10/20/09–I had word last week that my short story, "Just Desserts" won third place in the 2009 writers contest sponsored by Professional Writers of Prescott, (PWP) one of the three writer clubs in Arizona in which I hold membership.  In 2007, my short story "Peligro," won 1st place in the annual Society of Southwestern Authors (SSA) contest. 

Prizes vary;  The SSA 1st place prize brought me $300 and the opportunity to read it at their annual awards reception in Tucson.  The PWP third place brought me $25 and the request to read my story at their November 18th meeting–which I am happy to do.

Last week I sent manuscripts to two contests–two essays, a short story and a poem.  I encourage all to enter contests.  The fees vary: usually, from $5 to $15.  These fees do not make money for the sponsors; at least the ones I enter use the accumulated fees to fund the prizes.  I enter regional contests though most regional ones have become national in recent years–thanks to interet.  But regional ones tend to have fewer entries making odds of winning or recognition better. –Willma