Officials aim to encourage absentee voting Published Jan. 21, 2011 WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Federal Voting Assistance Program officials will use winning entries from slogan and poster contests that start Jan. 21 to encourage absentee voting in U.S. elections by service members, their families and other citizens living overseas. All U.S. citizens are eligible to enter, and the winning slogan and poster artwork will be featured on the program's website, its 2012-2013 Voting Assistance Guide and other motivational materials, officials said. The winner for each contest and a guest will receive a trip to the nation's capital to participate in special events and tours. The winning slogan will be selected on its originality and motivational value, and poster entries will be judged on how well they express with original artwork what it means to be an American voter anywhere in the world. The winning design will be selected on its originality, design and motivational value, officials said, and must not include copyrighted material. Runners-up will receive certificates of recognition for their contributions. The deadline for submissions is April 8, and winners will be announced April 29. (Courtesy of the American Forces Press Service)