Each year we sponsor a writing contest, just for the conference attendees.

Here are the things you need to know. And wait till you see how easy it is!

Real writers care about submission rules, because they know this shows professionalism. The rules for this contest are:

* One 1-page entry per person.

* Use the following format:

• Font: Times Roman, 12 point
  
• Margins: 1 inch on all sides
• Name: at top on left
• Title: 1 1/2" down from top
• Personal information single-spaced; ACTUAL STORY: doubled spaced
  

* Start your contest entry with this sentence:
"Lightning never strikes twice, but in my case it did."

* Write for as long as you like, but only email us your first page.

* Email your entry by our new deadline June 11, 2011 to teenwritercontest@hotmail.com with CONTEST ENTRY in the subject line. (Again,the deadline is 6/11/11.)

* We bet you know that cutting and pasting from another writer's story is wrong, but did you know lifting just one line or two also is wrong? Even if you change a few words? Real writers refuse to plagiarize (copy) another's work. That just would be uncool. We bet you're more honest than that! But if plagiarism does occur, the committee has full jurisdiction over the consequences.

* So what are you waiting for? Print out your registration, mail it with your check, and get writing your contest entry. We can't wait to see it! And just think: by submitting, you will join the world of serious writers, those who care about creating fiction that changes worlds!