SAINT PAUL The City of Saint Paul and the State of Minnesota have declared Friday, December 13 “Dispute Resolution Center Day” in honor of the 20th anniversary of the oldest community mediation program in the state. For twenty years, the Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) has been a vital and valued resource, serving all people of the East Metro community. Peacefully resolving thousands of conflicts…plenty of reason to celebrate!

Over 100 people – including The Honorable A.M. “Sandy” Keith, Ramsey County Commissioners James McDonough and Victoria Reinhart, Saint Paul City Council President Daniel Bostrom and Council Member Jerry Blakey -- will join in the celebration tonight, to be held at Hamline University on the exact anniversary of the agency’s incorporation.

The evening will recognize the agency’s many achievements and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of over 150 volunteer mediators, restorative justice facilitators, and board and committee members. The first annual “Kay Pranis Restorative Practices Award,” “A.M. ‘Sandy’ Keith Alternative Dispute Resolution Award,” and “Martin Blum Community Mediation Award” will also be presented.