Neptune, NJ – Calling all 4th graders! Dr. Bernard, friendly mascot and director of fun and good health at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, has asked his pal and fellow “Pawsitive Action Team” member, Picatso, to help him make a calendar for 2011. Picatso is asking all 4th graders in Monmouth and Ocean counties to draw a colorful picture showing how they like to stay fit and healthy and enter it in the Meridian Pediatric Network Calendar Contest.

Join us in this fun art project by submitting a drawing depicting the theme, “How I Live a Healthy and Safe Life”. Pictures can include favorite sports, healthy foods, or ways to stay safe. The contest is currently accepting entries with the deadline for submissions no later than May 1, 2010. Entries will be judged based on the artist’s ability to create a picture within the contest theme, quality of artwork, and overall artistic ability.

The winners of the calendar contest will be announced on May 27, 2010, and will receive prizes from the Meridian Pediatric Network. Winners will have their artwork featured in the 2011 Meridian Pediatric Network Calendar for a specific month, with the grand prize winner’s artwork featured on the cover of the calendar. Dr. Bernard will also visit each winner’s classroom to recognize them on their outstanding job in helping him complete this calendar.

“Dr. Bernard’s goal is to keep children healthy through fun-filled educational programs,” says Steven Kairys, M.D., Chairman of Pediatrics at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. “This calendar contest is the perfect way for kids to think about how they can live a healthier lifestyle.”

Please visit www.khovnanianchildrenshospital.com/kidscontest for official rules, mailing information, and required entry form. The entry form includes a permission slip which must be signed and submitted with each child’s drawing.