Pick up pen for writing contest

The Ventura County Writers Club has announced its annual short story contest for 2007.

The first prize is $500 and publication of the winner's story. Second prize is $250 and third prize is $125.

The deadline for entries is Sat., Sept. 1. Additional contest information, manuscript format and other entry rules are available at www.venturacountywriters.com or by calling the contest chair, William Vietinghoff, at (805) 358-7762.

The contest is open to everyone, and the story submitted can be in any genre: mystery, romance, science fiction, drama, comedy, Western, horror.

Because a point system is used for scoring, writers who pay attention and work at developing their stories have equal chances of winning. To encourage new talent, previous firstplace winners are not eligible.

The Ventura County Writers Club has been active since 1933. This is the eighth year of this competition.