What: The 20th Annual National Night Out Poster Contest run by the Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit of the Boston Police Department.

For whom: All children between the ages of 5 and 18 enrolled in any school, community center, library, before and after school program, or any adult coordinated youth activity program/group in the City of Boston are eligible.

Theme: "Text for Peace." In 2007, the Boston Police Department introduced the ability to allow anyone to send in 100% anonymous tip to us by texting the word "Tip" to 27463. The mission of the Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit is to deter crime and reduce fear. The "Text for Peace" theme aims to remind Boston youth of the great option they have to their safety and the safety of their friends.

Teachers report that the poster contest provides a valuable opportunity to address one of the most disturbing issues facing students today in a thoughtful and positive setting.

Prizes: All teachers and coordinators will be automatically entered to win $500 worth of gift certificates to be used towards art supplies or books. The Grand Prize student winner will receive a $500 savings bond. First - $200 Bond; Second - $100 Bond; Third - $50; Merit - Art Kit. For each category, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 there will be one, First, Second, and Third place winner. All winners will get a $25 gift card to Target. Prizes will be presented during the week of National Night Out. Notification is made to students and teachers during the school year.  (Savings Bond winners will be required to provide Social Security numbers.)

Poster Suggestions: Pictures of youth texting "Tip" to Crime (27463) to pass on information to police about drug, gang, and violent behavior they may know about or may happen. And during an emergency to call 911. Creativity counts! Pictures should contain the theme of a unified community working together to get rid of crime and drugs.

Materials & Size: Any drawing or painting materials or combination thereof (crayon, paint, pencil, etc.) on paper. Collages of magazines or newsprint are not permitted. Bold colors are encouraged. Posters may be submitted on either a 11"x17 or 12"x18" sheet of paper.

Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2007, 3:00 P.M. Mail/deliver to The Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit at Boston Police Headquarters, 1 Schroeder Plaza, Boston, MA 02120. Click to see a map of Headquarters and where to park.