process that allows divorcing spouses to focus on the future instead of the past, and go through this difficult transition confidentially and with dignity. By shortening the divorce process to a few months, couples are able to preserve their finances, which are more important then ever with two separate households."

"Third, Governor Rendell has served the children of our Commonwealth. He is supporting a process that allows parents to maintain their ability to communicate, enabling co-parenting and decision-making on behalf of their kids, which will in turn help children through this difficult transition."

"Finally, the Governor's foresight will continue to benefit the Commonwealth's family courts. Approximately 90% of DivorceDoneRight clients resolve every issue they raise in mediation. If not for this process, these clients would be added to the overcrowded court dockets."

In early February, 2008, DivorceDoneRight will launch its own educational campaign promoting mediation. It will be called the "End the Fight Family Peace Initiative." As part of this program, DivorceDoneRight will offer free mediation to lower income Delaware Valley couples, and a free orientation with a certified mediator to all Delaware Valley couples.


For more information on DivorceDoneRight and to view the company's
television commercials and infomercials, visit
http://www.DivorceDoneRight.com.

South Carolina
ACR-SC collaborated with the Community Mediation Center of Columbia to co-host a breakfast honoring their volunteers and celebrating Conflict Resolution Day. Members received updates on the chapter-to-be’s progress and invited and encouraged folks to join both ACR-SC and ACR-I. They were also encouraged to sign up for committees to help launch ACR-SC, including Marketing & Education, Events & Activities, and to indicate if they were interested injoining the Board of Directors. The turnout was good and helped to keep the excitemet of ACR-SC growing.

Tennessee
Proclamation from Governor Bredesen
To see the Mediation Day Proclamation from the Governor of Tennessee, click here.

Memphis - Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Janice Holder spoke in recognition of the proclamation by Governor Bredesen honoring Conflict Resolution Day.  Her address on November 2, 2007, at an education program sponsored by the Memphis Bar Association ADR Section and the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, included comments on the history and benefits of mediation and Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31.

Nashville - The Tennessee Coalition for Mediation Awareness celebrated Conflict Resolution Day at an October 18, 2007 luncheon and education program. The Coalition presented the first annual Grayfred Gray Public Service Mediation Award to retired University of Tennessee College of Law Professor Grayfred Gray, honoring his original and lasting contributions to the development of mediation awareness in Tennessee. Luncheon guests included Tennessee Attorney General Bob Cooper and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean who provided welcoming remarks.

Virginia
Attention: ACR Virginia Members (and peacemaking friends)

The Association for Conflict Resolution Virginia Chapter Board is challenging all dispute resolution professionals to perform an act of some sort that celebrates the concept of Conflict Resolution Day. We challenge ourselves and you as members or friends of this organization to commit some act of conflict resolution or peacemaking on or about October 18, 2007, International Conflict Resolution Day. Think of the synergy that could be created when we all do just one small thing across the globe.

Additionally, you can't hide your light under a bushel, so tell us what you have done. To help you jump start your creative juices, we have listed some ideas below that might assist you in meeting the challenge.

First, announcing a slogan contest. Create a slogan for the Virginia Chapter that would be suitable for bumper stickers, business cards, buttons, etc. Send your entries by November 1, 2007 to John Settle. To be eligible to be the winner, you must be a paid 2007/2008 member of ACR VA. Prize is next year's dues free!!

And now, the Top Ten Things You Can Do to Honor Conflict Resolution Day!!!

Write a letter to the editor of any newspaper in Virginia that promotes the concepts of conflict resolution processes and peacemaking.

Schedule a visit or lecture to any civic organization, youth organization, church group, etc. about the promise of mediation or individual, family, and group conflicts.

Offer a pro-bono mediation or other process to any group that may have a need (keep an eye out for stories in your local paper about groups and their conflicts).
Post a comment on an ADR blog. Google ADR blogs to get a list of what is out there.

Volunteer to serve on the ACR Virginia Chapter Board (At Large positions available).

Offer mediation training at any group.

Recruit a new member for ACR Virginia (particularly law schools or colleges which have ADR societies or academic programs).

Take your talent to your local Police Department as a resource for youth/gang intervention.

Be an army of one or a one-person committee as you take your talent to the street. As Margaret Mead said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

And last but certainly not least, renew your ACR Virginia membership and join ADR professionals statewide in promoting an understanding of collaborative dispute resolution processes.

Washington

A coalition of ten of the area’s top conflict resolution organizations, including:

The City of Seattle Alternative Dispute Resolution Program
The Dispute Resolution Center of King County
The Bellevue Neighborhood Mediation Program
The King County ADR Program/Interlocal Conflict Resolution Group
The Seattle Federal Executive Board
The Washington Mediation Association
The Mediation Clinic at the University of Washington School of Law
The Seattle University School of Law
Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of the King County Bar Association
The Dispute Resolution Section of the Washington State Bar Association

Are collaborating to celebrate International Conflict Resolution Day with the following events:

10/18/07 11:30AM – 1:00PM Celebration lunch and small group facilitated “Dialogue on Race” in Seattle City Hall

10/18/07 1:30PM- 4:00PM Drop in consultation, “Ask the Mediator” and “How to Become a Mediator” in City Hall

10/18/07 2:00PM – 3:00PM Live Mediation Demonstration in City Hall

10/18/07 4:00 PM – 5:00PM “Mediation Rewind” Training video at Seattle University Law School

10/18/07 5:00PM - 5:45PM Darrell Puls presents Apology in Litigation: Breakthroughs, Benefits, and Backfires at Seattle University Law School

10/18/07 5:45PM – 6:30PM Reception and Celebration at Seattle University Law School

10/19/07 11:30PM – 1:30PM Conflict Resolution Training at King County ADR Program

10/19/07 11:30 PM – 12:30PM Conflict Resolution Training at Bellevue City Hall

10/19/07 12:30 PM – 1:30PM Conflict Resolution Training at Bellevue City Hall

10/20/07 10:30PM – 12:30PM Conflict Resolution Training Kent City Library

10/20/07 12:00PM – 1:30PM Conflict Resolution Training, Bainbridge Island Library

Thanks,
Dane Keehn,
City of Seattle's ADR Program Coordinator
POB 34028 /Seattle, WA 98124-4028
206-615-0089

Washington DC
International Conflict Resolution Program sponsored by David Smith of the US Institute of Peace contact: David Smith [dsmith@usip.org]

The Georgetown University Master of Arts Program in Conflict Resolution in Washington, DC will host authors Rachel Stohl and Matt Schroeder in a discussion on their book, The Small Arms Trade: A Beginner's Guide. The discussion, entitled "Weapons of Individual Destruction: the Illicit Small Arms Trade," will be held in the McGhee Library on the Georgetown campus at 12:00 noon on Thursday, October 18. A light lunch will be served. The event is open to the public. Please RSVP to conflictresolution@georgetown.edu. For more information on the M.A. Program in Conflict Resolution please see our website, http://conflictresolution.georgetown.edu.

Miscellaneous Events:

A no-cost, 60 minute teleseminar entitled, So You Want to Be a Mediator!, for new practitioners and those interested in entering the field:

VIRTUAL CELEBRATION

Where: Wherever you are- the conference is by telephone
When: October 18, 2007 at 2 p.m. Eastern
Title: So, You Want to Be a Mediator!
Who: Dina Beach Lynch, Mediation Marketing Mensch, ADRPracticebuilder.com

Completing mediation training is an exciting time, filled with possibilities. It’s easy to get confused about how to build a practice and where to start. Join this no-cost, 60 minute teleseminar with Dina Beach Lynch, mediator, Ombuds, and award-winning blogger, as she answers your questions and shares her insights gathered from her 15 years of experience running mediation businesses.

To sign up, send a blank email to: crday@aweber.com

Dina Beach Lynch
Mediation Marketing Mensch
Helping Mediators Build Businesses
ADRPracticebuilder.com
Mediation Mensch.com Blog

Additional Programs in the works
• Bridge Event sponsored by Florida Coastal Law School in Jacksonville
• Event co-sponsored by LA Chapter of ACR, LA Bar Association and the California Council on Dispute Resolution