The HP 250/24 Writing Contest
WHAT IS IT?
It’s a town-wide writing contest open to any resident, regardless of age. It’s called the “HP 250 / 24” because you are only allowed to write a story that is 250 words or less AND you will only be given 24 hours to submit your story after receiving your assignment.
HOW TO REGISTER
You register to participate at www.HighlandParkRec.com (under “Programs”) Then, at midnight, on Saturday, April 30, you’ll receive an email with a writing assignment.
THE ASSIGNMENT
Your assignment will have a genre (horror, romance, historical fiction, fantasy, etc.); an action (going on a first date; falling off a bicycle, etc.); and a random word. ALL of these have to be in your 250-word story. From midnight Saturday, you have 24 hours -- until Sunday night, midnight -- to email your story back to us. (We’ll provide the return email with your assignment.) The members of the HP Arts Commission will read through all of the returns and select our winners.
IT’S FREE!
Wait, there’s no fee? Yup. For our first contest, there is no fee to enter -- it’s just a FUN-raiser. We can’t promise all future writing contests will be free so get in on this one while you can!
— FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS —
+ What ages can participate?
The writing contest is open to all ages! Anyone who can dream up a story and write it out is welcome to participate.
+ I don't like the genre I was assigned, can I just write something different?
Frankly? no! That's the challenge of this contest after all!
+ What if I write over 250 words?
You, my friend, are disqualified.
+ What do I win?
Assuming you are one of our winners, you'll get bragging rights all around town! Seriously, we'll make sure everyone knows. We're also likely to give you a gift card, too!
+ How can I read ALL of the submitted stories?
We hope to organize a get-together following the contest. We’ll have snacks and anyone who participated in the contest can get up and read their story. We’ll also work to create a free e-book of the works.
+ I have more questions. Is there anyone who can help me with them?
Of course! No need to sit in worry with any questions you have. Just send an email to Nikki Gonzalez at [NikkiGonzalez@optonline.net] and ALL your questions will be answered. She’ll even tell you a joke, if you ask for one.