SAN DIEGO'S 50 BEST MOMS ESSAY CONTEST BY TIME WARNER CABLE

Do you think your mom is totally the best?  Tell us why (150-500 words) for a chance to win a new Sony VAIO laptop computer! The 50 Best Moms and their families will be invited to a big celebration on May 8 where winners will each receive an award plus a gift bag that includes certificates from UltraStar Cinemas, San Diego Repertory tickets and other great prizes! Teachers of winning students in each school level (elementary, middle and high school) will also receive a $250 gift card for school supplies. This contest is open to students, grades 4-12. For details and to download an entry form, go to www.twcsd.com and click on the Best Moms logo. 858-805-6789. Deadline: March 5.

"ALWAYS READY - ALWAYS FAITHFUL - ALWAYS COURAGEOUS" LIVING ROOM MAKEOVER CONTEST

Laurie Ann McMillin Ray, well-known Southern California interior designer, author and owner of several home-furnishing stores, is inviting San Diegans to nominate military families to receive a free living room makeover! One deserving military family will win a complete living room makeover by design boutique At Home with Laurie Ann. For contest rules, visit www.laurieann.com or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Deadline: March 15.   

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES AND MCDONALD'S OFFER SCHOLARSHIPS TO LOCAL HISPANIC HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

The San Diego RMHC/Hispanic-American Commitment to Educational Resources (HACER) Scholarship Program will award 10 one-year scholarships worth $2,000 each to graduating high school seniors who have limited access to educational and career opportunities. 

Applicants must be currently enrolled high school seniors in the county who have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage and who are eligible to attend a two- or four-year college or university with a complete course of study. For details, go to www.sdmcdonalds.com. Application deadline: March 26. 

GRAPHIC NOVEL CONTEST

Have a knack for writing and drawing? Put your talents to the test by writing and illustrating your own graphic novel that focuses on your life’s journey (or someone else’s). Prizes will be awarded for Best Artwork, Best Writing and Best of Show. Deliver or mail submissions with your name, age, city and phone number/email address to the Fallbrook Branch Library, 113 S. Main Ave., Fallbrook, CA 92028. For ages 12-18. Novel must be 5-15 pages. Content must be appropriate for teens. For more contest guidelines, call 760-728-3941. Deadline: March 13. 

WATER CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST

Sharpen your colored pencils and crayons for the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department’s annual art contest that focuses on the benefits of water conservation. Be one of 18 winners who will be honored at a City Council meeting and will each receive a U.S. savings bond and a Certificate of Excellence. Winning posters will be on display in the lobby of the City Administration Bldg., the San Diego Watercolor Society’s Gallery and the San Diego County Fair Kids Best Art Exhibit. Open to San Diego students, grades 1-6. Entry forms, a free activity book and more information are available at www.sandiego.gov/water/conservation. 619-533-4203. Deadline: March 24.